Lux and D’Ambrosio take board leadership positions on Shoreline Community College Board of Trustees

Wednesday, July 9, 2014

Tom Lux is the new Chair of the Shoreline Community College Board of Trustees and Catherine D’Ambrosio is the new Vice Chair.

Lux and D’Ambrosio were elected at the July 7, 2014 special board meeting.

Tom Lux new SCC Board Chair
Lux, a Lake Forest Park resident, retired as an administrator with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) union. From 2003-11, Lux managed a joint labor/management team of program managers and career advisors that developed training opportunities and assisted Boeing hourly workers with their career paths. He was appointed to Shoreline’s board by Gov. Jay Inslee in November, 2013.

Catherine D'Ambrosio
Vice Chair SCC Board
D’Ambrosio, a Shoreline resident, is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Washington School of Nursing and works at Virginia Mason Medical Center as a nursing analyst. D’Ambrosio and her husband, Karl, also operate a home health care agency providing medically intensive care to children. D’Ambrosio was also appointed to Shoreline’s board by Gov. Jay Inslee in November, 2013.

Lux takes over from Trustee Shoubee Liaw and D’Ambrosio from Trustee Tayloe Washburn. 

During the election process at the July 7 meeting, a motion to nominate Washburn didn’t receive a second from other board members. Washburn then announced he would resign his position as a trustee.


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Save this: Free concerts in the park this summer start Wednesday in Lake Forest Park

Tuesday, July 8, 2014

Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Arts Council announces: FREE Concerts in the Park set to rock Shoreline and Lake Forest Park this summer.

Oh baby, this is going to be one great summer! We’re full of nothing but energy as we barrel towards a GREAT Concerts in the Park season hand-picked just for you. Below you'll get a taste of each upcoming concert, so mark up your calendars, put these in your phone, write them on your arm, but just don't miss these shows!

The first Concert in the series, featuring Cover Band Ko Ko Jo, is taking place this Wednesday at Pfingst Animal Acres Park. See the full list, along with other summer awesomeness, on the new Arts Events Calendar. Park addresses are listed below.

All concerts are free and start at 7pm on Wednesdays (unless noted) rain or shine. Bring a chair or blanket and come out and enjoy some music and festivities with your neighbors! For more information, call the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council 206-417-4645 or visit the webpage

Ko Ko Jo at Animal Acres Wednesday


July 9 Ko Ko Jo – Pop/Rock Cover Band - Pfingst Animal Acres Park

Together for over six years with the same four guys, Ko Ko Jo is one of the most active bands from the Olympia area. Every year they are busy on the Western Washington festival circuit from north Seattle and Port Townsend to the Long Beach peninsula. With solid vocals and well-balanced instrumentation they play a wide variety of energetic rock and country covers as well as their own original compositions that have been well received on their two CD releases, Miles and Miles and Delphi Road.

Shakespeare in the Park July 16

July 16 Shakespeare in the Park - Seattle Shakespeare Co./Wooden O productions presents: “Two Gentlemen of Verona” - Richmond Beach Library Park

By William Shakespeare. Directed by David Quicksall
Best pals Valentine and Proteus find themselves rivals for the affections of the beautiful Silvia while Julia, Proteus’ forgotten gal, hatches a plan to win back her man. As the two gents play out their foolish ideas of love, their servants Speed and Launce create a comic contest of their own in a hilarious battle of wits. This mid-century take on the impulsive nature of romance will win your heart.

Cherry Cherry Band - Neil Diamond tribute band
at Swingin Summer Eve

July 23 Cherry Cherry Band – Neil Diamond Tribute Band - City of Shoreline’s Swingin’ Summer Eve - 5:30pm-8:30pm - Cromwell Park

A Neil Diamond Cover Band, Cherry Cherry Band believes Neil Diamond’s music is timeless and ageless. His classic songs evoke memories that every crowd will enjoy. Steve Kelly will entertains audiences young and old alike.

Aaron Crawford in Lake Forest Park July 30

July 30 Aaron Crawford – Americana/Country – Pfingst Animal Acres Park

Aaron Crawford is an Americana /Country artist who calls the Pacific Northwest home. Raised in a musical home, many of his first experiences happened playing and singing in the church alongside his parents. Out of high school, Aaron formed and fronted several bands, writing and recording multiple independent albums. In 2011, he co-founded the duo, Crawford and James. After recording their first album, and touring nonstop, Aaron launched his solo career.

Drawing inspiration from nearly every genre, he continues to write music that is occasionally hard to categorize, but speaks to each listener. Combined with his love of performance and high energy shows, Aaron brings a performance that is not to be missed. Having played shows with Little Big Town, Montgomery Gentry, and Craig Campbell, his live shows are making a name for him. Touring both acoustically, and with his full band, he is filling his calendar, spreading his unique sound.

Bluegrass on August 6 at Richmond Beach Library Park

August 6 The Weavils – 6 Piece Bluegrass Band - Richmond Beach Library Park

The Weavils are a Seattle based Bluegrass /Americana band. Not happy with a single genre our set includes Bluegrass, Folk, Country, Cajun, and even a few Hawaiian tunes. They do a mix of covers and original music.

2013 Jazz Camp performance
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

August 12 (TUESDAY) North City Jazz Walk – Shoreline Jazz Camp 

The mission of the Shoreline Jazz Camp is to provide young musicians the opportunity to learn and play with some of the regions most accomplished teachers and performers. The program creates a safe and structured learning environment, in which students of varying skill levels are able share in the joy of playing Jazz. The camp includes instruction in large and small ensembles, and a series of master classes that are designed to refine the individual's skills and understanding of Jazz. Sign your child up now to become part of the performance! 

The camp will showcase the students' hard work in two performances on August 13th. The first will be an 11am lunch concert and the second will be at 7pm at the Shoreline North City Jazz Walk. Questions? Email the Arts Council.

Massy Ferguson Aug 20 at Cromwell Park

August 20 Massy Ferguson – American Rock with a bit of Country - Cromwell Park

Massy Ferguson is a bar band in the best sense — not a band relegated to bars because it will never rise higher, but a band that plays music perfectly suited to dark, crowded rooms in which there’s at least a possibility of a beer glass smashing against a wall.

The songs, filled with barflies, broken hearts and doomed late-night romance, would sound pretty good anywhere, though. Singer-bassist Ethan Anderson says the sound is Americana that leans more toward rock than country, and that’s a pretty good description. Think Drive-By Truckers or some combination of Son Volt and The Hold Steady. Think Springsteen’s “Greetings From Asbury Park” or “Nebraska.” Those are all influences, as is 1970s Southern rock and good-time classic rock bands like Thin Lizzy.

If that means Massy Ferguson is derivative, well, that’s partly true. It doesn’t really matter, though, because the songs, if not particularly groundbreaking, are just plain good. And the lyrics are full of enough detail and imagery that you start to forget any objections.

August 27 Michael Stegner and Friends - Jazz Piano and more
Shoreline City Hall Courtyard - Piano Time Finale
Sponsored by the City of Shoreline

Straight from the Triple Door to Shoreline, the Michael Stegner and Friends band will be playing in the City Hall courtyard on Wednesday, August 27th at 7:00pm. It’s the Piano Time 2014 grand finale with Stegner on the Shoreline Rocks grand piano. For this free final “concert in the park” the Stegner Trio will entertain and delight you with a mix of jazz, alt country, pop and the best of Ray Charles. With lots of room for the band and you they will be sure to play some tunes that will get you up on your feet and dancing.

Michael Stegner’s critically acclaimed debut songwriting album, Fascination Nation, has drawn comparisons to early Tom Waits, Willie Nelson, Randy Newman, David Byrne, Nick Cave, and Leon Russell. This native Kentuckian’s unique storytelling pulls no punches and takes the listener on a beautiful journey through the emotional spectrum.

Concert venues
  • Pfingst Animal Acres Park: 17411 Brookside Blvd. NE in Lake Forest Park
  • Cromwell Park: 18030 Meridian Ave. N. in Shoreline
  • North City Jazz Walk Performance: 175th St. and 15th Ave. NE in Shoreline
  • Richmond Beach Library Park: 2201 NW 197th St. in Shoreline
  • Shoreline City Hall Courtyard: 17500 Midvale Ave. N in Shoreline

For more information, call the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council 206-417-4645 or visit the website 

The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to nurture all of the arts in the community through programs and events, arts education, advocacy, and support for artists and arts organizations. 



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Home sales in Lake Forest Park during June 2014

These are representative of the home sales at each price point in Lake Forest Park during the month of June 2014.


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Seattle Goodwill Industries announces new President & CEO Daryl Campbell

Daryl Campbell, new President
and CEO of Seattle Goodwill Industries
Markee Foster, the Chair of the Board of Directors for Seattle Goodwill Industries, is pleased to announce that Daryl Campbell has been named the organization’s President and CEO.

Mr. Campbell leaves his post as Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of Shoreline Community College and will join Seattle Goodwill on August 18. Campbell replaces Ken Colling, who retired at the end of June 2014 after serving Goodwill for more than ten years.

Under Mr. Campbell’s leadership during his six year tenure as Vice-President and then Interim President, Shoreline Community College drove a strategic planning process resulting in increased targeted enrollment, higher quality programs, and a more stable financial profile. Campbell has been very active in the broader community, growing key partnerships in the college’s popular automotive maintenance program and working proactively to develop partnerships with educational institutions in Asia.

Foster notes that Campbell’s ability to forge strategic collaborations and his extensive background in education and finance were key factors in the CEO selection process.

“Daryl is an accomplished administrative executive who has served in multiple leadership roles at both educational and business organizations. He has developed significant expertise in workforce related issues and proven his ability to partner effectively across multiple stakeholder groups to drive innovative new programs,” said Foster.  “He brings the right mix of skills, experience and creativity to align with Goodwill’s goals, for both our retail operations and our free job training and education programs."

Mr. Campbell received his undergraduate degree from University of Vermont, an M.B.A. from University of Phoenix, and holds a J.D. degree from Seattle University School of Law.  He has long been active in the broader community and currently serves on the Board of Project Education Kenya and as a member of the Puget Sound Coalition for College and Career Readiness.

Seattle Goodwill is one of the region’s largest non-profit organizations and has been providing programs and services to the North Puget Sound community since 1923. It employs over 1,950 people to operate its 24 retail stores and 10 Job Training and Education Centers.


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What do you do with items left over from your garage sale?

Kelly G. making a Special Delivery
Copyright, Marc Weinberg

What do you do with items that haven't sold at the conclusion of your 'garage sale?'
Text and photo, Marc Weinberg

Kelly G. has the answer,  "You donate them to Tent City 3." Kelly donated an SUV load of clothing, bedding, towels, sheets, shoes, purses, backpacks and all kinds of 'adult' items. She is seen here in this photo delivering them to Cindy Roat, President of 'Greater Seattle Cares', a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that supports Tent City 3.

This donation went to Cindy in Shoreline because Tent City 3 will be relocating back to the North End from Tukwilla on July 12.  See the Greater Seattle Cares website for what you can do to help.

Come meet the folks at Tent City 3 during their move day on July 12 starting about noon at Haller Lake United Methodist Church, 13055 First Avenue NE, Seattle 98125.

Yes, this isn't in Shoreline, but everyone in the North End is so supportive of Tent City 3 that it's just a great neighborly thing to do when they are so close to our homes. Visit anytime or help setup their structures and camp on this Saturday. Make a friend. You never know how close to home the issue is until you know someone who is living without the conveniences we take for granted. 

Follow Kelly's example and contribute what doesn't sell at your garage sale, or do as I do and approach those having a garage sale and ask if they would be willing to donate. Be an ambassador and support Tent City 3. You'll leave with a good feeling when you do.


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Garden Tour Sunday - How to Make Your Yard a Bird Magnet

Photo by Christine Southwick

How to Make Your Yard a Bird Magnet 
Sunday, July 13th, 2pm-4pm 

You've seen a lot of pictures and now you can see the actual garden, as For the Birds columnist Christine Southwick conducts tours of her back yard as a fund-raiser for the Puget Sound Bird Observatory.

Wander in a native garden, learn how to make your yard a bird magnet, and how to draw in birds that you wouldn't usually see.

Come hear Christine Southwick as she walks and talks about native plants, water features, and feeders in her yard. Even non-birders will enjoy the flowers grown for cutting, yard art, and seating areas arranged throughout the yard.

Sunday, July 13th from 2:00pm-4:00pm. 
28 PL NE and NE 163rd Street in Shoreline
Cost: $10 fundraiser for Puget Sound Bird Observatory

Presentation from 2:30 - 3pm. PSBO Board members will be on hand to help you learn about membership benefits and bird-survey opportunities.

Call 206-659-3428 for directions and exact address.


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Lake Forest Park Police announce capture of suspects in armed robbery


On July 7, 2014, around 8:30pm, the Gebregergish brothers turned themselves in to the King County Jail where they were each booked on two counts of Robbery 1st degree and Felony Harassment.

On July 1, 2014 at 7:30am Lake Forest Park Officers responded to a disturbance in the 2600 block of NE 195th St. Officers located three individuals in the residence who had been physically assaulted. One victim was transported to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The investigation has revealed that three suspects entered the residence, two of whom were armed with handguns and assaulted the occupants of the residence. The suspects used the weapons to “pistol whip” the victims and threatened to kill them if the assault was reported to authorities. No shots were fired at the scene. There is still one suspect at large.


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Where Our Wild Things Are (WOWTA) Wildlife Habitat Tour this Saturday


Diggin’ Shoreline presents:  
Where Our Wild Things Are (WOWTA) Wildlife Habitat Tour 
Saturday, July 12th, 10am to 3pm

By Dr. Afia Menke
Wildlife - essential to human survival – requires habitat.  We all can create bird and animal friendly environments:  places without poison (pesticides, herbicides and fungicides), places with flowers offering hummingbirds nutritious nectar (more nutrition than sugar water) and the plants they recognize.  

Shoreline’s own habitat tour, Where Our Wild Things Are (WOWTA), shows how easy it is to have wildlife habitat right in your backyard. Tour goers see they can easily plant flowers that the bees and the butterflies eat, or the importance of leaving snags (old dead tree stumps) as homes for the woodpeckers and the other indigenous songbirds.

WOWTA was created six years ago with leadership from habitat steward Boni Biery and eight others of us who became certified habitat stewards. A local tour was envisioned to help spread the word about wildlife habitats and city-wide certification. Three previous WOWTA tours have been held with support from the City of Shoreline, Sustainable Shoreline, Whidbey Island Bank, and local citizens.  


WOWTA is now part of Diggin’ Shoreline, our local community gardening, planning and educational non-profit organization. Our joining together with common values will help create local organic gardens, diverse, native, plant and animal loving places.

The WOWTA 2014 Tour features five properties with Wildlife Habitat Certification and water features, aligning with Diggin’ Shoreline’s current emphasis on water - key to the success of any garden or habitat.  

Please join us for the WOWTA 2014 Tour on Saturday, July 12th from10 to 3. 

The tour begins in the Calvin Presbyterian Church parking lot, 18826 3rd Ave NW, Shoreline 98177

  • We all can learn more about the importance of wildlife for our health and survival.
  • We all can help heal the Earth in our own small way.
  • You can learn to make your yard a beautiful place for Songbirds, Honey, Mason and Bumblebees, Hummingbirds and Butterflies. 

Suggested donation of $5 per adult.


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Citizen surveys in Lake Forest Park and Shoreline

Monday, July 7, 2014

It must be that time of year. Both Shoreline and Lake Forest Park are conducting citizen surveys.

Shoreline

Citizen satisfaction surveys have been mailed to randomly selected Shoreline households. If you have received one, please return it by mail or web. In order to ensure the statistical validity of the survey results, only those who have received a survey in the mail should fill out the web version. Those surveys filled out online that have addresses that do not match ETC Institute's sampling will not be included in the official survey results. Review past surveys here.

Lake Forest Park

Photo Enforcement Survey – The Lake Forest Park Police Department would like to hear from its citizens about the photo enforcement program here in the City. Go to this link to review the most recent report on the current system, and also take the simple survey. The goal of the photo enforcement program is pedestrian safety in our school zones and collision reduction on SR522 (Bothell Way). Take the Survey Here

Stormwater Savvy - Test your water smarts and find out how much you know about stormwater by taking the brief survey. The goal is to raise awareness about water quality and find out where to improve educational efforts to keep our streams clean. This survey will be posted throughout the month of July and results will be released in August. Take the Survey Here.


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Check your Food Handler's card - it might be fraudulent

AGO lawsuit returns approximately $120K to over 11,000 consumers for purchase of worthless food handler certificates.

A Washington State Attorney General’s Office lawsuit has stopped deceptive business practices and will return money to over 11,000 Washington state consumers. These consumers purchased worthless food handler certificates from eFoodhandlers, Inc. that do not comply with Washington state law.

“Consumers paid for a worthless piece of paper,” said Attorney General Bob Ferguson. “eFoodhandlers’ deceptive practices made it difficult for food service workers to keep a job and businesses to stay open. My office will not tolerate deceptive business practices.” 

Some food service workers reported they first discovered their certificates were worthless from their employers or by health department inspectors. Those workers were required to take the examination again and obtain valid documentation from an authorized source. 

In some instances, food service establishments reported being temporarily shut down or had points docked by health department inspectors for hiring employees who had purchased eFoodhandlers’ useless certificates. 

Overview of allegations against eFoodhandlers 

eFoodhandlers is an Oregon-based internet company that offers online training and “certification” to food service workers. 

The state requires all food service workers to obtain a food worker card from their local health department. 

The only entity approved by the Washington State Department of Health to provide online training and certification for food handling is the Tacoma-Pierce County Public Health Department

The AGO alleged eFoodhandlers’ website, (www.wafoodhandlers.com), misled workers into believing eFoodhandlers’ “certification” satisfied the Washington state food handling requirements. It does not. 

eFoodhandlers charged $10 to issue a certificate, and added on extra fees for additional services. More than 23,000 Washington consumers obtained training from eFoodhandlers, and more than 11,000 of those consumers paid for inadequate certificates. 

AGO action results in restitution for consumers, stops deceptive business practices 

The AGO alleged eFoodhandlers’ actions violated the Consumer Protection Act. 

eFoodhandlers has agreed to a Consent Decree that: 

  1. Requires eFoodhandlers to pay full restitution of approximately $120,000 to more than 11,000 consumers who paid for the services; 
  2. Prohibits “certification” by eFoodhandlers’ website and requires removal of any implied or explicit references in compliance with Washington laws; and 
  3. Requires eFoodhandlers to pay the AGO $40,000 for attorney fees and costs. 
Method of consumer refunds 

  • eFoodhandlers will mail checks to affected consumers’ last known address. 
  • The refund amount each consumer will receive is based on the total amount they originally paid to eFoodhandlers. Most payments will be under $20. 
  • Consumers should receive a refund by September 1, 2015. 
More information on how to obtain a food safety card can be found on Department of Health’s website, here

Senior Counsel Paula Selis was lead on this case.


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Register by Friday for the Walk to the Future and help eliminate Parkinson's





Proudly Presents our 5th Annual Walk to the Future. . . a future without Parkinson's 

July 26, 2014    10 am - 3 pm

There are 19 days until the Walk to the Future and registration is open until Friday, July 11.
Register now so you will be on the lunch and t-shirt list and pay at the door

Pinky's Passion for a Parkinson's Cure is holding their 5th annual Walk to the Future . . .a future without Parkinson's - on July 26, 2014. This year's event promises to be even bigger and better than last year - and more fun too!

Door-prize drawings every hour for gift cards to Home Depot, Starbucks, Amazon, Red Robin, Old Navy and more!! 

The grand prize for the individual who brings in the highest dollar amount in contributions is a $750 travel voucher.



The registration fee is the same as last year ($35) and gets you an event tee-shirt as well as lunch at the WALK - Saturday July 26, 2014 from 10:00am to 3:00pm at Edmonds-Woodway High School Stadium 7600 - 212th SW, Edmonds, WA 98026 Driving Directions.

Questions? contact Patricia Erickson, Pinky's Passion for a Parkinson's Cure, 206-533-9179

CAN'T WALK? no worries - the best part of our walk is that you don't have to walk. The stadium has plenty of seating for those who want to sit back, relax and enjoy the positive environment.

Want to bring the kids? Great!! Children under 10 are free. There will be face painting for the kids (and us big kids too), games and prizes. Lunches are available for children under 10 for $5. Of course, you are always welcome to bring your own picnic lunch for the younger kids.

At Pinky's our mission is to raise money, increase awareness and support research for a Parkinson's Cure.

We are a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We strive to keep our costs low, so that every dollar possible can go toward fighting this horrible disease. Pinky's has no paid staff. All the Board Members, Officers and others are volunteers. No part of your donation will go to salaries or office overhead. 

REGISTER NOW

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32nd Republicans meet Thursday

The King County 32nd Legislative District Republicans will meet Thursday, July 10, at the Lake Forest Park Library, beginning at 7:00 p.m., according to District Chairman Tom Jamieson.

The library is located at 17171 Bothell Way NE in the Lake Forest Park Town Center mall, lower level.


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Echo Lake Elementary Library fights "summer slide" with open hours

Kids and parents at Echo Lake open library
Photo by Barbara Cruz

"Summer Slide," according to Echo Lake Elementary Librarian Dennis Day, is what happens when kids go all summer without reading and their skills drop.

"Research shows reading as few as four books over the summer can help prevent a summer slide, and allow students to maintain the gains they achieved during the school year."

That's why the Echo Lake Elementary Library will be open for 16 sessions this summer on eight different days.

Story time at the library this summer
Photo by Barbara Cruz

On each of eight days, the library will be open in the morning from 10am - 12noon, with a program at 10:30am and in the evening from 6pm - 7:30pm, with a program at 6:30pm. Full schedule here.

On some days, readers will be given surprises, and on all days they will be able to check out books to take home. 

All students have to be accompanied by an adult.

Children check out books to take home
Photo by Barbara Cruz

On the first day, June 25th, principal Andrew Lohman was the guest reader in the morning and all the kids got free popsicles. In the evening session, Mrs. McCormick was the guest reader, and every child who checked out a book got a free Beanie Baby.

About 50 students attended, including five incoming Kindergarten students. Barbara Cruz, Library Tech, and volunteer Carol Delsuc are able to work with the kids and do KidBiz and Reading Counts tests.  

Said Cruz, "I love doing this and seeing the students' faces when they get that just right book. It is so rewarding!"

A book AND a beanie baby!
Photo by Barbara Cruz

Scheduled library days at Echo Lake are:

  • July 9
  • July 16
  • July 23
  • July 30
  • Aug 6
  • Aug 13
  • Aug 20


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Play The New CPR Video Game & Learn How to Save A Life


WestCoast CPR Training is demo-ing a new CPR video game this Saturday at the Shoreline Farmer's Market. That's right, a CPR video game. You've never seen anything like it. Stop by and learn how to save a life!

WestCoast CPR instructors are teaching compression only CPR with the video game. You can also learn how to use an AED, and how to save someone from choking. Get hands-on practice with these fun new training tools.


Try the Heimlich maneuver with their new anti-choking vest. It actually launches a foam dart about 12 feet when you "clear the airway." See what it really feels like to do the Heimlich maneuver and save someone from choking. 

WestCoast CPR is Shoreline's new CPR & First Aid Training Center located next door to Shoreline City Hall at 17544 Midvale Ave N. They provide blended learning CPR certification classes six days a week. To learn more about WestCoast CPR Training visit their website.


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2014 Standout Student awarded $10,000 scholarship

Pictured, from left:
Gary Arford – Founder, Comprehensive Wealth Management, Lynnwood Rotarian
Marilla Sargent –Scholarship Co-Chair (and VP and Branch Manager of HomeStreet Bank), Rotary Club of Lynnwood
Shilo Lockett – President, Comprehensive Wealth Management, Lynnwood Rotarian
Sophie Knudson – Grand Prize Standout Student Award Winner
Sue Venable – Past President (and Principal and Holy Rosary School), Rotary Club of Lynnwood
Bill Lennert – Director, Bonneville Communications (KIRO, KTTH, and ESPN Seattle, MyNorthwest.com)

Sophie Knudson, Shorecrest High senior, honored as Standout Student

Marilla Sargent, Scholarship Chair for the Rotary Club of Lynnwood, announced today that Shorecrest High School Senior Sophie Knudson was awarded the 2014 Standout Student Scholarship of $10,000.

The Standout Student Awards, a partnership of the Rotary Club of Lynnwood, Comprehensive Wealth Management, KIRO Radio, and MyNorthwest.com, honored Western Washington students who stood out in the classroom and in the community.

Nine students were selected as monthly winners from September 2013 to May 2014. Each monthly winner received a $1,000 scholarship, was promoted on KIRO Radio and MyNorthwest.com, and was eligible for the grand prize of a $10,000 educational scholarship. The three grand prize finalists were selected by the general public through on-line voting at MyNorthwest.com from May 26-30, 2014. In turn, a Blue Ribbon Committee selected the grand prize winner.

“Sophie Knudson exemplifies the attributes the Rotary Club of Lynnwood looks for when granting student scholarships,” said Marilla Sargent. She continued, “This year we granted over $62,000 in scholarships and were very proud to join Comprehensive Wealth Management and KIRO Radio 97.3 FM to participate in the Standout Student Awards.

Knudson was awarded the grand prize scholarship for her overall accomplishments in the classroom, the school and in the community. She stood out in the classroom with a 4.0 grade point average, her work in the community as the Washington state delegate to the Girls’ World Forum, and her organization to raise money for mosquito nets to help eradicate malaria for families in Kenya. 

Rotary Club of Lynnwood is a fellowship of leaders who voluntarily support others through vocational, international and community service. For more information about Sophie Knudson — 2014 Standout Student — and the Rotary Club of Lynnwood, contact Marilla Sargent at 206-799-7354.


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Shoreline Relay for Life raises money, awareness, and spirits

Cancer survivors take the first lap around the track

Text by Jen Pirak
Photos by Steven H. Robinson

The Shoreline Relay for Life is an annual event that raises awareness and funds for the American Cancer Society and those living with cancer as well as honors the caretakers who care for those with cancer.  It’s a powerful event that was held on Saturday morning, June 7th through Sunday morning, June 8th at KINGS High School track in Shoreline. 

While the entire event is emotional as the community and participants honor and celebrate survivors and remember those who have lost the battle to cancer, there are a few moments during the 24 hour event that really stand out from the rest.


The event kicks off with the Survivor Lap where all cancer survivors at the event take the first lap around the track, celebrating their victory over cancer while being cheered on by the other participants who line the track. As the survivors finish their first lap, loved ones put a metal around their neck signifying their fight against cancer and then their caregivers join them on their second lap.  Relay For Life recognizes and celebrates the importance of caregivers too – those who give time, love, and support to their friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers facing cancer.


Around 10pm everyone gathered together in front of the grandstand for the long-standing tradition at Relay events: the Luminaria Ceremony. A peaceful, beautiful moment where the track is dark – lit up only by luminarias (paper bags with candles in them, decorated by participants with loved ones' names on them who have battled or are currently battling cancer). Plus the word HOPE and later CURE is lit up in big letters in the grand stand by the luminarias.


Cancer survivor and KMCQ radio personality Heidi May was there to tell her story followed by a bagpiper who played Amazing Grace and led the crowd around the track for a special lap designated specifically to remember those who have passed from cancer. This was followed by a moving slide show with photos submitted by participants of those who have lost the battle. 

If you have never been to an American Cancer Society Relay for Life event I highly recommend you attend one. Everyone should experience the powerful, moving and inspiring moments it offers. 


It’s all about CREATING MORE BIRTHDAYS and ENDING CANCER FOR GOOD!

You can still donate to this worthwhile cause by visiting the website.

We hope to see you at next year’s event. It’s never too early to start forming your team! 

If you have any questions, contact Relay Specialist Curtis Thomas at 206-683-0942. 


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NW Solar Fest Saturday, July 26 at Shoreline Community College


Save Saturday, July 26, 2014, 10am to 5pm for the NW SolarFest at Shoreline Community College.

This unique event draws visitors from the entire Puget Sound basis, to see displays and demonstrations from every environmental group in the area. And it's free!


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City Council to consider Lyon Creek project and possible veterans' memorial space

Thursday, July 10, 7-9pm, at Lake Forest Park City Hall, the Lake Forest Park City Council will hold a regular business meeting.

Agenda highlights:
  • Presentation by King County Conservation District
  • Discussion of acquisition of interest in land to complete the Lyon Creek flood reduction project
  • Consideration of a veterans' memorial space


At a work session preceding the meeting, from 6-7pm, the Council will 

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Tech Talk: Give Reboot Some Respect

Give Reboot Some Respect!


My wife made a point of showing me this recent Dilbert cartoon.

Dilbert makes a desperate plea based on his engineering expertise to Dogbert on the Tech Support phone line to not ask him to reboot the computer as part of the troubleshooting process … and Dogbert gleefully ignores the request.

Yes, it’s funny, especially the way Scott Adams writes it. And my wife thinks it’s funny too. It’s always good policy to agree with her.

However, I would have done exactly what Dogbert did. Okay, maybe not the “glee” part. I would have respectfully asked Dilbert to restart the system one more time, starting with something like “Please indulge me for a moment….”

Rebooting Reluctance is a State of Mind

People are people. Despite our titles, training, and proficiency, we are subject to “human nature.”  If there is a obvious way to shortcut a series of steps because they seem unnecessary or redundant to us, we will do it.

For most people, the necessary steps for good tech troubleshooting are a tiresome time-suck on their day. I am sure there many other things they either need or prefer to be doing, like dental work or unclogging drains.

Restarting the computer is sometimes my second step in the process of basic troubleshooting that starts just past that sad but necessary query, “is it plugged into a live power outlet or power strip?”  It’s too bad because rebooting and restarting really deserve more respect and some serious consideration.

Whether it’s a computer, smartphone, or today’s audio/video gear, don’t underestimate the power of pulling the plug. I had a client who mentioned a problem with his Blu-Ray player. It had become unresponsive to the remote control or to buttons on the device.

When we unplugged the player for about 10 seconds and plugged it in again, it started up just fine and has behaved well ever since.

Sometimes Hardware Gets Confused

“Confused,” while not an engineering term, describes for me a transient condition where hardware is unable to meet its design specifications. This temporary state makes a device unaware or unavailable for interaction with other hardware/ software components … or you.



Hardware awareness?  That doesn’t sound like traditional hardware behavior. It isn’t … at least the concept of hardware most people have.

Hardware Isn’t Just Hardware Anymore

Most device hardware or device components do contain traditional electrical hardware (switches, gates, motors, diodes, capacitors). However to meet our more sophisticated needs, additional components control these parts.

Chip-mounted “controllers” direct their more traditional cousins to perform necessary tasks. These controllers would have easily been considered computers on their own in earlier times.

As computers, controllers do need direction in the form of software instructions. Stored directly on the controller chip or another chip, these instructions are called firmware, since they do not disappear when power is removed.



You will find this new “smarter” hardware on nearly everything, from your computer’s video display and network routers to a microwave oven or your alarm clock.

The great thing about this hardware evolution is that the instructions can be modified and updated through firmware updates, allowing problems to be fixed or functionality to be improved. It also means that power fluctuations or environmental changes can temporarily “confuse” the set of instructions or the controller’s ability to respond to them.

“Powered Off” Isn’t the Same as No Power Applied

It was pretty novel when Westinghouse premiered their Instant-On TVs in the late sixes. TVs of that era used tube technology throughout. Since tubes took time to warm and become functional, it would often take a minute or two for the TV to display a picture.

Westinghouse got around this by have the “Off” button only reduce the current to the TV by 50%. The resulting tube warm up time was reduced substantially. The picture would appear as within a second or two instead of a minute or two.


Your electronic bill also increased by a proportion proportion. Some TVs also had what was called a “vacation switch” to reduce costs when the TV would not be in use for a while.

Today’s instant-on electronics use less power but with similar goals. It can also mean that clearing hardware confusion might not be possible until the the device is unplugged.

The Lingering Effects of an “Always On” World

Up to this point, we have been talking about confusion in the semi-smart hardware world. Today’s computers, smartphones, tablets, TVs and other more sophisticated devices are designed to always be on in some form.

Even when you tap the power button on your laptop, it’s likely programmed to either “sleep” (shut down most hardware but keep current work in memory) or “hibernate” (same as sleep except memory is saved to a large hibernation file on the hard drive).


Over time, the chance of subtle changes in the memory or memory image without the rejuvenating effect of a system restart increase, especially after a few weeks of a start up/sleep cycle. Some programs tolerate this well. Others may not release memory after it's used (known as a memory leak) or start behaving badly in other ways.

That is why I usually recommend a mix of sleeping and restarting for PC/Mac desktops and laptops to give you the benefits of both forms.

  • Sleeping on a daily basis provides prompt access. It give you quick startup time, places you where you left off on the device and allows the device to wake up and receive necessary updates in a timely way. This can be done manually or automatically after a defined internal of no usage.
  • Restarting once a week keeps the system stable and responsive. A restart insures that any transient problems associated with the environment, software or other less predictable factors are cleared.

Does Restart Correct All Hardware Confusion?

No it doesn’t. Restarting does not remove power from the system. It only flushes the system RAM memory and cannot be counted on to correct the more basic hardware confusion mentioned earlier.
Shutting down and unplugging are the most complete ways of clearing the confusion. Just make sure you follow those two steps in that order to minimize damage from a sudden loss of power.
So, the next time you are asked to restart, understand that in many ways it doesn’t have to be an ordeal, just the beginning of a thoughtful troubleshooting process.

Tech Talk goes on summer schedule

Speaking of next time, you won’t be seeing a Tech Talk next weekend. We are switching to a summer schedule for the next few months. Look for Tech Talk again in the next couple of weeks.
Do you have a follow up on this topic or technical question on that needs to be answered or explored? Please share it with me at brian@bostonlegacyworks.com. Your question may show up here on Tech Talk.


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Political Picnics

July is the season for political parties to party - and what better than a picnic during the brief period of time that it's safe to schedule outdoor events in Puget Sound?

King County Republicans

The KCGOP will be hosting the Majority 2014! Summer Festival at Marymoor Park’s Velodrome Pavilion in Redmond, on Saturday, July 12, 2014 from 11AM-2PM. Join Talk Radio 570 KVI’s morning show host, John Carlson, and national talk show host, Lars Larson, as they co-host the annual summer event/picnic. (See previous article)

32nd District Democrats

Picnic Saturday, July 12th 11 - 4 
Lynndale Park Lynnwood 

See the invitation click here!
(They are using VolunteerSpot to help organize their picnic.)

Sign up for Picnic July 12th, 2014 - here's how it works in 3 easy steps: 
  1. Click this link to go to our invitation page on VolunteerSpot: 
  2. Enter your email address: (You will NOT need to register an account on VolunteerSpot) 
  3. Sign up! Choose your spots - VolunteerSpot will send you an automated confirmation and reminders.
46th District Democrats 

Saturday, July 12  4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Maple Leaf Park - East Picnic Area
1020 NE 82nd St Seattle, WA 98115

***Look for canopies and signs. The East side does not have a built in shelter.***

RSVP to Barbara Whitt and let her know what you are bringing. 206-300-4311.

Suggested donation: $10 per person and and dish for 6 to share.


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Another chance to eat your vegetables - or ice cream

Sunday, July 6, 2014

Whidbey Island Ice Cream
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

If you missed the Shoreline Farmers' Market on Saturday, we are fortunate to have another chance each weekend, with the Lake Forest Park Farmers' Market on Sunday.

Did you know that potatoes come in colors?
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

10am to 3pm on the lower level parking lot of Lake Forest Park Town Center, at the intersection of Bothell Way and Ballinger Way.

Berries, produce, cheese, eggs, meat.
Ready to eat food.
Beautiful bouquets of flowers.
Ice cream - spices - so many more wonderful things 

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