Seattle Milk Fund celebrates 108 years of serving local families

Friday, February 13, 2015


It’s not every day you can celebrate being 108 but Wednesday was the day for Seattle Milk Fund! On February 11, 1907, Seattle Milk Fund (then called the Fruit and Flower Mission) was incorporated. 

As one of King County’s longest running nonprofits, Seattle Milk Fund has shown to be adaptable to the changing needs of the low-income families it serves.

Seattle Milk Fund continues to be King County’s only nonprofit providing child care grants to low-income parents pursuing higher education—easing the burden of what is often their largest monthly expense.

By paying child care costs for full-time college students, this allows the students to focus on their studies and graduation, and for their children to have a valuable learning experience in a licensed, quality child care facility or preschool.

With the rising cost of child care and the importance of early childhood education for those 5 and under, Seattle Milk Fund recently restructured its giving area to focus on child care and family support grants.

Read the story of one student who was helped by the Milk Fund.

In 2014, education grants were combined with family support grants to create more flexibility for families. In addition, Seattle Milk Fund recently expanded its program to include students attending private colleges and universities in King County. During the 2013-14 fiscal year, $261,548 was awarded to grantees and their families.

“We reach a population that many other organizations don’t, those that go up to 250% of the poverty level, said Executive Director Inga Paige. “These families are still considered our working poor, and we are helping them build brighter financial futures for their families.”

Seattle Milk Fund is proud to announce a 100% success rate and a 3.5 GPA among its students for the Fall 2014 quarter. Seattle Milk Fund reached its strategic goal of awarding $81,977 in child care and family support grants to 40 families and 57 children for the Winter 2015 quarter—the most students and children served in recent history.


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46th Dems take on medical marijuana issues


The General Meeting of the 46th District Democrats will be:

Thursday February 19, 2015 7:30pm
Olympic View Elementary School

504 NE 95th St
Seattle, WA 98115
Sign in starts at 7:00pm

Program: How Do We solve a Problem Like Marijuana?

Initiative 502 didn't address the issue of medical marijuana; it simply established a system of highly regulated farms, distributors and retail stores. The intent was to eliminate the black market, but that hasn't happened. Meanwhile some 300 unregulated medical marijuana stores are flourishing in Seattle, including several in the 46th District.

Our program for Feb. 19th attempts to unravel this knotty problem from the point of view of a cannabis dispensary owner, a recreational store owner and a legislator.

Lake Forest Park and Kenmore are fully within the 46th state legislative district.


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Washington State Patrol hosts Kiwanis Youth Law Enforcement Career Camp


Washington State high school juniors and seniors with an interest in law enforcement as a career will have an opportunity to spend a week this summer learning about the roles and job opportunities within law enforcement.

Applications are currently being accepted for the 38th Annual Washington State - Kiwanis Youth Law Enforcement Camp to be held at the Washington State Patrol Academy in Shelton from July 19 through July 25, 2015.  Applications can be downloaded from the State Patrol’s Home Page, under “Outreach.” The application deadline is May 9, 2015.

The purpose of the camp is to provide selected high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to explore various job opportunities in the law enforcement field. Students are given a hands-on experience on the WSP drive-course and tactical firing range and will get to work with forensics, SWAT, communications, K-9 and many police functions. Additionally, students will have exposure to law enforcement problems and challenges officers encounter on a daily basis and to show how to successfully handle situations in a professional manner.

Police departments from around the state provide officers as staff members to instruct and serve as counselors. Guest speakers from various agencies provide first-hand information to the students. This gives the students a variety of experiences and exposure to federal, state, county and local law enforcement as a possible career path. Many students who attend this week-long camp go on to have careers in the criminal justice field.

This camp is sponsored and paid for by Washington Kiwanis clubs statewide in addition to corporate and private sponsors.


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Construction update: Richmond Beach Saltwater Park pedestrian bridge is unsafe

Saltwater Park pedestrian bridge is closed for repairs
Photo courtesy City of Shoreline

From the City of Shoreline

The City's contractor, MJ Hughes, closed the Richmond Beach Saltwater Park pedestrian bridge on January 20 to begin much needed structural repairs and upgrades. There are a number of factors outside of the City's and the contractor's control that could extend the timeline for construction and bridge closure.

To ensure safety, railroad regulations require railroad flaggers and inspectors to be located at the construction site during work activities that are directly above the railroad tracks.

Unfortunately, natural landslide disasters and other delayed projects in the same railroad segment are limiting the amount of available flagger staff to devote towards our project.

BNSF has tentatively stated that the current estimated date for available flaggers is the end of March; however, the City continues to explore options with BNSF to allow the work to begin earlier. This includes the potential for weekend and off-hour work schedules.

The contractor has completed as much of the work as possible that is outside of the area directly above the tracks, including repairs to the abutments, longitudinal braces and some removal of existing decking and curbing. The contractor did this work first so it can move quickly to complete the project once flaggers are available.

However, it also means there will be periods when the bridge remains closed and no work is being done while the contractor waits for flagger availability.

The current condition of the bridge is UNSAFE. It and the beach area will remain CLOSED to public access. Crossing private property without permission and crossing the railroad tracks to access the beach are illegal. It is also illegal to remove barrier fencing around the construction site to gain access across the bridge.

Illegally accessing a construction site is dangerous. This is especially true with bridge construction as it may not be clear what areas of the bridge are secure to walk across and which are not. Shoreline Police will continue patrols of the park and access points to the beach to ensure individuals do not illegally access the bridge or the beach.

Richmond Beach Saltwater Park is a heavily used park, even during the winter months. 

While our goal is to complete the project as quickly as possible and open the bridge, the number one priority for the City, the contractor, BNSF, and the public during construction is safety.

We want to ensure that construction and railroad crews and residents are safe. The repairs and upgrades are necessary to maintain a safe bridge and allow continued access for emergency and maintenance vehicles. Completion of these repairs will extend the life of the bridge 20 or more years at a fraction of what it would cost to replace the bridge.

For more information, see the webpage or call 206-801-2700.


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Overnight closures of I-5 lanes for pavement repair project

I-5: NE 117th Street to SR 104 pavement repair #8633

Mileposts: 173.15 - 177.76

Concrete grinding work is underway on I-5 in Shoreline. This work takes place during overnight hours but may start as early as 8 or 9pm.

Grinding work is unavoidably noisy. To report noise concerns, or request earplugs, call 206-440-4DOT (4368)

  • Monday, Feb. 16 to the morning of Friday, Feb. 20 - Up to three lanes of southbound I-5 from Northeast 175th Street to Northeast 145th Street will be closed from 8pm to 5aml nightly for sign and barrier work.
  • Monday, Feb. 16, to the morning of Friday, Feb. 20 - Up to four lanes of northbound I-5 from Northeast 145th Street to Northeast 175th Street will be closed from 7pm to 5am nightly for concrete roadway grinding.
  • Wednesday, Feb. 18, to the morning of Friday, Feb. 20 - The northbound I-5 on-ramp from Northeast 145th Street will be closed from 9pm to 5am nightly for concrete roadway grinding.
Last update: 10:59 a.m., 2/13


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Sehome Sinks Shorecrest, 52-40

Behind a barrage of six 3-point baskets from willowy senior Leif Anderson and his 23 points, the Sehome Mariners cruised into the Shorecrest gym Friday night and left with a 52-40 win.

Sehome led by as many as 18 points before the Scots closed the gap in the game's final moments to twelve. They out-shot, out-rebounded, and out-hustled Shorecrest every step of the way.

Senior Brantle Harris led the Scots with 15 points, nine of them in a red-hot first quarter.

Sehome coach AJ LaBree was smiling broadly after the game. "That's a good young team we beat tonight", referring to the fact that the Scots have only two seniors on their roster.  "Our (Northwest) league is stacked, tough opponents every night, and it took our very best to get the win tonight."  

Shorecrest returns to the court on Presidents Day at 2pm at Mount Vernon HS.  They play a loser-out game against Archbishop Murphy.


Sehome          16     14     14      8     52
Shorecrest      13       7      8      12    40


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Bring your Valentine to Karaoke / Bingo Friday night

Thursday, February 12, 2015



Still time to join the rowdy crew at the monthly Bingo / Karaoke night tonight at the Senior Center. Enter the drawing for the Chocolate Basket. Sing a few songs, try to win money at Bingo.

There is good food and beer and wine available for your enjoyment.

You will be helping raise money for the Senior Center, so you can feel good about it all.

$15 includes entry fee and BINGO packet. 


Just drop in or call on Friday to see if there are seats available.

206 365-1536  Senior Center. Friday, February 13, 2015. Doors open at 6:00pm. For ages 21 and up.

Located in the southernmost building on the Shoreline Center campus, facing NE 185th St at 1st NE.


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State Legislature: Rep. Kagi's bill moves out of committee

Rep. Ruth Kagi, D-32
On Wednesdy, the House Early Learning and Human Services Committee voted the Youth Equity and Reintegration Act (YEAR) out of committee – a big step forward for disadvantaged youth everywhere.

“Children everywhere make foolish mistakes,” said Rep. Ruth Kagi, D-Seattle. “In 42 other states these children get a second chance. But up until last year, here in Washington, their mistakes followed them forever, preventing them from finding a job, renting an apartment or getting financial aid for college.”

Until last session, Washington was one of just 8 states that did not allow juvenile records to be sealed or made private. But after years of fighting, Rep. Kagi finally passed the Youth Opportunity Act – allowing juveniles who commit non-violent, non-sexual offenses (95% of them) to have their records sealed at age 18.

“Now, after youth go through court and juvenile detention, make amends and pay their debt to society, they are eligible to have their records sealed,” said Rep. Kagi. “Except for one big problem – court fees. Often thousands of dollars. If you can pay, your record is sealed, if you can’t pay, you’re out of luck.”

The YEAR Act will remedy this injustice and give all eligible youth the opportunity to seal their records, not just those from families who can pay. The YEAR Act eliminates most non-restitution Legal Financial Obligations from statute so youths will be charged for only what is necessary to make victims whole.

Judges are allowed to exercise discretion in considering the youth’s ability to pay when ordering the amount of restitution and can order community service instead of monetary payment. Those who still owe money to a victim will be eligible after showing a good faith effort to pay back victims. They are still held responsible for the debt, but the non-violent, non-sexual offense is sealed.

“Our juvenile justice system is founded on the core principle of rehabilitation,” said Rep. Kagi. “It is most successful when all children, rich or poor, reintegrate into society and become active, law-abiding, contributing members of their communities. Right now, this opportunity is only available to youth who can pay. We need to have a juvenile justice system that works for everyone, not just the wealthy few. Passing the YEAR Act will make this possible.”
Rep. Kagi represents the 32nd Legislative District which includes all of Shoreline, parts of North Seattle, parts of southwest Edmonds.


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Shorecrest, Shorewood teams In District Playoffs this weekend

By Frank Workman

Both the boys and girls teams from 2A Shorecrest, and the boys and girls teams from 3A Shorewood have qualified for their respective WIAA District One basketball tournaments that begin this weekend.

Friday night the Shorecrest boys (9-3 in league, 13-7 overall) open their defense of last year's District Championship at home against Sehome (9-3, 15-6) from the Northwest Conference. Tip-off is 7pm. 

The 2A ranks include teams from the Northwest and Cascade Conferences - leagues that the Scots seldom face. The Scots finished second in Wesco 3A South this season. They graduated eight of their nine regulars from last year's team, but this season's squad has gelled with many new players under the guidance of Coach Brian Fischer, and it may be that the rigorous slate of games Shorecrest has faced will make them battle-tested when they face the smaller 2A schools. Sharpshooting junior guard Drew Magaoay, energetic senior Brantle Harris, and rising 6' 7" freshman Philip Pepple give opposing teams plenty to concern themselves with when the Scots have the ball.

All subsequent tournament games will be held at the venerable, old, they-don't-make-them-like that-anymore gym at Mount Vernon HS.


Four teams will qualify for the round-of-sixteen Regionals.

Saturday night the Shorecrest girls (5-7, 10-10) host Lakewood at 7pm in a first-round game. Like the boys, the tournament then moves to Mount Vernon HS. Coach Dori Monson's girls could be a tough out, as the speed of junior Wurrie Njadoe and the size of junior Uju Chibuogwu make for match-up problems for every opponent, as does the Scots' stifling zone defense.


Across town, the Shorewood girls (5-7, 10-10) will have their hands full Friday night at 7pm when they travel to play #1 seed Arlington (10-0, 18-2), and will have a tough row to hoe in order to advance. Coach Erica Ryan will rely on junior Lily Gustafson to lift the T-Birds in what promises to be the most hotly-contested District tournaments in years. Lynnwood (11-1, 18-2) has been ranked #1 in the state for most of the season, but they were recently beaten by streaking Glacier Peak (10-2, 18-2). Ferndale (9-3, 17-3) comes down from the NW Conference with an impressive record, and Stanwood (8-2, 16-4) is always well-coached by Dennis Kloke. Edmonds-Woodway (9-3, 16-4) has been in the top ten for most of the season, but recent dismantlings by Lynnwood and Glacier Peak are apt to have shaken their confidence and will test the Warriors' resolve.

Winners' bracket games will be held at Jackson HS.


The Shorewood boys (7-5, 9-11) open play at home on Saturday at 7pm against Arlington (5-5, 13-7).  Coach Corey O'Hayre is the fourth T-Birds coach in as many years, They have a balanced attack behind Jordan Muir-Keung, Brandon Mar, and the Kirk brothers, Sean and Ian, all of whom are averaging double-figures for the season.

Stanwood (10-0, 16-4), Glacier Peak (11-1, 16-4), and Ferndale (8-4, 14-6) are favored to be the three teams to advance to the Regional round.

As with the girls 3A tournament, the winners' bracket games will be held at Jackson HS.



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Upcoming changes in high school graduation requirements

By Marianne Deal Stephens

At the January 12 Shoreline School District Board meeting, Director of Teaching and Learning Teri Poff presented the State's latest changes to high school graduation requirements. In the 2014 Session, the Legislature passed Senate Bill 6552, legislation which establishes the 24 Credit Career and College Ready Graduation Requirements, which include: 
  • Credits: 24 
  • Non-Credits: a High School and Beyond Plan and Washington State History (usually taken in middle school); 
  • Three Assessments
Graduation Requirements comparison chart
Shoreline School District

The new requirements closely parallel Shoreline's present requirements (see comparison), though there is one major difference. Shoreline currently requires 22.5 credits to graduate, and the new standard will be 24 credits. If students take six classes all four years of high school, they will acquire 24 credits, but the new requirement means that there is no margin for academic difficulties. Currently, students who fail a course have a bit of space to retake a class or take a replacement class. 

Director Poff explained that figuring out how to provide credit recovery within the four years of high school will be the most difficult task for local implementation of the state requirements.

There is some local district and individual student flexibility in the requirements. The academic distribution requirements can be customized via "Personal Pathways".

Differences in graduation requirements
Shoreline School District

Shoreline plans to retain the 3-lab requirement for science, and, while the State will allow students to waive the 2.0 World Language credits in some circumstances, Shoreline will only allow students to waive up to 1.0 World Language credit. These local requirements are more stringent than the state requirements, and more in line with college admission requirements.
Credit distribution
Washington State Board of Education
On January 26, the Shoreline School Board approved Resolution No. 2015-1, Temporary Waiver Request from High School Graduation Requirements. This resolution describes the steps of implementation and the reasons for requesting a 2-year extension. Basically, the extension will give the district more time to figure out how to provide additional academic options so that students can meet the 24-credit requirement and to develop a funding model and operating budget for implementation. In the years ahead, Shoreline will also develop Personal Pathway requirements, train staff, and communicate with students and parents about upcoming changes. 

Students will have to take new assessments, and the State has already begun the transition from the HSPE (High School Proficiency Exam) to the new Smarter Balanced tests, which follow the Common Core State Standards. Washington also has EOC (End of Course) exams in math and biology, which will continue. The transition makes for a complex chart of tests required for graduation, with very few graduating classes having the same requirements. See OSPI State Testing

For more information: 


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Artists & Crafters: Two weeks left to apply for the Shoreline Arts Festival

2014 booth artist
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

The Shoreline Arts Festival gathers 10,000+ attendees for a summer celebration of the arts and local artists. The two-day event is a long-established tradition in this suburban Seattle community. This diverse Festival features an active Artists Marketplace along with juried art exhibitions, cultural performances, theatrical and literary performances, Hands-On Art, a children’s area, Food Court and much more. Apply Now.

Held at a great venue, the Festival is located on the grounds of the Shoreline Conference Center and Shoreline Auditorium, with both indoor and outdoor activities, excellent amenities, and ample parking for attendees.

The vibrant Artists Marketplace is situated in a new location this year, at the very front of the Festival, with booths occupying the large space between the Shoreline Center building and 1st Ave NE. This year’s Marketplace will feature 70+ juried artists. The organizers strive for a well-balanced mix of art types and price points, with emphasis always on quality of craftsmanship and vision.

5 Reasons why you should apply to the Shoreline Arts Festival Artists Marketplace:

  1. Over 10,000 art lovers come to this keystone community event each year. Celebrating its 25th year, the Shoreline Arts Festival has a lot to brag about and is planning for expanded event advertising.
  2. New festival layout allows for each booth to set up as a corner booth, allowing you to put your best foot forward.
  3. Location! Show and Sell your work in the art-loving neighborhoods of North King County.
  4. With over 70 artists participating in the Artist Marketplace, the festival is a vibrant event with an incredible community.
  5. Water, snacks, booth sitters, and artist/member lounge are available for selling artists to make sure you have the best weekend possible!

Eligibility – We’re a juried Artists Marketplace

• Work must be handmade. No commercially produced work, kits, or imported goods.
• All work must be original and created by or under direction of the artists(s).
• Artist(s) must attend the entire Festival.
• Items must match type and quality submitted for jurying. No work by non-juried artists.

Booth Specifications - Two types of outdoor booth spaces are available:
• 10’ x 10’ uncovered, on asphalt or grass: $175
• 10′ x 20′ uncovered, on asphalt or grass: $350

All booths must withstand Northwest weather conditions, with canopies weighted or staked against wind. Tables and chairs are available for rental. Overnight security is provided. In addition to booth fee, a Shoreline business license may be needed.

Jurying
The jury panel includes working artists, gallery managers, and/or Festival directors, who determine the balance of categories and select the artists. Category sizes are based in part on average sales from previous years. Jury decisions are confidential. The organizers strive for a well-balanced mix of art types and price points, with emphasis always on quality of craftsmanship and vision.

Deadline
All applications must be received via Call for Entry by 10:59pm, March 1.

Good luck to applicants!

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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Changes to bus routes with closures on N 200th St

Metro buses will be rerouted around
construction on N 200th
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

From Tuesday, February 17, to Friday, April 24, westbound N 200th St will be closed between the Aurora Village Transit Center and Aurora Ave N for construction. Eastbound N 200th St will remain open during this construction period. (see previous article)

Routes 301, 331, 342, 373 and the RapidRide E Line will continue to serve their respective bus stops at the Aurora Village TC but will be rerouted after leaving the transit center. Route 303 to First Hill, Route 342 to Renton and Route 346 to Haller Lake will operate regular routing as usual.

Route 301 to downtown Seattle: via Ashworth Ave N, N 185th St and northbound Aurora Ave N to the Shoreline P&R and regular route; also, local and express Route 303 trips serving Richmond Beach will operate via Meridian Ave N to N 205th St and regular route west of Aurora Ave N 

Route 331 to Shoreline College: via Meridian Ave N, N 205th St and southbound Aurora Ave N to westbound N 200th St and regular route

Route 342 to the Shoreline P&R : via Meridian Ave N, N 185th St and northbound Aurora Ave N to the park-and-ride 

Route 373 to the U-District: via Meridian Ave N, N 185th St and northbound Aurora Ave N to the Shoreline P&R and regular route

RapidRide E Line to downtown Seattle: via Meridian Ave N and N 185th St to southbound Aurora Ave N and regular route

Due to these reroutes and traffic congestion associated with this phase of the N 200th St construction project, most buses arriving at the Aurora Village TC and the Shoreline P&R will be delayed. Please plan accordingly and allow extra travel time when traveling to and from these locations.

More information, or sign up for Transit Alerts here.


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Haggen to convert Shoreline Safeway in February, LFP Albertsons in June

The Aurora Safeway will be among the first
stores to be converted to the Haggen banner

Pacific Northwest grocery chain Haggen took ownership of the Albertsons store in Monroe, Washington, at 12:01am Thursday morning and began the process of acquiring and converting 146 stores nationwide, with 26 in Washington, including one each in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park. 

John Clougher, Haggen CEO Pacific Northwest, said, “We’re excited about the changes we’re making to enhance these stores, and we’re confident customers will like the new look, the new offerings, and their new full-service grocery destination.” 

Haggen will convert the 26 stores across Washington in February, March and June, based on the following tentative schedule:

February

· Monroe (19881 SR 2; former Albertsons)
· Port Angeles (114 E Lauridsen Blvd.; former Albertsons)
· Wenatchee (1128 N Miller; former Albertsons)
· Shoreline (15332 Aurora Ave. North; former Safeway)

March

15 stores in Washington, mostly in the Puget Sound area, from Puyallup to Everett, are scheduled for March.

June

· Lake Forest Park (17171 Bothell Way Northeast; former Albertsons)
· Burien (15840 1st Ave. South; former Albertsons)
· Renton (14215 SE Petrovitsky Rd.; former Albertsons)
· Bremerton (2900 Wheaton Way ; former Albertsons)
· Milton (2800 Milton Way; former Albertsons)
· Federal Way (31009 Pacific Hwy South; former Albertsons)
· Liberty Lake (1233 N. Liberty Lake Road; former Safeway)


The amount of time it will take to convert each store will vary. Some stores can be converted within two days after the change of ownership, while others will take longer. Both interior and exterior signage will change at all locations.

Clougher noted that the store offering will also change. “Haggen has built its 81-year-old business on providing excellent, locally sourced, fresh produce and high quality meats and seafood. That focus will definitely be reflected in the new stores.”

Opportunity for local farmers, producers, and non-profits to meet Haggen leaders

Haggen’s commitment to being local extends beyond its sourcing and into the communities around its stores. To get to know its neighbors and these neighborhoods better, Haggen is inviting community members that are interested in partnering with the brand to meet with company leaders soon after the conversions of the acquired stores.

At these informal, public meetings, local farmers and producers can discuss selling their wares on Haggen’s shelves, non-profit organizations can learn about Haggen’s community giving, and small businesses can explore co-marketing programs.

“We hope community members will join us for a fun evening to learn about how we can work together to strengthen our community,” said Clougher.

The local meeting for the stores scheduled to be converted in February has been scheduled for 5pm, Thursday, March 12, 2015 at Shoreline Community College.

Charitable donations

Additionally, with each grand opening, Haggen plans to partner with five local non-profits, donating $1,000 to a single organization on the first day the store opens and 2% of sales to four additional organizations on four consecutive Saturdays.

Clougher said, “We have a long history of giving back to the communities we serve. We want to demonstrate that commitment as soon as we open our doors.

About Haggen

Founded in 1933 in Bellingham, Washington, Haggen has built its business on providing guests the freshest and most local products with genuine service, while supporting the communities it serves. The company currently operates stores in Washington and Oregon, and is in the process of acquiring an additional 146 stores. With this acquisition, Haggen will expand from 18 stores with 16 pharmacies to 164 stores with 106 pharmacies; from 2,000 employees to more than 10,000 employees; and from a Pacific Northwest company with locations in Oregon and Washington to a major regional grocery chain with locations in Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada and Arizona. Throughout its eight decades in business, the company has supported regional farms, ranches, fisheries and other businesses, creating a lasting and sustainable local food economy. The company remains focused on building local, sustainable food economies as it expands.

Correction: community meeting is on Thursday.
Updated 02-14-2015 9:45pm

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Romance Blossoms….. at the Northwest Flower & Garden Show

#2 Theme Garden
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

February 11 – 15, 2015
Washington State Convention Center

By Victoria Gilleland

Since Valentine‘s Day is just around the corner “Romance Blossoms” seems the perfect theme for this year’s Northwest Flower and Garden Show. It’s fascinating to see how creativity blossoms in the shows spectacular display gardens at the Washington State Convention Center in downtown Seattle. 

The sheer magnitude of transporting tons of stone including large boulders, mulch, building materials, prebuilt structures, a myriad of plants, and decorative items to the site on an upper floor of the Convention Center is mind boggling. My hat is off to the skilled and dedicated experts who through thoughtful creative planning and hard work make it all happen!

The “Romance Blossoms” theme has been developed in amazingly unique ways in each of the display gardens. Gardening ideas and concepts abound in these wonderfully designed and executed gardens. If you’re in the market you can find lots of ideas to incorporate in your home garden. Look for something simple that you can try. Maybe a color combination you hadn’t thought of before or adding a plant you hadn’t known or considered before to a container garden. Be open to these gifts from the gardening universe!

Here are comments on some of my favorites among the truly outstanding gardens at this year’s Northwest Flower and Garden Show.

#12 Love the Space You're In
Photo by Victoria Gilleland

In Susan Browne’s “Love the Space You’re In (#12)” garden she uses rich color for dramatic contrast in the garden. Lime green, blue, white and orange are used in combination to create a striking display. A simple potter’s cottage with royal blue door, colorful glass art, rusted metal pieces, and orange and lime green containers planted with high contrast plant material make a stunning display most home gardeners would welcome!

#14 Birds and Bees
Photo by Victoria Gilleland

The birds and the bees are center stage in the West Seattle Nursery “Birds Do It… Bees Do it…(#14)” display garden. A bee house is the focal point of the garden along with an assortment of insect hotels meant to house beneficial insects of all types. Texture and color is skillfully incorporated with the careful selection of natural and recycled manmade materials and flowering plants. Subtle paint colors used on structures keeps the scene calm. A patch of rich green lawn, blooming spring plants, a variety of bird houses, and a small pond complete the bucolic scene. This is an appealing earthy garden that reminds us of an earlier simpler time.

#15 The Romance of Steampunk
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

“The Romance of Steampunk(#15)” designed by Tehia Whitby boldly illustrates ‘Steampunk’ as a sort of Victorian science fiction and elegance combined with more modern technology. The garden includes a “Victorian Folly” with domed roof and leaded glass windows made from salvaged materials. A kinetic water feature made up of musical instruments, gears and chains is included along with a very oversized clock. The creator has used color, texture and line in materials and plants to great effect. Recycled materials are used in unexpected ways. This garden is by far the most whimsical garden in the group. You won’t want to miss this one!  

#19 Beautiful Chaos
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

“The Root of True Romance: Beautiful Chaos…Love, Art, Nature (#19)” by Elandan Gardens Ltd. celebrates nature in the Pacific Northwest. A large snag acts as cover for garden visitors while boulders become sitting rocks. The weathered roots of another fallen tree add texture and light to the garden. A waterfall and pond offer quiet respite while a prominent stone sculpture is counterpoint to the natural setting of the garden. The green lawn and scarlet tulips contrast with native plant material bringing just the right urban touch to the scene. What a treat to get a glimpse of our northwest forest at our Flower and Garden Show!

Don’t miss this wonderful prelude to spring. Its rejuvenating, inspiring, educational and a whole lot of fun!

Victoria Gilleland is the owner of Cottage Garden Designs, a Garden Design company specializing in Redesign of Residential Gardens, Garden Consultation and Coaching. She has been designing gardens in the northwest for over 20 years.  (vjgilleland@yahoo.com      



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Northwest Junior Pipe Band heading to Scotland for World Pipe Band Championships

Members perform at various events during the year
Photo by Jerry Pickard

Northwest Junior Pipe Band - Shoreline, WA – Growing Pipers and Drummers in the Pacific North West since 1995. Founded by Scottish ex-pat Charlie McNeil, Northwest Junior Pipe Band is the only organization for youth to learn Scottish bagpipes and drums in the Puget Sound area.

By Jana Walker

Learning to play the pipes is comparable to the classical guitar or violin. Students start on an instrument resembling a recorder called a practice chanter, learning rudiments and technique.

"It takes about six months to one year to get up on the pipes.  After that it takes another year or two before it sounds like anything you would want to listen to," Kevin Auld, instructor and band director said.

Band members attend rehearsals every week for two hours on Thursday and four to seven hours on many Sundays.

This year the band must raise over $50,000 dollars as it prepares to travel to Glasgow, Scotland for the World Pipe Band Championships. The band has two major fundraising performances planned for the coming months.

A Ceilidh (Party) in May will celebrate the band's 20th anniversary followed on the heels of a 20th anniversary concert held at the Renton Civic Theater in March.

"Financially, it takes about two years to raise the type of money that we need in order to get the group over there. Our goal is always to raise enough money to cover half of the band members expenses," Angela Kennedy, vice president said.

Many volunteer hours are donated in the form of hand making uniform parts, to lower costs.  Airfares must be booked and this year the band is renting an entire dorm at the Glasgow School of Art.  

The trip is also a chance for personal growth and responsibility.

"I let the kids know I will not be bringing extra uniform parts. When you put it to them that way they really step up to the plate," Karen Gayle, uniform quartermaster said. 

With an eye towards the weight limits imposed by airlines, pipers often carry a drummer's personal items so that the drum itself can be counted as checked baggage.  

The board is hard at work attracting sponsors to the band. A range of sponsorship levels are available ranging from sponsoring a single kid for the season to paying for the band's annual operating costs.  Sponsorship would mean less pressure on band members and parents.  It would also contribute to scholarships the band provides. 

"Even though the band is kind of expensive we never turn anyone away," Gayle said. 

The band gives back to the community in a variety of ways. Over Veteran's Day weekend the band participated in The Boots to Books and Beyond Campaign at Edmonds Community College and played at VFW post #1040 in Lynnwood WA. They also march in the St. Patrick’s Day and 4th of July parades, as well as performing for cultural events at many local elementary schools.

About the 20th Anniversary Concert at the Renton Civic Theater

NWJPB is excited to do their first concert in a theater! Our concert will be on March 21 at 7:30pm at the Renton Civic Theater and tickets are $15 each. Tickets are available on the Renton Civic Theater website or from the Northwest Junior Pipe Band website.

About the Annual Mother’s Day Eve Ceilidh

Northwest Junior Pipe Band's annual Mother's Day Eve Ceilidh dinner and auction has been the best fund raiser for the band. This year it will be on May 9, 2015 from 5 to 10pm at the Nile Shriners Golf Course in Mountlake Terrace. You can follow us on our Facebook page or watch our website for ticket information.

To learn more about the Northwest Junior Pipe Band contact Sean or Jana Walker, Publicity,
206-855-9759




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Home sales in Shoreline during January 2015

These are representative of the home sales at each price point in Shoreline during the month of January 2015.




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Valentine's Day Sale at Bargain Corner Thrift Shop

Valentine's Day sale at the Bargain Corner Thrift Shop at the Senior Center on NE 185th.

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Aurora Construction update: N 200th going to one lane for six months

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

N 200th will go to one lane for six months
starting February 17

Aurora Construction Update
Updated February 10, 2015 

Roadway Work

New curb, gutter, and sidewalk construction and irrigation/ landscaping work will continue along Aurora between N 200th Street and north of N 205th Street. Concrete driveways will be constructed in the vicinity of N 205th and Aurora.

The remaining southbound Business Access and Transit (BAT) lane from SR-104 to south of N 205th will be paved the week of February 9, weather permitting.

During this time, the southbound direction of Aurora and the affected side streets may be restricted to one lane during the daytime non-commute hours to perform any of the work above, weather permitting.

Utility Work

Seattle City Light, Comcast, and Frontier will continue installation of  their systems from N 192nd Street to N 200th Street. This work converts the utilities from aerial to underground lines.

Planned Power Outage

At 8pm February 15 (Sunday evening), there will be a power outage for the vicinity of N 192nd Street and Aurora to transfer power to the underground system. Seattle City Light has notified affected customers. The traffic signals at N 192nd Street and Aurora will also be affected. This intersection will function as a four-way stop during the outage, which is expected to last 8 -10 hours.  

Traffic Revisions on N 200th

Beginning on February 17, N 200th Street east of Aurora to the first driveway into Aurora Village / Costco will be reduced to one lane of traffic for approximately 6 months in order for crews to install a joint utility trench and a structural sidewalk. Traffic will run eastbound (see map above). Transit routes leaving the Aurora Transit Center will change. See King County Metro and Community Transit for the latest details.

Street Trees

The initial phase of work in this area will require the removal of trees along N 200th Street. The contractor will also remove some trees along Echo Lake Place for street improvements. When the work is complete, the trees will be replaced along N 200th Street and elsewhere in the project.


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Three business workshops offered for festival artists

Learn to be a successful festival artist
Photo by Carl Dinse

The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council is hosting three workshops to help artists who are interested in selling their work at festivals. These workshops are appropriate for both first time festival artists, or seasoned festival sellers who would like to increase sales and learn some new tricks. The first workshop is free for anyone who is interested; the second and third workshops are $10 each. 

February 26, 6:00pm
Shoreline Center: Arden Room
Art/Business Workshop: Session 1
Planning the Ideal Season: Getting into the festival events that best fit your at

March 19, 6:00pm
Shoreline Center: Arden Room
Art/Business Workshop: Session 2
Laying the Groundwork for Success: Marketing and prepping for your shows

April 2, 6:00pm
Shoreline Center: Arden Room
Art/Business Workshop: Session 3
Becoming a Festival Standout: Selling your work and yourself to customers

Reminder: The deadline to apply for the 2015 Shoreline Arts Festival is March 1. Artists, apply now at Call for Entry.

About the Instructors:

Jody McCrain

Co-founder of McCrain Photography, Jody McCrain has been involved with the art festival world for the past nine years. She and her husband, Phil McCrain, have participated in many local and regional festivals throughout the Northwest. She has also served as co-director of the Shoreline Artists' Market for the past six years (last five with Sella Rush).  She is a member of the Northwest Art Alliance (Best of the Northwest) Board, and she recently accepted the position of Artist Selection and Jury Pool Coordinator.  Having experienced festivals from both the artist and business side, Jody is excited to share with other artists the highs and lows of this journey.

Sella Rush

Shoreline-based jewelry artist Sella Rush (of Shi-Shi Design) has been selling her handmade pieces in the Pacific NW for eight years. During that time, she's been accepted, wait-listed, and--shockingly--rejected for festivals and markets throughout the area. Sella has also served as co-coordinator (with Jody McCrain) of the Shoreline Arts Festival's Artist Marketplace for the past five years. As an active artist and festival organizer, Sella is very happy to share with her fellow artists the lessons she's learned on both sides of the glass.

Lorie Hoffman

Marketer for the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council, Hoffman knows the ins and outs of putting your best foot forward. She has sat on the Board of Directors for the Sweet Pea Arts Festival which boasts an annual audience of over 15,000, has directed three art galleries, has sat on countless juries, and has owned and operated her own Fine Art Business for the last 10 years.  In addition to being on staff with the Arts Council, Hoffman does business consulting with artists ready to increase their level of professional polish and make their art their business.

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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Briarcrest nurse selected as Support Person of the Year

Support Person of the Year Gary Eneberg, center,
with Superintendent Rebecca Miner and
Briarcrest Elementary Principal Jonathan Nessan.
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Gary Eneberg, nurse at Briarcrest Elementary School, has been selected as the 2015 Shoreline Schools Support Person of the Year.

Gary will be honored at a reception at 6pm on Monday, March 2 in the Shoreline Center lobby as the District kicks off Support Staff Appreciation Week. The community is invited to attend.

“He is gifted in his position and meticulous in his work,” his nomination read in part. “Each day he cares for our students who get bumped and bruised, are feeling sick, requiring medications, or needing some emotional support. Gary carefully tracks the immunization status of 480 students. He also gives back to the nursing profession by hosting nursing students throughout the year.”

Gary has been the nurse at Briarcrest since 1996. Each year he spends a week at 6th grade camp, teaches anti-bullying lessons in classrooms and teams with the school’s family advocate.

“For many students and families, Nurse Gary is a true touchstone in the school. He is always there with a smile, kind word and dry socks for a child who steps in too big of a puddle. Gary helps families feel at ease when there is a medical concern and his compassion provides a true sense of care. Gary sees the best in everyone that he interacts with, and is an excellent representative of the school and District.”

The Support Person of the Year award has been made annually since 1998 and is selected by a committee of staff and community members from nominations received from around the District. The recipient also receives a professional development grant from the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation.



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Take your Valentine to a rousing gospel concert - and the price is right


The Total Experience Gospel Choir will raise the roof at the Third Place Commons on Saturday, February 14, Valentine's Day.

The 2pm concert is free to the public, thanks to the Lake Forest Park Rotary.



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Northwest Flower and Garden show is a hit this year

ALPD Over the Moon

It really seems to depend on the theme and the Northwest Flower and Garden Show picked a good one this year: Romance Blossoms.

Area News photographer Steven H. Robinson went to the media preview and is enthusiastic about the displays. 

Northwest Orchid Society display garden

Show dates and hours are Wednesday through Saturday (Feb. 11-14), 9am to 8pm; and Sunday (Feb. 15), 9am to 6pm.

Prices range from $22 the week of the show or at the door; $15 per person for group advance purchases (minimum of 20 tickets online or at the door); $31 for single 2-day pass; $70 for single 5-day pass; and $5 for youth (ages 13 – 17). Children 12 and under are admitted free to the show.

For more information, visit the Garden Show website

#19 Beautiful Chaos


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Overflow crowd at Shoreline City Council meeting Monday

A full house of citizens for the Shoreline
City Council meeting on the 185th rezone
Photo by Tom Jamieson

By Diane Hettrick

The crowd filled the Council chambers and spilled out into the lobby at the Monday night meeting of the Shoreline City Council.

On the agenda was a discussion of the subarea zoning plan for 185th Street in anticipation of the light rail station to be sited on the east side of the freeway.

Approximately 35 people signed up for public comment. Most were there because they were alerted by volunteers from the Shoreline Preservation Society, which put leaflets on mailboxes around 185th St. 

At least three, in the two minutes allotted, said they were unaware that the rezone was happening. Several others said they had seen the postcards (Change is Coming to Your Neighborhood) but had no idea of the extent and scope of the rezone.

The tenor of the comments was shock, a sense of betrayal, and great anxiety. Many people asked that the process be slowed down. Others told their fears of what the neighborhoods would look like under an aggressive rezone. Others voiced their dismay that the council seemed to be favoring developers over citizens.

In the council discussion following the comments, it seemed that the council is now agreed on a phased in approach, although there was no consensus on dates, area, or number of phases.

Phases and Areas recommended by
the Planning Commission

They also appear to be leaning toward a smaller area for the first Phase, apparently respecting the work of the Planning Commission, which redrew the entire map (see above or view on the website) after listening to several hours of public comment at their final meeting on the topic.

The decisions are supposed to be made at the council meeting on February 23. The council will start their discussion with the map recommended by the Planning Commission. Two of the council members were arguing for a larger Phase I area, and three were proposing a radically smaller area.

They will also decide things such as building height, step-backs vs set-backs, whether the Phase I will include areas east of the station, and how far.

The full rezone area is still as far north as NE 195th where the new separated trail is being built, and as far south as NE 175th.

Residents with comments on the topic can email the councilmembers at council@shorelinewa.gov  

                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

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