City of Shoreline press release
On March 16, the Shoreline City Council adopted three ordinances that change the zoning and development regulations for the 185th Street Light Rail Station Subarea Area. The Council action was the culmination of nearly two years of public process. The Subarea Plan (Ordinance 702) is the long range plan for the area; the Development Code regulations and zoning map (Ordinance 706) establish regulations for what may be built and how it will look; and the Planned Action (Ordinance 707) identifies necessary improvements to accommodate new development and to make the existing neighborhood more walkable. For more information about these ordinances and documents, visit shorelinewa.gov/lightrail. An interactive zoning map is also available here to help identify exactly what each property parcel’s new zoning will be and when it will be effective.
The adopted rezoned area is 15% smaller than the final recommendation of the Planning Commission. The total area rezoned is 293 acres, approximately 4.7% of the acreage within the City of Shoreline. Even with this rezone, the City continues to have 80% of the zoned property in Shoreline designated for detached single family homes.
The Council adopted a three phase approach to zoning changes with Phase 1 occurring immediately; Phase 2 occurring in 2021; and Phase 3 occurring in 2033. Council also adopted new Mixed-Use Residential (MUR) zones allowing a mix of housing types such as detached single family, attached single family, townhomes, row homes, apartments, and live/work dwellings. In some cases, the MUR zones will allow certain retail, service, office, and other types of commercial uses. The most intense MUR zone is MUR 70’, which will allow for building heights of up to six or seven stories in the areas closest to the light rail station. Existing single-family homes will continue to be a part of this mix, including conversion of some to neighborhood-serving businesses like offices and restaurants.
Throughout the planning process, a lot of concern has been expressed about whether the City will use eminent domain to take property as part of the rezone. The City will not take any property for redevelopment as a result of the rezone. Any development that occurs will be the result of private property owners developing their own property, or private developers purchasing property from willing sellers. If property owners want to develop or sell their property, they can. If they do not wish to develop or sell their property, they do not have to. If no one develops or sells their property, then nothing will be built and the station area will basically remain as it is today.
The rezone provides property owners with more choices for their property. Those that wish to remain in their single-family homes, can. Even with the new regulations and zoning, property owners can continue to maintain, remodel, sell, and even expand their homes. Those property owners that wish to take advantage of light rail development in their neighborhood can develop their own property to a higher density or sell to a developer to develop.
Redevelopment around the station area will also increase housing choices currently lacking in Shoreline. Shoreline is primarily a community of single-family detached housing. It also has the second highest percentage of people 65 and older in King County at 15.2%. Seniors living in detached single-family homes have few options if they wish to downsize and remain in Shoreline. There are also few options for people seeking a variety of affordable housing choices in Shoreline, and few options for younger singles or families that desire different housing styles, including rentals. Increased housing diversity will provide more options for seniors, young people, and for those wishing to find more affordable housing close to mass transit.
It is important to stress the fact that even though the zoning designation within the station area has changed, its current use does not have to. Neighborhoods may start to transition, but the choice for homeowners to stay, develop their property with something new, or sell and relocate is entirely up to them.
Sen. Chase's bill to allow vote on city assumption of water / sewer district passes Senate
A bill to ensure that voters in a water or sewer district retain ultimate control over whether a city or town can assume jurisdiction of their district has passed the Senate and awaits action in the House of Representatives.
“These special-purpose districts are created by a vote of the people, for the people. As such, 100 percent of the taxes we pay for our water and sewer systems should be dedicated to providing the services and maintaining the system,” said Sen. Maralyn Chase, D-Shoreline and the sponsor of Senate Bill 5048. “These funds should not be diverted, or ‘repurposed’ for other uses such as new developments or other non-water-sewer projects unless the voters approve.”
SB 5048 would let voters call for a referendum on any attempt by a city or town to assume jurisdiction of all or part of a water or sewer district.
As with other special-service districts such as fire districts or school districts, rate payer revenue must be spent solely for the purposes of the special service districts. However, if a city assumes ownership of a water or sewer district, the city may levy taxes without limits, without restrictions on what the funds are used for, and without a vote of the citizens who voted to create the district. Water and sewer districts are the only special service districts that do not have a cap on the taxes that can be levied if these districts are assumed by a municipality.
“Across the state, in the wake of the Great Recession, municipalities are struggling to make ends meet — and are assuming control of water and sewer districts to increase their revenue flow for other programs and projects,” Chase said. “That’s not why people vote to create a water or sewer district. People want a reliable water and sewer system — not a funding mechanism outside of their control for projects they don’t approve.”
Utility taxes are among the most regressive taxes levied on citizens, Chase noted. Water and sewer are basic necessities and low-income rate payers have no choice in accepting or refusing service or paying the ever-increasing taxes. For example, low-income working families pay 17 percent of their income in taxes compared to wealthy families who pay only 2.8 percent.
“This bill will ensure that the democratic process can work the way it was meant to work,” Chase said. “If it’s truly in the public’s best interest for a city to assume a water or sewer district, then the city rulers should have nothing to fear from a vote by the people who would be paying the tax.”
Tags:
utilities
City Council retreat dinner Friday, half day session Saturday
The City of Lake Forest Park will hold a special City Council work session / retreat dinner meeting on Friday, March 20 from 6-8pm at Preservation Kitchen, 17121 Bothell Way NE, Bothell for an Overview of Strategic Planning.
The Saturday session will be held at the Northshore Fire Department, 7220 NE 181st St in Kenmore from 8am to 1pm.
On the agenda:
Foundational Information and Discussion
- Review 2014 Goals
- Review Results for 2014 City-Wide Work Plan/Review City-Wide Work Plan for 2015
- Consider Strategic Planning Framework
- Comprehensive Plan Draft Vision Statement
Strategic Planning Framework: Developing Strategic Goals
Review Draft Goals
Council Work Plan
Next Steps
Public Comment is scheduled for 11:40am
Tags:
city council
Einstein wrestling wins its fourth match Tuesday
Einstein won its fourth match in a row Tuesday with a 69-24 victory at Brier Terrace. Einstein was missing four varsity wrestlers and Brier Terrace wrestled tough. At 113 pounds Einstein wrestler Shinkwang Moon improved to 6-0 with six pins for the season. Starting with Moon’s victory, Einstein turned a narrow 18-9 lead into a commanding 42-9 lead. Brier Terrace was able to close the gap to 48-24 before Einstein scored the last 21 points of the match.
Einstein wrestles next on Thursday, March 19th, at home against Voyager.
Einstein Record: 6-1
Einstein 69 - Brier Terrace 24
@ Brier Terrace Middle School
81: Double Forfeit
88: Kody Carpenter (EN) win by forfeit
93: Hunter Lowden (EN) pinned Spencer Mudliar 0:25
98: Jackson Moody (BT) dec. Cameron Highet 6-4
103: Nick Lotz (EN) pinned Howie Hare 1:23
108: Micah Cortezzo (BT) pinned Curt Tanaka 1:46
113: Shinkwang Moon (EN) pinned Seydou Traore 3:00
118: Ruslan Bekniyazov (EN) dec. Josh Beam 11-6
123: Nelson Tardie (EN) dec. Jaden Lofrese 6-3
128: Charlie Miller (EN) win by forfeit
133: Jordan King (EN) pinned Zach Simmons 0:15
140: Double forfeit
148: Connor Lefsley (BT) dec. Josh Harazim 6-5
157: Jaice Jones (BT) win by forfeit
167: Bryce Burns (BT) pnned Thomas Newkirk 125
178: Phillip Ball (EN) dec. Seth Damiano 8-1
188: Dylan Koidal (EN) win by forfeit
218: Alex Maxwell (EN) pinned Alex Paluck 1:30
248: Murad Atayev (EN) win by forfeit
278: Double forfeit
--Clark Norton
New session: Matter of Balance starts April 1 at Senior Center
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| A Matter of Balance Photo by Jon Ann Cruver |
New Matter of Balance class - April 1 to May 27 - at the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Center
Because of a generous grant from the Shoreline Fire Department, the Senior Center is able to conduct the acclaimed Matter of Balance classes free to the seniors in our community.
The goal of the class is help seniors who are fearful of falling feel more confident and feel good about getting out and enjoying more activities.
Many seniors experience fear of falling and restrict their activities. A Matter of Balance class includes:
- Managing concern about Falls,
- Emphasizes practical strategies to reduce fear and increase activity levels.
Participants learn to view falls and fear of falls as controllable:
- Set realistic goals to increase activity,
- Change their environment to reduce fall risk factors
- Exercise to increase strength and balance.
- Class includes 1 hour of exercise and 1 hour of discussion; with breaks.
This program was developed by the Royal Center at Boston University and is nationally recognized as an outstanding program that promotes fall prevention.
This session of Matter of Balance is running for 9 days instead of the regular 8.
The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services is conducting a special study of seniors 66+ who are beginning an exercise program. A survey will be taken on the first day of class (April 1). All participants who take the survey will be given $15 as a thank you for their time and effort.
Pre-register at the front desk of the Senior Center located on the Shoreline Center campus, 18560 1st Ave NE or call 206-365-1536. Class is limited to 15.
Tags:
seniors
Shorewood girls tennis 4-3 over Kamiak
SHOREWOOD 4 KAMIAK 3
The Shorewood girls tennis team started their season with a close win over Kamiak. The T-Birds won three of four singles and number one doubles to clinch the win. Winning in singles were number 2 Jelena Bojic, number 3 Emily Wright and number 4 Amy Buswell. In doubles number 1 doubles Genevieve O’Malley and Jessica Yuen also won.
Shorewood will play Jackson this Friday March 20 at 3:30pm at Jackson.
SINGLES
1. Elizabeth Norris K def. Ellie Allen- Hatch SW 0-6, 6-1, 6-2
2. Jelena Bojic SW def. Angela Lee K 6-1, 7-5
3. Emily Wright SW def. Hanna Lee K 6-3, 6-2
4. Amy Buswell SW def. Tawnie Nguyen K 6-2, 6-3
DOUBLES
1. Genevieve O’Malley / Jessica Yuen SW def. Kateka Seth / Madison Duskin K 6-2 / 7-5
2. Sukhita Vald / Deeksha Sharma K def. Tina Chi / Sarah Tieu SW 7-6 (7-4), 6-2
3. Ruth Lee / Shwera Mohan K def. Wiktoria Kostyra / Kate Drake SW 7-5, 6-3
--Arnie Moreno
Shorecrest Varsity Girls Tennis in a near sweep against Lakewood March 18
Shorecrest Varsity Girls Tennis met Lakewood in a Wesco 2A / 3A match on March 18, 2015 at Kellogg Middle School.
Shorecrest 6 - Lakewood 1
Shorecrest won all the singles matches and two of the three doubles.
Singles:
Rachel Stevens SC vs Christina Barber, 6-2, 6-0
Lauren Rutter SC vs Hannah Krutsinger, 6-0
Elizabeth Parsek SC vs Cuera Charles, 6-0, 6-0
Bianca Dang SC vs Faith Dahl, 6-2, 7-5
Doubles:
Shiyao Li SC vs Alex Wolfe and Ji Have Hong SC vs Maddie Deyoung, 4-6, 6-2, 3-6
Julie Moss SC vs Paige Borsema and Tessa Farnam Sc vs Gillian Romeis, 3-6, 6-3, 7-6
Botinda Iyeli SC vs Erin Espeland and Victoria Nguyen SC vs Jillian Desmund, 3-1, F
Coach, Robert Mann
Aurora Theatre Company 2015 GALA - "A Gershwin Tune"
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| A Gershwin Tune - Gala Evening Support the Aurora Theatre Company |
Join Shoreline's own Aurora Theatre Company for a Gala Evening of food, drink and celebration.
You will enjoy appetizers and desserts prepared by local chefs and imbibe in wine courtesy of North City Bistro and Wine Shop and beer courtesy of Elliott Bay Brewing.
You can purchase Raffle Tickets to win theatre tickets, restaurant gift certificates and other exciting prizes.
The highlight of the evening will be a special performance of the music of George Gershwin featuring top local talent: Julie Briskman, Bhama Roget, Anna Lauris Boynton, Chris Carwithen and Julian Schrenzel.- with Mark Rabe at the piano!
All the funds raised at the Gala will go directly to cover the costs of Aurora Theatre Company's 2015 summer production of "Fiddler on the Roof."
Saturday Evening - April 25, 2015 at 7:00pm
Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave N, 98133. Free Parking in City garage.
TICKETS: $20.00 - available online
Aurora Theatre Company filled the "house" last year with its free, outdoor performances in the City Hall Courtyard. (see previous article).
Tags:
arts,
fundraiser
Annual income under 60K? United Way will prepare your taxes for you
United Way of King County is offering free tax preparation services to local households making under $60,000. Volunteers will prepare taxes for attendees and help connect them with one-on-one financial counseling, healthcare enrollment, and other public benefits.
United Way of King County operates 21 full-service sites and 4 drop-off tax prep sites. At these sites, drop off your documentation and come back in a week to pick up or file your completed return.
The free tax service campaign started as a grassroots initiative in White Center thirteen years ago led by United Way of King County.
Over the years, the campaign has spread throughout the county in an effort to connect low-income workers to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). According to UWKC, the EITC is considered as one of the most successful federal anti-poverty measure in the last four decades.
No appointments are needed to take advantage of this service. Sites include Shoreline HopeLink and the Lake City Service Center on 125th.
To find a location:
- Click here to find locations, operating hours, languages available, and a list of what to bring.
- Text "FREETAX" and your five-digit ZIP code to 313131.
- Call 2.1.1. or 800.621.4636
- For additional questions, email freetax@uwkc.org
Tags:
taxes
Eastside Dog Park ready for business
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| The remaining pile is for a future work party Photo by GM Wiegand |
By GM Wiegand
The work is mostly done at the Eastside off Leash Park and the park has been open for business all this week. The park was closed during the day for the week of March 9, while the City of Shoreline placed pea sized rounded gravel in the lowest areas of the park to resolve wet area issues.
Now all the big puddles are gone. A small pile of pea-gravel sits to the south of the pedestrian gate for a future volunteer work party to improve the entrance area box-gate.
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| Dry footing! Photo by GM Wiegand |
Happy, dry-footed dogs and owners relish the chance to play off-leash. The dogs socialize, as do the owners.
Come and visit, bring your Dog!
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| The Before shot Photo by GM Wiegand |
This is what it looked like before the work was done.
The Eastside Dog Park is located on Fircrest grounds, at 1902 NE 150th St. (on the southeast corner of the campus at NE 150th Street and 20th Avenue NE).
Tags:
dog parks
Readers - start your ovens - Edible Book Festival March 28 at Third Place Commons
The Edible Book Festival is back and FREE for all ages!
Readers: Start your ovens! As part of the International Edible Book Festival the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council will be hosting a local Edible Book Festival at Third Place Commons located within the Town Center at Lake Forest Park.
Bibliophiles, book artists and food lovers will unite to create edible books that are exhibited, documented and then consumed! Edible books are made of food and inspired by a book or pun on a book title.
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| Photo by Bob Pfeiffer |
This March 28 event will be held from 11am – 2pm, and is free and open to the public. Come out and enjoy these mouthwatering manuscripts, or brave your aprons to create your own succulent storybook. Get inspired at Books To Eat webpage. Your creation should be inspired by a book, but made out of edible ingredients. It may look like a book, tablet or scroll, or be completely unique. Entries may be sweet or savory.
This is an all ages event with judging categories for the following age groups: K-6 grade, 7-12 grade, and adult. Register the title of your creation here before March 24 with your Name - Age/level - Title of your Edible Book.
Books will be judged in the following categories for adults
- Most Appetizing
- Most PUNderful
- Best Visual Presentation
- Least Likely to be Consumed
- Special Judges Award
- People’s Choice Award
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| Photo by Bob Pfeiffer |
Grades K-6 and 7th-12th will both be judged for the Best Edible Artist in their age group. Everyone present can vote for the People’s Choice Award.
Schedule of events:
- 11:00 am – Check in. Bring your creation (along with the book that was your inspiration) and appropriate serving utensils to Third Place Commons.
- 12:00 pm – Judging, Viewing, and Documenting. If you want to come and view the books without submitting an entry, please come at this time. This is also the time for judging and People’s Choice judging!
- 1:00 pm – All ballots handed in.
- 1:15 pm – Prizes awarded!
- 1:30 pm – ALL EDIBLE BOOKS WILL BE CONSUMED! (with punch and coffee)
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| Photo by Bob Pfeiffer |
Many thanks to our partners, Friends of Third Place Commons and Third Place Books, for the donation of prizes.
Shoreline – Lake Forest Park Edible Book Festival
Saturday, March 28, 2015, 11:00am
Third Place Commons
17171 Bothell Way NE
Lake Forest Park, WA 98155
The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to cultivate creativity and inspire our community through the arts.
Tags:
edible books
46th District Legislators Telephone Town Hall March 24, 2015
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| Hear from your 46th District legislators at the Telephone Town Hall |
An opportunity for residents of NE and N Seattle, Kenmore and Lake Forest Park to ask their legislators questions and give input
State Rep. Gerry Pollet, state Rep. Jessyn Farrell, and state Sen. David Frockt — 46th Legislative District Democratic lawmakers will hold a Telephone Town Hall for their constituents, from 6pm to 7pm, Tuesday night, March 24, 2015
The 46th District legislators are hosting a telephone town hall during the legislative session.
The legislators acknowledge how hard it is to travel to Olympia during the week, so they are coming to you by phone. They want to hear from their constituents on issues that are important to you.
Topics the legislators may address include:
- Fully funding our children’s right to a good education
- Expanding health care and protecting the safety net
- Making our tax system more fair
- Increased affordability for higher education
- Protecting our environment and combating climate change
Shortly before 6 o’clock that evening, thousands of 46th Legislative District citizens will receive phone calls inviting them to stay on the line and participate in the Telephone Town Hall. Those who want to ask a question, or give comments, in this phone program will need simply to press “*3” (i.e., press the “star” button and then press the “3” button).
If for some reason a citizen doesn’t get the call, he or she is encouraged to call the toll-free telephone number directly, 1-877-229-8493, and then enter PIN code 18646 when prompted to join the discussion.
The three lawmakers also emphasize that citizens should feel free to contact them individually.
Further, people who want to send a message to lawmakers at any time can call the toll-free Legislative Hotline number, 1-800-562-6000, or this toll-free number, 1-800-635-9993 (for hearing-impaired citizens).
To join the Telephone Town Hall at 6pm on March 24th, call: 877-229-8493 and enter Code 18646 when prompted.
Tags:
politics
Shorewood girls' tennis season preview
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| Genevieve O’Malley and Jelena Bojic. ( Not pictured ) senior captain Jenny Ahn. Photo by Arnie Moreno |
2015 Shorewood Girls Tennis Preseason Preview
The Shorewood girls varsity tennis team starts its season with old rivals from WesCo, Kamiak and Jackson high schools.
Both are in the WesCo 4A and Shorewood is part of the WesCo South 3A league.
The T-Birds go to Kamiak on Wednesday March 18th and Jackson on Friday March 20th. Matches start at 3:30pm. Kamiak and Jackson are two of the best teams from the 4A ranks and will be a tough test to start this season.
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| The team has 11 returning seniors and lots of winning experience Photo by Arnie Moreno |
Shorewood hosts Stanwood for their first home match March 24th at 3:30pm.
The defending WesCo South 3A league champion Thunderbirds are led by senior co-captains Jelena Bojic, Genevieve O’Malley and Jenny Ahn.
--Arnie Moreno
Shorewood soccer
Shorewood played at Starfire vs Kennedy Catholic. Shorewood scored 9 minutes in with a goal by Alan Corrales that was assisted by Ousainou Bojang.
Later in the half Shorewood was awarded a penalty kick. The ball was struck hard at the right post and Sam Carballo dove left and pushed it wide for the save. This is how the half ended.
At the 44th minute Kennedy was awarded a free kick to the right of the center circle and in an attempt to clear the ball Shorewood made an own goal. This is how the game ended.
Isaac Whitaker was in goal for Shorewood which is 0-1-1 and Sam Carballo was in net for Kennedy 0-1-1.
--Bill Wilkins
Shorewood softball March 17
Shorewood softball met Nathan Hale at the Meridian Park Field on March 17.
1 2 3 4 5 6 R H E
Nathan Hale 1 2 2 0 0 0 5 6 5
Shorewood 2 4 1 1 1 6 15 16 1
Battery
Nathan Hale - Marley O'Neal and Sophie Mandell (catcher)
Shorewood - Holly Ebel and Lauren Smith
Highlights
Nathan Hale - Marley O'Neal 1-3, 3B
Rocky O'Neal 1-4, 2B
Chloe Sams 2-3
Shorewood: Alison Feise 2-3, 2B
Kendall Adams 2-3, 2B
Shelby Wade 2-3
Olivia Hollenbeck 3-3
--Paul Jensen
“Shoreline Walks” Community Walking Program starts in April
Mark your calendars; April 11th is the first Shoreline Walks walk for 2015.
Shoreline Walks is a free community walking program designed to help Shoreline adults stay active, meet new people (or connect with old friends), and feel safer and more confident exploring our city by foot.
Walks explore neighborhoods, parks, and trails, offering great insight into some of the best walking routes in our City. Specifically designed for adults ages 50+, but open to all ages and abilities, each walk is led by a Volunteer Walk Leader and all walks are free to the public.
Shoreline Walks is part of the City’s Healthy City initiative and is one of many efforts it is making to support a healthy community.
More details and full schedule of Shoreline Walks here, or contact Recreation Assistant Marianne Johnson 206-801-2600.
WALK IN APRIL and MAY
Saturday, April 11th, 9:00 a.m.
Hamlin Park Trails Walk
Hamlin is one of the oldest parks in Shoreline. Join walk leader Alice Lawson and get aquainted with the many winding trails throughout this gem of a park. Rain or Shine.
Walk is approximately 1.8 miles / 50min.
Walk Rating: Moderate (bumpy trails)
Meet at: Hamlin Park, 160th St. 2nd parking lot on left. (by picnic shelter)
Saturday, May 2nd, 10:00 a.m.
Richmond Beach Parks Walk
Visit the 4 parks in Richmond Beach while enjoying views of the mountains and the sound.
Walk is approximately 3 miles / 1.5 hrs.
Walk Rating: Moderate (some hills)
Meet at: Entrance to RB Saltwater Park 2021 NW 190th St.
Saturday, May 16th, 9:00 a.m.
Paramount School Park
Walk and Talk: A Value-Based Life
Join walk leader Debbie Yoro, Social Worker for Iora Health, and join a walking discussion on the power of living a value based life. A value based life helps us focus on what matters the most and can enrich our lives and well being . After walking, be sure to log your laps for the Million Step Challenge.
Walk is approximately 1.5 miles / 45 minutes
Walk Rating: Easy
Meet at: Paramount School Park Parking Lot, 8th Ave NE and NE 155th St.
Tuesday, May 19th, 8:00 a.m.
Paramount School Park
Walk & Talk: Mindfulness Practice
Join walk leader Debbie Yoro, Social Worker for Iora Health, and learn how to be more mindful of your thoughts and feelings in this relaxing walk focused on mental health. After walking, be sure to log your laps for the Million Step Challenge.
Walk is approximately 1.5 miles / 45 minutes
Walk Rating: Easy
Meet at: Paramount School Park Parking Lot, 8th Ave NE and NE 155th St.
Tags:
health and wellness
The Russians have landed ... at Everett
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
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| Antonov An-124 Photo copyright Marc Weinberg |
Marc Weinberg was taking some out of town guests to the Boeing Everett plant when he saw this plane coming in - and of course he got some pictures.
A little Googling turned up this information:
The Antonov An-124 Ruslan (Ukrainian: Антонов Ан-124 "Руслан") (NATO reporting name: Condor) is a strategic airlift jet aircraft.
It was designed by the Antonov design bureau in the Ukrainian SSR, then part of the Soviet Union.
The An-124 is the world's highest gross weight production cargo aeroplane and second heaviest operating cargo aircraft, behind the one-off Antonov An-225 (a greatly enlarged design based on the An-124).
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| An-124 at Boeing Everett Photo copyright Marc Weinberg |
Marc says, "I was talking with some Boeing guys also taking photos ..... they said that Boeing is short handed and the Russians are helping to make deliveries of parts for the Everett.
"I was told that the crew is taken by bus to Sea Tac to be processed by Customs every time they land. After a long flight, I'd hate to be riding on a bus through late afternoon traffic all the way to Sea Tac."
Tags:
aviation
Nominate an older adult for the 2015 Inspire Positive Aging Award
Senior Services is now accepting nominations for the 2015 Inspire Positive Aging Award. The deadline is April 27, 2015. Nomination forms are available here. Requests for the form or questions regarding the award may be directed to Brittany Blue, 206-727-6261.
King County is filled with older adults whose lives inspire us about how to age with grace, enthusiasm, creativity, hope, and energy. They quietly make life better for others even as their years advance. Senior Services created the Inspire Positive Aging Award in 2006 to recognize these role models.
Any individual age 60 and over who lives in King County, WA is eligible for nomination. Nominations may be submitted by anyone who wishes to participate.
The recipient receives two roundtrip airlines tickets to a domestic destination of his/her choice and a one-year membership to his/her King County senior center. The individual who nominates the award recipient receives a $50 Barnes and Noble gift card.
The Inspire Positive Aging Award will be announced on May 20, 2015 at Senior Services’ Annual Meeting. The event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited and advance registration is required.
Tags:
senior citizens
Don't worry about City Vacuum
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| Open for business! Photo by Steven H. Robinson |
By Diane Hettrick
Long-time customers of City Vacuum and Sewing Center were alarmed to read about the accident which sent a car through the front windows and half-way into the store.
But owner George Daher says he wasn't hurt and the driver wasn't hurt. He claims he is just fine now, but was mightily shaken up on Wednesday morning around 10:30am when a car driven by an elderly woman hopped the sidewalk, curb and low masonry to plow through two eight foot high plates of glass on his storefront. (See previous story)
The car was in his shop up to the windshield and his merchandise was moved 10 feet west and jammed against him and all of his fixtures.
This is the third time this has happened to the shop since George took it over from his father twenty years ago. He knows the drill.
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| George Daher, at work in his damaged shop Photo by Steven H. Robinson |
Things were still falling off the shelves when George grabbed his cell phone and called the carpenter to come board up the windows. A friend quickly made him an Open for Business sign, and he was open within a couple of days.
Good thing. Where else would people get vacuum cleaner bags for their older vacuum, and get their sewing machines repaired?
The store, at 20001 Aurora Ave N, 206-365-9999, was opened by George's father in 1971 and has been at the same location ever since.
He is right in the heart of the Aurora Corridor construction project, but he says it has made no difference to his business. In fact, when N 200th was closed in September of last year, he had his most successful month. Even December was more productive than previous years.
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| Still work to be done to get back to normal Photo by Steven H. Robinson |
He has some work to complete with the building and storage racks that were damaged by the car before he is completely back to normal.
Tags:
business,
small business
Shoreline City Council rezones 294 acres in the 185th subarea
By Diane Hettrick
In a five hour meeting on Monday night, the Shoreline City Council rezoned 294 acres of Shoreline neighborhoods for high-density, high-rise buildings.
They made no changes to the zoning map mailed out to the 1969 households affected by the zoning and few changes to the development code.
Phase I is to take place immediately, with Phase II in 2021 and Phase III in 2033.
Councilmembers Roberts and Eggen offered around nine amendments, most of which were defeated 4-3.
There was some concern expressed about an amendment by Will Hall to allow research and development and testing labs in MUR 70 zones because it could potentially allow labs with "nasty viruses" in a transit oriented development. McGlashan and Salomon voted no on this, but the others went with the reasoning that wording could be refined at a later date.
Another discussion that was tabled was how to include performing arts events in station areas, without creating excessive noise in the neighborhood.
An amendment by Will Hall passed 6-1. In the MUR 45 and MUR 70 zones, single family homes would NOT require a conditional use permit. Single family houses can continue, be remodeled, rebuilt, but new construction could not be single family.
Councilmember Chris Eggen tried to reduce the size of the rezone to the 3/8s of a mile 'walk shed' but Councilmember McGlashan argued that half a mile was only the distance from the cemetery to the station and that was an easy walk.
Councilmember Roberts introduced a new map with a smaller rezone, but Mayor Winstead felt that it wasn't all that different from the original map. His proposal was defeated 4-3.
Another Hall amendment passed unanimously for 18 units per acre in MUR 45 zones, to encourage new projects to use land efficiently. Houses could be row houses, townhouses - smaller buildings but more units.
At 11:20pm, Councilmember Eggen moved to postpone the vote on Ordinance 706 until 30 days after the Sound Transit EIS was released. The motion failed 4-3.
At 11:40pm, Councilmember Eggen moved that the proposed zoning be scrapped in favor of an overlay process. Overlay is a process whereby a proposed zoning isn't in place until requested. Developers would assemble parcels and then request a rezone. Eggen explained that there would be three overlay zoning areas. First equivalent to phase 1, 2nd six years for Phase 2, 18 years from date of adoption for Phase 3. Applications shall be processed in a streamlined rezone process.
In response, Will Hall said that the proposal had not been reviewed by staff and had not be given to the council to review and study before the meeting. Hall called for a vote. Eggen's overlay motion failed 4-3.
The main motion, Ordinance 706, to adopt the zoning map, passed 5 to 2 with Eggen and McConnell dissenting.
Ordinance 702, Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Land Use Map. After a brief discussion and a couple of successful amendments by Chris Roberts about affordable housing units, alternative energy requirements, and a wording change, 702 passed 5-2 with Eggen and McConnell dissenting, apparently more out of distaste with the whole project rather than specific objections to 702.
The Council spent about five minutes on Ordinance 707, which passed 4-3.
Some comments by Councilmembers during the meeting:
Will Hall said that the status quo cannot be preserved and talked about the environmental benefits of light rail and that new construction would be built to better standards. He said that a bigger area gives more chance for homes to remain undeveloped whereas a more concentrated map ensures that the entire area will be developed.
Jesse Salomon said that if we don't control growth it will spill into rural areas, that growth should be concentrated in areas that make sense, like light rail stations. He said, "I know that people are concerned, but it's not all bad."
Doris McConnell expressed concerns about the size of the rezone. She said she understood that people were just now finding out about it. She said, "We could have shown the community some level of compromise. We are all servants of this community."
Keith McGlashan said that it's about creating living spaces for all. He said it's about creating development in the right place and he believes that the adopted map does just that.
Chris Eggen said he was very disappointed in the council's actions. He said that Councilmembers and staff seem to think there is a large pool of people who support this rezone, but they were not in evidence. Council was led to believe that the 185th Citizens Committee was wildly enthusiastic about the major rezone but that "it’s clear in looking at their records, and comments, that they are not wildly enthusiastic. Most of the people from the neighborhoods have not spoken in favor. I think we're going down the wrong path."
Next the council will deal with the rezone of the 145th Street Station subarea.
Correction: single family homes would NOT require a conditional use permit. 03-17-2015 9:28am
Correction: dissenting votes on the zoning map were Eggen and McConnell. 03-17-2015 9:38am
Read more...
Tags:
185th rezone
The Lake Forest Park Youth Council
Youth Council presents $420 to the Safe Harbor Domestic Fund.
From left: Enya Bradner, Christopher King, Elizabeth Holmdahl, Gunnar Ruud, Olivia Knudson, Captain Armbrust, Jade Lauw, Teagan Wood, Thao Bui, and Samantha Fisher.
Lake Forest Park Youth Council is the liaison between Lake Forest Park city government and the youth of Lake Forest Park. The LFP Youth Council represents the city’s youth on municipal policy, projects, and events. Youth Council members work to uphold the city’s values of sustainability, excellence, integrity, teamwork, and commitment to service.
According to Youth Council President Elizabeth Holmdahl, the Lake Forest Park Youth Council “focuses on improving Lake Forest Park for both youth and adults through representation and community work." Youth Council members are also given opportunities to grow as learners and members of the community.
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| Two service projects a month. Here members make Valentine's Day cards for local senior citizens |
Christmas Tree recycling benefits domestic violence fund
Youth Council participates in approximately two events or projects every month. One example of this is the Christmas tree recycling event that the Lake Forest Park Youth Council has hosted for the last two years. Each year, the event is held in the city hall parking lot where participants drop off their old Christmas trees.
A member of the Youth Council offers each person a cup of coffee or hot chocolate and asks for a donation to the Safe Harbor Domestic Violence Fund. Donations are then given to the LFP Police Department to help provide emergency housing for victims of domestic abuse. This year, the Youth Council was able to raise $420 for this cause.
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| The Youth Council purchased 438 nets to help prevent maleria |
5K run to purchase treated mosquito nets
Another event that the Youth Council hosted is the One Day 5K. The One Day 5K was a 5 kilometer race developed by a past Youth Council president, Sophie Knudson, that raised funds for Nothing but Nets. Nothing but Nets is a charity organization that sends treated mosquito nets to countries in need to help prevent the spread of malaria. Last year, this event was a huge success and the LFP Youth Council was able to purchase 438 nets.
Olivia Knudson, Youth Council Vice President, says that “Youth Council has given me the confidence and leadership skills that have helped me on numerous occasions. It’s always a good place to go to learn about Lake Forest Park’s government and to contribute my time to something I care about."
Youth Council participates in city government
Apart from serving the community, Youth Council also participates in city government. All members of Youth Council are expected to attend several city council meetings throughout the year. At these meetings, Youth Council members learn about current City Council issues and present on recent Youth Council activities.
For members who want further involvement in city government, Youth Council also offers an internship program, through which members can intern with the Police, Finance, and Record departments.
One Youth Council member who participated in this program, Teagan Wood, who is also a member of the LFP Community Services Commission, stated that, “Being an intern for the city gives you a really valuable sense of responsibility and success.” Through this program, Youth Council members are given the opportunity to not only learn, but actively participate in the Lake Forest Park city government.
High school students interested in becoming a member of the Lake Forest Park Youth Council can contact Cory Roche for more information.
Tags:
youth
Shorewood All Girl Robotics Team
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| Oliva Anderson, Carly Krantz, Kate Parkinson, and Anna Soper. Shorewood All Girl Robotics Team |
The Shorewood All Girl Robotics Competition Team went to an event in Mount Vernon this last weekend.
The members are: Oliva Anderson (field captain) Carly Krantz (on field computer programing and trouble shooter), Kate Parkinson (robot driver), Anna Soper (human player tote shoot and noodle thrower).
The 2014/2015 PNW FIRST Robotics Shorewood District Event (Qualifying Event) will take place at Shorewood High School this weekend, March 21- 22. 17300 Fremont Ave N. Team events begin at 8am both days.
The final rounds are 11:45 to 3pm and the awards ceremonies are 3-4pm.
The public is invited.
Tags:
robotics
Let Hopelink help you with your energy costs
Monday, March 16, 2015
Up to $1,000 per individual is available right now to help qualifying low-income renters and homeowners with energy bills. You do not need to be behind with your payments to benefit.
Call 800-348-7144 now to make your in-person appointment.
The appointment line is available in English, Russian and Spanish.
The line is open 24/7 and is updated at 9:00am, Monday through Thursday, with the latest available appointment times.
Phone appointments for those who are elderly or have a disability can be made by calling 800-374-4131.
Tags:
hopelink
New City of Shoreline Spring & Summer recreation programs
This week the Shoreline Spring/Summer 2015 Recreation Guide will be arriving at homes and can also be picked up at local libraries.
Resident registration starts March 23rd. Non-residents can register starting March 26th.
Remember that signing up early assures your spot in some local favorite activities such as Gators Swim Team, Loco Camp, Camp Shoreline, Froggy Holler and skateboard classes.
We also have some new and favorite adult programs including “The Melt Method” and the Million Stair Climb Challenge coming up this spring.
The pool is offering a lifeguarding course over spring break for those eager to get a jump on summer job opportunities by earning a certification.
Call 206-801-2600 or go online to get in on the fun!
Guides can be picked up at any City of Shoreline facility or local library. Questions? Call staff 206-801-2600.
We look forward to sharing some fun with you this spring and summer.
--City of Shoreline Parks and Recreation Staff
Tags:
recreation
Free concert at Third Place Commons Thursday - Shorecrest Jazz Bands
The Shorecrest High School Jazz Bands will perform a free concert on Thursday, March 19 on the stage at Third Place Commons beginning at 7:30pm.
Come out to hear these talented students and enjoy some camaraderie.
Third Place Commons is on the upper level of Lake Forest Park Town Center, intersection of Bothell Way and Ballinger Way.
Shoreline students are College Bound - District receives Gold Star from State
Shoreline Schools received a “Gold Star Award” from Gov. Jay Inslee’s office acknowledging that Shoreline is one of the top performing districts in the state for registrations for the College Bound Scholarship program.
Shoreline exceeded the state’s average of 89 percent. The letter from Inslee said in part,
“Students in your district have greater opportunities because of your efforts and leadership. I want to commend you, your district team, your district partners, and the hard working teachers, counselors, and building staff who have contributed to your success.”
The College Bound Scholarship program is an early commitment of state financial aid to eligible students who sign up in middle school and fulfill the pledge.
The program encourages students who might not consider college because of the cost to dream big and continue their education beyond high school.
When eligible students apply, they promise to:
- Graduate from a Washington high school or home school with a 2.0 GPA or higher.
- Be a good citizen and not be convicted of a felony.
- Apply to an eligible college and file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in a timely manner.
The application deadline is June 30 at the end of the student's 8th grade year. Students only need to sign up once.
More information about College Bound here or call 888-535-0747.
Tags:
scholarship
32nd District Republicans meet Thursday
The next meeting of 32nd Legislative District King County Republicans is at Shoreline Conference Center.
The meeting starts at 7:00pm on March 19 in the Hamlin Room.
The center is located at 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline. The Hamlin Room is in the south wing of the building. (maps)
Tags:
politics
N 200th to be closed to most traffic Thursday and Friday
From Thursday, March 19 to Friday, March 20,
there will be no general access (through traffic) from Aurora Avenue to
N 200th Street and local access only between Aurora and Whitman Avenue
N on N 200th Street.
The closure is necessary to construct a transition
ramp. Access will be restored by 3:00pm on Friday, March 20.
For questions or concerns about construction, contact the Aurora hotline at aurora@shorelinewa.gov or (206) 801-2485.
Visit the Aurora construction page for more information.
Tags:
aurora corridor
Brandon Torrey hired as Shorewood T-Bird football coach
Shorewood High School and the Shoreline School District are pleased to announce Brandon Torrey as their new varsity head football coach. Torrey replaces Rob Petschl who resigned in February after five years as the T-Birds Head Coach.
This will be Torrey’s first head football assignment. However, he is no stranger to Shorewood, the WESCO Conference or area football. Torrey worked as an assistant on T- Bird football coaching staff the past two years. Prior to that he was an assistant coach at Edmonds-Woodway High School. Torrey, a Nationally Board Certified Physical Educator, is also a Physical Education teacher at Shorewood.
Although we were disappointed to accept coach Petschl’s resignation, we are grateful that he and his staff worked hard to grow the Shorewood football program. And we strongly believe that hiring Brandon Torrey, a certificated teacher in the building, will continue to bring the program back to relevance in the WESCO Conference.
Brandon has put significant thought into taking this big step in his first head coaching assignment and has a plan in place for the team.
We are looking forward to a long run with Brandon leading the T-Bird football program.
Another mudslide by Carkeek Park stops Sounder Trains another day
An additional mudslide by Carkeek Park in North Seattle occurred Monday afternoon. The new event has extended the moratorium on service through Wednesday, 3/18/15. Sound Transit will continue to monitor the situation, if there are no additional events service is projected to resume Thursday, 3/19/15.
Northline Sounder special bus service information for tomorrow mornings commute along with the regularly scheduled bus service is listed below.
Morning bus service on 3/17/15
Edmonds – Seattle: Special buses will depart Edmonds Station in the Amtrak parking lot at 6:41 am, 7:11 am and 7:41 am. Riders may also board regularly scheduled Community Transit route 416 at Bay 2 departing at 5:45 am, 6:15 am, 6:34 am, 6:55 am, and 7:42 am.
Monitor Sound Transit alerts for updates to Sounder Northline service prior to your commute.
Tags:
sound transit
Photos: Whispering Willows Park in Lake Forest Park
Photos and text by Jerry Pickard
Lake Forest Park has a new park. On the South end of 44th Ave. a block North of the LFP Fire Station, Whispering Willow Park is now open!
The park's namesake willow sits just off the side of the boardwalk, which used recycled plastic boards to construct the decking. One of the benches was donated to the city by the company that ran the plastic recycled film project for the city last December.
The park is built on a wetland. According to neighborhood sources, the former owner of the property had constant problems with excessive groundwater.
The boardwalk terminates in a circular platform with two benches facing east towards the creek and the back of the shopping center.
There is a gravel walkway running along the South side of the park with two more benches for visitors to relax and enjoy the park.
There are currently six parking spaces with two designated as Disabled Parking.
Read more...
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parks
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