Photo: Differing views

Saturday, January 2, 2016


The City of Shoreline information sign about the planning for the rezone of the 145th Sound Transit station area, and a cautionary sign from a watchdog group share real estate on a Shoreline street.



Read more...

New Year's Resolution: fire safety in the home

2011 Shoreline home fire

Courtesy Shoreline Fire

If you’re like many Americans, you’re starting off the New Year with a resolution to improve your health. As you work towards your resolution, consider one additional step to maintain your health: fire prevention. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) is urging everyone to make 2016 a healthy and fire-safe year.

Most people say they feel safest at home. But data shows 83% of all fire deaths in the U.S. happen in homes.

Follow these tips to ring in fire safety this New Year:
  • Make sure your home is protected by working smoke alarms. Half of all home fire deaths happen at night, when people are sleeping.
  • Test your smoke alarms once a month, and replace your smoke alarms when they're 10 years old.
  • Cooking is the main cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Make safety your first ingredient; stay in the kitchen when you are cooking at high temperatures. Fires start when the heat gets too high. If you see any smoke or grease starts to boil, turn the burner off.
  • If you have children living in your home or visiting look for fire and burn dangers from their point of view. Never leave lighters or matches where children can reach them.

For additional fire safety information, visit USFA.



Read more...

Leena's Restaurant opens after fire

Leena's is open for business

Leena's Cafe, 17732 15th NE in the North City Business District, suffered a damaging electrical fire on November 16, 2015.

After being closed for a month for repairs, they reopened on December 28.



Read more...

Stage 1 Burn Ban called for King County Jan 2

Burn ban over a 3 county area

Use of fireplaces and wood stoves is prohibited until air quality improves

Due to stagnant weather conditions and rising air pollution, the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency is continuing a Stage 2 burn ban in Greater Pierce County, elevating Snohomish County and Darrington to a Stage 2 burn ban, and issuing a Stage 1 burn ban for King County, effective 1:00 pm today, January 2, 2016.

This ban is in effect until further notice.

While strong winds are forecasted in the Cascades, they are not expected to reach the central Puget Sound region.  With local calm winds allowing air pollution to remain, continued cold temps, and ongoing wood burning, we will likely see air pollution levels linger until Sunday night.

Visit Puget Sound Clean Air to view the current burn ban status, download our mobile app, and other burn ban alert options for you area.

Use of fireplaces and uncertified wood stoves and inserts prohibited. Pellet stoves, EPA certified wood stoves and inserts are allowed. Outdoor burning prohibited. All wood burning prohibited, including pellet stoves. Outdoor burning prohibited.

NO:
    Fireplaces
    Uncertified Wood Stoves
    Uncertified Wood Inserts
    Outdoor Burning

ALL WOOD BURNING PROHIBITED

OK:
    Certified Wood Stoves
    Certified Wood Inserts
    Pellet Stoves & Inserts

It is OK to use natural gas and propane stoves or inserts during burn bans.
 
The Washington State Department of Health recommends that people who are sensitive to air pollution limit their time spent outdoors, especially when exercising. Air pollution can trigger asthma attacks, cause difficulty breathing, and make lung and heart problems worse. Air pollution is especially harmful to people with lung and heart problems, people with diabetes, children, and older adults (over age 65).

The purpose of a burn ban is to reduce the amount of pollution that is creating unhealthy air. Puget Sound Clean Air Agency staff will continue to monitor the situation.



Read more...

Photo: End of a day at the beach

Friday, January 1, 2016

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

Never mind the cold - hundreds of light-starved residents headed for the beach at Saltwater Park to enjoy the brilliant sun and calm waters of Puget Sound, leading to a beautiful sunset as photographed by Lee Lageschulte.



Read more...

Groundbreaking Thursday for Boarding Home for survivors of Traumatic Brain Injuries

PROVAIL will break ground on a boarding home designed to support people living with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) at 10:30am on Thursday, January 7 in Shoreline.

The state-of-the-art facility at 1548 NE 175th Street is designed specifically to support 12-14 survivors of TBI who need additional medical and therapeutic support. This Boarding Home will provide 24 hour supportive care and access to therapy with a strong focus on each individual's needs and independence.

The property for this project was purchased by PROVAIL in 2013 and was funded by King County, The Washington State Department of Commerce, and Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines.

Construction will start in January and scheduled for completion late summer 2016.

PROVAIL is a non-profit organization serving people with disabilities in King and Snohomish Counties of Washington State. In 1942, PROVAIL was founded by a group of parents dedicated to supporting their children with disabilities.

Today, PROVAIL is one of the largest disability service providers in the region with programs and services that meet critical needs and address gaps in services for the disability community that emphasize independence, opportunity, and inclusion for all.

Corrected 01-05-2016 to read Washington State Department of Commerce, not Chamber of Commerce.

Read more...

Poem: In Honor of Mark McVeety

1969-2015

In Honor of Mark McVeety

A Life Well-Lived
He left his MARK
His full commitment
LOVE- the Spark

To help the needy
Care for the poor
His Legacy
Will long endure

A Life though short
Was so complete
No better person
Could one meet

True Friend- Guitarist
Cook as well
Well all he touched
It held his Spell

Though he has sailed away
It’s true
He will forever
Be with you

A life so rich
So fine and true
We were so blessed
In knowing you

To know someone
Of your great worth
The greatest gift
Right here on earth

And so to all
Who loved him so
We need to live
What he did show

A man so full
Of Love and Life
My blessings to
His lovely wife


Jean Monce Bryant
Lake Forest Park, WA



Read more...

Free demo class at Alley Bell music for preschoolers Thursday

Mom and baby at music class

On Thursday, January 7 at 9:45am there will be a FREE Music Together demo class for 0-5 year olds at the Northwest Ballet Center in the Lake Forest Park Town Center, 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park 98155.

Come sing, dance and play with us! Space is limited, so registration is required.

Future rock stars!

Winter semester classes kick off the week of January 18th. We offer classes at the Barclay Shelton Dance Centre, 413 Bell Street, Edmonds 98020, on Tuesday and Friday mornings, and at the Northwest Ballet Center in the Lake Forest Park Town Center on Monday and Thursday mornings.

All classes are for mixed ages 0-5. Tuition for the ten week semester is $200, with a discount for siblings of a registered child, and tuition includes all of your materials. Registration online.



Read more...

Book Review by Aarene Storms: Hold Tight, Don't Let Go : a novel of Haiti

Hold Tight, Don't Let Go : a novel of Haiti
by Laura Rose Wagner

Cousins Nadine and Magdalie have lived together as sisters their whole lives, raised by Manman in the Haitian city of Port-au-Prince. But when the big earthquake hit Haiti in January 2010, everything changed. Manman was killed in the quake, crushed by the roof of their home. Schools were closed. People are afraid to sleep under a roof at night.

The girls go to live with an uncle in a tent encampment, and everyone tries (often unsuccessfully) to make life seem normal again.

When Nadine's estranged father sends for her to come to Florida, Magdalie clings to the hope that she will soon escape Port-au-Prince as well. Gradually, however, Magdalie understands that her future must be in Haiti, and that her hope for a better life must mean a hope for a clean, prosperous Haiti.

Honest, grim, and horrible at times, this coming-of-age story is nonetheless infused with points of brightness, and clearly shows the circumstances still facing Haitians today, more than three years after the earthquake.

Highly recommended for discussion.


The events may not have happened; still, the story is true.  --R. Silvern

Aarene Storms, youth services librarian
Richmond Beach and Lake Forest Park Libraries, KCLS



Read more...

32nd District Democrats meet Jan 13


32nd District Monthly Meeting, Wednesday January 13, 2016, 7pm (6:30pm for social time) at the Masonic Hall Shoreline, 753 N 185th St, Shoreline 98133.

The agenda includes:

  • School District Levy and Bond Information
  • Resolution Consideration: Challenging the constitutionality of Initiative 1366

                                     


Read more...

Stormwater Adopt-A-Drain Program

Adopt a drain
Help prevent flooding and protect Shoreline water quality

Leaves, pine needles, trash, and snow accumulate on top of storm drains, blocking rain water from entering, and sometimes causing large puddles to form in our neighborhoods.

City crews sweep streets to keep drains clear, but we could use your help!

During the months of October through March, residents can volunteer to “adopt” a storm drain or multiple drains, and remove leaves and other debris after storm events.

It’s also a great way for students to fulfill volunteer requirements.

By joining the Adopt-A-Drain Program you help:
  • Prevent localized flooding in your neighborhood.
  • Protect fish and other wildlife by keeping pollutants from entering streams, lakes, and Puget Sound.

To learn more about the program, or to sign-up, visit the website or call Surface Water Utility and Environmental Services at 206-801-2450.

Special Opportunity brought to you by King County: Receive a FREE Chinook Book App ($15 value) for your participation and completing a brief survey.



Read more...

Obituary: Mark Fraser McVeety

Thursday, December 31, 2015

Memorial service for Mark McVeety was held
at the Shoreline Community College Theater Thursday
Photo by K McGlashan

Mark, age 46, died quietly with his wife by his side on December 27 after a short but aggressive war with cancer. He is survived by his wife, Tiffany, his mother Ann Holt (the late Al Grove), his father Roger McVeety (Vallea), siblings: Heather (Dewayne), David (Violet), Lindsey and their families and the many others who Mark elected as family.

His compassion and innate kindness led to humanitarian work around the globe starting at age 16 with a mission to Kenya where he helped immunization for malaria in remote villages. In his 20’s he participated in the USAID Food Aid Mission to Myanmar, and more recently with work for the World Affairs Council training visiting leaders from emerging nations.


He created innovative and acclaimed entrepreneurial development initiatives, like Quick-Start Shoreline, that made significant economic impact on individuals and communities around the globe.

Mark is known as being a fierce friend; able to play any instrument; and an exceptional guitarist heard on world-music releases. His northern Italian-style pizza making and paella on the grill was legendary as were his summer block parties.

He was also known as an aficionado of live music, Summer Meltdown volunteer, sailboat racer and cruiser, best friend and partner of Tiffany. They were ‘two peas in a pod’.

Continue Mark’s legacy of service by contributing to the Mark F. and Tiffany T. Student Fund administered by Shoreline Community College Foundation. A charitable fund to help students in need.

A formal Memorial will be held in Minneapolis, MN on January 13 at 1pm at Sunset Memorial Park.



Read more...

Star Wars with subtitles for deaf and hard of hearing at Edmonds Theater

Star Wars with subtitles in Edmonds

Star Wars: The Force Awakens with subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing, hosted by Edmonds Theater, Saturday, January 2, 2016 at 6pm.

Edmonds Theater, 415 Main St, Edmonds 98020

Tickets Available.

This is not unusual for the Edmonds Theater. The first matinee show of every Sunday is presented with English captions for the deaf and hard of hearing. This is in addition to the standard English soundtrack.



Read more...

Opportunities to sing with Northwest Girlchoir

NW Girlchoir

Start singing this January! For girls who love to sing, Northwest Girlchoir provides the musical outlet to help build upon their love of music while learning new skills, all while offering an environment where girls can be themselves and a community to support girls as they grow.

Choirs
Spaces are filling up in each choir level at Northwest Girlchoir, but openings are still available for girls in Prep Choir (our non-auditioned choir for grades 1-2) and in our upper level auditioned choirs (grades 3-12).

Simply sign up for Prep Choir or schedule an audition for the upper level choirs! Choristers joining Northwest Girlchoir this January will have the opportunity to participate in several mainstage concerts throughout the remainder of the season. New choristers will be accepted until Friday, January 22, 2016 pending space availability.

Generous scholarships are available at every choir level.

Learn more and sign up online


NW Girlchoir

Summer Sing Day Camp Registration is Open
Join Northwest Girlchoir for the ultimate summer music experience! Girls entering grades 2-7 next fall 2016 are invited to join Northwest Girlchoir’s annual Summer Sing Day Camp – a week of choral singing, instrument exploration, arts and crafts, group games, outdoor fun, and more!

Register for Summer Sing before March 31, 2016 and receive a special early-bird discount here.

For more details on signing up or scheduling an audition, visit their website.



Read more...

Closures of SR 99 may affect traffic in Shoreline

Hard to say how far north this will gum up Aurora, but be warned that SR 99 around-the-clock lane closures may cause traffic delays for several weeks.

Start planning now for extra congestion and traffic delays if you use SR 99 / Aurora Avenue North. From Jan. 18 through mid-February, contractor crews working for the Alaskan Way Viaduct Replacement Program will close one lane in each direction between the Aurora Bridge and just north of Mercer Street for sign work.

From mid-February to March only one southbound lane will be closed. You can read more about the work being done during the lane closures in this news release.



Read more...

Shoreline Planning Commission to discuss Sound Transit Light Rail Facilities Permitting Processes

The Shoreline Planning Commission will meet on Thursday, January 7, at 7pm in Shoreline City Hall Council Chambers, 17500 Midvale Ave N. Meetings are open to the public, streamed live on computer, and archived online.

The purpose of the meeting is to continue the discussion from December 17th, debating the various options for processing permits related to Sound Transit’s light rail facilities in Shoreline. We will
explain the differences between Special Use Permits and Legislative Decisions and how these two processes apply to Sound Transit. We will also explain how the Commission can be involved in the regulation and design of the stations and the garages.

Light rail service is scheduled to begin in 2023. Based on Sound Transit’s latest schedule, review of architectural and engineering designs for the stations, garages and other associated light rail facilities will start as early as 2016. When the City adopted the 185th Street Light Rail Station Subarea Plan, a permitting process was put in place in the Development Code to review the stations, garages and associated facilities for compliance with Shoreline’s goals, policies and regulations.

Further legal review, revealed that process, Development Agreement, is not the appropriate mechanism to approve the use of a light rail system and facilities.

Additionally, the City augmented the existing Commercial design regulations to implement the 185th Street Light Rail Station Subarea Plan. These regulations include building materials, colors, textures, openings, and modulations.

Twelve pages of details here

TIMING AND SCHEDULE

  • January 21, 2016  - Planning Commission Public Hearing 
  • February 8, 2016 - City Council discussion 
  • February 29, 2016  - City Council adoption

Read more...

Ask the Bird Lady - will pruning displace hummingbird nests?

A new feature for the new year: Christine Southwick will answer your wild bird questions. Send your questions or photos to us and Chris will respond. Here's the first question:

Anna's hummingbird feeding her baby
Photo by Dennis Paulson

Dear Bird Lady:
I need to prune some overly large laurel and rhodies - but fear I might displace a hummingbird nest without realizing - what to do? is there a time of year that if I took out their nest they would be able to rebuild and survive?

The Bird Lady responds:
Some Anna's Hummingbirds may already be starting to breed, but most will wait a little longer. Many that are breeding now will make their nests in coniferous trees under an overhanging branch because of the added protection.

I don't know about laurels, but rhodys are best pruned during and right after blooming. Since no more than a third of a rhody should be pruned at a time, if you want blooms the following year, it shouldn't be too hard to look for a nest as you prune. Laurels will be harder, so if it were me, I would wait until about April--no guarantees, since some hummers will do a second brood.

--Christine Southwick



Read more...

King County Assessor John Wilson to be sworn in Jan 4 in Kent

King County Assessor-elect John Wilson
King County Assessor John Wilson will be officially sworn into office in a public ceremony on January 4th at the Kent Senior Center. The oath of office will be administered by Washington State Supreme Court Justice Mary Yu.

“I picked the Kent Senior Center for my swearing in because my office will be doing extensive and deliberate outreach outside of the King County Administration building. It is time that government meet people where they are and there is no better place to start than South King County” Wilson said.

Wilson will take the oath of office followed by a brief speech where he will highlight his priorities in the coming years. Staff from the Assessor’s office will be on hand at the senior center to promote the senior property tax exemption program.

“Over the next 4 years one of my top priorities is to expand the number of seniors participating in the senior property tax exemption program. This is a right that is available to many seniors who simply don’t know about it. My office will be working hard to ensure taxpayers know the programs and options available to them."

The King County Assessor's office dates back to the mid-1800's when Washington was still a territory. Today, the office of the Assessor handles assessments of more than 660,000 residential and commercial parcels in King County valued at $388 billion in 2015.



Read more...

City Light warns: beware of con artists posing as utility bill collectors

Seattle City Light never demands immediate payment by phone

Seattle City Light reminds its customers to beware of con artists who pose as utility bill collectors.

A business owner was victimized this week by the phone scam in which a caller claims an electricity bill has not been paid and threatens to cut off power within the hour if the customer does not make an immediate payment. Con artists have been directing people to obtain pre-paid debit cards for these swindles because they lack the fraud protections that most credit cards or bank debit cards provide.

“It’s despicable that scammers use the threat of cutting off electric service to steal money,” City Light Customer Care Director Kelly Enright said. “We want our customers to know about these scams so they can protect themselves from becoming the next victim.”

Scams like this have been tried for years. Seattle City Light uses its Light Reading newsletter, Power Lines Blog and social media accounts to educate customers about these scams so they can protect themselves. If you ever receive a call like this, do not give out any personal financial information. Instead, try to get as much information about the person who is calling that you can and then contact your local police.

Anyone who ever has a question about the status of their account can call City Light at 206-684-3000.

-----
Seattle City Light is the 10th largest public electric utility in the United States. It has some of the lowest cost customer rates of any urban utility, providing reliable, renewable and environmentally responsible power to about 750,000 Seattle area residents. City Light has been greenhouse gas neutral since 2005, the first electric utility in the nation to achieve that distinction.



Read more...

Thank you for making the Sharing Tree a success

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

LFP Rotary Sharing Tree at Town Center

The Lake Forest Park Rotary Club extends deepest thanks to all those who visited Tim’s Sharing Tree in the LFP Town Center during December, and shopped for toys and other gifts for area children. 2015 marked the 30th year of this Rotary project, named after former club member and civic leader, Tim Davis.

This year’s donations, amounting to 61 large bags of presents, $500 in gift cards and $250 cash, were distributed though North Helpline and the Shoreline School District.

Thanks to our partners, and everyone who donated gifts, for making this a merrier Christmas for hundreds of area families.



Read more...

For the birds: Which Bird Will Be Your 2016 Special Bird?

Varied Thrush, male, winter visitor

Text and Photos by Christine Southwick

The first bird that you see, or hear, the morning of the New Year is your special bird for 2016.

Wintertime will present some birds like the vivid Varied Thrush and the camouflaged Fox Sparrow, and eliminate the summer birds like most of our warblers and finches.

So, what will it be?

male Spotted Towhee surveying his territory

Will it be a glorious male Spotted Towhee surveying your backyard?

It could be a local woodpecker— Downy, Hairy, Pileated,  Northern Flicker, or  even a Red-breasted Sapsucker;

Or a Red-breasted Nuthatch with its miniature tin-horn calls and its headfirst seed-snatchings.

 Maybe it will be a large Barred-Owl, or a small eight-inch Saw-whet Owl, swooping almost silently low above the ground?

Or perhaps even a majestic, impressive, Bald-Eagle flying high over your head?

Hairy Woodpecker, male (red on back of head)

You might see a bird that is far adrift from its normal habitat, like the southern-based Yellow-throated Warbler that has flown from eastern Texas and beyond, which has recently been seen on the Washington coast,  or a shorter-distance traveler like the  Common Redpoll from the Canadian boreal forests.

Of course it could be an everyday bird like our resident Song Sparrow, and chickadees. These birds are true northwest birds.

Is your bird a wanderer or a homebody? Is it a social and demonstrative bird like the American Crow? Does it mingle with other species like Downy Woodpeckers in the winter?  Does it stick with its own species only like Bushtits, or is it solitary, like Common Raven? Does it mate for life; is it seasonally monogamous, or poly-amorous?

Red-breasted Nuthatch getting seed its way

Whichever bird it is, become familiar with its habits.  Think of it as your guiding bird-familiar for the year.

What could that mean for you for 2016?  Maybe you’ll be standing on your head much of 2016…

Birding can be as fun as you make it.



Read more...

Celebration of Life for Mark McVeety - bring stories and photos

Mark's Celebration of Life event is this Thursday, December 31, at 11am at the SCC Theater, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline 98133.

Bring your memories and stories to share. There will be an open mic in the lobby followed by a short talk by Dan Eernissee and a poem shared by the family ay 11:30am in the theater. There will be music, food, refreshments and lots of pictures.

The Fund is ready! Mark wanted to leave a legacy in the form of a fund whose goal is to give financial aid to SCC students in need. Managed by the Shoreline Community College Foundation, donations will be collected at the event and after, and are tax deductible. Donations up to $10,000 will be matched toward a goal of $25,000 to endow the fund.



Read more...

Use new online registration system to register for Winter 2016 Shoreline recreation programs

Registration for Winter 2016 recreation programs begins January 5. As part of the registration process, the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department is unveiling its new recreation management system. Online registration will become a whole lot easier with the new system.

However, in order to use the system you will need to set up a new account. It is free, easy, and instant. Set up an account online.

Want first dibs on all the great classes and programs this winter? Then set up your new account early so you are ready to register on January 5.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to implementation of the new registration system, individuals registering in-person or on the phone may experience some delays. If you prefer to register in-person or on the phone instead of using the new system online, you will need to have an annual Liability Waiver form on file prior to being able to register. These forms can be found online.



Read more...

Lake Forest Park traffic studies

From Police Chief Steve Sutton

Over the past several months, the City has been assisted by King County Roads Department with the completion of several traffic speed studies in our neighborhoods. I have included some of the data below for your information, which includes traffic counts, speeds, and some enforcement data.

Many of our roads are 25-30mph roads and even if vehicles are traveling at the speed limit, they may often appear to be speeding. The police department does have one traffic officer that works on special projects and coordinates our emphasis areas. The good news is, we rarely have collisions on our neighborhood streets. The problems are predominately on Bothell Way and Ballinger Way. Here is the info:

NE 178th St at 25th Ave NE

There are about 5,200 vehicles per day using this roadway, with an even split in each direction. The average speed is 28.1 mph and the 85 percentile speed is 31.8 mph. This is higher than we would like to see on a roadway posted 25 mph. During the month of October / November officers issued 153 infraction and 4 criminal citations.

Perkins Way NE at Lago Dr NE

There are about 3,000 vehicles per day using this roadway, with an even split in each direction. The average speed is 25.9 mph and the 85 percentile speed is 29.4 mph. The speeds on the roadway are slightly higher than we like for roadways with this volume. Random patrols and the use of the speed notification sign will be utilized in 2016.

Forest Park Dr NE at NE 195th Pl

There are about 2,500 vehicles per day using this roadway, with an even split in each direction. The average speed is 28.5 mph and the 85 percentile speed is 32.0 mph. The speed on this roadway is higher than we would like to see. The roadway seems to be functioning as a collector arterial, moving vehicles between NE 196th St / 19th Ave NE and the signal at Ballinger / 25th Ave NE. In 2016, the City will be researching traffic calming devices which could be used to discourage the use of this roadway. Also, random patrols and the use of the speed notification sign will be utilized.

NE 178th St between Ballinger Way NE and 47th Ave NE

There are about 1,250 vehicles per day using this roadway. The speeds on this 25 mph roadway are well within the acceptable limits. The directional split shows about 725 vehicles eastbound, and 525 vehicles westbound. The average speed is 22.1 miles per hour. The 85 percentile speed is 25.5 mph. These are excellent numbers and mean that nearly all the traffic on the roadway is obeying the posted limit.

The Police Department has received complaints on several other roadways within the City and will continue to prioritize our enforcement based on staffing and availability of resources.



Read more...

Center for Human Services seeks volunteers to work with children and youth

Volunteers needed to work with children and youth
Photo courtesy CHS

  • Do you enjoy working with children and youth?
  • Do you have community service hours required for school?
  • Do you want to gain experience in the child care, early learning, human services or education field?

The Center for Human Services in Shoreline is looking for volunteers 15+ years old to support various programs and services offered through the Family Support Department.

For more information and how to apply contact Amber at 206-631-8886.

Family Support Centers located in Shoreline and Northshore:
Shoreline: 17018 15th Avenue NE Shoreline 98155 — 206-362-7282



Read more...

Shoreline Library board to get updates from KCLS staff


The Shoreline Library Board will meet next week, on Thursday, January 7, 6z:30 to 8pm at the Richmond Beach Library 19601 21st Ave NW.

The board will hear from KCLS staff about what's happening in our libraries in Shoreline and Richmond Beach.

Library board members: Mark Hulak, Sara Lorimer, Lisa Oberg, Brooke Shirts, Robert Smith, Karen Thielke, Eileen Wood-Lim.

Youth Members Tyler King, Ella McGuigan.



Read more...

Job opportunity: Shoreline Farmers Market Manager

The Shoreline Farmers Market Association is entering its 5th season and is in search of a new Market Manager. We are looking for a candidate who is passionate about local foods and building community, with experience in fundraising and event management.

The market is growing quickly at its new location and we are looking for someone who can continue to grow our vendor and attendance base and expand new and existing marketing efforts. We are a domestic, non-profit corporation and have a long-term partnership with the City of Shoreline on our efforts.

In 2016, the Market Manager position will begin in February and be complete in November. The position has an office at Shoreline City Hall and the market is located at Aurora Square. There is great opportunity for growth in this management level position and we excitedly await your application

More details here or email.



Read more...

Book sale Friday at Third Place Books

Tuesday, December 29, 2015


Third Place Books - New Year's book sale on Friday, January 1, 2016
20% off everything!

17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park 98155, 206-366-3333.
Friday, January 1 - 9am-8pm.



Read more...

Shoreline Little League early bird registration until midnight Dec 31

Don't miss out on the fun! Register now.
Photo by Suzanne Gugger

Shoreline Little League Friends and Families have the opportunity to save $10 per player when they register on Shoreline Little League’s website prior to midnight on December 31st.

Why interfere with your New Year’s Eve festivities? Register now and then relax this Thursday night!

Braxton loves playing ball in Little League

Shoreline Little League includes the former Richmond Little League and the North King County Little League. Please note that all former Richmond Little League members and North King County members will have to register on this site.



Read more...

Karaoke / Bingo next week at Senior Center


Celebrate the New Year at the Senior Center Friday, January 8, 2016, with great food, drink, entertainment, and good company!




Read more...

Military veterans: learn about benefits for vets, families, and survivors


The American Legion Post 227 is having a special speaker at their January 5th Post meeting. Laura Standley is an expert on benefits for military veterans, their families and their survivors, so this is a great opportunity for veterans to have their benefit questions answered.

Laura Standley, Service Officer for The American Legion District 11, will be at the Tuesday, January 5, 2016 meeting of The American Legion Post 227 in Shoreline. She will speak on “benefits available to military veterans, their dependents and survivors.”

The meeting will be held at Post 227, located at 14521 17th Ave NE, Shoreline 98155. This is just east of the Goodwill Store at NE 145th St and 15th Ave NE.

A social, greeting time is held from 6:30pm to 7:00pm. The meeting starts at 7:00pm sharp and refreshments will be served after the meeting.

All military veterans are welcome to attend. This is your opportunity to have your questions about veteran benefits answered by a highly knowledgeable Service Officer.



Read more...

Limited seats available for Physical Poetry dance performances Jan 8-9



"Physical Poetry" opens next week! Performances are January 8-9, 2016, 7:30pm at the Shorecrest Theater, 15343 25th Ave NE, Shoreline 98155.

Last day to purchase tickets at a DISCOUNTED price of $15 is January 7th. Purchase here.



Read more...

Letter to the Editor: Form a task force to find a new home for preschools

To the Editor:

As the founder and 30 year teacher of the Shorenorth Parent Education COOP and a taxpayer, I am extremely concerned about the loss of the COOP’s 40 year rental space from the Shoreline School District. With King County and the state of Washington prioritizing early childhood programs in the educational spectrum, it seems short-sighted to eliminate such effective programs as the Parent COOPS in the Shoreline community. High profile leaders have been participants on the local COOPS: Senator Patty Murray, Representative Ruth Kagi, Shoreline School Board members Debi Ehrlichman and Dick Nicholson, Shoreline Public Schools Foundation Executive Cindy Pridemore plus numerous PTSA presidents and officers.

Worldwide problems are being solved by bringing groups together to work on common issues. Our own Senator Patty Murray, a former Shoreline Parent Educator, has used this concept of building consensus and finding solutions with the 2014 budget deal with Paul Ryan, and now by passing the updated “Leave No Child Behind” with an early childhood component. Under the leadership of Dow Constantine and Rod Dembowski and a coalition of community leaders who see the value of early learning, King County was able to pass the Best Start levy this past fall. By not providing rental space to the Shoreline Early Childhood COOPS, the Shoreline area becomes out of step with the nation, state and county.

Since all public buildings are taxpayer owned, I know that our Shoreline community strongly supports both the Shoreline Public Schools and the Shoreline Community College Parent Education COOPS. They want to see both programs be strong, feel that they are very complementary and benefit the Shoreline community. Therefore, I am proposing the formation of a task force to find a viable solution for both programs. The school district has previously exhibited this type of cooperation when they helped to find space for the Shoreline Historical Museum. We are all stronger when we work together to find solutions that benefit everyone!

Pearl Noreen
Shoreline



Read more...

Shorewood grad named Pac-12 Men's Basketball Player of the Week

Josh Hawkinson, playing for Shorewood in 2013
Photo by Wayne Pridemore


Josh Hawkinson, 2013 Shorewood graduate, son of Nels and Nancy Hawkinson of Richmond Beach, was named a Pac-12 Conference Men's Basketball Player of the Week by media who cover the college circuit.

According to the Pac-12 News, Hawkinson, a 6' 10" forward for Washington State, recorded double-doubles against No. 3 Oklahoma (16 pts, 8-15 FG, 10 reb, 4 stls), Northern Iowa (14 pts, 6-9 FG, 13 reb) and New Mexico (19 pts, 8-15 FG, 10 reb, 4 asts) to average 16.3 points on 56 percent shooting (22-39) and 11.0 rebounds at the Diamond Head Classic.

One of the Pac-12’s national-best four Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award nominees, Hawkinson leads the conference and is sixth in the country with nine double-doubles so far this season, including one in each of WSU’s last seven games, and now has 29 double-doubles in his last 41 outings. He is one of three Pac-12 players averaging a double-double, leading the conference in rebounding (10.5 rpg) while ranking seventh in the league in both scoring (16.5 ppg) and field goal percentage (.598).


Read more...

Photo: Holly tree and blue skies

Monday, December 28, 2015

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

Just to remind everyone that there are blue skies above the clouds, and beautiful, bright flowers and berries still bloom in the gloom of winter and the sadness of loss.



Read more...

Shoreline tree recycling

Shoreline hosts a one day Christmas Tree Recycling Event to help Shoreline residents recycle their holiday trees. Please remove all hooks, ornaments, tinsel, and tree stands. Do not bring flocked, artificial or garden trees, branches, wreaths, or swags.

Saturday, January 9, 9 - 3pm at the Meridian Park Elementary School parking lot; 17077 Meridian Ave N. Trees will be recycled by Recology CleanScapes, but they won’t be chipped on-site at the event.

If there is snow or ice on the road on event day, January 9, call 206-801-2450 for a recorded message of the event’s status.

Other options for disposal of holiday trees in Shoreline include:

  • If you have Recology CleanScapes yard debris collection, recycle your tree curbside. Cut your tree into 4 foot lengths, and place them next to your yard debris container at the curb for collection at no cost. No flocked, tinseled, or artificial trees are accepted; and trees without a yard debris cart next to them will not be collected.
  • If you have a flocked, tinseled or an artificial tree, and you have Recology CleanScapes curbside garbage collection, cut it to fit inside your garbage cart for free collection. If the tree is taller than 4 feet, cut it into 4 ft. sections, and put them next to your garbage cart for a collection cost of $4.10.
  • Recycle your tree for a cost at the Shoreline Recycling and Transfer Station at 2300 N 165 St Call 206-477-4466 for information on rates.
  • Recycle your tree for a fee at Pacific Topsoils in North Seattle, 1212 N 107th St, Seattle or Kenmore (7500 NE 175th St, Kenmore).
  • If you live in a neighborhood served by Scout troops, follow the instructions on the envelope left at your door.



Read more...

Kiskaddon service scheduled for Wednesday

A memorial service for Bill Kiskaddon, who died December 3, is scheduled for Wednesday at 2pm at the Richmond Beach Congregational Church at the corner of Northwest Richmond Beach Road and 15th Avenue Northwest in Shoreline (1512 NW 195th St).

Kiskaddon was the last Republican to represent the Shoreline/Lake Forest Park area in the legislature. He lost his seat to Democrat Patty Murray in 1988, four years before Murray won election to the U.S. Senate.



Read more...

Ridgecrest Public House food truck schedule for the week

Express Rolling Mexican Grill


Food trucks will be parked outside the Ridgecrest Public House, 520 NE 165th St, Shoreline 98155, from 5-8pm on the days listed. Those over 21 are welcome to bring their food into the pub to eat.

Tuesday 29th: The Peach and The Pig
Pulled pork, grilled chicken, or mushroom sandwiches, meatballs and mushrooms, prawn salad.

Wednesday 30th: Express Rolling Mexican Grill
Tacos, burritos, quesadillas, sopes, supreme nachos, Baja fish tacos.

Thursday 31st: No truck scheduled yet.

Friday Jan 1st: Ridgecrest Public House is closed. Happy New Year!

Saturday 2nd: Off the Rez
Tacos (pulled pork indian, beef chili indian, chicken chili verde), Quinoa Succotash (Indian as in Native American - not as in India)

Sunday 3rd: Cave Man Food Truck
Meat or veggies on a stick.



Read more...

Escape from East Germany



Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at the Senior Center, 18560 1st Ave NE, Ste 1,
10:30 to 11:30am, Wolfgang Kluge will share his life experiences growing up in and escaping from Communist East Germany.



Read more...

Services for Mark McVeety on Dec 31

Mark McVeety
Mark McVeety, a staff and faculty member at Shoreline Community College, passed away Sunday, December 27, 2015.

McVeety, 46, came to the college in November, 2007, as Director of the Small Business Accelerator.

The project is an innovative collaboration between the college and the City of Shoreline. He also taught a class on entrepreneurship as part of the college business department. He served on the Shoreline Community College Foundation Board and was past president of the foundation.

His background in business and the software industry, along with an upbeat attitude and high level of energy, was an asset to the college and the community.

A celebration of life is planned for 11am, Thursday, December 31, 2015 at the college theater, 16101 Greenwood Ave. N., Shoreline, WA 98133.

More information and remembrances here.



Read more...

Photo: Cairn Builder revealed - sort of

Sunday, December 27, 2015

Cairn Builder at work on Richmond Beach
Photo by Seattle Poppy

What was not mentioned with yesterday's photo, Sunday at Richmond Beach, was that contributing photographer Seattle Poppy actually watched the cairn she photographed being constructed.

Interestingly enough, he told her that he was not responsible for the cairns in Hamlin Park.




Read more...

Crime in Shoreline week ending 12-21-2015

Selected items from the Shoreline Police blotter, week ending 12-21-15.

Lots of shoplifting, trespass orders, public drunkenness, and mental issues this week.

12-14  Missing person found sleeping in garbage can, returned to group home.
12-14  Person with mental issues sent to hospital after being found in a customer's car in Fred Meyer parking lot.
12-14  Burglary 2xx NW 191st. Burglar removed screen and entered through small, horizontal window.
12-15  Roofing tools stolen from job site on roof of North City Safeway.
12-15  Key from lock box used to illegally enter Uber inspection station buildings at 165xx Aurora.
12-15  Unknown suspect tries to steal City of Shoreline vehicle in Walgreen's lot.
12-15  Former employee opened line of credit in Aegis resident's name in order to purchase a mattress. Transaction cancelled.
12-15  Resident at 1xx NW 167th left car in driveway with motor running. Someone drove it away.
12-15  Burglary at 150xx Densmore. Removed screen to climb in small kitchen window.
12-15  Burglary 163xx 128th - forced entry.
12-16  Top Tobacco at 160th and Aurora burglarized - front glass door broken.
12-16  Vehicles broken into at Evergreen RV supply on Aurora.
12-16  3xx N 167th. Adult and two juveniles rang doorbell numerous times. When homeowner did not answer, juvenile went around back and kicked in garage door panel and tried to enter.
12-16  Burglars forced entry into home of recently deceased person and ransacked it.
12-16  Shoplifter at Sears gave police the wrong name - that of one of Washington's Most Wanted. That person was already in King County jail. Shoplifter identified and arrested on warrant.
12-17  Driver fled on foot after being involved in minor 2 car accident on Aurora.
12-17  Back door kicked in at 193xx Greenwood but nothing taken.



Read more...

WARM Journey - adoptee's story of searching for her birth mother

WARM (Washington Adoption Reunion Movement) is a non-profit organization, formed in 1976, serving the needs of adult adoptees and their birth families. WARM is dedicated to reuniting families separated by adoption. They serve adoptees, birth families and adoptive parents, providing information, referral, support, and search services.

Following is a story from an adoptee who searched for her birth mother - and what she found.

WARM JOURNEY by Mary Kate

I was told by my parents at an early age, that they found me under a rock on the beach where we played in front of our house in Bremerton, Washington. I marveled, with three year old fascination, at the puddles under rocks and the tiny crabs and slimy creatures that I shared my beginnings. I spent many hours flipping over rocks in endless fascination at the strange world from which I was retrieved.

A few years later I learned that I was born in 1955 in Walla Walla, Washington and adopted, as were my two older brothers. This was akin to learning that Santa was not real as I had many toddler moments devoted to my intertidal beginnings.

My father was a WWII veteran who had survived the Normandy invasion and the Battle of the Bulge. At the war’s end, he had been part of the Army troops who rescued Jewish victims from Dachau Concentration Camp and two women-only concentration camps. My mother had joined the Women’s Auxiliary Corp, and for too long they were both separated by a horrible war. Upon reuniting at the war’s end, my parents found that they could not have their own children, so without hesitation they turned to adoption through Catholic Charities.

I was adopted at three weeks, which was the soonest my mother could get her hands on me after birth. It is an understatement to say that I was the apple of my parents' eye, as were my brothers. My mother and I turned heads with my pale blue eyes, white-blonde hair, her red hair, hazel eyes and stunning good looks. We didn’t look anything alike but we were a match made in heaven. My father had lost his only brother, and witnessed the dark sinister side of humanity during the war. He lived every day with Mom and us kids as if our time together was precious and fleeting.

It was not until high school that my folks and I talked more about my adoption story. I learned that I was of Norwegian -Irish descent and a few scant particulars surrounding why I was given up for adoption. My parents had not been told much.

I was a physical, robust girl and could not get enough exercise. Years before mountaineering was a popular activity or high school sports available for girls, I joined a mountaineer club and started to climb the peaks of the Cascade Range.

In my 15th summer, I was racing out of our house to go on a weekend Mt. Rainier climb and nearly got knocked over by an ethereal missile from my biological mother. She was worried about me and my welfare. The message may as well have been on a banner floating over our house it was so strong and clear. It stopped me in my tracks, which was not easy to do. I talked to my mom about it. We decided that it sure would be nice if I could tell her that I was fine. Mom and dad were told that the adoption records were closed, done deal, end of story, no going back.

As the years passed I continued to seek out risky outdoor activities that included dangling from ropes, challenging rapids, or taking on nontraditional jobs like fire-fighting or climbing poles as a lineman (woman).  I was invited on an international climb in the Pamir mountain range when I was 18. A nagging voice in my head said not to go. An agonizing decision, because I had a sponsor but I went with the voice. The eleven person rope team I would have been on all perished in a severe storm on the climb.

I did have other close calls which made it all the more thrilling for me. I “heard” from my biological mother several times during these years through that mysterious space that looks empty around us but holds much we cannot see.

Fast forward to 2007 when my mother died and 2008 when my dad died. I was by their sides throughout their aging years and beyond grief when they passed away. In  2014 I was in my 33rd year in Alaska. A good friend, who is also adopted, told me how Washington changed a law to allow access to adoptees for their original birth certificates. The door opened a crack for adoptees, so my friend and I decided to send in for our birth certificates together.

My friend found out who her biological mom was within a week on her own. Her mom never left the Seattle area where my friend was born.  I sort of tried to find my biological mom, but ran aground on false leads.

I contacted WARM in Seattle and they were encouraging and supportive. I was given a Confidential Intermediary (CI) in Spokane and the process began.

My CI also ran into several false leads and dead ends. Ultimately it took several months to find out that my biological mother had died when I was only 29 years old. I was surprised that she had died so young, so I consoled myself that I had surely tried and I really hoped she knew it.

The CI then said, I have siblings. Siblings?  I had not considered that I would be contacting siblings. She encouraged me to continue and contact them. I had doubts and questions. Did they know I existed? What would they think of their mom if they found out about me? This was new and rocky terrain for me. To learn more about my biological mother, the next step was to get a family member to sign a consent form. With my CI’s positive views, we continued to pursue contact with a sister and a brother.

On March 21, 2015, the day before my birthday, I received a call from an enthusiastic CI. My sister had responded to the letter from the CI. She was alive, well and thrilled to know of my existence. Thrilled? Really? My CI said, “And do you know what else? You are never going to believe this, her name is the same as yours, Katy!”

Katy lives in New York. Without WARM, I do not believe I would have found her. As it turned out, I have not two but four siblings! We all met for the first time in the Seattle-Bellingham area on September 19-20, 2015. My Seattle family and friends were also invited to the meet and greet, and they all thoroughly enjoyed each other. We rented a mini-van and spent a week together. It was as if I already knew my siblings. They are all amazing, talented, and considerate people. We had a really good time, and I have been in communication with one or the other almost daily since we met last March.

I am so grateful to our mom for having these remarkable and gifted children whom I will now enjoy the rest of my life, along with a bounty of nieces and nephews. I certainly did feel as though my biological mother was pushing me to pursue what I thought was finding her, but indeed it was her children. She wanted me to find them and so did my parents.

Printed with permission from the December 2015 issue of WARM Journeys.



Read more...

Sunday at Richmond Beach: The Cairn Builder

Saturday, December 26, 2015

Photo by Seattle Poppy

Dramatic photo from Sunday, when the wind was whipping up the waves onto the beach at Saltwater Park - and the Cairn Builder's work balanced against the wind and waves.




Read more...

Q13: Police and volunteers help provide Christmas for Lake Forest Park family

Q13 has a nice story segment on Lake Forest Park police, Rotary and their surprise Christmas for one Lake Forest Park family.

Lake Forest Park police officers and their families spent their Christmas Eve trying to make spirits bright -- literally. 
“We’re bringing a little Christmas to a family that didn't have Christmas coming,” says Captain Paul Armbrust. 
The family didn’t have lights, stockings, or a tree. But thanks to the generosity of the police department, the Rotary Club, and some local businesses, their home is now filled with Christmas spirit. 
“A bunch of people pulled together, donated money, lights, and decorations,” says Armbrust. “We figured if we're going to do it, we're going to do it up right.”

See the complete story here



Read more...

Death Notices as of December 21, 2015

Obituaries are condensed biographies of people's lives, written by the people who loved them. Like a memorial service, they tell us things we may not have known about the person, and may leave us wishing we had known them better.

Obituaries from The Seattle Times


M. Gene "Geno" Ross  1932-2015  Active in the Masonic fraternity, including membership in Seattle Scottish Rite (Shoreline) and Nile Shrine. Services held at Scottish Rite center in Shoreline.

Cathy Renee Cummings  age 68  Died in Edmonds after battling cancer for over a year. Attended Shorecrest high school and retired from a career in the dental industry.

George Robert Hetherington  age 88  grew up in Fall City, then moved to Shoreline in 1953 where he and his wife raised their family. Member of Local 32 Plumbers and Steamfitters. 48 years in the Navy, including reserves.

Howard Fujio Inouye  1930-2015  Celebration of Life held at Aurora Church of the Nazarene.

Margaret "Peggy" Baldwin  age 93  Passed away in her sleep, in Shoreline.

Jeffery Craig Ross  1960-2015  The "most involved non-Catholic at St. Luke" "Master of cooking, tacky shirts, pyrotechnics, and Christmas lights." Celebration of Life at St. Luke with remembrances to St. Luke School.

Daryl G. Baerwald  1942-2015  Retired in 1996 after 31 years of teaching elementary school in Shoreline. Awarded the PTA Golden Acorn award. Celebration of Life will be held in January.

Robert S. Magnusson  1923-2015  Memorial service held at Bethel Lutheran Church in Shoreline. Retired after long career at Sellen Construction.

Erling Roderic Johansen  1934-2015  Services will be held at Shorewood High School.

Elizabeth (Betty) Caroline Sorensen  1922-2015  Loved her 20 years at Shorecrest High School as secretary to the Assistant Principal.

Vern Lee Amundson  Age 86  With his cousin, ran the family business in Shoreline, Parker's Ballroom. Active in Norwegian organizations. Active member of Shoreline Rotary, and was named "Shoreliner of The Year". He was honored to throw out the first pitch at a Mariner's Game.

William G. Muller  1928-2015  Lake Forest Park resident raised show quality Springer spaniels and spent a lifetime coaching youth soccer. Member of the Shorelake Soccer Club where his teams won numerous recreational championships. Recognized as a Seattle Youth Soccer Association Legend Life Member.

Patricia "Pat" Leaf  1932-2015  An active member of Calvin Presbyterian Church for over 30 years, she was a member of the choir, served as the church organist for three years and was a Deacon. Most recently she attended Trinity Presbyterian Church where services were held.

Mildred "Mickie" Freed  1923-2015  Member of Calvin Presbyterian Church where remembrances can be made.

Bobbie Gene Dyer  Age 89  Memorial Services will be held at the Shoreline Library. He was a construction worker, owner of an asphalt company.

Salvatore Paul "Sal" Marcello  Born in "Da Bronx", he and his family moved to Shoreline when he was 10. He remained in WA till 2007, when he and his wife, Patti, moved to Hawaii. He was a friend to all, telling jokes and laughing. Memorial at The Hook in Edmonds - wear bright colors and bring pictures and stories of Uncle Sal.



Read more...

Girls’ Beginner Hockey Classes – registration open now


Western Washington Female Hockey Association (WWFHA) Girls’ Washington Wild Beginner Hockey Program are classes for females to learn to skate and play ice hockey, ages 4 to 12 years old. No skating experience required.

Classes are held every Sunday at 10:15am – 11:15am at Highland Ice Arena in Shoreline starting January 24. The program runs for 12 weeks for $185 + USA Hockey membership registration / insurance. Participants must provide their own equipment (or rent); however, receive a free Washington Wild hockey jersey and pair of hockey socks.


WWFHA is a non-profit organization and is the only all-girl ice hockey association in Washington State. Our mission is to provide girls’ an opportunity to play ice hockey recreationally or competitively with other girls. WWFHA is 100% dedicated to girls’ hockey and is volunteer run.

More information and registration here.


Read more...
ShorelineAreaNews.com
Facebook: Shoreline Area News
Twitter: @ShorelineArea
Daily Email edition (don't forget to respond to the Follow.it email)

  © Blogger template The Professional Template II by Ourblogtemplates.com 2009

Back to TOP