Briarcrest neighbors - don't forget Game Night Friday at Patty Pan

Thursday, January 14, 2016


Hey Briarcrest! Come join your neighbors on Friday, January 15 for Game Night! 
Bring your favorite board and card games, your family members and friends to Patty Pan Cooperative Kitchen, 15550 - 27th Ave NE, anytime between 6:30 and 9:00pm.

Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided but feel free to bring your favorites to share! Door prizes will be awarded throughout the evening!

This is a free, all-ages event sponsored by your Briarcrest Neighborhood Association, an all-volunteer, non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote community. We hope you'll join us!



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Shoe sale at Bargain Corner


Bargain Corner Thrift Shop
at the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Center
185th and 1st NE (southernmost building in Shoreline Center campus)
Shop hours: Monday through Friday
9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Free parking

Prices lower than most Thrift Stores! All Sales are final, all of the time.

All proceeds from donations and purchases go to help keep the Senior Center open and programs up and running.



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Aurora Bridge and lane closures begin this weekend

From WSDOT

SR 99 Aurora Bridge lane closures this weekend

Early morning plans on Saturday? Of course you have plans on Sunday as you tune in to watch the Seahawks! Well, wherever your weekend takes you be advised of some lane closures on the SR 99 Aurora Bridge. Our bridge maintenance crews will close two southbound lanes of across the Aurora Bridge at 6:30am on both Saturday, January 16, and Sunday, January 17, for bridge inspection work. One southbound lane will remain open to traffic during the closures. All lanes will reopen by noon each day.

DRIVER ALERT: Several weeks of SR 99 lane closures begin Monday night

Whether you drive or take the bus you’ll want to prepare for more traffic on SR 99 starting Monday, January 18. That’s when 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. The closures will last through mid-February. Once that work wraps up crews will open those lanes but will need to close one southbound lane until early March.



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Lake Forest Park Police survey and Crime Prevention Guide

The Lake Forest Park Police Department has announced a new tool to help ensure citizens receive the best in customer service from their police department. 

Residential burglaries and thefts are personal violations that strike at the heart of our security and safety.

In 2015, residential burglaries in the City went down by 15 percent and all thefts were down by 7 percent. A record 20 crooks were arrested and charged with burglary … a great success.

However, these crimes are frustrating for the public and we know it.

The Police Department has created a customer service survey that will be used as a follow-up with victims of these crimes in the hope of accomplishing several things:
  • did we miss something during the original response; 
  • have we ensured victim services have been communicated; 
  • have we provided comprehensive prevention tips; and, 
  • have we educated the victim on the City’s Emergency Notification System. 

For information about the Do it Yourself Crime Prevention Guide, check out the website.



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Home sales in Shoreline - December 2015

The following is a sampling of homes at each price point that sold in Shoreline during the month of December 2015.




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46th Democrats have new meeting location for January's panel discussion on education funding


Thursday January 21, 2016 at 7:30pm

NOTE: New Location!
Seattle Mennonite Church
3120 NE 125th St
Seattle, WA 98125

Panel discussion on the impact of the State Supreme Court McCleary decision and the current impasse with the state legislature on school district growth and funding, as well as teacher compensation and special educational services for students and families.

Panel members are Joanna Cullen, an education chair for the League of Women Voters; Melissa Westbrook, writer/moderator for the Seattle Schools Community Forum; David Spring, teacher; Sue Peters, Vice President of the Seattle School Board; Jill Geary, new member of the Seattle School Board; and Alex Bond the spokesman for the School Bond Levies.



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Cancelled Shoreline City Council Meeting

The Shoreline City Council meeting on Monday, January 18, 2016 is cancelled due to the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.



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Participate in a who-done-it at Shoreline Community College



The next show at Shoreline CC, coming this May 2016, is "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" - a who-done-it murder mystery that is only able to be solved by a vote from the audience.

Come be part of the fun - sign up for an audition at this link. Auditions January 21, 22, and 23rd.



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Call for volunteers for FIRST LEGO League competition at SCC Jan 23-24



Volunteers are needed to help out with the upcoming FIRST LEGO League (FLL) competition that is going to be hosted on Shoreline’s campus. The competition needs volunteer judges, referees, engineers, and project managers to evaluate the students’ work. No LEGO experience is needed!
The event will take place in the main gym Saturday, January 23 and Sunday, January 24. Sign up to volunteer online. Visit the Lego League website (Shoreline specific event info) or contact Amy Stapleton for more information.

If you are interested in volunteering at the FLL, fill out an online volunteer account. You can find the link here.

Once you have created the account, go to your email and click the link sent to you to activate the account. It will take you to the log in page. Log in using the email and password you created. You will then be asked to answer a few additional questions.

When you get to the point of choosing the event, click FLL (First Lego League), zip code is 98133. Click on Shoreline Qualifier on 1/23-1/24 and you can choose the role you’d like to volunteer for or choose to be assigned as needed.



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HistoryLink: King County's name

From HistoryLinkKing County's Name

January 15 marks the birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the eponym of King County. Of course, this was not always the case. The county was originally named for U.S. Senator William Rufus King, an Alabama slave owner who died days after being sworn in as Vice President in 1853.


In 1986 Ron Sims, then the first African American member of the King County Council, led the effort to "rename" King County for the modern martyr.

The former Empire Way was also renamed for King and in 1991 a monument was erected to his memory

The 1986 county council resolution renaming the county for Martin Luther King was later affirmed by the Washington State Legislature and signed into law by Governor Christine Gregoire on April 19, 2005.



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Dog flu identified in King County

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Photo courtesy Public Health

According to an article in the Public Health newsletter, a new strain of dog flu has been identified in a kennel in Kent. All signs point to novel H3N2 canine influenza.

Canine influenza, or dog flu, has been around for several years, but this new strain has been identified in 25 states, including Washington. The first outbreak in the U.S., in Chicago, sickened over a thousand dogs.

The virus is highly contagious and dogs get sick easily.

Symptoms include cough, runny nose, and/or fever. Sick dogs may be lethargic. Dogs can come down with the flu within 24 hours of exposure. Some dogs don’t show symptoms, but are able to infect other dogs  for weeks.
This strain of canine influenza isn’t particularly deadly, but can cause a secondary infection like pneumonia, which can kill dogs.

Once the virus gets established in a community, the transmission can be continuous. Particular risk situations are dog parks, dog daycares, boarding facilities, groomers, veterinary clinics.

Dog owners whose dogs are coughing or showing other signs of respiratory disease should not expose their dog to other dogs, and should contact their veterinarian.

Here's a website with information for dog owners.

Here are tips from Health:Kentucky.com shared by Trupanion Pet Insurance:

  • Just like a child going to school and picking up a cold, your dog can catch the flu from other dogs at places like daycare or the dog park.
  • Symptoms include runny nose, cough, fever, and sometimes more severe symptoms.
  • It usually lasts about 7 to 10 days.
  • If your dog makes frequent visits to public places, you might want to consider the canine influenza vaccine. Ask your veterinarian.
  • If your dog comes down with the flu, you may want to take him/her to the vet. Treatment is similar to that of the human flu, including rest and keeping hydrated.


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Jobs: Communication Consultant 3 - Temporary Position

Department of Transportation in Shoreline has a full-time position through October 2016 for a communications specialist.

This position will provide up-to-the-minute information about what is happening on roads and mountain passes, including weather, incidents and construction to drivers. You will do this through the use of social media, live and taped interviews, press releases, the web, video and the 511 traveler information phone system. This position plays an important role in emergency response in the Traffic Management Center using your outstanding communication skills to assess and determine priorities and follow emergency response protocols. You will be expected to work independently to identify research and respond to issues.

Ideal background: College degree in Journalism, Communications or three years paid working experience in marketing, public relations or media.

Details and application information here



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Plant lust at the Kruckeberg Annual Membership meeting Jan 28

Richie Steffen
Kruckeberg Botanic Garden will hold its annual membership meeting January 28, 7pm at Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale N, featuring guest speaker Richie Steffen, Curator of the Elisabeth C Miller Botanical Garden.

He will share his insights of how the friendship of Art and Mareen Kruckeberg influenced the development of the Miller Garden from its creation to today. He will show old, but uncommon, favorites along with new plants that fill a gardener with desire and plant lust.

Members are free, non-members suggested donation $5. Please RSVP.




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Jobs: Procurement & Supply Specialist 2

Procurement and Supply Specialist 2 at Shoreline WSDOT office.

This position plans, coordinates, and performs procurement of services, supplies, materials, parts, and equipment for assigned areas in accordance with state laws and requirements, and supports inventory and accountability functions of purchased goods or services.

This position will work a day shift, Monday through Friday out of our Shoreline office.

View the entire announcement and apply



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Shorewood wrestling in double dual Wednesday night - results

The Shorewood wrestling team went to Edmonds-Woodway Wednesday to face off against Lynnwood and Edmonds-Woodway in a double dual.

In the first contest of the night the Thunderbirds faced off against the Royals of Lynnwood. Sophomore Aiden Smith began the affair at 120 pounds and overwhelmed his opponent in just 58 seconds for a pin. After Lynnwood tied the team score at 6-6 it was T-Bird junior Tae Thongdee stepping into the varsity 132 pound spot just the second time all season. Thongdee used superior technique on his feet to secure a close 5-3 decision. From 132 pounds forward Shorewood outscored Lynnwood 60-6 for a comfortable 66-12 team victory.

The second dual of the night had the Thunderbirds facing off against the Edmonds-Woodway Warriors. After a pair of wins by Thongdee at 132 and fellow junior Fidel Chishungu at 138 pounds, Shorewood held a slim 7-6 lead. However, the Warriors showed why they are ranked 6th in the state as they pulled away for a 59-13 victory.

Shorewood wrestles next this Friday, January 15, at home against Mountlake Terrace High School.

Shorewood Record: 2-1 Wesco South, 6-7 Overall

Shorewood 66 - Lynnwood 12
@ Edmonds-Woodway High School

106: Nick Lotz (SW) win by forfeit
113: Rhaye Samson (SW) win by forfeit
120: Aiden Smith (SW) pinned James Heck 0:58
126: Evan Wu (LYN) pinned Ruslan Bekniyazov 1:22
132: Tae Thongdee (SW) dec. Luel Wolde 5-3
138: Fidel Chishungu (SW) dec. Nate Paulson 8-6
145: Alex Olivera (SW) win by forfeit
152: Shay O'Leary (SW) win by forfeit
160: Jordan King (SW) win by forfeit
170: Esdras Valladares (SW) pinned Ben Lubag 3:21
182: Caleb Herr (LYN) win by forfeit
195: Troy Halloway-Beach (SW) pinned Brandon Hawk 0:34
220: Riley Teeters (SW) pinned Gibson Anetipa 1:49
285: Japhet Valladares (SW) win by forfeit

Shorewood 13 - Edmonds-Woodway 59
@ Edmonds-Woodway High School

106: Matt Hood (EW) pinned Nick Lotz 0:28
113: Mitchell Martinez (EW) dec. Rhaye Samson 5-0
120: Ebrima Fatty (EW) pinned Aiden Smith 3:57
126: Grayson LeCompte (EW) pinned Ruslan Bekniyazov 1:44
132: Tae Thongdee (SW) maj. dec. Luis Naranjo 12-4
138: Fidel Chishungu (SW) dec. Cole Hadaller 3-2
145: Jonah Cortezzo (EW) maj. dec. Alex Olivera 15-6
152: Trevor Hendricks (EW) maj. dec. Shay O'Leary 12-0
160: Anthony Lindamood (EW) win by forfeit
170: Mason McDaniel (EW) pinned Esdras Valladares 3:09
182: Konstantin Stratiev (EW) win by forfeit
195: Spencer Shultz (EW) pinned Troy Halloway-Beach 1:45
220: Michael Swires (EW) pinned Riley Teeters 2:56
285: Japhet Valladares (SW) win by forfeit

--Clark Norton


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Phoenix Theatre presents Communicating Doors in February


Coming up next at the Phoenix Theatre

Phoenix Theatre presents 
Communicating Doors
by Alan Ayckbourn
Directed by Christine Mosere 
February 8 thru February 28
Thursday, Friday and Saturdays 8:00 pm, Sunday 2:00 
$19.00 Adults, $16.00 Seniors/Military/Students
Tickets by calling 206-533-2000 or phoenixtheatreedmonds.org 

Story: Set in the near future, a prostitute flees for her life through a hotel communicating door only to find herself 20 years in the past. Stalked by the killer in the present and the past, the opportunity to alter time for the better puts the lives of three women at stake.
Science fiction with the comedic, devious Ayckbourn touch.
“A real knock out…vastly entertaining… Of course, Ayckbourn has added …bizarre details of his own…This is the show to see”. - New York Post
*May contain some adults themes
Cast: Carlos Martinez, Curt Simmons, Elizabeth Adkisson, Simone Barron, Dan Jacoby, Melanie Calderwood 
Phoenix Theatre
9673 Firdale Ave.
Edmonds, WA 98087
Produced with permission with Samuel French



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Provide input on design of Shoreline light rail stations & facilities at Shoreline sponsored open house Jan 27

Northgate Sound Transit Station
Graphic courtesy ST

In 2016, Sound Transit will begin the final design phase for the Lynnwood Link light rail extension that will run through Shoreline. As part of that effort, beginning in mid-2016, Sound Transit will hold three public open houses to gather input on the design of the stations and related facilities at N 145th and N 185th Streets.

To ensure the community’s interests are adequately represented during Sound Transit’s design phase, the City will develop a set of guiding principles to help guide the design of the light rail stations and facilities in Shoreline.

Roosevelt Sound Transit Station design
Graphic courtesy ST
"We need your help in designing these important guiding principles." 

On January 27, the City will hold an open house to gather your input on:
  • How the stations and facilities should look and feel;
  • Ways to make the stations and facilities more sustainable;
  • What types of public amenities should be incorporated into the designs;
  • What will be important to ensure the stations and facilities are accessible to all people;
  • How best to maintain safety for transit users and neighbors; and
  • What improvements can be made to enhance all modes of transportation to and from the stations.
University Sound Transit Station
Graphic courtesy ST

Your ideas will ultimately be used to develop the Shoreline Light Rail Design Guiding Principles, which will be adopted by the City Council as a policy document to help guide Sound Transit’s design of the light rail stations and facilities.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016, 6:00 to 8:30pm, Shorewood High School – Commons and Theater, 17300 Fremont Ave. N.

For more information, contact Miranda Redinger 206-801-2513.



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Shoreline School Board meeting January 11, 2016: Cascade K-8, Home Education Exchange to relocate

By Marianne Deal Stephens

Prior to the meeting, a reception honored the Directors of the Shoreline School Board as part of the statewide School Board Recognition Month. Members of the community stopped in to say hello and offer thanks to Debi Ehrlichman, Mike Jacobs, Dick Nicholson, Richard Potter, and David Wilson.

Consent Agenda
The evening’s ten-item consent agenda passed unanimously. Of note:

  • Acceptance of several gifts:
    • $6,391.34 raised by Echo Lake PTA’s Walk-a-Thon for class enrichment, school equipment and 6th grade camp; 
    • $6,119. from Syre PTA for classroom grants, including “I Spy” Books for 1st grade and a Buddy Bench for the playground; 
    • $11,954.42 from Shorewood PTSA for classroom grants, including a visiting Spanish Artist/ Musician and a band uniform. 
  • Approval to extend the agreement with Puget Sound ESD for the Head Start Program housed at Meridian Park Elementary. Head Start is a federally funded program with an emphasis on social skill development and literacy.
  • Approval of Extended Field Trips, for:
    • Shorecrest and Shorewood Robotics students to Portland for NW Robotics Competition in April;
    • Shorecrest Track Team to Pasco for Pasco Invitational Track Meet in April;
    • Shorewood Leadership Students to Leadership Camp at Cispus Learning Center in Randle, Washington for Leadership Camp in August. 

Board President David Wilson publicly thanked Echo Lake, Syre, and Shorewood PTA chapters, saying that “these donations fill many needs and enrich our schools” and affirming that “the PTA is a tremendous partner”.

Observation of School Board Recognition Month
Referring to the Shoreline School Board, Superintendent Rebecca Miner asserted that

“there is no better example of a stellar, effective, and committed school board than here in Shoreline. We are extremely fortunate to have this group of individuals representing our educational community. Their insights, thoughtful decisions, and dedication to the cause of student achievement make them a truly outstanding Board.” 

Superintendent Miner presented certificates to Board Vice President Debi Ehrlichman and Board President David Wilson for ten years of service to the District.

January is School Board Recognition Month as proclaimed by Governor Jay Inslee. Superintendent Miner read the Governor’s Proclamation, which recognizes the State’s school directors as “outstanding volunteers and champions for public education” into the record.

First Reading of District Instructional Materials Committee (DIMC) Recommendations
Director of Teaching and Learning Teri Poff presented the committee’s recommendation that the district adopt the following materials, which teachers have requested and the committee has reviewed:

Social Studies Materials

The Creation of the U.S. Constitution by Michael Burgan, Capstone Press. 
Image: Amazon.com



These four books will be used primarily in SIOP (Sheltered Instruction Observational Protocol for English Language Learners) History Classes: Young People’s History of the United States; Split History of Westward Expansion in the U.S.; The U.S. Constitution: A Graphic Adaptation; The Creation of the U.S. Constitution.  

Language Arts Materials
The film Bowling for Columbine will be used in Junior English classes at Shorewood as part of a project on American Culture examining how to construct an argument.

Director Dick Nicholson inquired about the “R” rating of the film. Dr. Poff explained that rating is due to violence in the form of raw footage of actual events and not from language. Because of the movie rating, parent permission would be required. Students who opt out would have an alternative assignment.

These materials are scheduled to be adopted at the next regular Board meeting on January 25. See the DIMC Recommendation for details.

Comments from the Community
Bill MacCully of the Shoreline Rotary Club informed the Board about a recent service effort. Since 1998, the club has taken 25 Shoreline elementary students on a shopping spree to J.C. Penney during the holiday season. This year, 52 club members and volunteers took 28 students to the Alderwood Mall J.C. Penney before the store opened. In an hour, the volunteers and students chose items along with the help of store employees, who had prepared goodie bags for each of the students. After shopping, the Rotary took the kids out for breakfast at McDonald’s. Mr. MacCully, who coordinated the event, described the looks on the kids’ faces as they are wearing new coats, and said “this is a heart project”.

Cascade K-8 Parent Sharon Tapia thanked the Board for the partnership the Cascade community shares with the District. She is looking forward to the school’s upcoming changes.

At the end of the community comment period, President David Wilson recognized a large group in the audience. Students in Senior Civics are often asked by their teachers to attend a community or municipal meeting. Approximately twenty students stood while President Wilson thanked them for attending.

Adoption of Revisions to Policies 3250
The Board approved revisions to Policy 3250, which regards the release of student information. District Information Officer Curtis Campbell explained that the changes align our policy with best practices by expanding the definition of ‘directory information’ to include images, video, and email addresses as well as more traditional elements of student information. See Revised Policy 3250.

Adoption of Policy 2021
Director of Teaching and Learning Teri Poff stated that the new policy “clearly states the purpose of our library media centers” and outlines processes for selection and reconsideration of materials. Policy 2021 was approved.

Approval of Preparation of Classrooms for 2016-2017 and 2017-2018, and Relocation of Cascade K-8 Community School and Home Education Exchange to Aldercrest Elementary 

Deputy Superintendent Marla Miller introduced the long-awaited Classroom and Facility Planning Recommendation, which she described as the “culmination of many months of study”. Increasing enrollment and consideration of future measures to reduce class sizes led the District to undertake a study of long-term enrollment and a study of the condition of all of the district’s buildings, both in 2015.

Chrisy Francescutti, Director of Cascade K-8 Community School and Ron Jones, Program Coordinator for Home Education Exchange (HEE), joined the Deputy Superintendent to present the plan. The Cascade K-8 Community School and the Home Education Exchange will share the Aldercrest Campus owned by Shoreline School District. Mr. Jones thanked the Board, and said that HEE has enjoyed its time at North City. Ms. Francescutti described how Cascade K-8 is a “collaborate community” and she is excited to include “my staff, my students, and of course our wonderful parents” in the move. Both Mr. Jones and Ms. Francescuitti noted that they already work well together and, though they lead separate programs, the shared campus may lead to collaboration.

The Aldercrest Campus is currently occupied by Sound City Bible Church, and will be vacated by June 1, 2016. After June 1, the District will remodel the Aldercrest buildings over the summer, and the programs will begin the 2017-2018 school year in the new location.

Source:  Shoreline School District

Relocating Cascade K-8 to Aldercrest will free up some classrooms at Meridian Park Elementary, but the district will need more classrooms long-term. During the 2016-2017 school year, the District will remodel North City Elementary.

North City Elementary currently houses several preschool programs which received notice of lease termination several months ago. The preschools requested more time, and the District has changed the lease termination date to August 31, 2016 from June 1, 2016. Deputy Superintendent Miller mentioned that the District is talking with the preschools about the possibility of the programs leasing classrooms at Shoreline Center for a year while they look for permanent locations.

Source:  Shoreline School District

Deputy Superintendent Miller summarized the changes as follows: we are proposing the relocation of the two programs for 2016-2017, and the preparation of North City Elementary during 2016-2017 for the 2017-2018 school year. It is anticipated that North City would be ready for occupancy in August of 2017. 

Superintendent Miner has asked the staff, as part of the District’s continued review, to consider grade configurations as part of the larger picture. There is a possibility that configurations of K-5 and 6-8 would serve needs better than the current K-6 and 7-8 model.

The District will continue to monitor enrollment and buildings, and will consider the possibility of a February 2017 bond issue if the District determines that new building projects are needed. If a bond measure is called for, the District would need to ask for Board approval by June 2016.

When the Board unanimously approved the proposal, applause broke out in the meeting room. Staff and parents involved with Cascade K-8, the Home Education Exchange, and the various preschools appear to be pleased with the District plan. 
Board Reports and Communications

Director Richard Potter helped out with the Holiday Baskets event at Kellogg, watched the Fire Department do some training in the District, and caught another concert, which he always enjoys.

Dick Nicholson continues to lead KCDA as its President, and noted that the cooperative purchasing organization “established a record” in 2015 and has had “tremendous growth.”

Debi Ehrlichman went to the Girls’ Basketball game at Shorecrest last week, which was on the evening of “a difficult day” [when Shorecrest was evacuated due to a bomb threat]. She mentioned that Shorecrest staff and students and District communications and transportation staff handled the event very well.

Director Ehrlichman drew attention to the many Martin Luther King, Jr. Assemblies coming up and to Kinderfest, which is coming up on January 23 for the Class of 2029.

David Wilson praised the winter concerts, and mentioned the impressive finale of the Shorewood-Einstein Winter Concert with 125 students on stage. He also noted that the Power of One program, which places senior citizens in Shoreline Schools, was chosen as the Best Volunteer Program of the Year by the North Urban Human Services Alliance [see previous article].

Several directors attended the PTA Reflections Celebration on January 7 and complimented our student artists. [See previous story]



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Shoreline teenager wins Bainbridge Young Artist Concerto Competition

Leah Deobald
Shoreline student Leah Deobald, 15, has won first place in the Bainbridge Symphony Orchestra's 2016 Young Artist Concerto Competition. Leah, a pianist, performed Beethoven's Piano Concerto No. 3 in C minor, op. 37, 1st movement.

Leah, a sophomore at Shorewood, is the daughter of Dr. Jessie Kim-Deobald and Dr. Lyle Deobald.

Leah has been studying piano for 10 years and is currently a student of Professor Duane Hulbert, known for his Grammy Award nomination of Glazunov piano recordings.

As a top prize winner for local, national, and international piano competitions, Leah has appeared in prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, Benaroya Hall, Pavlovsk Palace, St. Petersburg Russia and Classical King FM, NW focus Live.

She has been mentored by world renowned concert pianists and pedagogues including Julian Martin from Juilliard School, John Perry, Alexander Sandler from St. Petersburg Conservatory in Russia as well as Angela Cheng from Oberlin Conservatory.



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School District swing shift worker arrested on child pornography charges

On Friday, January 8, 2016, the Seattle Police Department notified Shoreline Public Schools that an employee had been arrested on charges of possessing and distributing child pornography. The District immediately placed the employee on administrative leave and initiated an internal investigation while fully cooperating with law enforcement.

The employee has been a swing shift painter in the District since July 2013.

The District completed a background check on the employee before offering employment. The result of that background check indicated no previous criminal history and the police stated, when they spoke with the District, that the individual has no previous criminal history. During the tenure of his employment, the District received no complaints about this employee.

Direct questions or concerns to Tam Osborne, Director of Human Resources at 206-393-4112.




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Chubby Cat discount at Seattle Humane

Tuesday, January 12, 2016


Start the New Year off on the right paw with Seattle Humane's Chubby Cat Discounts from Friday, January 15 through Sunday, January 17! We're offering a $1 per pound discount on cats one year and up to encourage animal lovers to welcome a furry workout buddy into their hearts and home.

Here's how it works: If a cat weighs 15 lbs., you'll get $15 off their $25 adoption fee - that's unconditional love for just $10!

Many cats are surrendered to shelters overweight. Seattle Humane works hard to get unhealthy pets back in shape with a nutritious diet and daily exercise, but nothing compares to the care of a loving home environment.

Browse through our adoptable cats now or, better yet, come visit them in person at 13212 SE Eastgate Way in Bellevue. We're open seven days a week, from 11am to 6pm Sun. through Wed. and 11am to 8pm Thu. through Sat.



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CERT class in Kenmore starts Jan 21 - but register now

The Northshore Emergency Management Coalition is sponsoring a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class beginning on January 21, 2016.

This course will meet on Thursday nights at the Northshore Fire Department Station 51 in Kenmore (7220 NE 181st St.), from 1/21 through 3/10.

CERT students will learn to extinguish small fires, provide life-saving first aid, conduct urban search and rescue, and perform other vital skills needed to help others after a disaster. All sessions begin at 7:00pm and conclude by 10:00pm.

The first 25 students will be giving priority seating. If you are interested in attending this course, please fill out and send in the following prior to the first class:
  • CERT Training Registration Form
  • The non-refundable course fee of $35 (Credit cards are not accepted, please make check payable to City of Lake Forest Park)
The mailing address is on the Registration Form. Receipts for your course fee will be provided upon request at the first class. All participants will receive a student manual and the safety gear that is required to participate in the CERT classes.

Whether you want a little more emergency preparedness information for yourself, your family or you are interested in helping your community in disaster, we look forward to meeting you when class starts.



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Friday Roundtable hiring event: Big 5 Sporting Goods


This Friday’s Roundtable (1/15): Hiring Event: Krista Baker from Big 5 Sporting Goods.

With spring around the corner (yes, it really is!), Big 5 is gearing up for outdoor sports: fishing, biking, canoeing, rafting, camping, etc., Big 5 is one of the country’s biggest retailers for sporting goods and accessories.

Whether you are a career-minded professional looking for management opportunities, a sales or cashiering specialist looking for full time employment, or a student looking for an exciting part time job, Big 5 has an opportunity for you.

Come by and meet Krista Baker who will answer questions about applying and which stores are looking for great customer service and other positions.

Also, let’s take a look at our LinkedIn pages. Are you letting your contacts know what you do? Who you are? What you can bring to the table? Let’s talk about some great examples.

Coming in March: Most of us have been to Trader Joe’s. You have probably noticed that the customer service folks are always friendly and helpful. My guess is employees are treated right, and TJ’s is a fun place to work. Good pay, benefits, the works. Did you know that the Shoreline Trader Joe’s is about to open on 175th near Aurora? The new store’s Captain will be on hand to talk about careers, who they hire, when and why. We don’t yet know which Friday he’ll be by, but when I find out, this will be a sign-up Roundtable. I will keep you posted.

See you Friday – and as always, Good Luck Out There!

Friday, January 15, 1:00-2:30pm
Shoreline Community College, Room 5116, Building 5000 (ground floor)
SCC Campus Map, Parking information. Small fee for daytime parking on campus.

Open to anyone of any age who is job seeking or interested in career change.

Led by Ron Carnell, Program Coordinator, Workforce and Continuing Education / Plus 50 Career Builder, Shoreline Community College, 206-533-6706.

See the Plus 50 Spring Schedule!



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Eat at LFP Bar & Grill Thursday to support Shorecrest Hip Hop Dance Team


Shorecrest Hip Hop Team would like to invite you to come to the Lake Forest Park Bar and Grill this Thursday, January 14 for dinner!

Both of our teams are having a fundraiser from 5-10pm. Any food ordered during that time, including To-Go orders, the team will receive 20% from the total bill.

The Bar and Grill is located at the north end of Town Center - enter from Ballinger Way NE. 17535 Ballinger Way NE.



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LFP City Council meetings Thursday

Thursday, January 14, City Hall Council Chambers, 17425 Ballinger Way NE

6-7pm  LFP City Council work session

  • Discussion of Federal Government Affairs Advocacy Scope of Work - The Johnston Group
  • Report on NE 178th Project

7-9pm Regular Council Meeting

  • Approval of City Expenditures for 2015, and January 2016
  • Approve contract with The Johnson Group for Federal Government Affairs support
  • Adopt Comprehensive Plan update
  • Amend Budgeted cost of living adjustment of management and professional employees
  • Authorize Mayor to sign Master Work Crew agreement with department of Corrections

Discussion: year end report on departmental work plan

Executive session

  • Review employee performance
  • Real estate acquisition


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History and reclamation of the Elwha River in photographs at Shoreline Community College


 THE FREE ELWHA exhibit is on now through Feb. 5

Join us for an Artists’ Reception for this exhibit on Thurs., Jan. 14 – 5-7 p.m.
Campus Art Gallery (1000 bldg. lobby)
16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline 98133

Shoreline faculty, Lauren Greathouse and Claire Putney, present an exhibition of photographic works that focus on the history, evolution and recovery of the Elwha River, located on the Olympic Peninsula.

This series of images is not merely about a free river, but part of a larger investigation of the human desire to domesticate the landscape and control natural resources in ways that benefit human existence.

This exhibition references the history of the dams as well as the current reclamation of wildlife habitats and river ecosystems. While the removal of these dams deeply engages social, cultural and political systems, the visual power of the physical landscape documented by Greathouse and Putney speaks to the intimate connection between its human and natural history.



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Volunteer with the 2016 Shoreline Math Olympiad March 12

Shoreline Councilmember Will Hall giving a medal
at the 2015 Shoreline Math Olympiad


The Shoreline Math Olympiad is an annual math competition event held each March on the Shoreline Community College campus. The date for 2016 is Saturday March 12. Each year it is held on the 2nd Saturday of March.

It is open to all 4th through 8th grade students who live in or go to school within the Shoreline school district boundaries.

This event has increased in popularity each year, with 2016 expecting close to 800 participants from 19 area school, including public, private, and home-schooled students.

The students descend upon the SCC campus ready for a challenging day of math! You can't miss them with their school t-shirts proudly being worn, and huge smiles as they make their way around the campus for the various day's happenings.

Students compete as individuals in two rounds of mental math and multiple choice question tests, as well as have the opportunity to work as a team of up to four students on two rounds of problem solving tests.

The day begins around 8:00am and the awards ceremony is usually concluded by 2:30pm.

All are invited to join us in the Shoreline Community College gymnasium for the entertainment and awards portion of the day. We suggest getting there BY noon to get a seat!

This event is made free of charge to all participants thanks to our generous event sponsors:

  • Shoreline Community College
  • Shoreline Public Schools Foundation
  • James Alan Salon
  • Chuck Olson Chevrolet/KIA
  • Smart Service Subaru
  • Shoreline Public Schools

Shoreline Math Olympiad takes place due to the committed group of 20 planning team members that coordinate all that is needed to make it all come together. During the event, we utilize 200+ adult and high school volunteers to adequately offer the coverage needed to make the day run smoothly. A HUGE thank you to all volunteers for making this event possible!

If you're interested in volunteering, or would like more information regarding the event, contact Lisa McDonald.

Updated 01-16-2016 with specific date of event

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General Motors donates a 2014 Corvette Stingray to SCC’s Automotive program

Shoreline Community College students pose with a 2014 Corvette Stingray that General Motors recently donated to the college’s GM Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP)
Photo courtesy SCC

General Motors (GM) recently donated a 2014 Corvette Stingray to Shoreline’s GM Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP).

Michael Boehm, Director of Dealer Services & Manufacturer Relations for Shoreline’s Professional Automotive Training Center – Dealer Training Academy, said,

 “The donation represents the latest in technology and is an excellent opportunity for our GM ASEP students to be able to work on the pinnacle of performance from the General Motors line of vehicles.”

The donation is just one in a generous string of donations to Shoreline by GM.

“Time and again, General Motors helps support our GM ASEP program by putting the best in high technology in the hands of our students,” said Boehm. 
“Thanks to GM, the GM ASEP automotive training at Shoreline Community College starts students into a career path that will help them succeed in the industry, and working with dealers helps to ensure continuous training and growth throughout our students’ careers.”

The GM ASEP program is a two-year cooperative program that incorporates technical studies on campus along with work experience in a sponsoring General Motors dealership. Upon completion of this program, students earn a Technical AAAS and numerous General Motors technical certifications that are recognized worldwide.



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Poem: A Call for Revision - QueenFisher?

Jean Monce Bryant was inspired by Christine Southwick's comment in her recent bird article, "World-wide there are 115 birds with “king” in their names; zero birds have “queen” in their names"


A CALL  FOR REVISION

With so many birds
With KING in their name
Well what about QUEENS
It’s really a shame

The Guys get the GLORY
The COLORS as well
Like Golden and Ruby
You may think that’s swell

But what about HER
As she sits on the nest
A stay-at-home mom
Who’s doing her best

To promote the species
Without any acclaim 
I vote for a QUEEN BIRD
She’s due for some Fame

Remember that ROSA
She sure did her best
Her courage and honor
We all do attest

No move to the back
Of that now-famous bus
She gave us a message
It’s all up to us

And Martin I know
Would loudly acclaim
That Females as well
Are worthy of FAME


Jean Monce Bryant 
Lake Forest Park



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Shoreline School District exploring Dual Language Program

By Marianne Deal Stephens

On December 7, 2015, the Shoreline School Board heard an update on the possible adoption of a Dual Language Program at the elementary level.

Dr. Ellen Kaje, Director of Categorical Programs, recounted that, in April 2015, the Shoreline School Board authorized an exploration of a Transitional Bilingual Instructional Program (TBIP), a system of instruction which “uses two languages, one of which is English, as a means of instruction to build upon and expand language skills to enable a student to achieve competency in English.”

Source: Shoreline School District

Dr. Kaje is working with several Shoreline Educators, including Briarcrest Elementary Principal Jonathan Nessan and Briarcrest teachers Michelle Holguin and Selena Killin, on this project. The four have: attended La Cosecha Dual Language Conference in Albequerque, New Mexico this fall; studied the programs; and created a possible plan for TBIP in the Shoreline School District.

Since Spanish is the top language in Shoreline ELL programs, and Briarcrest has a concentration of Spanish-speaking families with some support for those families already in place, Briarcrest is the anticipated location of a program.

Dr. Kaje explained that a dual-language program is two-way, with half Spanish and half English speakers. Literacy and content instruction is given to all students in both languages. Two teachers, one teaching in Spanish and one in English, will share one class. The program promotes academic achievement, bilingualism, and bi-literacy.

Academic benefits of a properly implemented program have been studied, and students in dual language programs not only outperform other ESL (English as a Second Language) models, but in high school, students who were in DLE programs in elementary school outperform their peers even though the DLE instruction does not continue into high school:
Source: Shoreline School District

Teacher Selena Killin spoke to the divergence in the achievement graph at 3rd grade. As she described it, at 3rd grade, you stop learning to read and begin reading to learn. The dual language programs also help overcome achievement disparities between low income students and the rest of a school population.

Source: Shoreline School District

As Principal Jonathan Nessan explained, the academic and cognitive benefits can be attributed to the timing of instruction during a period of great plasticity in children’s brains. Learning content in two languages leads to better connections in both languages, with longer working memory, greater attention span, and increased executive functioning, all of which have great benefits for kids.

Teacher Michelle Holguin detailed social benefits of greater understanding and tolerance for others, and a better sense of self which comes from seeing the native language and culture valued in the school community. Parents with students in the programs typically participate in the school community at greater rates.

The earliest the District would have a dual-language class would be in 2017-18. During this 2015-16 school year, the District will visit area districts with equivalent programs, engage in professional development, and gather input from stakeholders through existing parent groups at Briarcrest. Dr. Kaje anticipates asking the Board this spring for formal approval.

After approval, the District would plan and prepare during 2016-17 and then implement in 2017-18.
Source: Shoreline School District

While there would be some costs for materials and professional development, much of the funding for a Dual Language Program would come from State TBIP and Federal Title III programs. The District will also seek grant funding.

Dr. Kaje anticipates that staffing will be the biggest challenge. While the graduated phase-in (begin with one Kindergarten and one First Grade class and phase in one additional class per year) does not require significant numbers of staff all at once, there are very few teachers who are qualified for DLE programs. The District plans to work with Human Resources and local universities for recruitment.

Director Potter inquired about the transitions to middle and high school. The graph above shows results during 6-year [elementary] DLE and beyond as the students carry the cognitive and academic benefits into their secondary years. As Principal Nessan stated, there are no current plans to continue DLE into high school, “but it is exciting to think about teachers teaching Biology in Spanish.”

Students who go through the program and meet eligibility criteria would be able to obtain a Washington State Seal of Biliteracy on their high school diploma.

For more information:



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College banners on Aurora

Monday, January 11, 2016

College banners on Aurora are the start of
an awareness campaign for Shoreline Community College
Photo courtesy SCC

A collaboration between Shoreline Community College and the City of Shoreline to bring visibility to the college and note the community’s rich heritage of excellence in education is now on display, hanging from light poles along Aurora Avenue North from 155th Street to 165th Street.

College-themed street banners were added to the light poles on January 10, 2016. The double banners feature two images, one of a Shoreline Community College student and another of the flora found on campus. The installation will completed in the coming weeks when brackets and banners will be added to several poles between 160th Street and 165th Street.

The banners are just the beginning of awareness campaign.

The next step will be a ceremonial designation for the portion of 160th Street from Aurora Avenue to Greenwood Avenue near the college entrance as “College Way.” New brown “College Way” lighted signs will be added to the existing blue “160th Street” signs on traffic-light arms at 160th Street and Aurora Avenue. On the side-street corners, smaller brown metal signs with “College Way” will be added to the existing blue street-name signs.

For the sake of ease and simplicity, formal addresses along that section will continue to use 160th Street.

While the city is making the banners and street designation possible, the college is paying for the new signage.



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Wild creatures among us: Otters

Otter at Ronald Bog
Photo by Martin DeGrazia

By Diane Hettrick

A man I knew who worked in a building on Echo Lake told me a story years ago about being in the building at 5am and seeing animals he didn't recognize leaping and playing in the water. We took the story to the Echo Lake neighborhood association and after a lot of research, identified the creatures he saw as freshwater otters.

Then, people who lived around the lake started telling otter stories. It's apparently one of those things you know about if you live there. My favorite story was the young man who was fishing off one of the docks. He was catching a lot of fish and thought it would be a great idea to keep them in a basket and put the basket under water.

When he was done, he pulled up the basket - and it was empty. The otters were probably delighted with the bonanza.

A rare photo of an otter out of water
running along the shores of Ronald Bog
Adult males are 4 feet in length and weigh 20-28 pounds
Photo by Martin DeGrazia

I have heard many other otter stories since. Martin DeGrazia lives on Ronald Bog and sees otters there regularly. They are very elusive and I have few local photos, so I am pleased that he was able to get a number of photos and share them.

Otters live in burrows with underwater entrances or hidden dens near the water. They spend most of their time in the water, hunting for fish, and other water creatures, such as crayfish. They are a particular boon to Echo Lake, which has the dubious distinction of being home to a species of invasive crayfish.

Otter at Ronald Bog
Photo by Martin DeGrazia

Otters are opportunistic, though, and will follow any good food source. George Piano of Lake Forest Park told a story about coming home to find an otter fishing in his koi pond. She ran off, but not before getting a few of his prize koi. A few days later, she was back, this time using his pond to teach her pup how to fish.

George's home in Lake Forest Park has a steep ravine behind his property, which drops down to McAleer Creek.

Otters playing in the waters of Twin Ponds
Photo by Debbie Arthur

I think it's safe to assume that every body of water and every stream in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park has otters. This week, I received a photo taken by Debbie Arthur of otters in Twin Ponds. Kevin Urie reports they are in Boeing Creek.

The Department of Fish and Wildlife says that "In late fall, the pups leave to establish their own territories. During this time, wandering youngsters are seen far from water, traveling on land between lakes, ponds, and from one stream drainage to another."

Otters at Ronald Bog
Photo by Martin DeGrazia

This is a partial explanation for the stories about otters being seen traveling across the Kruckeberg Botanic Garden in the Richmond Beach neighborhood. Since there are no streams or bodies of water nearby, I am still curious about where they are coming from.

It's also interesting to think that, aside from the occasional fish pond, the otters are finding enough fish in the lakes, bogs, ponds, and streams, to sustain life and breed.



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Briarcrest Neighborhood game night Friday

Briarcrest Neighborhood in light green-blue


The Briarcrest Neighborhood Association will be holding its second Game Night on Friday, January 15th at Patty Pan Community Kitchen, 15550 - 27th Ave NE, from 6:30 to 9:00pm for the Briarcrest community.

Bring your favorite board and card games, your family and your friends. Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided, but feel free to bring your favorites to share!  Sign up for door prize drawings throughout the evening.

This is a free, all-ages event sponsored by the Briarcrest Neighborhood Association, an all-volunteer, non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote community.



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Art of Bonsai - Saturday at Sky Nursery

Photo courtesy Sky Nursery

Saturday, January 16th 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

The Art of Bonsai: Group Plants Penjing Style with Robert Cho of Asia Pacific Gardening

Local bonsai guru Robert Cho will demonstrate how to create Penjing Style bonsai with multiple plants.

This is the style where you create a miniature landscape in a tray, incorporating plants, rocks, and other landscape elements.

Watch an artist at work and learn how to create your own!

Sky Nursery 18528 Aurora Ave N. Shoreline 98133 206-546-4851



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Homeowners, insurers have responsibilities in repair claims

Photo by Steve Franco-Ross

From the Office of the Insurance Commissioner

We often hear from consumers who are concerned about their home repair or rebuild insurance claims and have questions about their insurer's role in overseeing the contractors' work.

Your insurance company is responsible for paying the claim, as laid out in your homeowner policy.

Typically, it is your responsibility to oversee the project with your contractor, and when applicable, your lender. The exception would be if your insurance company has given you assurances or if your policy contains a provision that obligates the insurer to manage a covered home repair or rebuild.

However, if you are using an insurer’s recommended (sometimes called “preferred”) contractor, you should expect assistance from the insurer in answering your questions about the contractor’s actions and performance.
Many insurers also require the homeowner to stop the damage from getting worse -- this is called loss mitigation in your policy. If you don’t mitigate the loss, you could be on the hook for paying for any resulting additional damage.

For example, if you have water damage in your home, you must control it as soon as you discover it. If you let it go until you get around to calling your insurance company, you will be responsible for any resulting damage, including rot, mildew or mold. Even if you use an insurer's preferred contractor, you are still responsible for mitigating the loss prior to the contractor showing up and starting the repairs. 
More information:
Questions? You can contact consumer advocates online or at 1-800-562-6900.



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