Theater Review: Into the Woods with the Driftwood Players summer teen troupe

Sunday, July 24, 2016

Beware the Wolf!
Griffin Price as The Wolf
Photo by Sulfiati Magnuson

Into The Woods
Music and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Book by James Lapine
Stage Directed Marianni Groves
Musical Director Mark Press
Edmonds Driftwood Players Presents
Summer Teen Troupe
July 21-24, 2016

Review by Doug Gochanour

It’s all about our young adults. The Summer Teen Troupe is an amazing program for talented youth, aspiring toward potential careers in and around theatre productions. It provides a fantastic educational opportunity, as these young thespians are totally involved in the creation of a successful performance.

This play featured 36 young actors, divided into two casts, each alternately performing Into The Woods. Each cast gave a wonderful performance, with singing and dancing and drama, and with excellent costuming and set design.

Into The Woods is a compiling and blending of familiar fairy-tale storybook characters.

Isabelle Smith as Little Red Riding Hood
Rehearsal photo by Sulfiati Magnuson

Cinderella, Jack (of Beanstalk fame), a cursed Baker and his wife, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, a Witch, and a couple of handsome Princes, are all intertwined in Act I. They mostly come to a point where we attribute the phrase, “Lived happily ever-after.”

In Act II, the happily ever-after part hits the fan. As young people leave the presumed safety and care of childhood, they venture into the woods of real life. The new phrase becomes, “Be careful what you wish for.” Unintended consequences often unravel the bliss of wishes fulfilled.

Rehearsal photo: The Witch
played by Abby Price
Photo by Sulfiati Magnuson

In this dark comedy, spouses become unfaithful, and even a Prince disappoints. Bickering between the Baker and his wife takes the pleasure out of raising their new child. The magic beans bring the wrath of a giant, threatening the lives of the characters, much like terrorism. Their previous actions return to haunt the characters, and with disastrous results.
~~
Now is the time to consider subscribing to the next season of Edmonds Driftwood Players. (Buy tickets here). Yes, we are talking about Season 58. What a very long history of serving the community with quality live entertainment! The plays include Wait Until Dark, Fahrenheit 451, Mr. Scrooge, Enchanted April, Leaving Town, The Drowsy Chaperone, and Lend Me A Tenor.



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Greta Matassa plays the main stage of the North City Jazz Walk Aug 16

Greta Matassa plays Jazz Walk
They’re back! Greta Matassa and the Critical Mass Big Band return to the 2016 North City Jazz Walk for another round of jazz and the American Songbook.

Once again they will appear on the Main Stage/ Showmobile Stage. They’ll start at 6:30, and there’ll be plenty of outdoor seating, so all Jazz Walk guests should be able to catch a full set of these two fine artists.

Greta Matassa is, quite simply, the finest jazz vocalist in the Northwest. 
She communicates a great sense of the lyrics, her huge range lets her soar and plunge without sounding strained, and her sense of time is impeccable. 
Whether her tune is blues or jazz influenced, her singing sweeps listeners away.

Critical Mass is an outstanding full big band that combines fine playing with sensitive dynamics that make for a truly exciting band. Teaming up with Greta is always the highlight of the band’s season. 

Directing the instrumental portion of the program will be trumpeter Dave Jewitt, who brings terrific musicianship to the stage. As is custom, Shoreline arranger (and attorney) Keith McClelland will direct the band during the vocal portion of the performance.

What’s new? Keith has written new arrangements for Greta especially for this performance, and she will sing more of Keith’s charts that have never been performed at any Jazz Walk. So, even veteran Jazz Walk guests will hear lots of material they have never heard before.

Great artists, longer playing, more seating, new material … what’s not to like? 

Information and tickets for Jazz Walk here 



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Tech Talk: Last Week Guide: The free Windows 10 Upgrade



Its only four days before Microsoft’s imposed deadline for Windows 7 and 8.1 users to upgrade to Windows 10 for free. For those of you on the fence about upgrading or unsure that will be happening as of midnight Friday, July 29 here’s a quick guide to what we know.

Is Microsoft serious about charging for Windows 10?
Absolutely. While there have been rumors for months suggesting that Microsoft might extend or change this deadline, the word from them is that it is still happening. The recent announcement that Microsoft will miss its previously stated goal of 1 billion systems running Windows 10 by mid-2018 only confirms their plans not to extend the free upgrade period. Once you have upgraded to Windows 10, further upgrades will be free for the life of the device.

Are there any exceptions to this?
Yes, there is … though the exceptions are pretty specific.

If you are upgrading a Windows Phone using Windows 8.1 … and your phone is supported by Windows 10 … and your service provider makes the upgrade available, your upgrade will continue to be free. Since Windows Phones that qualify make up a very small percentage of the current mobile phone market, this is a very select group.

If you are using a Windows 7 or 8.1 system with “assistive technologies.” you can upgrade for free after the July 29th deadline according to the Microsoft Accessibility Blog. Assistive technologies include software and hardware designed to help people who have a defined disability (low vision, mobility, hearing, etc.) that limits their computer activity. As we haven’t seen more detail as yet on this from Microsoft, I am assuming this means users of third-party assistive technologies, not Windows’ built-in accessibility tools. Upgrading systems with these specialized tools in place has always been more complicated because of how they integrate with the operating system, and, often, the costs of upgrading them to compatible versions.

So, if I download Windows 10 now, I will be able to install it for free anytime, right?
Wrong. In order for Windows 10 to be a free upgrade, it needs to be installed AND activated before the midnight Friday 29th deadline. Once Microsoft’s activation servers have information on the system, you have more flexibility. See option 2 under “What if I am not ready upgrade?” below for more details.

What if I am not ready to upgrade?
If you think you might upgrade at some point but aren’t ready to do it now, these are your options:

1. Pay for the upgrade
There is nothing wrong with this option, as long as you understand the costs. If you are running a Windows 7 or 8 Home version (check by using the Windows Key+R to display an entry area, typing winver and pressing Enter), your upgrade cost is about $120. If it is Windows 7 or 8.1 Professional, the cost jumps up to $200. While some discounts may available through individual retailers, those prices seem to be the standard. The key thing to know if that Windows 10 will only upgrade over its appropriate version (Home or Home Premium to Windows 10 Home, Pro or Professional to Windows 10 Pro).

2. Upgrade, then roll back to your previous OS.
According to the Windows 10 Upgrade FAQ:
“Once you’ve upgraded to Windows 10 using the free upgrade offer, you can reinstall or perform a clean installation on the same device. You won’t need a product key to re-activate Windows 10 on the same hardware. For more info on how to create your own Windows 10 installation media, go to the Microsoft software download website.”

What this means is that you can upgrade temporarily to Windows 10, then do into Settings, Update and Security, and Recovery to go back to your previous Windows version. This option is available to you up to 30 days after your upgrade. A post on The Windows Club shows the process. Once the Windows activation servers have a record of your system on Windows 10, you will be able upgrade or restore that system for free going forward.

I recommend if you chose to do this process to make a full backup of your computer before starting. While the upgrade and rollback processes work very well, anytime you make these kinds of major changes in a system, there can still be a chance for trouble to occur.

3. Wait and get a new system
Most new PCs are now running Windows 10. That is the traditional route most people have taken to get a new version of Windows … and it still works. Whether it this approach, or one of the other methods, you will be get free updates of Windows 10 as they become available.

What if I am not comfortable with the Windows 10 upgrade process?
You could have someone else install Windows 10 for you. There are individuals like me who do this for a fee. I frankly think that this personalized service is more worthwhile for you if you wish a system to be checked out prior to an upgrade or once the upgrade is completed. It’s at those times either problems can be addressed or you can be advised on screens being displayed or actions to take. Since most of upgrade time (20 minutes to an hour) is a hands-off operation, there is a lot of waiting around on your dime.

If you prefer the lesser expensive route of having a computer store install Windows 10, that is fine, providing you know the reputation of the place and have a relationship with them. Upgrade prices usually start at about $30 and is often a flat fee. The best deal I have seen lately is from Microsoft Stores. If you bring in your qualifying computer with Windows 7 or 8.1 to a nearby store (Check for a Microsoft Store near you), they will upgrade it to Windows 10 for free the same day. If they fail to upgrade it in time, you get a free Dell laptop.

When is the next version available?
Microsoft has announced that version 1607 of Windows 10 (also known as The Anniversary Update) will be available starting August 2nd as a free automatic upgrade for current Windows 10 users and a paid upgrade for Windows 7 and 8.1 users.

Why do we keeping getting all these new versions?
For those of you keeping track of versions, this will be the third major update for Windows 10 in the past year, not including the monthly “Cumulative Updates” that have been be occurring every month.” This is a big change from the once every-three-year cycle Microsoft has previously used for Windows.

This new approach challenges traditional notions of a software product. Products are usually considered static items and are typically replaced by newer or different products. Software with its malleability has never fit well into the paradigm of a product, especially as software update mechanisms have evolved. Microsoft is dealing with this by recasting Windows as a service. Services evolve and adjust to changing circumstances.

The advantage of having Windows as an updatable service is that changes can frequently occur in the background, tend to be incremental and need less orientation … once you accept the premise.

If you don’t accept the premise and continue to treat Windows as a product, then the process of frequent updates becomes an intrusion over which you have little control and a source of frustration.

Is there a compelling reason to just wait for the next version?
None that come to mind. The traditional reason (“Wait until the bugs are ironed out”) doesn’t really apply. While some features of Windows 10 (namely, the Microsoft Edge web browser and Cortana digital assistant) are more fully fleshed out in version 1607, the basic system has already been through a major update, version 1511, in November of last year and is functioning fine.

Since version 1511 is also a free upgrade for Windows 7 and 8.1, it is worth doing. As mentioned earlier, the upgrade to the current version will also let you upgrade to version 1607 for free, so there is little downside to doing. If you wait for 1607, you will pay for the upgrade.

One note – if you upgrade to version 1511 now, it will be 30 days before you are automatically prompted to upgrade 1607. Microsoft specifically does this to allow you time to “roll-back” to Windows 7 or 8.1, if necessary. A new upgrade clears out the previous Windows 7 or 8.1 operating system files that allow the capability to roll back. If you don't wish to wait for 30 days, you can still manually upgrade within the 30-day window through Microsoft’s Update Page.

What more can you tell me about Windows 10 Anniversary Update (version 1607) that is available on August 2nd?
There is a lot to say … so we will hold those thoughts to another post.

~~~
Boston LegacyWorks, LLC offers talks and individual help on technology topics, troubleshooting and tutoring on PC usage, and services so you can manage and maintain your computer, your network of computers, or how they connect with the world. Contact us for information on how we can help you.



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Free concert in the park with Sarah Christine - Wednesday in LFP


CONCERTS IN THE PARK – SARAH CHRISTINE
July 27, 6:30pm (rain or shine)
Pfingst Animal Acres Park
17411 Brookside Blvd NE, Lake Forest Park

The Arts Council’s Concerts in the Park continue with a free performance by uplifting singer / songwriter, Sarah Christine, at 6:30pm on Wednesday, July 27 at Animal Acres Park.

Sarah Christine is a visionary songwriter and soulful siren who weaves an inspiring lyrical tapestry that delivers messages of empowerment, positivity, and connection. Bring a chair or blanket and come out to enjoy the show with your neighbors!

Plus, try delicious infused waters at Aegis Living of Shoreline’s free “Hydration Station.”

The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council’s Concerts in the Park are always free and held at various community parks throughout Shoreline and Lake Forest Park on Wednesdays in July and August at 6:30pm, rain or shine. Concerts in the Park are supported by the City of Shoreline, City of Lake Forest Park, 4Culture, Aegis Living of Shoreline, and by Arts Council friends and members.

For more information and details, visit the Arts Council’s website or call (206) 417-4645.

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


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Tour de Terrace July 29-31

Tour de Terrace starts Friday night with a parade


Tour de Terrace, July 29 - 31, Friday - Sunday, is the Seafair-Sanctioned, summer festival for Mountlake Terrace and neighboring communities.

Presented by a small group of dedicated volunteers, this festival was created in 1993 to generate community spirit and pride. We invite families, businesses and visitors to celebrate in this family oriented, fun-filled festival.

The festival kicks off with the big parade on Friday at 7pm on 56th SW from SW 236th to SW 220th in Mountlake Terrace.

You can start out early on Saturday or Sunday morning with the Pancake Breakfast from 8am to noon.

The street fair boasts arts and crafts, food booths, and a beer garden.

A family oriented traveling carnival offers rides and games. Rides are $3.75 each - and all day pass is $26.

Nine different bands will play on the Festival stage.

On Saturday there is a classic car and motorcycle show from 9am to 3pm and a fireworks show on Saturday night around 10pm.

All the details, maps, schedules are on the Tour website.



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Food truck schedule week of July 25

Charlie's Buns n Stuff
Organic beef, no additives


Ridgecrest Public House Week Food Truck Schedule
July 25 - 31, 2016
5 - 9pm (summer hours)

The Ridgecrest Public House at 5th NE and NE 165th sponsors food trucks outside their business every day of the week.

Those over 21 are welcome to bring their food inside the Pub to eat. And you can take in a movie at the Crest after you eat.

These trucks are for everyone, not just pub patrons. There is an overhang for waiting in wet weather, and families and pets are welcome at the nearby picnic tables. The pub is 21+, including the patio.

If you want to add a hyperlink to the Ridgecrest Pub food truck webpage, it’s here:  .

Ridgecrest Public House Food Truck Schedule 5-9pm daily:

Monday July 25th: Seoul Kitchen (last minute substitution)
Korean food

Tuesday July 26th: Here and There Grill
Hearty sandwiches, salads and soups

Wednesday July 27th: Napkin Friends
Soups, sandwiches, salads

Thursday July 28th: The Peach and The Pig
Pulled pork, grilled chicken, or mushroom sandwiches, meatballs and mushrooms, prawn salad, beer.

Friday July 29th: Streetzeria
Italian food, salads, salads on flatbread, 11 different pizzas

Saturday July 30th: Seoul Kitchen
Korean food

Sunday July 31st: Charlies Buns N Stuff
Organic cheesesteaks and burgers


Updated 7-25-2016

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Crime in Shoreline week ending 7-18-2016 - Found: bones and golf clubs

Selected items from Shoreline police blotter week ending 7-18-2016

Man Trespassed from Richmond Beach QFC for stealing alcohol. Other Trespasses from construction site, Ballinger McDonalds, Goodwill, Fred Meyer, Evergreen RV Supply, and Sears.

Graffiti at Echo Lake park, Innis Arden Reserve, Richmond Beach park, Paramount School park, Ridgecrest Park, Ballinger neighborhood, Shoreview park, Twin Ponds park, 2 vans at Earl's Garage, and Richmond Highlands park.

7-10  Adult male attempted suicide.
7-10  Burglary attempted at 148xx Meridian.
7-10  Arrested two men on warrants who were behind the bathroom at Echo Lake Park; one in possession of a meth pipe.
7-10  Physical altercation in Trader Joes parking lot.
7-10  Attempted burglary at Action Machine on Aurora.
7-10  Subjects attempted to check into homeless camp together in spite of no contact order between them.
7-10  Victim hit in the face in disturbance at home but attacker left before police arrived.
7-11  Landscapers find large bones in back yard of newly purchased home on Interlake.
7-11  Arrested female at Goodwill for shoplifting; found suspected meth in her backpack. She complained of chest pains so Aid was called and transported her to NW Hospital.
7-11  Domestic assault to female.
7-11  Family disturbance, yelling.
7-11  Subject high on drugs picked up in front of auto repair shop on Aurora.
7-11  Brother assaults brother.
7-12  Driver in stolen vehicle flees from police.
7-12  Car window smashed in front of Aurora Safeway, bag stolen and card used at Aurora McDonalds.
7-13  Subject injured in fight with mother's ex-boyfriend in dispute over juvenile discipline.
7-13  Unitarian church receives mail telling them to convert to Christianity.
7-13  Unknown male calls Pho 99 restaurant and tells them they must pay $765 immediately or their power will be shut off.
7-13  Male passed out in bushes at 160th and Fremont.
7-13  Prostitute working the upper lot at Sears.
7-13  Graffiti at Sunset School Park - some over children's artwork.
7-14  Found golf clubs and power tools hidden in bushes N 194 and Corliss.
7-14  Firefighter assaulted at Aurora Transit Center.
7-15  Stolen vehicle recovered near Dayton and Westminster, drugs in car, driver arrested.
7-16  Husband assaulted wife in car and threw her phone out of the window.
7-16  Arrested subject with burglar tools inside construction site.
7-16  Man reported people were trying to get into his car in the Sound Credit Union parking lot. Security footage showed that he was alone in the lot.
7-16  Civil standby while woman removed belonging from house; her husband had broken the rear window of her car earlier in the day.
7-17  Neighbor reported open windows in vacant house next door and police found a squatter in the house


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Photo: Sharing the log

Saturday, July 23, 2016

Photo by Bruce Hill

Whether you are sunning yourself with the family, or just perching for a while, there's plenty of room on the log for all to coexist peacefully at Bitter Lake.



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Reading party in the Park Wednesday evening

Richmond Beach Library Park
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Reading Party in the Park, Wednesday, July 27, 6 - 8pm in the park next to the Richmond Beach Library, 19601 21st Ave NW, Shoreline 98177.

Bring your own blanket or lawn chair and favorite summer read and join us as we listen to soothing music that complements the reading experience! Reading parties are a great way to share your love of reading in a relaxing, fun atmosphere.

Local DJs will share ambient, downtempo, neo-classical and relaxing cinematic sounds to add a unique dimension to reading in the park.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Richmond Beach Library.



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WSDOT: Making Good To Go! work better for customers

From WSDOT

A year ago, Good To Go! introduced a new customer service policy offering first-time forgiveness of late fees and civil penalties on unpaid toll bills.

Everyone can now call Good To Go! to request a one-time waiver of all unpaid late fees and penalties as long as they agree to pay the original tolls.

In the past year, over 75,000 vehicle owners have had their civil penalties and fees waived and we’ve dismissed over $25 million in civil penalties and late fees.

Of course, for most customers this never comes up – only about 2 percent of trips result in a civil penalty. Learn more about all the ways to lower your toll bill.



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Book Review by Aarene Storms: Circus Mirandus

Book review of Circus Mirandus by Cassie Beasley


Micah has listened to Grandpa Ephraim's stories about the magical Circus Mirandus all his life, and all his life, Micah has dreamed that someday he would be able to meet Big Jean the intelligent elephant, to taste the astonishing candies that light up when you bite down, and most of all, to see a performance of the amazing Man Who Bends Light.

But now, Grandpa Ephraim is dying and nasty Aunt Gertrudis has come to stay. She has nothing good to say about Micah or about Grandpa Ephraim, and certainly nothing good to say about magic. The Lightbender promised Grandpa Ephraim a miracle, but will a miracle be enough?

Kids who want more stories like Peter and the Starcatchers and James and the Giant Peach will be thrilled to find this title. Adults who love The Night Circus and Big Fish will be delighted to learn that they have still not outgrown the magic.

Highly recommended for readers and listeners of all ages.  

This book does NOT feature:
sex, drugs, rocknroll, violence, cussing, wild animals harmed in the enjoyment of this book

This book DOES feature:
talking birds, friends who don't always believe you but still stay friends, trustworthy people, magic, and at least one miracle


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



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City Council Committee of the Whole Meeting Monday in LFP

LFP City Council Committee of the Whole Meeting on July 25, 2016

The Committee of the Whole will consider draft legislation for Commissions and Task Forces, which are currently on hiatus.

The meeting will begin at 6pm in the City Hall Council Chambers, second floor, 17425 Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park Town Center.



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Wisdom Café: Clearing Space -- Living Life With Intention and Discovery

Wisdom Café: Clearing Space -- Living Life With Intention and Discovery

Sunday, July 24, 2016, 2-3pm, Shoreline Library large meeting room 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline 98155.

Staying intentional and awake are choices we can make at any age. Being older often gives us time to explore and discover what matters most to us.


Join us for a group discussion. Participants engage with others, are motivated to try new things, and are inspired by sharing life experiences. Come share your wisdom! These cafés provide an opportunity to converse and connect with others in discussions of universal topics such as gratitude, death, happiness and what gives life meaning. Come for one session or more in a facilitated small group conversation.

Registration requested (scroll down to find the specific event)



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Theater Review: An Evening of One-Act Comedies at The Phoenix

I'm Herbert - at The Phoenix Theatre

An Evening of One-Act Comedies
And other short Pieces
Directed by Molly Brusewitz
The Phoenix Theatre
July 22 - August 28, 2016


Review by Doug Gochanour

The Phoenix Theatre is presenting three short comedies and a few surprise pieces that will tickle your fancy, and may even trigger some reflection of personal experiences.

Overtones, by Alice Gerstenberg, offers a fascinating encounter between two women, who each fell in love with the same starving artist. One of the women chose to marry a different man, who was successful in providing her a wealthy lifestyle. But, she still carried feelings for the artist, and experienced jealousy over her lost love.

The other woman married the artist, but was very envious of the wealth she saw her former acquaintance exhibiting. She comes to visit this woman of wealth, attempting to arrange for her artist husband to be “commissioned” to paint a portrait of her. They need the income.

Each woman has a “shadowing” second actress, playing and saying how she really feels, while the outward conversation is in a very polite and civilized demeanor. It is fun to see what they say, followed by what they really mean.

I’m Herbert, by Robert Anderson, finds us with a very senior couple sitting together reminiscing on their porch. Each has had more than one previous marriage and/or fling.

Senior moments strike often and hard as they attempt to discuss their past. They can’t agree on who did what, and with whom. They occasionally fail to remember which spouse it is, with whom they are talking.

The third play is Here We Are. It is by Dorothy Parker, a very famous poet, short story writer, and critic from the 1920’s and 1930’s. It seems like there should be a movie made of Parker’s life. Her wit lives on, though few of us recognize the source.

In this play, two 1920’s newlyweds have just boarded a train on their way to their honeymoon. Their conversation and body language offer lots of laughs as they circumnavigate wedding night jitters. The husband especially, tries hard to be kind and loving, but seems to keep stumbling upon a word, and issue, a gesture, or something, that his new wife finds objectionable. Actors Debra Rich and Steve Heiret are wonderful in this very funny interchange. Ride along with them and enjoy the humor.

The Phoenix Theatre Season 9 is now taking subscriptions. Don’t miss out on the fun!!

The Theatre is located in Firdale Village, just north of Shoreline, 9673 Firdale Ave, Edmonds, WA 98020.

Tickets are available online.



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Friends of the Lake Forest Park Library Book Sale Sunday

Friends of the Lake Forest Park Library Book Sale at the LFP Farmers' Market, on Sunday, July 24, 10am - 3pm.

Stock up for summer reading at the Lake Forest Park Farmer's Market.

Friends of the Lake Forest Park Library have collected hundreds of cookbooks, children's books, and trade paperbacks, all offered for $1 each.

Look for the Book Sale at the Farmers' Market Sponsor's Table. All proceeds will go towards fall library programs.

The Farmers' Market is held in the lower level parking of Town Center, intersection of Bothell Way and Ballinger Way.



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Letter to the Editor: A wonderful poem

To the Editor:

"All Things are Connected". What a wonderful poem by 3rd grader Barret Jones in the July 18 issue of the SAN! Congratulations to him and to his teacher who was able to help bring forth this thoughtful and mature piece of writing. Thank you!

Vicki Westberg
Shoreline



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Need to contact people who bought Veteran's Bricks this week

A letter addressed to the Shoreline Veterans Association, containing an application for a brick in Shoreline's new Veterans Recognition Site, was lost during the rainstorm Friday, July 22 at noon, at either the parking lot at Albertsons at 130th and Aurora Ave N. or Fred Meyer at 183rd and Aurora N.


The envelope had been mailed to the Vets this last week.

If it was possibly your application, please call Dwight Stevens at 206-546-2894 as soon as possible.

The envelope was a small one (letter size), as opposed to a business sized (legal) envelope.



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Weather cooperates for Swingin' Summer Eve

The Sunshine Junkies were the star of the show

Photos by Steven H. Robinson

The Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Arts Council and the City of Shoreline held their first annual summer party on Wednesday, July 20 in Cromwell Park, and managed to score the only nice evening of the week.


It might have been the influence of the band - a roots / rock band called "Sunshine Junkies". Or perhaps it was karmic balance for 2014 when it rained so much that the park flooded (i.e. retained surface water the way it was designed to) and the whole event had to be cancelled.


Swingin' Summer Eve is also the home of the Council of Neighborhoods annual used books sale. Seven neighborhoods collected books, CDs, and DVDs and sold them at very affordable prices. It wasn't unusual to see people walking away with grocery bags full of bargains.

 And the Arts Council reminded people that additional funds means additional programming.


 For the kids, there were food trucks and the giant inflatable slide.


It was a pleasant evening in the park and everyone appeared to be having a good time. The event is usually held on the third Wednesday in July, so mark your calendars and watch this space for next year's event.



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Little Bill and the Blue Notes at Grinders Saturday - Brazilian music at North City Bistro - Bands at Darrell's

Little Bill and the Blue Notes play at Grinders, 19811 Aurora Ave N, at 7:30pm on Saturday, July 23. Call 206 542 0627 for reservations.

En Canto, Brazilian Music, will play their first show at the North City Bistro on Saturday from 8:00-10:30 for $10 cover. Call (206) 365-4447 and make reservations so you get a table, and you can buy tickets for this show at this link. 1520 NE 177th St, Shoreline 98155.

Darrell's will have Lust Punch, Mister Master, and Further North, playing from 9pm to 2am. 18041 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline 98133

All venues have food and alcohol. Grinders is a family venue, the Bistro has a family area and a bar, Darrell's is a tavern. You are expected to order food or drinks, and often a cover charge. All three have atmosphere - of very different kinds!



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Special guest at the Meridian Park car show - Elvis is in the room


This is a test.
Which one of these people is Elvis?

Give up?
Here he is in his vintage convertible at the recent Meridian Park Car Show.


His incognito name is Danny Vernon and he was the headliner at the show.

The people with him in the photo are, from left,
Danny's wife Marcia Vernon,
show organizer Martin DeGrazia, his wife Holly
and daughters Melissa and Mariana.

This Seafair event was held at Meridian Park Elementary on Sunday, July 17.
Proceeds benefit the MP PTSA.



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Bing Bang Boom Show at Shoreline Library Monday evening

Duo Finelli, July 2012.
Photo by Nicole Landau.
Bing Bang Boom Show

Monday, July 25, 7pm at the Shoreline Library, 345 NE 175th, Shoreline 98155.

Presented by Duo Finelli, Luz Gaxiola and Molly Shannon.

Family program, all ages welcome with adult.

When Molly and Luz join forces to put on a circus show with dance and music, there will be plenty of mishaps. Discover how they find funny solutions to their problems through curiosity, playfulness and working together.

Space is limited; first come, first seated.



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Cartoon by Whitney Potter



Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter can be found under Features 
in the first column of the front page of the Shoreline Area News



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The Magically Ridiculous Game Show at LFP - for age 5 and older - Saturday


The Magically Ridiculous Game Show 


Saturday, July 23, 2pm on the Third Place Commons Stage in Town Center intersection of Bothell Way and Ballinger Way, Lake Forest Park.

Presented by Jeff Evans for ages 5 and older with adult.
This is your chance to be a “pretend” game show contestant at this program featuring silly sports, goofy games and amazing tricks.

Discover how science, reading and art can help you win games. Learn the history and the math behind the world’s best-selling toy, Rubik’s Cube.



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Meeting time and date changes for Fire Commissioners

NOTICE OF MEETING TIME AND DATE CHANGES

As required by RCW Chapter 42.30, Open Public Meetings Act, you are hereby notified of the following changes to the regularly scheduled meetings of the Board of Commissioners of the Shoreline Fire Department:

August 4, 2016 Meeting start time change; meeting will begin at 4:00 p.m.

The regular meeting of the Board of Commissioners will be suspended for the Department’s promotional/pinning ceremony. The regular Board meeting will resume immediately following the ceremony.

August 18, 2016 Meeting rescheduled to August 25, 2016, 5:00 p.m.

The regularly scheduled meetings will be held at Shoreline Fire Department, 17525 Aurora Avenue North, Shoreline, Washington.

Notice posted by: Pam Webb
Executive Assistant

July 22, 2016



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Richmond Beach runners doing the Interurban Trail Saturday morning

Saturday, July 23, a bunch of motivated runners will do the Interurban South run - up the hill to the interurban trail, heading South (right) on the trail.

This run has two distinctions - first it is the most straightforward run as there is literally one turn to the right.

In addition, if you make it up the hill at the start, it is actually their flattest run the rest of the way!

Just a little motivation to press on up the hill - see if you can get to the Aurora Bridge!

There is childcare available.

Start at 8:00am at the Richmond Beach Coffee Company, 1442 NW Richmond Beach Rd, Shoreline 98177. Check out the MAP



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Parks Board to study sites for future aquatic center

Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services / Tree Board Special Meeting
Thursday, July 28, 2016, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.*

*Note the change in time and meeting place
City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave N, Room 104

Agenda Highlights

The Board will review the "Aquatic / Community Center Feasibility Study" subcommittee's recommendation of potential future areas, and the set of criteria and evaluation tools used to select them.

The Board will tour the top general areas, provide feedback on the criteria and evaluation tools, and may act to endorse the subcommittee's recommendation.

Link to the Community Calendar for the full agenda and agenda packet materials.

Comment on Agenda Items


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Introductory candidate statement from 46th District Rep. Pollet

Incumbent 46th Legislative District State Rep. Gerry Pollet recently sent a statement introducing himself to voters. His opponent, Libertarian Stephanie Heart Viskovich, has not sent a statement.

The two are running on the August 2 primary-election ballot with both likely to advance to the November 8 general election.

The 46th District includes Lake Forest Park, Kenmore and northeast Seattle.

Here are the introductory statements:

Legislative District 46, Representative Position 1

Gerry Pollet (Prefers Democratic Party)

I ask to continue serving as your State Representative to make our tax system more fair, champion schools, make college affordable, protect our environment and consumers.

I am deeply involved in our community – from reducing overcrowding in our schools to protecting Lake Washington. I understand higher education as a faculty member at the UW School of Public Health.

2014 and 2015 Higher Education “Legislator of the Year.”

I lead efforts to close corporate tax loopholes; and, have passed legislation ending predatory car towing, and the first law in the nation to protect our youth from being addicted to e-cigarettes.

Stephanie Heart Viskovich (Prefers Libertarian Party)

Has not responded to requests for a statement.




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Northshore Performing Arts Center Foundation announces 2016-2017 season

Friday, July 22, 2016

Northshore Performing Arts Center Foundation announces 2016-2017 season


The Northshore Performing Arts Center Foundation (NPACF) was established by Northshore-area residents (Bothell, Kenmore, Mill Creek, and Woodinville, WA) who were committed to bringing a cultural center to their community, where they could enjoy the performing arts, engage their children in creative educational programs, and experience culturally rich performances from around the globe. 

Through NPACF’s partnership with the Northshore School District and the City of Bothell, they have a beautiful state-of-the-art 600 seat theatre on the campus of Bothell High School, 18125 92nd NE, Bothell 98011 (directions)

Box Office (not located at the theatre site): 425-298-3449; Customer Service: 425-984-2471

Season Lineup

September 24, 2016
Chris Mann - Saturday, 9/24/16 - 7:30 PM

A new musical experience featuring songs from the golden age of Broadway and the Great American Songbook. Currently starring as the Phantom in the national tour of Broadway’s Phantom of the Opera, Chris Mann’s fame rose as Christina Aguilera’s finalist on NBC’s The Voice.


November 12, 2016
Chris Perondi's Stunt Dog Experience - Saturday, 11/12/16 - 2 PM
Chris Perondi's Stunt Dog Experience - Saturday, 11/12/16 - 6 PM

The world's largest "stunt dog show!" With amazing tricks, stunts, comedy antics, dancing dogs, and athletic feats, it is the most entertaining show of its kind!


December 17, 2016
Geoffrey Castle's Celtic Christmas - Saturday, 12/17/16 - 7:30 PM

Don't miss one of the greatest electric violinists of all time! Celtic Christmas is a wonderful new Northwest holiday tradition. This high energy stage show will bring the joy and magic of the holidays to NPAC.




February 11, 2017
Doktor Kaboom! LIVE WIRE! The Electricity Tour! 


Fun and educational for families of all ages! Doktor Kaboom! will explore the fundamentals of electrical energy and this history of humanity’s adventures into its potential. Great for all ages!


March 11, 2017
Creme Tangerine: 1 - Saturday, 3/11/17 - 7:30 PM
Seattle's favorite Beatles tribute band does the hit songs of the Beatles. Creme Tangerine’s high energy, quality performances appeal to those already familiar with and new to the music of The Beatles. Playing the “1” album, you’re sure to hear all of your favorites.

April 8, 2017
The Brothers Four - Saturday, 4/8/17 - 7:30 PM

Back by popular demand! With hits like "Greenfields" and "Michael, Row the Boat Ashore," The Brothers Four's elegant harmonies blend flawlessly with traditional folk instrumentation of the guitar, mandolin, banjo, and bass.

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Backyard Birds: Steller's Jay

Steller's Jay
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

Photo and text by Wayne Pridemore

For the past several years Steller's Jay's have visited our yard in Shoreline to check out any possible food treats. 

They are very fond of peanuts in the shell (unsalted) which they pick up and carry away. They will return in a minute to carry off another until the nuts are gone.

The Steller's Jay is the largest in North America and will display the long dusky head crest when agitated or alarmed. They nest in conifer trees and eat nuts, seeds, fruits, insects, and other birds' eggs.



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Organizers say Old Dog Haven’s 5th Annual Walk for Old Dogs a HUGE Success

Marvin won the prize for Best Costume
Well over 400 people and their dogs strutted their stuff at Old Dog Haven’s Walk for Old Dogs at Cromwell Park in Shoreline on July 17.

The Walk was a fundraiser hosted by Old Dog Haven and over $117,000 was raised by the event!

All of the money raised helps to pay veterinary expenses--which average about $80,000 per month—for the 304 senior dogs in Old Dog Haven’s care.

The 3rd Place Team contained Meka (right)
who took the prize (with owner) for best decorated stroller

The top three fundraising teams and the top three individual fundraisers led the walk, flags held high as they balanced their prizes while holding leashes. The top fundraising team — T-Town Dogs — raised $15,955 for the dogs and the top individual fundraiser — Peabody Johansen — raised $4,750.

Sandy and Phil Krutsinger
Longtime Old Dog Haven fosters Sandy and Phil Krutsinger were honored for their dedication and commitment to Old Dog Haven. Sandy started fostering for ODH in 2005 (before she married Phil) and has fostered 71 dogs during the past 11 years! Foster parents are always needed. Go to the Old Dog Haven website for more information about fostering.

Dogs of all ages, breeds, sizes, and mobility enjoyed an afternoon in the park with the people who love them. They competed in contests, had free massages, nail trims, scarfed down goodies from the Seattle Barkery, socialized, met new friends, fished tennis balls out of wading pools to keep cool and just loved being there.

Oldest dog Oliver
with John Schumacher
Photo by SeattleDogSpot
The oldest dog in attendance was ODH Final Refuge dog Oliver who lives with and is loved by Mary and John Schumacher. Oliver is 20!

All dogs were eligible to enter contests in the Pageant, which produced winners in the categories of Best Costume, Best Trick and 30 Yard Lollygag. Prizes and ribbons were award to the top three winners in each category.

Old Dog Haven is grateful to the community for supporting their efforts, including sponsors for the event, media contacts, people who donated prizes, volunteers, organizers, and everyone who helped make the day such a resounding success. Paws up to all of you!


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You can Find Nemo in Ridgecrest at the Outdoor Movie July 30


FREE Outdoor Movie Night: "Finding Nemo"
Saturday, July 30
Paramount School Park
15298 8th Ave NE, Shoreline 98155

Join the Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association at our first annual FREE outdoor movie night.
The movie starts at 9:15pm - come grab a seat as early as 7:30pm.

We'll have pre-show entertainment and refreshments available for purchase.

Until then, just keep swimming!



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Conservation Futures Citizens Committee recommendations include purchase of wooded property in LFP with Lyons Creek tributary

On Tuesday, the Conservation Futures Citizens Committee presented recommendations to the King County Council, Transportation, Economy and Environment Committee for allocation of program funding for Conservation Futures Tax and Parks Levy open space projects for 2017.

The committee’s recommendations include significant conservation investments in King County, including projects in Lake City, Kirkland, Lake Forest Park, and Bothell.

Recommendations by the committee include additional funding for the Wayne Golf Course in Bothell, the acquisition of a 5.6 acre wooded property in Lake Forest Park that contains a tributary to Lyons Creek, and the acquisition of a woodland trail in Kirkland between Juanita Heights Park and Juanita Beach Park on Lake Washington.

“I’m very excited about the Conservation Futures Citizens Committee’s recommendations,” said Rod Dembowski, Chair of the Transportation, Economy and Environment Committee, “I commend the work of the committee.”     

The committee received over $22 million in requests for CFT funds, there is an estimated $11.6 million 2017 CFT funds available for distribution to projects.

The King County Council will take action on the recommendations during the budget process in the fall.



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Fall 2016 Create & Make Workshop registration now open

Fused glass by Theresa Novion

Join the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council on Wednesdays this fall to explore new artistic mediums and techniques in 5 exciting workshops lead by professional, local artists.

Workshops are $35 each (or get a season’s pass for $150) and are held from 6:30 – 8:30pm in the Horizon Room of the Shoreline Center, 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline, WA. All materials are provided, all you need to bring is your imaginative spirit!

The series kicks off on Wednesday, September 7 with Theresa Novion’s Fused Glass Masterpieces Workshop, where you can use different types of glass to create a 4” x 8” composition to put on a stand or hang in a window.

Then, come back for more:

Cardboard Journal by Amy Duncan
Corrugated Cardboard Journals with Amy Duncan September 21

Create a one of a kind journal using the common materials of corrugated cardboard, kraft paper mailing tape, and paper scraps.

Painting on Plexiglass with Rosie Peterson – October 5

Throw everything scary about painting and drawing out the window with painting on plexiglass! Use photos, tracing, and abstract painting to achieve fun and surprising results.

Script Fest - Kellie Moeller
Script Fest with a Tengucho Touch with Kellie Moeller – October 19

Experience the magic of Tengucho rice paper as you lean the brush alphabet and complete a small calligraphy/collage artwork.

Discover the Joy and Power of Mandalas with Shabeena Helsley – November 2

Complete a landscape painting detailing the lights and darks of an evening scene created by moonlight reflecting off the surface of a lake

Love all the workshops? Then don’t miss out:
Get the Season’s Pass for only $150 to access all 5 workshops and save money at the same time.

Got questions? More info is available on the Arts Council’s website.

Want to talk to a human? Email Janessa Post or call the Arts Council’s office at (206) 417-4645.


The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to cultivate creativity and inspire our community through the arts.



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Tech Talk: Windows 10 Upgrades: I Hear Stories…

Thursday, July 21, 2016

I hear stories...
By Brian Boston

Windows 10 Upgrades: I Hear Stories…
In helping people with Windows 10 upgrades, I hear a lot of stories. So do you:
  • “I heard Windows 10 has a lot of problems.”
  • “I heard Microsoft is upgrading people without their permission.”
  • “I hear that there are privacy concerns with Windows 10.”

There are other rumors going around but these seem to be the top three I hear. Usually these concerns come without specifics, because most of us remember the headlines long after the details have faded. It’s difficult to respond without the actual context of the concern. The best I can do is give me my “take” on what the concern is and whether it should be your concern. So here goes:

Windows 10 has a lot of problems – Not Accurate
As someone who installs Windows 10 once to twice a week and has been using it on many systems for more than a year (if you count pre-release versions), I am always surprised to hear people tell me this. As a support guy, I expect to directly encounter all sorts of problems. Windows 10 has been one of the least problematic upgrades I have ever experienced. It doesn’t mean that Windows 10 is problem-free, but I find it more forgiving than other Windows versions. We can’t escape problems with old hardware or out-of-date software, but it handled nearly everything else well.

This lack of serious issues made it hard for tech journalists to come up with the usual articles around the public release of Windows 10 detailing problems. So the stuff they found was more obscure and unusual, leaving more room for speculation and concerns. Unfortunately, the headlines were still the same size. Bill Gates was speaking about Gates Foundation work when he said, “Headlines in a way are what mislead you because bad news is a headline and gradual improvement is not.” Good software launches seem to also fit that pattern.

Upgrading to Windows 10 without permission – Not Technically Accurate, But Very Annoying
While Windows 10 has a very smooth upgrade experience overall, their aggressive practices to get people to upgrade have been less laudable. Besides the endless update reminders, the practice of “pre-downloading” the upgrade on people’s systems and changes in how the upgrade is handled through Windows Update. That last set of items has tripped many people up and caused unintended upgrades.

The first occurred when, Microsoft started moving the Windows 10 upgrade on Windows 8.1 and 7 systems from an “Optional” status to “Recommended.” This shouldn’t be a problem, except that most people who are using automatic updates are installing, by default, any Recommended updates. In effect, Windows 10 starts a download-and-install process on these systems. While it’s possible to stop the process at a couple of points (like not agreeing to the user license when prompted), the options to say no aren’t terribly obvious. This has led people to thinking they haven’t agreed to the upgrade when, technically, they have.

If you prefer not to upgrade to Windows 10 or wish to upgrade of your own accord, you need to turn off the feature that automatically installs Recommended updates. I have detailed steps to do this in this document. The first two pages lay out the problem with page 3 going step-by-step through the solution.  Essentially, you are going to the Windows Update tool and unchecking an item in the Change Settings area designed to give you recommend updates the same way you receive important updates. While I have mentioned this before, it’s clear from discussions that the message benefits from repeating it here.

You can also put an end to the most aggressive upgrade “incentives” by using Steve Gibson’s tool Never 10 tool. This simple utility uses methods provided in Windows to suppress these messages and can be reversed at any time to allow you to install on your terms.

Windows 10 privacy concerns – Not as Bad as You Think …and Largely Controllable
With little evidence of technical problems at Windows 10’s release, at lot of tech press focused attention on the information that Window 10 collects about you, your preferences, and your system.  Within all the claims and clamor, concerns break into four areas of possible collection:
    1. System Improvement
      Though Microsoft has been collecting information on computer crashes for years to improve stability on their systems, the depth and detail of information collected has increased dramatically in the last few years. Most of this kind of detail known as “system telemetry” details your computer’s behavior and how you interact with it to improve future product releases. By default, Windows 10 ‘s Diagnostic and usage data (under the Feedback and diagnostic areas in Settings/Privacy) is set to Full. You can limit the capability by changing the setting to Basic or Enhanced. See Microsoft’s Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on feedback, diagnostic, and privacy .
    2. Network WIFI Settings
      Windows 10 adds a capability previously called WI-FI sense on Windows phones that lets you share trusted WI-FI settings with people in your Contact Lists. This is one group of privacy settings I prefer to disable. You will find them in Settings/Network/Wi-Fi/Manage Wi-FI Settings. “Connect to suggested open hotspots” and “Connect to networks shared by my contacts” can both be switched off. Microsoft appears to be removing this feature in its next major release of Windows 10, due shortly after the July 29 free upgrade period ends.
    3. Ad preferences
      Microsoft, like Google, Amazon, and Facebook, collects information on searches, purchases and other Internet activity to help guide what advertising is presented to you in its products, web sites and services. The data profile it collects shows preferences buts doesn’t contain any personal data. The only association with you and your Microsoft account is an “advertising id.” While it’s possible to turn off this advertising id, this only has the consequence of making the ads you see more generic and less based on your interests. You can do this in Windows 10 using Settings/ Privacy/ General/ Let apps use my advertising ID….  Also, this can be controlled through Microsoft’s “Opt-Out” web page.
    4. Cortana
      Perhaps the newest data collector and the most “personal,” Cortana will collect information about your interests and activities IF you tell it to do so. If you are concerned about what Cortana will track, go to the Notebook on Cortana’s menu and disable the features you wish not to track. You can also go to the Bing Personalization page  and clear information on Interests it has already collected.

There are, of course, many more stories I hear about Windows 10, especially as we inch closer to the end of July and end of its free upgrade period. More on that in an upcoming post. Perhaps the most important point of confusion for many people is "end of the free upgrade period" means.

Defining the "End of Free"
It does mean that upgrades from 7 or 8.1 will no longer be free after midnight, July 29th. It doesn't mean that people who have already upgraded to Windows 10 will need to pay for future upgrades. If you have already upgraded to Windows 10, you will be automatically upgraded for free to the next Windows 10 release, due to be released on August 2nd. Microsoft has stated that people who have already upgraded will continue to get free upgrades for the life of their computer.

~~~
Boston LegacyWorks, LLC offers talks and individual help on technology topics, troubleshooting and tutoring on PC usage, and services so you can manage and maintain your computer, your network of computers, or how they connect with the world. Contact us for information on how we can help you.



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