Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Woking

Friday, February 10, 2017



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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LFP Special Council meeting Monday

The Lake Forest Park City Council will hold a special meeting on Monday, February 13 at 6pm to discuss Critical Area Regulations and continue the discussion of Tree Regulations Update.


Meetings are held at City Hall, second floor, northwest corner of Town Center, intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way.


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From the LFP Mayor: Clarification and apology

LFP Mayor Jeff Johnson
To the citizens of Lake Forest Park,

In my Mayor’s report at the City Council meeting last night, I spoke about heroin addiction problems in a way that compared it to an earlier citizens’ effort requesting the Council to strengthen its compassion, welcoming, diversity and inclusiveness policies.

The two are not connected and I apologize to the citizens and Council for doing so. I am a person with a big heart and want Lake Forest Park to be a city with a big heart. That heart spilled over in an inappropriate way and I hope all will forgive me.

Lake Forest Park was one of the first cities in the nation to sign the Charter for Compassion in 2012 and we are proud of that. I am sure the Council will find a good way to continue to emphasize our compassionate and inclusive nature in the Lake Forest Park way.

The heroin crisis hit very close to my family this week and it leaves me in grief. I cannot do enough giving and volunteer work to stop the destruction myself. It will take individuals, families, public and private health agencies, police, courts, schools, church communities, villages, cities, states, our nation and the world to overcome this opiate epidemic that reaches into every corner.

According to Centers for Disease Control statistics (through 2015), 91 Americans die every day from an opioid overdose (prescriptions and heroin). From 2000 through 2015, more than a half million died from all drug overdoses. Here in the Seattle area and elsewhere, it has created rampant homelessness, crime, poverty, addiction, and an incredible drain on public and private services.

It has to stop. Please join me in the huge community “lift” to overcome this.

Again, sorry.

Mayor Jeff Johnson



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American Legion Post 227 hosts Navy veteran Mark Zenor

Mark Zenor served on aircraft carriers
Photo by Jerry Pickard
By Jerry Pickard

On Tuesday, February 7 The American Legion Post 227 welcomed Navy Veteran Mark Zenor who related his Navy training and life aboard US Navy carriers.

Mark was born and raised in Iowa and comes from a family of veterans. His grandfather served in the US Navy during WWI and his father served in the US Army during the Korean war.

Mark enlisted in the US Navy in November of 1974 and was sent to Basic Training at NTC San Diego in March of 1975.

Upon graduation from Basic, Mark selected Aviation Electrician as his Military Occupational Specialty or MOS. He was sent to Millington, Tennessee for advanced training.

He graduated at the top of his class and was offered the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class if he would extend his enlistment by one year.

He accepted the offer and was assigned to NAS Ault Field at Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island in November of 1975 as his first duty station. Mark said he arrived at Whidbey Island during a period of rainy weather that has lasted for the forty two years he has been in Washington state.

USS Kitty Hawk
Photo from wikimedia commons
He reported to Fleet Replacement Aviation Maintenance Program (FRAMP) working on the Grumman EA-6B Intruder aircraft while waiting for his assigned Squadron VAQ 131 Lancers to return from deployment on the USS Kitty Hawk CV 63.

While attached to FRAMP Mark learned how to operate Navy Computers.

He also got additional training in Aircraft Electrical Systems which covered the Aircraft Caution and Warning Systems, Fuel System, Flight Controls, Electrical Power Generation and Control, Lighting Systems, and Electrical Power Generation to the Jammer Pods.

The electrical systems on an aircraft are similar to the nerves of the body; they provide the pathways to interconnect the various sensors, actuators to the controls and displays.

EA-6B Prowler near Mt Baker
Photo from wikimedia commons
Mark was trained to maintain the EA-6B Prowler, an Electronic Warfare and Command-and-Control aircraft for air strike missions.

The EA-6B went into service on aircraft carriers in July of 1971 and is considered a high maintenance aircraft.

Mark's Squadron, VAQ131 Lancers had four EA-6B's assigned to it and while deployed on the carriers usually had three flying and one down for maintenance.

Mark shipped on two of the three Kitty Hawk class carriers during his Navy career. The USS Kitty Hawk CV-63 and the USS America CV-66. These were oil-fired ships and have both been decommissioned from service.

During Active service the carriers were run by 5,624 Officers and men known as the Black Shoes plus the Air Wing known as the Brown Shoes. The Black Shoes maintain and operate the ship while the Brown Shoes of the Air Wing maintain and operate all the assigned aircraft. Mark's Air Wing CVW 11 maintained and flew approximately 70 aircraft consisting of assorted fixed wings plus Helicopters.

Post Chaplin Larry Fischer presents Zenor
with a Certificate of Appreciation
Photo by Jerry Pickard
Mark showed parts of the movie "Top Gun" during his presentation that illustrated typical flight operations and what has to be done to launch and recover aircraft on the flight deck.

During deployments flight operations are conducted 24/7 with the exception when foul weather makes it too dangerous to fly.

Mark observed the bow of the ship rising and falling seventy feet while operating in the South China Sea in heavy storms.

After Mark's presentation Chaplin Larry Fischer presented him with a Certificate Of Appreciation.



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Collision blocked northbound traffic on I-5 during commute

IRT vehicle slowly pushes a disabled vehicle
across six lanes of traffic on I-5
Photo from WSDOT camera


Around 3:30pm a traffic collision on I-5 caused a major back up just north of 145th.

The two vehicles managed to get to the left side of the freeway, but one was partially in the HOV lane.

When Incident Response Team (IRT) crews arrived, they completely blocked the HOV lane.

After assessment, the IRT moved the vehicles to the right side of the freeway. One of the vehicles had to be pushed across six lanes.

No aid cars were on the scene.

Traffic sorted itself out again around 4pm.



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UPDATE: Cats: The most interesting cat in the world

Akando has swagger and style
K.A.Moore photography

UPDATE: Akando was adopted! 2-14-2017


Akando might just be the most interesting cat in the world.

Look into those deep, dreamy eyes -- there is a story to tell, one that is purrfect for a long night in, cuddled up under the covers. A fire roaring beside you, and a handsome companion. Akando promises to be all that and more.

Raised on the streets, Akando is what we like to a call a “community cat.” At four years young, it’s possible Akando has been homeless his whole life, although you wouldn’t know that by his swagger and style.

Akando gets along with kids and dogs. Other cats would depend on the situation since Akando has FIV - although don’t let that fool you since he will live a long and healthy life with the proper care! Akando promises to provide you with endless stories and it the perfect binge-watching buddy. He loves his cuddles and play time, too.

Are you intrigued yet? Ready to meet this cool cat and make him a part of your forever family? Akando is with Seattle Area Feline Rescue--contact them today!

14717 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline 98133. 206-659-6220


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Jasmine Ogaki serves as page in state Senate

Jasmine Ogaki with Sen. Chase in Olympia
Photo from Legislative services


During the week of February 6, Jasmine Ogaki of Shoreline served as a page in the Washington State Senate. Sen. Maralyn Chase, D-32, sponsored Ogaki’s weeklong experience in the Legislature.

“Jasmine is a bright student, and was a great help and joy to have around the Senate,” Chase said. “It was a pleasure to sponsor her this week.”

During the week pages assist senators and staff, attend lectures with guest speakers and go to page school where they create their own bills in a mock committee setting. Ogaki drafted a bill concerning DNA collection for the state criminal database.

Ogaki said the data collection bill fits her interest in forensic science. Through the mock committee hearing, she gleaned a better understanding of the legislative process, and walked away with a newfound appreciation for civic engagement.

“Everyone has to be involved in order to make a difference — not just the Senators,” she said. “You have to understand the problem, and be vocal about it.”

Ogaki is a 10th grader at Shorewood High School and is interested in political science and forensics.

Email for more information about the Senate Page Program.




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Burglary warning from Shoreline Police

Shoreline Police Station
Photo by Steven H. Robinson
Shoreline Police have responded to six burglaries over two nights. All six of these burglaries occurred between 6:00pm and 8:00pm.

The suspects broke rear windows to enter the homes. The homes were not ransacked and nothing was taken. It appears that the suspects may be looking for specific items.

Three burglaries occurred in the area of NE 168th St and 21st Ave NE on Wednesday, February 8 and three in the area of 16100 Block of Midvale Ave N on Thursday, February 9.

No suspect has been identified.

This is just an informational release at this time.

Please keep an eye out in your neighborhoods for unusual activity. Call 911 and report if you see anything you believe to be suspicious or criminal.



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East Meets West concert weekend Saturday - Sunday, February 25-26



The East-Meets-West concert will be held Saturday February 25 and Sunday February 26 with two unique and spectacular shows. Performing will be the Rong Rong Chinese Folk Choir, Zhenlun Cello Orchestra, and Seattle Chinese Orchestra.
Warren Chang plays the erhu
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

Performances will be held at the Shorecrest Performing Arts Center, 15343 25th Ave NE, 98155.

Saturday's concert features the Rong Rong Chinese Folk Choir and the Zhenlun Cello Orchestra. Sunday is the Zhenlun Cello Orchestra and the Seattle Chinese Orchestra.

Tickets are available online. For more information see the Arts Council website or call 206-417-4645.

A preview performance of East Meets West was conducted at the City of Shoreline Hall Lobby on Thursday afternoon.

Roger Nelson performed on the piano and Warren Chang played the erhu. The instrument, sometimes known as a Chinese fiddle, was introduced to China by the Xi people of Central Asia in the 10th century.

l-r Roger Nelson (pianist), Robin McClelland (Arts Council board member), Warren Chang, Lorie Hoffman (Arts Council Exec Director), and Janessa Post (Arts Council staff)
Photo by Wayne Pridemore


The erhu consists a vertical stick-like neck, at the top of which are two large tuning pegs, and the bottom is a small eight sided resonator body (sound box) which is covered with python skin.

The concerts are sponsored by the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Arts Council.



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Photos: Car fire Wednesday was close to living units

Thursday, February 9, 2017

Photo by Keith McGlashan

The car fire Wednesday evening disrupted the evening commute on Aurora as emergency vehicles responded to a car fire at the Echo Cove Condos, 19428 Aurora Ave N.

One truck made it down the steep drive and successfully maneuvered the narrow passageway around the buildings. At least four others, including the ladder truck, were standing by up on Aurora as well as several aid cars. Northshore Fire sent a unit.

You can see by this photo how close the fire was to the units, and how closely the white car was parked to other vehicles.

Fortuitously the driver had backed into the parking space, so it was relatively easy for fire fighters to get close to the vehicle. They used a saw to cut the hood off, then used the hose to douse the fire.

Shoreline Fire had the flames out quickly. No one was injured and damage was contained.



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Early Spring in the Edible Garden - workshop Monday

Early Spring in the Edible Garden - When Can I Start Planting?

Monday, February 13, 2017, 2 - 3pm at the Lake Forest Park Library, lower level by the escalator at Town Center, intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way.

It's time to get outside and start planting your garden.

Join garden educator Lisa Taylor, author of Your Farm in the City: An Urban Dweller's Guide to Growing Food and Raising Animals and the Maritime Northwest Garden Guide in a lively session about how to grow your edible garden.

Learn the ins and outs of spring planting and which varieties thrive in our climate.



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Jobs: Director of Safety, Security and Emergency Management

clipartbest.com
Shoreline Community College has an opening for Director of Safety, Security and Emergency Management

The Director of Safety, Security and Emergency Management will lead and direct the Safety and Security Department. The Safety and Security Department's goal is to promote a safe and welcoming environment to improve the quality of campus life for everyone learning and working at Shoreline Community College.

This position also provides expertise and collaborative leadership in the emergency management operations of the college.

Full description and application here



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Home sales in Lake Forest Park during January 2017

The following is a sampling of homes at each price point that sold in Lake Forest Park during the month of January 2017 from data compiled for the Shoreline Area News by the Shoreline Windermere office.





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WeatherWatcher: High Wind Advisory issued


The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a high wind advisory for the central Puget Sound region, which includes the cities of Shoreline and Lake Forest Park. The high wind advisory is in effect from Friday morning at 8am until Friday afternoon at 3pm.

Winds are expected from the southwest at 20-35mph with gusts as high as 50mph. Winds this strong can break tree limbs and cause local power outages. Also these winds can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

A wind advisory means that winds of 35mph are expected.




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Letter to the Editor: NUHSA endorses the Shoreline School District Bond

To the Editor:


The North Urban Human Services Alliances (NUHSA) was created to build the community’s capacity to respond to human service needs in North King County, including the cities of Shoreline and Lake Forest Park. NUHSA provides a strong voice through its leadership role in local and regional decisions which impact our communities. The Shoreline School District Bond is one of these critical decisions.

Shoreline is fortunate that its school district has consistently created a strong foundation for our most important resource, our children. As the school population grows and shifts, capital improvements are necessary. Currently, the elementary schools are at or beyond capacity. Research has shown that class size significantly impacts a child’s ability to learn. These capital expenses are clearly an investment in the continued quality of life we enjoy in our community.
Another investment is the creation of an Early Learning Campus, which will offer coordinated services to our youngest stakeholders. By co-locating resources and services these students will all have the opportunity to develop to their fullest potential.

For these reasons, NUHSA fully supports the passage of the Shoreline School District Bond. It will strengthen our schools and most importantly, our future generations.

Heidi Shepherd
Vice President, NUHSA


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2017 Epic Group Writers Fifth Annual Writing Contest


2017 Fifth Annual Writing Contest

Send Us Your Best!

Now accepting entries on any theme in:

Adult/Poetry, Adult/Prose,

Youth/Poetry, and Youth (High School)/Prose

First and second place winners in each category receive cash awards, publication on the EPIC Group Writers website,
membership in EPIC Group Writers, and the opportunity

to read their work at a celebration of writers at the Edmonds Library.

Laura Moe, author of Breakfast with Neruda, and host of
The Young Adult Café with Laura Moe,

joins our judging team for youth submissions.

ENTRY DEADLINE: MONDAY, APRIL 10, 2017
Complete rules and entry forms here

EPIC Group Writers is an Edmonds-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization offering resources to writers since 2012. The purpose of EPIC Group Writers is to create and sustain a community of writers of all levels who share, encourage and nurture the literary and other creative arts for the benefit of the community at large.



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Annual Arts survey - give your feedback

The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council’s 2017 Community Arts Survey is now open. They would like your help so they can better serve our communities.

Take a few moments to share your opinions and ideas about the arts by completing this annual survey. Your responses help the Arts Council make decisions regarding programming, performer selections, marketing, and more.

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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Lake Forest Park - here's the policy for weather delays of garbage, recycling, and yard waste pick up


Here's the standard procedure from Republic Services when inclement weather prevents their trucks from going out to pick up your garbage, recycling, and yard waste.

Republic also robo-calls customers who are affected, to make sure they know what to do.

Town Center Hardware carries Kraft paper bags for yard waste, as well as Biobags for kitchen garbage and smaller sizes for compost collectors. They carry Biobags for pet waste, too. They are located on the upper level at Town Center, intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way.



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Pancake breakfast at Bitter Lake Community Center



Join your friends and neighbors for Bitter Lake Community Center's Annual Pancake Breakfast!

This annual fundraiser is more than just a great meal: Proceeds go to fund scholarships for youth throughout the year.

Bring the whole family and enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes, eggs, sausage, juice, and coffee! 

Volunteers are needed for this event; please call 206-684-7524 for additional information.

Tickets can be purchased both ahead of time and the day of at the Center: $5 (Ages 4-64); $4 (Ages 65+), Children 3 and under eat free! 

Bitter Lake Community Center, 13035 Linden Ave N, Seattle 98133, 206-684-7524.



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Photo: Gabriel guards the birds

Gabriel guards the birds
Photo by GM Wiegand

Free Lunch!

Cat-Free Environment guaranteed by Gabriel, SD (Service Dog)

A flock of Starlings comes early, and spills a lot of the seeds onto the ground, making the “Security Service” Gabriel provides for the small songbirds that prefer to eat on the ground floor, a very reassuring aspect of this lunch counter!

--GM Wiegand


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Home improvement workshops have appointments available

White squares indicate available appointments
for home remodeling and improvement advice

Following a successful event last year, the City of Shoreline is offering free advice on home improvement in three different workshop sessions.

Are you planning a house remodel / addition, subdivision of property, driveway alteration, site drainage change, deck replacement / repair, or tree project?

Schedule an individual appointment
If you sign up for an appointment, you will get a 15 minute consult with a city staffer, who will look at your plans, your property records, and give you advice on your project.

In addition, there will be tables with experts from fields related to home improvements. No appointment is necessary to talk to them or browse their materials.

Free advice without appointments

The first session is Tuesday, March 28 and the appointments are half-filled already. See the chart above for spaces which were available as of this publication date.

You can register online and pick your day and time slot. The other two sessions are scheduled for Tuesday, April 25, 2017 and Tuesday, May 23, 2017.



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Washington in the national news

Washington State
Attorney General
Bob Ferguson
By Diane Hettrick

They say you never want to make the national news - since it's usually for serial killers, massive storms, earthquakes, or volcanos.

But in this case, it's good. We seem to be faring well in the public spotlight, with positive articles in both the New York Times and the Washington Post. As someone who has lived here for a lifetime, it's a little surprising, and refreshing, to see us treated with respect by the national press.

Both stories, of course, are about Washington state's suit against the President's executive order banning people from seven predominantly Muslim countries - although he did say he would take Christians from those countries.

New York Times: How Washington State upended Trump's travel ban

Washington is a major tech center whose businesses have offices worldwide, with employees from many of the banned countries.

Washington Post: How Washington state became the epicenter of resistance to Trump’s agenda

Attorney General Bob Ferguson successfully filed for an injunction to temporarily halt the ban nationwide. It was challenged by federal attorneys and held up on appeal.

The case was argued in the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals by Solicitor General Noah Purcell. The court is expected to make a ruling this week.

You can listen to the proceeding here.

Ferguson was formerly the King County Council representative for north King county, including Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, and Kenmore.



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Edmonds Sons of Norway March 4th Pancake Breakfast & Bake Sale

Wednesday, February 8, 2017

The Edmonds Sons of Norway Lodge is hosting its first Pancake Breakfast and Bake Sale of the year.

Kick off the beginning of the spring season with a tasty breakfast of Norwegian style pancakes and all the trimmings. Eat great food while supporting lodge programs and local organizations.

The breakfast will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2017 between 7:30am – 12:00pm at the Edmonds Masonic Center, 515 Dayton Street.

Breakfasts are a hearty portion of Norwegian pancakes with strawberries and syrup, ham, juice, coffee, tea, and milk and cost $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for kids 6-10 (under 5 are free). Enjoy live music and after you eat, visit the craft and bake sale tables. Kids can participate in free folk dancing lessons between 10am-noon.

Proceeds from the Pancake Breakfast events support the Edmonds Food Bank, Ski For Light outings for mobility and sight impaired skiers, scholarships and the Sons of Norway Foundation.

The Sons of Norway is the largest Norwegian organization outside of Norway with a mission of preserving and promoting Norwegian heritage and tradition through cultural and social activities offered at local and district lodges.

For more information about the Edmonds Chapter of the Sons of Norway (Norwegian ancestry NOT required) contact 2017 Lodge President Sandra Ferchen 425-275-7114. Sons of Norway meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month January through June.



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Washington Wild 14U Rep AA earn Gold while 10U take Silver in Surrey Superheart Tournament

Champions 2017
Photo courtesy Washington Wild

The Western Washington Female Hockey Association’s Washington Wild 14U Rep AA team defended their Surrey Superheart Championship title from last year, and earned their second tournament championship title this season.

In pool play during the Surrey, B.C. female tournament, the Washington Wild beat Canadian teams Tri Cities (6-1), Langley (4-0), Surrey (2-1) and tied Kelowna (1-1). They met Surrey again in the championship final game and sent the Falcons home (3–1).

The team is now undefeated in two consecutive tournaments, and will finish the regular league playoff series in the female Canadian League (PCAHA), while they plan to travel to Anaheim, California the first weekend of March for the USA Hockey Pacific District Championship Tournament.

The goal is to win the title in order to secure a trip to the USA Hockey National Championship Tournament in Michigan in April for the first time in the team’s two-year history.

Silver Medal 2017 10U
Photo courtesy Washington Wild


Meanwhile the 10U Washington Wild team notched an astounding 28 goals in the same tournament and brought home their second tournament silver in their first season as a full time Washington Wild team.

Note the huge improvement in scores in the two games against Penticton. The 10U beat Surrey (6-0), Richmond (14-2), then lost to Penticton, the eventual tournament winners (7-0), beat Langley (7-1) and lost to Penticton in the championship game to take the Silver Medal (1-3).

The team now continues their season in the local league against boys’ team, and then prepares for the final tournament of the year at the end of March in Richmond, B.C.



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Car fire slows evening traffic on Aurora

Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire


A car fire in a carport at a multi-family complex in the 19400 block of Aurora slowed traffic on Wednesday evening around 7pm.

Shoreline Fire quickly extinguished the flames. The fire did not spread and no one was injured.



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SCC Library remodel expands space by 8,500 square feet

Shoreline Community College library
remodel adds 8,500 sq ft of space
Photo courtesy SCC


Students benefit from Library and Learning Center remodel

More than 8,500 square feet of additional space was made available for Shoreline Community College students during a recent remodel of the Ray W. Howard Library and Learning Centers (Building 4000). The campus community gathered for a grand reopening celebration on January 18, 2017, where they enjoyed tours of the new academic learning space.

With construction spanning the latter half of 2016, the improvements came out of a master planning effort that included student, staff, and faculty input. The goal of the project was to provide more student-centered learning space with better access to librarians, centralized tutoring services, and state-of-the-art-technology.

The building now consolidates the Library, the Biology and Chemistry Learning Center, the Math Learning Center, Tutoring Services, the Writing and Learning Studio into one cohesive space, complemented with study areas and computer labs.

“This will truly be the campus center for academic support,” said President Roberts. “The remodeled space is a wonderful place for students to research, engage with their learning, and succeed in their studies. I’m enormously excited for us all.”

Building improvements include new doors to welcome students, open seating, maximum natural light, centralized services, and a grand central “Ask” Desk that will serve students’ library and research needs.

In addition to the interior remodel, the outside of the building features new signage and an expanded courtyard with covered benches. The approach to the building was leveled to ensure ADA compliance, and a brushed finish was added to the concrete to help with traction on rainy days.

Funds for the project came from the state, which contributed $750,000, and the College’s capital reserve fund. Sustainable and recycled products such as carpeting, paint, counter tops, baseboards, and acrylic panels were used for many of the remodeled areas and new features.

Learn more about services the Ray W. Howard Library has to offer here.

Shoreline Community College
Founded in 1964 with leadership from the Shoreline School District and on land acquired with the help from the Boeing family, Shoreline Community College offers more than 100 excellent academic and professional/technical programs.

The University of Washington is the top university destination for Shoreline transfer students and, on average, they perform as well as or better than students who start at the UW. The professional / technical programs at Shoreline are closely tied to industry and graduates gain the skills that help them quickly find employment in their chosen field.

Graduates in programs such as Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Automotive Technology, Biotechnology, and many others are in high demand.


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Jobs: Computer Science instructor

clipartbest.com
Shoreline Community College has an opening for a Computer Science instructor.

The Computer Science instructor is responsible for teaching Computer Science and Engineering courses to first and second year transfer and professional-technical students. This includes Introduction to Computer Science with Python and Java, Numerical Methods with MATLAB and Introduction to Robotics.

A portion of the teaching assignment may be in the evening program and/or at off campus locations. In addition to teaching, this position involves advising students, developing programs and curricula based on current technology and employment opportunities, research and theory in teaching areas, and performing related division/department and campus-wide professional responsibilities.

Complete job description and application here



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Heads up photographers - Lunar eclipse Friday night

According to Space Weather 

Lunar eclipse 2010
Photo by Sonya Reasor

"The full Moon will lose some of its usual luster on Friday night as a dusky shadow creeps across the lunar disk. It's a penumbral lunar eclipse, visible from parts of every continent except Australia. 
The uneven dimming of the Moon will be easy to see if you know when to look." 

Visit Wednesday's edition of Spaceweather.com for observing tips and more information.



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Photo: Robin waiting for spring

Tuesday, February 7, 2017

Robin waiting for spring
Photo by Frank Kleyn

The North wind doth blow and we shall have snow,
And what will poor robin do then, poor thing?
He'll sit in a barn and keep himself warm
and hide his head under his wing, poor thing.

--Anon, 16th c England



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Book Review by Aarene Storms: Zombillenium

Zombillenium: Gretchen
(volume 1)
by Arthur De Pins

Zombillenium is a monster theme park staffed by real monsters: vampires, zombies, werewolves. There's a 5000-year-old mummy selling cotton candy and a modern witch selling balloons. Scary? No: hilarious!

Aurelian's attempt to rob a bar is thwarted by Gretchen the witch (who turns his gun into a banana, and the bartender into a goldfish) which makes the day bad enough -- but his day gets worse when he is subsequently run over by a car driven by a vampire and a skeleton. And then bitten by a vampire and a werewolf. But at least he has a fabulous new job at Zombillenium. Or, errr, maybe not fabulous.

Weird characters and goofy situations combined with cool artwork. The translation from French to English is clunky in places but I got sucked in (oooh, bad vampire pun, sorry). Eagerly waiting for volume 2!

Some cussing, some blood, some sexual references. Lots of dead stuff. Recommended for readers ages 12 to adult.


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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Orchard Mason Bees presentation at Sky Saturday

Saturday, February 11th, 11:00am  – 12:30pm

Orchard Mason Bees with Ray Strelecki of Michael’s Mason Bees

The Northwest native bee Osmia lignaria, or Orchard Mason Bee, is adapted to seek pollen in wet and chilly weather that keeps many other pollinators shivering at home.

This makes the mason bee ideal for pollinating your fruit and berries throughout our cool, wet springs.

Ray Strelecki will tell you how to attract and encourage these valuable native pollinators.

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



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Runners - join a team for Ragnar

Two day, 12 person relay race

On Sunday, February 12th, there will be an informational meeting for anyone interested in joining the Richmond Beach Running Club Ragnar teams.

This year, we are seeing if there is enough interest to form two teams; one for fun and one for speed.  This means we'll need multiple captains and a bunch of interested runners.

If you've run Ragnar before, you know it's two days of pure running fun. If you've never run Ragnar before, it is a 12 person relay race, where each runner runs three legs, totally between 10 and 20 miles. The course goes from Blaine to Langley.

It is my favorite running event I've ever run and our Ragnar is considered one of the best in the nation.

Come on out to Salish Sea Brewing, 518 Dayton St #104, Edmonds 98020 on Sunday, February 12th from 3:00 - 4:00pm for an informational meeting. If you have runner friends who might also be interested in Ragnar, invite them too.

If you cannot make it, but are interested, contact Jeff.


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Friday and Saturday at North City Bistro

Jeanie Mishler of Hopscotch
Friday night, Hopscotch will be here for a night of Jazz standards, as well as some really fun originals. They tend to bring a lot of fans in, so call 206-365-4447, or go to the new website and fill out the reservation request form.

They will be playing from 8:00-10:30 for $12 Cover. Here is a link to their website.


Saturday night, Alma Villegas will be here for her Birthday Show billed as Alma y Azucar. They will be playing from 8:00-10:30pm for $12 Cover.

This will be a night of Latin Fun, with some lively music for all! Reservations are highly recommended! Call 206-365-4447, or go to the new website and fill out the reservation request form.
Here is a link to their website for your previewing pleasure.


North City Bistro is All Ages All the Time (and no cover charge for kids under 18 with parents)
1520 NE 177th in North City, Shoreline 98155 (off 15th NE)



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Do you have a story to tell? Writing Memoir class Saturday in Mountlake Terrace

Arleen Williams, writing memoirs
Writing Memoir: What? Why? How?

Saturday, February 11, 2017, 10:30am - 12:30pm, Mountlake Terrace Library, 23300 58th Ave W, Mountlake Terrace 98043.

Do you have a story to tell but find yourself struggling to get words on the page?

Learn how to turn off your internal editor, how to organize your work, and even what to do with that completed manuscript.

Arleen Williams will intersperse personal experience from her own writing journey with academic instruction on memoir writing basics.

Whether you are a new or an experienced writer, grab your notebook and pen and join this hands-on memoir writing workshop.

Space is limited; pre-register online or by phone at 425-776-8722.



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Shorecrest Hip Hop takes 1st in Hip Hop at Eastlake Invitational

2017 Shorecrest Hip Hop Team


The Varsity Hip Hop Team from Shorecrest High School competed at the Eastlake Invitational and took 1st Place in the Hip Hop category.

The team also received the overall highest score of the day out of 42 routines that spanned 5 categories including Dance, Military, Pom, Kick, and Hip Hop.

The team took a risk by learning a new routine in two weeks and choosing to put their current routine (which has taken 1st in the past 2 events) on hold. Consisting of music from the Broadway hit Hamilton and the Hamilton Mixtape, the team hopes to bring something different to the competition with a musical style hip hop routine.

The team competes again on February 25th at the Kentwood Invitational before heading into Districts on March 11th.

The Varsity Team is lead by co-captains Mya Norton and Keith Echague with members Aeryn Borchers, Christian Burke, Elle Bai, Emma Libby​, Hannah Sy, Jeffrey Freitag, Katie Wong, Matthew Olund, Meagan Horman, Natalie Torres, Noel Basilio, Olivia Makennan, Rylie Roufs, Savanna Molina, Shiuan Chu, and Trinity Howell.

Rex Kinney is the Head Coach/Choreographer with Zahra Masaoka as the Assistant Coach / Choreographer and Jacqui Drew as the team's Advisor.



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Wednesday deadline for reservations for Pizza & Pipes

Last Call for Pizza!
Reserve tickets Wednesday for Pizza and Pipes.
Email or call Joann 425-485-5465
$20 per person for members
Non-members $25
Age 12 and under $10


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Workshop: Welcome to the Time Machine

Jeff Leisawitz
Welcome to the Time Machine – Remembering Your Stories of Triumph, Victory and Success

Saturday, February 11, 2017, 2 - 3:30pm at the Richmond Beach Library, 19601 21st Ave NW, Shoreline 98177.

In this workshop, Jeff Leisawitz, author of Not F*ing Around-The No Bullsh*t Guide for Getting Your Creative Dreams Off the Ground, reads from his book and kick-starts the time machine.

With compelling questions, words of wisdom and some great stories, this event will flash you back and remind you that you are Not F*ing Around!


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Rep. Pollet and Sen Frockt propose the Washington Promise free community college tuition program

Rep. Gerry Pollet (D-46) and Sen. David Frockt (D-46) have introduced the Washington Promise, which would assure qualifying high school students that they will be able to go to community college.


Promise programs are a proven way to increase high school graduation rates. The bill will initially provide one year of guaranteed tuition at community and technical colleges for lower income Washington residents, and then gradually expand free community college access.

“Opening the door to our state’s community colleges with a year of free tuition for recent low income grads puts the dream of higher education in reach,” said Pollet, the bill’s prime sponsor in the House. 
“Free access to community college is a proven way to increase high school graduation rates and to enable people to move up in their careers to support their families.”

While funding K-12 remains the legislature’s top focus for 2017, lawmakers must continue their work to ensure students have affordable options once graduation arrives.

“The Washington Promise is about giving our people the tools they need to fulfill their own potential, said Frockt, author of a Senate companion bill and a member of the Senate Higher Education Committee. 
“Making community or technical college more accessible will bridge the gap between need and skill in the workforce, build on already successful programs such as Washington’s College Bound Scholarship, and create attainable rungs in the ladder of upward mobility for every Washingtonian.”

South Seattle College President Gary Oertli said “SSC has been offering one year of tuition-free college to high school graduates since 2008 through the 13th Year Promise Scholarship, and to know that support could expand across our state with this legislation is truly exciting.”

“The Washington Promise program proposed by Senator Frockt and Representative Pollet will scale up a proven best practice state wide, thus benefiting thousands of students," said Shouan Pan, Chancellor, Seattle Colleges.

College Promise programs have been adopted in cities like Los Angeles and Philadelphia, and states like Oregon and Tennessee.

The measure will have a hearing in the House Higher Education Committee Wednesday, February 8 at 1:30.



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Film: "Resilience" The Biology of Stress & the Science of Hope


Shoreline Community Movie presents the award winning documentary film
“RESILIENCE”
THE BIOLOGY OF STRESS and THE SCIENCE OF HOPE


RESILIENCE: The Biology of Stress and The Science of Hope will be screened on Sunday, March 12, 2017, at 4pm, at the Shoreline Center Auditorium (north end of complex), 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline, Washington 98155 followed by a post-film panel discussion.

James Redford, son of Robert Redford and director of the award winning documentary, “Resilience”, helps us to see that there many families in diverse Communities who are unaware of adverse childhood experiences and the cycles kids are trapped in.

The good news is that outside efforts of teachers, therapists and social workers can help to break the cycle. Whether you’re a parent, teacher or neighbor, you are the external structure that helps create a positive, caring and nurturing environment.

"True resilience is not a matter of character or moral fiber," Redford said. "It's about finding the right ingredients to be successful in life."

Watch the trailer

Tickets $5 per adult; students free.
Advance tickets can be purchased online 

Childcare available by reservation. For more information, questions or requests, contact Leslie Ray at 206-293-6825.

Sponsored by Shorewood PTSA, KateBeck.com @Homestreet Bank, Keith McGlashan @Windmere and Richmond Beach Pediatrics.



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Continued Public Hearing for LFP Critical Areas Ordinance Update on Thursday

The Lake Forest Park City Council has scheduled a continued public hearing on Thursday, February 9, 2017, to receive public input on the proposed update to the Critical Areas Ordinance.


The regular Council meeting begins at 7:00pm on February 9, 2017, and is held in the Council Chambers (2nd floor) of Lake Forest Park City Hall, 17425 Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park.

Public comment is also welcome under Citizen Comments, an opportunity for interested parties to comment on other topics of interest or concern.



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Dances of Universal Peace Friday Feb 10

Dances of Universal Peace are a group of simple dances to live music.

The focus of each dance is in the singing of a particular sacred phrase or phrases inspired by a large variety of religious and spiritual traditions from around the world.

No experience necessary. All dances are taught.

Friday, February 10 at 7:30pm (every second Friday) at Shoreline Community Acupuncture - 18505 Firlands Ave N, Shoreline 98133.

Small donation accepted but no one turned away for lack of funds. Fragrance free please.

For more information, contact David Matthews at 206-272-0580.



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Op-Ed: weighing the benefits of passing the school construction bond to the risks of failing it

Lisa Surowiec is a long-time neighborhood and PTA leader.

By Lisa Surowiec

You have gotten a ballot. Maybe you've returned it. But maybe it's sitting on your table, because you just aren't sure how to vote. There have been some conversation strings in a couple of places online, and you don't know what's true.

Here are the inescapable facts:
  • This is money that will go to Building Schools. Construction. It cannot and will not be used for instruction or classroom activities. It also cannot be shuffled to the general fund.
  • McCleary, the Levy Cliff, and all the other school funding scenarios would not affect the running of this bond.
  • The capital projects being considered are: rebuilding the 2 middle schools, rebuilding Parkwood Elementary, and constructing an early learning campus where the current Shoreline Children's Center lives.
  • You will probably feel the tax increase, but the portion of your overall tax bill going to schools has likely been going down. Check out the King County Property Tax Assessor's website to see the percentage you've been paying.
  • There are many different perspectives on this issue. Many that I have heard voiced actually have little to do with whether building these structures is a good idea. We have gotten tied up in some emotional ideas and lost sight of what this bond means. Below, I have addressed some of the concerns that I've heard, from my own personal point of view. I may not have an answer for your perspective, but here are my rebuttals for the arguments I've heard.
For those parents and community members who are still upset because of school closures:

I get it. My oldest daughter was in the most impacted class when Sunset Elementary closed. Not many people fought harder than I did to keep our beloved school open, testifying, researching, and pleading, vilifying the former Superintendent and (probably) terrifying the Board.

A couple of things about that. One, we were wrong. Sue Walker's administration did not actually get us into the dire financial situation we were in, although she made a great target for our ire. They made a spectacular hire in Marcia Harris (and then Marla Miller), and closing those schools and moving those programs likely saved the District's financial future. Did it suck? Yes it did. Are we still under State supervision? Nope. In fact, we have a great credit rating and we qualify for State matching funds of $25M.

The demographic survey at the time showed that we were in a dip, but would eventually get our student population back. It just didn't make sense to operate schools that didn't have enough students to justify the expense. Now that we're out of the dip, the predicted growth is happening (the projections were right), and we officially closed the boundaries to elementary students who do not live in-District (our middle and high schools are NOT overcrowded at this time).

The thing is, this doesn't have anything to do with whether or not we should build these schools. Harboring a grudge or distrust of a previous administration does not mean that an early learning campus is a bad idea, or increasing capacity at Parkwood doesn't make sense, or that the middle schools don't need to be rebuilt.

The District, since those closures, has actually done a very good job with taxpayer money, even retiring a bond early. If they were running rampant, we'd see a bond request for several elementaries, just in case things really got out of control population-wise.

For those who would vote it down because our kids are protesting / demonstrating:

If you just read the publicity around the walkouts, you might think we've lost control of the teenagers, and that the District fully supports and encourages this behavior. Here's how it came across as an Einstein parent...

The school's ultimate responsibility is to ensure the safety of the students, and of course to educate them when they're in school. The understanding is that as with any decision, there are consequences. If you walk out, you need a parent to excuse the absence, or you have an unexcused absence on your record. The school has predictable consequences, and leaves the high fives or groundings to the parents (depending on your family's belief system).

If you don't have a kid in middle or high school, you might not have talked to one recently. There are exceptions, but these kids are paying attention (that would be "woke"). They are reacting to potential threats to loss of rights, and choosing to be visible and participatory when most of them cannot vote. They are learning, through both school and community, that our country allows them the freedom to express those concerns in a walkout, just as others can choose to stay in class and pursue the day's education.

This also has nothing to do with whether it's a good idea to build schools. The fact that some of them exercised their right to make this statement means that they are learning about this country, and about freedom and rights. It would be a great argument in favor of a levy, if we were running one.

For those who think the 6th graders should stay in elementary school:

I understand the arguments against that decision. However, that was done parallel to, rather than as a result of, the bond decision. The middle schools are in need of rebuilding, and these two capital projects were voted on in October. The IPCC finished its work months later. So here we are. A majority of public comment was supportive of moving these kids up, and it will be happening.

If you're uncomfortable with that scenario, the very best place for your energy would be helping to identify the best configuration of the middle school grades and providing input. If you are concerned about their social-emotional learning, perhaps mentoring programs or student mediator programs deserve an advocate? Or you may think it's unconscionable to make decisions propelled by curriculum. But if we don't give kids access to (for instance) true science labs earlier, won't we be then yelling at the School Board when our kids can't compete for spots in great STEM universities because they can't fit advanced science classes into their high school schedules?

6th grade is moving up. Shouldn't we be in favor of supporting them with more secure buildings and better spaces?

For those who think the bond is being rushed:

There has been some surprise from a resident or two who only realized this was going on when they got the first mailing. But the Board vote was in October, and Shoreline Area News reported on it then. And after dozens and dozens of public meetings, everyone should have been reached in at least a couple of different ways.

Yes, there is a lot of publicity around McCleary. That does not mean the District is rushing to push a construction bond through.

For those who think the schools get too much money:

We do invest a lot in our schools. It's one reason we have a great reputation. And yes, roads, healthcare, and human services are important too. But education is important not just so that our community has productive members, but because it really does help break the cycle of poverty. Early childhood programs in particular have been proven to be the biggest bang for our buck. The fact that we're considering building a whole campus for those programs is extraordinary.

For those who think the schools should just be repaired:

It is hard to hear the dates that the schools were constructed, know when our own homes were constructed, and think "well of course they should be torn down." If you are a homeowner, you know very well about all of the things that need repair and regular maintenance.

Remember that schools are different than your home. Every day, hundreds of kids are living hard in these spaces. The materials that were available at the time these were built were only meant to last a couple of decades. Our homes, especially the older ones, were likely built with better materials.

The materials are old, the pipes are old, the designs are old. Could they last a few more years? Sure. But enough has changed since these were constructed that it really is time to rebuild.

Ultimately, we are weighing the benefits to passing this construction bond to the risks of failing it. 

The benefits of passing it are better facilities for the middle school kids, potentially better situations for the surrounding neighborhoods (traffic patterns and other impacts), capacity relief at the elementary school level, and investment in our early learning programs. The risks it are to property values and future attraction of quality educators, but also to neighbors who might struggle with increased taxes.

If you are still on the fence, please go to the School District's bond information page

Watch the video. Look at the charts. Go over the information that came out of the Instructional Committee and the Building Committee. Find research on school districts that fail bonds. Bethel: Spanaway market "cold; " Niche #118, School Digger #109 Marysville: market "cool; " hasn't passed a bond in 10 years. Niche #173 , School Digger #119 Shoreline: Niche #10, School Digger #10 market "warm"

And then weigh in. We need 16,002 people to cast ballots to validate the election.

Please vote Yes. 60% +1 passes. The investment is worth it!


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