50 parks in Washington offer free admission Saturday

Thursday, June 8, 2017

National Get Outdoors Day is an annual event to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun.

To that end, participating parks offer free admission on National Get Outdoors Day.

Participants from federal agencies, nonprofit organizations and the recreation industry are again teaming up to host the 10th annual National Get Outdoors Day (GO Day) to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun at sites across the nation.

On Saturday, June 10, 2017, these diverse partners will offer opportunities for American families to experience traditional and non-traditional types of outdoor activities.

Prime goals of the day are reaching currently underserved populations and first-time visitors to public lands, and reconnecting our youth to the great outdoors.

Each GO Day event will offer a mix of information centers and “active fun” areas – places where guests, and especially kids, can use a fishing pole, go geocaching, help pitch a tent and more



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Used book sale Saturday - Sunday at Third Place Books



In addition:

Saturday, June 10, 6:30pm
Third Place Books Lake Forest Park
Town Center, Bothell and Ballinger Way


Author of Big Fish

Will read, answer questions, and sign copies of his new novel, Extraordinary Adventures, in which Edsel Bronfman wins a trip to the beach but has to find a companion in 79 days to claim his prize.


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Soak up the fun at New Hope Church Kick Off to Summer for 6-12 graders



New Hope Church in Shoreline is having a kick off to summer event for middle school and high school students on Friday, June 16 from 6-9pm.

It is a free summer kick off event with free food and games. There will also be a huge inflatable water slide on campus.

The goal of this event is to appreciate community by gathering to celebrate the summer.

This event is for grades 6-12 but parents are welcome to watch.

19350 Firlands Way N, Shoreline 98133.

For questions, contact youth pastor Adam Bernstein, 509-295-2926



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Intentional and Restorative Dialogue Group seeks participants

We are a small group of Shoreline area residents who are interested in fostering open discussion among people of different political leanings (conservatives and progressives).

In this polarized political climate, there is a need to develop a greater understanding among ourselves and those who see things through another lens.

Recognizing that there is often a lack of dialogue across ideological lines, we are hoping to create opportunities for respectfully listening to and learning from one another.

To that end we are looking for a few people who would like to help develop this kind of exchange.

If this sounds interesting to you, please complete the attached questionnaire which will be used to ensure balanced representation of different points of view. Once a team of 4-6 people has been identified, this group will work on developing a format for open dialogue that would include community, regional and national issues, and could be used for larger group discussions.

If you are interested in being a part of this project, please answer the following questions.  Your responses will be kept confidential.

  1. Where would you place yourself on the political spectrum?
  2. What do you consider to be the most challenging issues we face today on a national level?
  3. What do you consider to be the most challenging local issues we face?
  4. How do you feel about our new administration and its policies?
  5. What would you hope to gain from participating in conversation across political ideologies?

Demographics: age, racial identity, gender identity

Contact info:  info@communitiesrising.us



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Music Technology Portfolio Show Friday afternoon at SCC


Friday, June 9, 2017, 2:30 – 4:30pm
SCC Music Building 800, Room 820 (campus maps)
16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline 98133
Admission is FREE and everyone is invited (small fee for parking on campus)


Shoreline Community College second year Music Tech students have been working hard this year to not only complete all their required classes towards their degree, but also create a polished portfolio to use in their job search. Transfer students also use this portfolio to apply for bachelor degree programs at universities all over the country.

The college is seeing quite an increase in students pursuing other programs who are interested in acquiring the skill set for their personal, creative endeavors.

It's especially helpful for high school and first year students to see this presentation as a window into their future.

The projects are interesting, challenging and very creative.

These kids put in tons of hours to refine their work for the portfolio show. We would love for people in the community to know about this successful program that is growing so fast.

Music Technology Degrees and Areas of Study:


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Shoreline Farmers Market opens their 6th season Saturday

Since 2012, the Shoreline Farmers Market has been focused on creating an equitable, safe and enjoyable marketplace for people to access and engage with local farmers and artisans.

The market is also a great place to relax, grab a bite to eat from a local food truck or fresh food vendor, listen to music and let the kiddos explore the marketplace with their friends.

The popular Power of Produce (PoP) Kids Club will be back in 2017 and provides children bucks to spend on fruits and vegetables at every market.

This is a great way to educate children about the benefits of local produce - and the power of a transaction.

Fresh Bucks is also offered at the Shoreline Farmers Market, which provides a $10 match to individuals and families who qualify for the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP). This match can be used at every market during the season and can add up to $180 of farm fresh produce if used every week.

Opening Day of the Shoreline Farmers Market is this Saturday, June 10th from 10am to 3pm at Aurora Square at 15300 Westminster Way N, next to Sears and Central Market.

For more information visit the market website and follow along on Facebook and Instagram



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Photo: Renegade garden

Photo by Seattle Poppy

Some enterprising and hardworking soul found some open land in the North City neighborhood and created this ambitious and well-thought out garden.

The property owner will probably not notice the loss of a few feet of weeds.




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AG Ferguson to hold summit on opioid epidemic with WSP, prosecutors

The summit will be held at the UW
In 2015, more Washingtonians died from opioid overdoses than car accidents

Attorney General Bob Ferguson will hold a two-day summit in June on the opioid epidemic, convening law enforcement, medical professionals, prosecutors and public health experts.

“Opioids are devastating Washington families and communities, and overwhelming our safety nets,” Ferguson said. “This summit will bring together key stakeholders to identify next steps and solutions to this epidemic.”

The summit, scheduled for June 15 and 16 at the University of Washington, is free and open to the public. Those interested should register online. The session are free. Campus map here

  • Kane Hall: 8am-5pm, Thursday, Jun 15, 2017
  • Husky Union Building: 8:30am-12pm, Friday, Jun 16, 2017

Speakers include Attorney General Bob Ferguson, Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste, King County Prosecuting Attorney Dan Satterberg and State Health Officer Dr. Kathy Lofy. Multiple sessions will share best practices from around the country, from drug monitoring to health care fraud field operations.

The Attorney General’s Office planned the summit in partnership with the Washington State Patrol and the Washington Association of Prosecuting Attorneys. On October 7, 2016, Governor Jay Inslee signed an executive order requesting that the AGO, along with law enforcement and community partners, develop and recommend strategies to reduce the supply of illegal opioids in Washington state.

In 2015, 718 Washingtonians died from opioid overdose, more than from car accidents. The majority of drug overdose deaths — more than six out of ten — involve an opioid.

The opioid epidemic has impacted Washington unlike any other state in the region. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Washington is the only Western state to see a statistically significant increase in drug overdose death rates between 2014 and 2015.

Nationwide, 1 in 4 people who receive prescription opioids for chronic pain in primary care settings struggle with addiction.

For more information on the upcoming opioid summit, contact Kelly Richburg



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Draft Safe Streets report to LFP City Council at June 8, 2017 work session

Safe Streets Project
Photo courtesy City of Lake Forest Park
Consultant Fehr and Peers has submitted the draft Safe Streets report to the LFP City Council as part of the June 8, 2017 City Council work session agenda.

The report will be presented at the City Council work session meeting on June 8, 2017 at 6:00pm in the Council Chambers, 2nd floor City Hall. 

The highlight of the presentation is for the consultant team to identify recommendations for 10 projects to improve mobility and access in Lake Forest Park.

The proposals are an evolution of 21 draft projects, two public outreach events, and over 100 comments received on the project web site. The report can be viewed here. Select “project files” to find the report.

The presentation will also be live-streamed on the City Council web page, as part of the work session. The consultant team will receive feedback from the City Council and begin work on a final report.



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Draft Plan for Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services available for review

Draft PROS Plan
After nearly 18 months of public engagement and planning, a draft of the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services (PROS) Plan update is available for your review. City Council will discuss the Draft Plan on Monday, June 12.

The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS)/Tree Board will discuss the Draft Plan on June 22 and consider recommending approval to the City Council before a final Public Hearing on July 17. Council is scheduled to adopt the final PROS Plan on July 31.

We want the Draft Plan to reflect what the community has shared with us. You can view the Draft Plan online.

If you would like to make a comment on the Draft Plan, you can do so online at “Comment on Agenda Items” on the Council’s webpage, submit written public comment by email or in person at the Council meetings on June 12, July 17, or July 31. 

The PROS Plan identifies a 20-year vision and framework for Shoreline’s recreation and cultural programs, and for maintenance and investment in park, recreation, and open space facilities.

The update has been an opportunity to reassess community needs and align program and capital projects with the City’s mission and goals.

Included in the Draft Plan is the Light Rail Station Subarea Parks and Open Space Plan and the Aquatic/Community Center Feasibility Study.



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Call for Young Actors: Missoula Children’s Theatre is coming to Shoreline

Wednesday, June 7, 2017


Group auditions for the Missoula Children's Theatre production of "Peter and Wendy" will be held on Monday, June 19 from 3:45pm to 6:00pm in the Shoreline Room of the Shoreline Center. 

Approximately 60 local students in Kindergarten through 12th Grade will be cast to appear in the show. There is no guarantee that everyone who auditions will be cast in the play, but with upwards of 60 roles available, there's room for many performers.

Students wishing to audition must arrive by the scheduled starting time and stay for the entire two-hour session. The first rehearsal begins approximately 30 minutes after the audition.

If your young actor is interested in auditioning, register them through the Arts website.

There will about 10 lead characters that stay for the first rehearsal AFTER the audition on Monday night, June 19 from 6:30-8:30pm. If your child is one of them, please plan on going out and getting them a snack / dinner or bring something to the audition at 4pm that he/she can eat after. We will not be providing any food or drinks after the audition.

Rehearsals will be conducted June 19 through 23 from 4:00 to 8:30pm at Shoreline Center. Although not all cast members will be needed at every session, those auditioning must have a clear schedule for the entire week and, if selected, be able to attend all rehearsals required for their role. A detailed rehearsal schedule will be distributed at the conclusion of the audition. Cast members scheduled for the full 4½ hours of rehearsal will be asked to bring a sack lunch, dinner or snack.

The performance will be held on Saturday, June 24 at 1pm and will be presented at the Shoreline Center Auditorium during the Shoreline Arts Festival. The students in the cast will be called for dress rehearsal before the performance that day. All those cast must be available for the performance. One free performance ticket will be given to each student who auditions; additional tickets are available for $10 each online or at the door. 

For any questions, contact Lisa Palmatier at the Arts Council by emailing or by calling 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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L.A. Times: In Washington state, a healthcare repeal lesson learned the hard way

An article in the Los Angeles Times analyzes a time in Washington state's history when Republican lawmakers repealed and replaced state-mandated insurance. 

Republicans in the state of Washington didn’t wait long in the spring of 1995 to fulfill their pledge to roll back a sweeping law expanding health coverage in the state. 
Coming off historic electoral gains, the GOP legislators scrapped much of the law while pledging to make health insurance affordable and to free state residents from onerous government mandates. 
It didn’t work out that way: The repeal left the state’s insurance market in shambles, sent premiums skyrocketing and drove health insurers from the state. It took nearly five years to repair the damage.

 Here's the rest of the story...

(there will be advertisements)



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Rats!

Western Washington has climate conditions that make it a haven for rats,
with Seattle being one of the rattiest cities in the country. 
Data from the American Housing Survey, 2011 and 2013. 
Visualized by Alex Bruell.


By Alex Bruell

They’re the bane of renters and homeowners alike, scuttering in through unsealed vents and resisting the tactics that would scare off lesser pests.

Rats and mice are already difficult pests to go to war with, and they’re especially bad in the Pacific Northwest, which has many of the perfect conditions for rodents to breed. A fertile female rat can have hundreds of children in a year, and as construction rates surge across King County, many of those rats are being forced to move and find new homes.

“It’s a very wet and lush, green environment for them to thrive in,” Ryan Miller, district manager of Western Exterminator Company said. “There are lots of food resources and habitats, which are prime for them to reproduce and grow in both number and size.”

Rat-proofing a house before they become a problem is something everyone can do.

“The rats are there for a reason,” Miller said. “With extermination, all you’re doing is killing what’s there at the time, not resolving the underlying issue of why are they there and how did they get in.”

Dense vegetation on the property can provide a nesting area for rats, who tend to stay outside and only venture in for food. Mice are more likely to try to find small nooks inside the house to live in.

For both animals, resolving structural entrance issues can go a long way to keeping rodents out for good.

Based on Miller’s experience, there aren’t any specific Shoreline neighborhoods that have particularly bad rodent issues. Any area can become a problem, however, if it has properties with overgrown vegetation, excessive bird feed, or abandoned structures.

Rats can make friendly and energetic pets, but an unwelcome 
rodent can quickly become a headache. Photo by Alex Bruell


John Griffin is the director of urban wildlife at the Humane Society of the United States, which features advice on dealing with wild rats. He points out that the most proactive solution is also the most humane one.

The biggest thing is prevention,” Griffin said. 
“It’s something that’s so overlooked. When you’re looking at a house, have a general understanding of how animals are getting inside. 
"That means looking at the way your door closes, looking for openings around electrical or water supply, utilities, where the air conditioner connects to the wall. If those things aren’t closed up properly, they’re susceptible to intrusion.”

Mice, like many small mammals, are only limited by the size of their heads when fitting through small spaces. With larger animals like raccoons able to fit into spaces as small as 3 to 4 inches, a mouse can squeeze its way through a dime-shaped opening. This can make the hunt to seal up a home feel daunting.

“It can be extensive,” Griffin said. “Look at the foundation, windows, vents, even the roofline. Behind the gutter. Attic vents. Vents on the top of the house. Houses are rarely built with keeping animals out in mind.
“It’s challenging to go around the house and exclude everything at that size,” Griffin said, “ but you can have a bi-annual inspection, just to stay aware of things to address.”

When openings are present, tactics that work on other animals aren’t always as effective with rats. Katelynn Overton is the wildlife admissions specialist for PAWS, a Lynnwood non-profit that rehabilitates and cares for injured and orphaned animals. PAWS advocates for humane solutions to dealing with wild animals.

“Light, sound and smell deterrents work well against mammals like squirrels, but rats are a special case,” Overton said. 
“They’ve evolved to be around people and they’re very tolerant. The whole idea is to make it as annoying as possible so that they move out on their own. So obviously, don’t leave food around.”

Rat and squirrel sharing a meal
of dropped bird seed
Photo by Tom D. Bewley in Shoreline / LFP

Griffin pointed out that even a small amount of food can become a feast to a hungry rodent.

“It could be compost or garbage attracting them,” he said. 
“With mice, people can be unaware of how much food they’re supplying. It doesn’t take much and you can have these eruptions of mice. Cutting off food could mean going through your pantry and storing things in rodent proof containers, like glass or heavy plastic.”

When diplomacy fails, it’s often best to use traps or techniques that kill the rodent as quickly and painlessly as possible.

You’re not just doing the rat or mouse a favor; methods like poison are difficult to confirm success, and can end up causing more problems down the road.

“We don’t use rodenticides,” Miller said. “Poisoning is not instantaneous like with traps. You can know they fed on the poison, but not how much or when. It takes several days for them to die, and at that point they’re wandering around, lethargic.”
“If you feel ill, your first instinct is to say, ‘I want to go home and lay down,’” Miller added. 
“Rodents feel the same way. So it’ll usually lay down to rest in its nest and won’t get back up; now you’ve got a decomposing animal in a likely inaccessible area. You can even affect off target animals like a cat or dog.”

If you’re going up against a rodent yourself, the humble snap trap might be the best way to go. The trap works by severing the animal’s spine rather than causing them prolonged suffering. This can work especially well for mice, who are more inquisitive and curious than rats and already spend more time indoors.

Rats are more wily, and will often avoid traps even when baited with a food source. Rats can learn to avoid poison and traps when they see other dead rats fall to those methods, and might avoid new traps for several weeks or months. They also tend to forage outside a house, and only come inside if there’s something especially attractive inside for them.

“With mice, they sometimes live there their whole lives,” Griffin said. “They’re not leaving to go outside. You can evict a rat with a one-way door; with mice, that’s harder to do.”

While getting rid of rodents can become stressful and scary, getting them out humanely doesn’t have to end in unnecessary suffering.

“People don’t usually want to do harm,” Overton said. “They just don’t want them on their property.”

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Shoreline Chamber of Commerce June Luncheon: Your Google Business Listing

Rex-Zane Rudee
Digital Marketing
The Shoreline Chamber of Commerce June luncheon is for all businesses: Rex-Zane Rudee talks about digital marketing and how to optimize and update your free Google Business Directory listing.

Because the your Google listing is usually the first thing people see when they do a Google search for your business or type of business, it is a powerful and important tool.

Rudee owned a photography studio in downtown Bremerton for 35 years. Since selling his business last May, he has been playing with his grandchildren, substitute teaching, and most recently, working for Rebranding360, as a Google Trusted agent and photographer doing Virtual Tours for Pacific NW businesses.

Wednesday 14 June 2017, 11:30am - 1:00pm, Shoreline Center Alumni Room, (south end), 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline 98155.

$20 online / $25 walk-in registration for members
$25 online / $30 walk-in registration for non-members

Register and pay online or email and pay cash, check or card at the door.

Please register by June 12.

Also, save the date for the first of our free monthly networking breakfasts on Tuesday, June 20 from 7.30-8.30 am at Aegis of Shoreline. Aegis will serve us a continental breakfast in their beautiful facility. If you want to get on our mailing list for direct announcements about these and future events, email or sign up on the website.



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Shorewood Senior Baccalaureate​ June 14



The 27th Annual Shorewood Senior Baccalaureate​ will be held at 7:00pm, Wednesday June 14th at the Berean Bible Church, 2345 NE 185th St., Shoreline (185th and Meridian).

This non-denominational service will honor graduates and is sponsored by parents and area churches.

The speaker will be Pastor Aaron Gray from Sound City Bible Church.

Nathan Lee, math teacher at Shorewood, will give the Faculty Reflection, and Shorewood Principal Bill Dunbar will welcome the seniors.

This is an opportunity to demonstrate support in a personal way for our graduating seniors. 

Everyone is welcome.



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Photos: One perfect rose

Photo by Jan Hansen
One Perfect Rose
by Dorothy Parker

A single flow'r he sent me, since we met.
All tenderly his messenger he chose;
Deep-hearted, pure, with scented dew still wet--
One perfect rose.

I knew the language of the floweret;
"My fragile leaves," it said, "his heart enclose."
Love long has taken for his amulet
One perfect rose.

Why is it no one ever sent me yet
One perfect limousine, do you suppose?
Ah no, it's always just my luck to get
One perfect rose.



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Take Dad to the Edmonds Arts Festival June 16-18

The Edmonds Arts Festival takes place in the charming waterfront community of Edmonds over Father’s Day weekend, June 16-18.

With a variety of different activities, this event is an experience the whole family can enjoy.

Over the course of three days, 240 artist booths, three juried art galleries, an amphitheater with live music and dance, food courts, and a student art exhibit are featured.

This renowned event attracts up to 50,000 visitors each year and is produced by an all-volunteer group of dedicated art lovers; all profits are gifted back into the community. Free shuttle parking is provided.



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511 travel information system

Tuesday, June 6, 2017

Modernization of the 511 travel information system is bringing a new voice and better support to the system, but the popular menus and other features remain the same.

The 511 system offers information about statewide traffic incidents, mountain pass conditions, express lane status and statewide emergency messages. Callers also can connect to neighboring states’ 511 systems.

WSDOT’s 511 service also links callers to the Washington State Ferries reservation system, with details about schedules, fares and wait times. More than 850,000 calls are made to 511 each year.

Regular callers will hear one noticeable change: a female voice is now used on the system. Upgrades to the voice recognition system also mean callers won’t have to use the touchtone menu items as often. All the other menus, features and options remain the same.

WSDOT urges all drivers to know before you go whenever heading out on trips, by using 511 or one of many online tools to stay informed.



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King County Metro and Sound Transit debut reduced summer ORCA youth fares

King County and Sound Transit announced special fares this summer for all youth who ride with an ORCA Youth card.

Access to destinations across the county and region will cost only $.50 per trip on King County Metro's bus network and $1 for Sound Transit's trains and buses.

Metro will distribute free ORCA Youth cards to encourage more people to take transit.

Metro and Sound Transit will offer reduced fares from mid-June through Labor Day to all youth who use an ORCA Youth card to pay their fares. Metro will provide free cards to youth who do not already have one. All youth between the ages of 6-18 are eligible.

Metro will offer free ORCA Youth cards and a special 50-cent reduced fare for young people who ride Metro buses this summer. Sound Transit will offer a $1 youth fare. Regular prices are $5 for ORCA Youth cards; $1.50 per ride for youths on Metro services; and $1.50 to $4.25 for youths riding Sound Transit trains and buses.

Metro established the pilot program to encourage more King County youth to ride transit and make it easier for young people to get around town.

“By making it easier to take Metro this summer, we help young people get to jobs, parks, libraries and all the region has to offer. We know that mobility is key to opportunity, and these reduced fares will open doors to the next generation of transit riders,” said Executive Constantine, who also serves on the Sound Transit board. 
“More people are taking public transportation than ever before. With expanded services and more buses, Metro is meeting the needs of a growing region. Encouraging young people to ride Metro and Sound Transit this summer will help them learn our transit network, and develop commuter habits to last a lifetime.”

In King County, youth riders can save up to $36 per month on Metro Transit, based on the price for a monthly pass. Metro and Sound Transit established the pilot program to encourage more youth to ride transit and make it easier for young people to get around.

Executive Constantine joined Seattle City Council and Sound Transit board member Rob Johnson to announce the ORCA Summer Youth Promotion during an event at Ingraham High School in North Seattle.

“As a region we are committed to combating climate change, increasing economic opportunity, and decreasing housing costs. The single best way to achieve all three of those goals is to create frequent and reliable access to public transportation,” Councilmember Johnson said. 

"Sound Transit is proud to join with King County Metro in providing reduced summer fares for area youth. Whether they are traveling to work, play or summer classes, this promotion will encourage young people to see how easy it is to get around on our region's interconnected network of trains and buses," said Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoff.

During the school year, many students rely on ORCA cards issued by their schools. Five school districts in King County provide students with free ORCA passes as part of their student transportation programs, but those cards expire when the school year ends.

Metro averages above 400,000 ORCA youth boardings per month during the school year, but that drops to less than 130,000 during summer months.

Youth also can enjoy 50-cent fares on the Seattle Streetcar when using an ORCA Youth card.

How to get a free ORCA Youth card

Go to ORCASummerYouth.com, fill out the online form and submit along with a scanned copy of one of the following: a student ID, state ID, driver’s license or birth certificate. Cards will be mailed for free.

ORCA Youth cards also are available in person at the Metro sales office at the King Street Center in Pioneer Square at 201 South Jackson Street and at various public events and locations where Metro sets up “ORCA to GO” booths to provide customer assistance. Check Metro’s website for times and locations.

The ORCA Youth card’s e-purse will need to be loaded with monetary value or a monthly pass before it can be used. Cards can be loaded at participating retailers around King County, ORCA vending machines at Link stations, the Downtown Seattle Transit Tunnel, major transit centers, and at the Metro pass sales office at King Street Center.



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Op-Ed: Washington state robbing kids of most important rite of passage

Sen. Maralyn Chase, D-32
Sen. Maralyn Chase, D-Edmonds, issued the following statement as more than 15,000 high school seniors will fail to graduate because of not passing one or more statewide high stakes tests:

“While budget negotiators in Olympia continue to receive 30-day extensions to complete their work; more than 15,000 high school seniors in our state are simply out of time. For many, graduation day has already come and gone. There is no going back.

“When did petty political gamesmanship become more important than truly making a difference for thousands of young Washingtonians? Our state cannot rob our kids of one of the most important rites of passage.

“For 81 percent of our state’s public high school graduating seniors, high stakes testing is not an issue. These students passed all three state required tests for graduation: English Language Arts, Math, and Biology. However, for the 15,645 students that failed one or more of these tests, this is an issue. Particularly, special education students, English language learners, low-income, and students of color are disproportionately impacted by the requirement to pass high stakes tests to graduate. Over 10 years of high stakes testing research and experience in our state shows that instead of positive outcomes, we have an achievement gap that grows wider each year. The state does not require private schools to administer these tests as a requirement for graduation.

“The House of Representatives has voted on a bipartisan bill to completely delink high stakes test results from graduation requirements three times this year. Unfortunately, when it is the Senate Republican Majority’s turn to act they push for only delinking the biology exam, thereby ignoring the bulk of the students who are penalized by these tests. I view this lack of action as a failure of leadership and of governance.

“One of my young constituents contacted me with a desperate plea after failing the English exam by one point. Only one point stands between this student and their high school diploma. High school graduation is the touchpoint by which you measure your life. We ought to show our high school seniors that state government can be an instrument of good and change lives for the better.

“The quality of our students’ education is more important than test results. Scholars and researchers recognize that the Smarter Balanced assessments were not designed to assess whether a student should be advanced to another grade level or if a student has demonstrated the competencies to graduate from high school. In short, by continuing to require passage of all three high stakes tests we are perpetuating a highly flawed system.

“Washington state is currently on the wrong side of history on this issue, as one of thirteen states, down from 27, across the United States with high stakes tests in place for the graduating class of 2017. Increasingly, offices of college admissions recognize that a student’s high school record is a more accurate prediction of success in higher education than a standardized test. By making standardized tests optional at the college level, schools are able to obtain more diversity without any loss in academic quality. It is a ‘win-win’ for both students and schools.

“I believe that our students should be accountable for their education; however, that accountability must not rob them of their future, or one of life’s precious milestones. These kids’ hearts are breaking.”

Sen. Chase represents the 32nd legislative district in the Washington state legislature. The 32nd includes Shoreline, Woodway, parts of Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, and northwest Seattle.



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Do not be fooled by the Jury Duty SCAM

The King County Sheriff’s Office wants to warn you of a SCAM that has been occurring in the Seattle area over the last couple of years.

Someone may call you and identify themselves as a King County deputy or detective and tell you that you failed to show up for jury duty.

But wait there’s more … once they have your attention they will threaten you with jail unless you pay a fine immediately. Usually they will request a credit card number over the phone or even ask you to go to a nearby store to purchase a gift card and then tell them the card number.

THIS IS A SCAM!!!! Do not give them any money.

Fortunately most of the citizens who have called the Sheriff’s Office checking the validity of the call have not given any money to the scammers.

So what should you do if you get one of these calls?   
Hang-up!  Yes, that’s right, hang-up!

The Sheriff’s Office would NEVER call you about a warrant and ask you to pay over the phone. The scammers are very convincing but, DO NOT FALL FOR IT!  Do not pay anyone over the phone for an alleged warrant for failing to report for jury duty.


 

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Chang kick-off Saturday

Everyone is invited to meet Shoreline City Council Candidate Susan Chang at her kick-off on Saturday, June 10 at Spiro's from 3 - 5pm, with remarks at 3:30. Pizza and pop will be provided.

Come hear Susan's vision for the future of Shoreline and how she will keep our City the great place it is, to live, work, and play! Susan Chang - Shoreline City Council, Pos. 5


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Call for Artists: Create & Make Workshop Proposals

The Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Arts Council is currently seeking proposals from local and regional artists who wish to teach during its Fall 2017 and Spring 2018 Create and Make Workshop Series.

The workshops will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30pm to 8:30pm in Shoreline. All workshops are ticketed, geared towards adults, and capped at 20 students.

Teaching artists will receive a $250 stipend to cover teaching fees and materials for teaching one two-hour workshop.

We provide space, tables, and students; you provide materials, knowledge, and fun.

Deadline for submissions is July 17, 2017.
 
Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status via email by August 11th.

For questions, contact Kelly.

Apply online

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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Dances of Universal Peace Friday

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, June 9 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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LFP and The Big Five: A Future of Possibilities for Lake Forest Park

McAleer Creek
Photo by Mary Jo Heller
Town Hall featuring “LFP and The Big Five: A Future of Possibilities for Lake Forest Park"

On Monday, June 12, from 7:00 to 9:00pm, in the City Council Chambers, the Lake Forest Park City Council is hosting a Town Hall.

It is an opportunity for Council to present the five major projects that will determine the future of the City in the midst of an unprecedented period of growth in regional traffic, population, development, and the economy.

Councilmembers will share the current status and future opportunities for public input for the five projects:

  1. Safe Streets; 
  2. Safe Highways; 
  3. Healthy Creeks; 
  4. Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Plan (PROST); and the 
  5. Central Subarea Plan.


These five projects are all being developed against the backdrop of the ST3 project, which will bring to Lake Forest Park new Bus Rapid Transit and Park-and-Ride facilities, enabling connections to planned light rail stations.

Councilmembers will take questions from residents on these and other topics of interest. A short document describing the projects and future opportunities for public involvement will be distributed at the meeting and will be made available on the City website.



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Red Cross offers free installed smoke alarms for Meridian Park residents

The Red Cross will be installing (free) smoke alarms and sharing preparedness information in homes throughout Meridian Park neighborhood in June and July.

Would you like to be included?

Install dates are June 14, July 12th, and July 22nd, approximately 9am-2pm.

You must be pre-registered and available to be at home to be included.


*The deadline to sign-up is Friday, June 9*


Go to: www.getasmokealarm.org and a Red Cross representative will contact you.


Not sure if you live in Meridian Park? Here's the map.



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Beautiful Lake Forest Park gardens open June 17

Secret Gardens of Lake Forest Park


Six beautiful Lake Forest Park Gardens will be open to Secret Gardens of Lake Forest Park Garden Tour and Market ticket holders on June 17. These gardens are local jewels.

Imagine a delightful June day. Just a slight breeze, the smell of summer just around the corner. On tour day visitors will be welcomed to gardens large and small. Each garden jewel reflecting the owner's sense of space and wonder.

Get your tickets online at Lake Forest Park Garden tour or at any of these outlets:

  • Garden Essentia, 20152 Ballinger Way NE, Shoreline
  • LFP Farmers Market, LFP Town Center, Sundays, 10-3 only
  • Molbak's, 13625 NE 175th, Woodinville
  • Ravenna Gardens, University Village
  • Sky Nursery, 18528 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline
  • Town Center Hardware, LFP Town Center
  • Wild Birds Unlimited, LFP Town Center


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After ten years, Dori Monson steps down as girls basketball coach at Shorecrest

Coach Dori Monson
Photo by Wayne Pridemore
The most successful era in Shorecrest girls basketball history came to an end last week when Head Coach Dori Monson gathered his team together and told them he was stepping down after ten years with the program.

"I will miss everything about coaching at SC," Monson said. 
"Between my Monday through-Friday job (as a talk radio host from 12-3pm on KIRO 97.3 FM), and my weekends hosting on the Seahawks Radio Network, I wasn't certain I could continue to give the girls and the program 100%. 
"And when you ask for 100% from the kids, they deserve the same from their coach. 
"I didn't like dropping a bombshell on the team with my resignation, but I am hopeful this was the best for the program."

During his time as the Scots coach, they compiled an overall record of 125-72.

Dori Monson, left, with his 2012 team
Photo by Jerry Pickard
 
One highlight of his career came in 2012 when the team took fourth in State, bringing home the first trophy in SC girls basketball history.

The team was special to Monson since the seniors were girls he had coached from grade school on up. The team included Mickey Greenburg, Janie Uppinghouse, Allison Jones, Bri Lasconia (who played for SPU) and India Matheson (played for Central Washington).

"Our families had all grown very close as we traveled around the West Coast in AAU ball - tournaments in Reno and Vegas and Hawaii. So to be able to share a first-ever State trophy with that group was quite special."

Photo by Jerry Pickard

Monson and the Scots reached the pinnacle in 2016 as the team won the State Championship and Monson was named Coach of the Year in the state of Washington.

"We had a lot of trials along the way, but we came together for an almost perfect postseason run. After a loss at Districts to Lynden, our record sat at 12-10. But then, led by Uju Chibuogwu - the State 2A Player of the Year, and the phenomenally athletic Wurrie Njadoe, we got on a magical run that started with a 59-24 Regional win over Franklin-Pierce.

"Then, at State in Yakima, we beat Washougal by 17, #1 East Valley by 17, and then, in the State Championship game, we avenged our District's loss and knocked off Lynden 49-43 for the first basketball State Championship in Shorecrest history," he said.

"We also became the first team in the history of Washington HS basketball - boys or girls - to win a State Championship with ten losses. I'm very proud of how we came together for that postseason run," he continued.

Monson concluded, "I am very blessed to have had a decade of fantastic kids (and parents) that I got to work with at Shorecrest. I also know the next coach will be inheriting a terrifically talented team and that the program is in fantastic shape."

--Frank Workman



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Tiny dancers - Parks Department annual dance recital

Photo courtesy City of Shoreline


The Parks Department hosted Shoreline’s annual Dance Recital on Saturday, June 3rd at the Shoreline Center Auditorium.

Photo courtesy City of Shoreline

213 Hip Hop, Pre-ballet, Tap, Jazz, Clogging, and Irish Dancers performed before an audience of 500 proud parents and grandparents, family, and friends, in each of two shows.

This years’ beautiful costumes, creative choreography and overall cuteness thrilled a very proud audience.



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Still time to comment on the designs for Sound Transit stations in Shoreline


Sound Transit held a well-attended open house on Wednesday, May 24 from 6-8pm at Shorewood High School. Participants viewed designs at the 60 percent completion level for Lynnwood Link Extension light rail stations at NE 145th and NE 185th streets.

At the event, participants were able to ask questions of both Sound Transit and City of Shoreline staff and were invited to provide comments on station designs, project plans, and public art.

If you were unable to attend the open house in person you can view meeting materials online and provide comments at lynnwoodlink.participate.online.

Now is the time to make your opinions known, when plans are still in design and Sound Transit is asking for feedback. Further into the process, plans will be set.

A second open house will take place for Mountlake Terrace residents on Wednesday, June 28 at the Nile Shrine Country Club, 6601 244th St. SW, Mountlake Terrace. An open house for Lynnwood residents will take place by early fall. Shoreline and Lake Forest Park residents can attend these meetings but the materials will be focused on those cities and those stations.



The 8.5-mile light rail extension from Northgate to the Lynnwood Transit Center is in the final design phase, with construction scheduled to begin in 2018. Trains will serve four stations along the route at Northeast 145th Street, Northeast 185th Street, the Mountlake Terrace Transit Center at 236th Street Southwest, and the Lynnwood Transit Center at 48th Avenue West. The project includes a total of approximately 1,500 additional park-and-ride spaces in the corridor.

Commuters from the Lynnwood Transit Center will enjoy 13-minute rides to Northgate Mall, 18-minute rides to the U District, 27-minute rides to downtown Seattle and 60-minute rides to Sea-Tac Airport. Trains from Lynnwood will also serve the eastside and reach downtown Bellevue in 51 minutes and the Overlake Transit Center in 59 minutes from the Lynnwood Transit Center.

More information on the Lynnwood Link Extension is available here

By 2021, Sound Transit will expand light rail to the U District, Roosevelt and Northgate. In 2023 trains will reach Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, Mercer Island, Bellevue and Overlake / Redmond.

Next up will be extending light rail to Federal Way and downtown Redmond in 2024. From there, continuing expansions will focus on Tacoma, West Seattle, Ballard, Everett, South Kirkland and Issaquah, forming a 116-mile regional system.



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Mechanical engineering masterpiece - Georgetown's 110 year old steam plant

Georgetown Steam Plant
Photo courtesy City Light

The historic Georgetown Steam Plant in Seattle will celebrate its 110th anniversary with a free open house, Saturday, June 10, from 10am – 2pm with live musical performances from a group of Georgetown artists, a hot dog cart and free guided history tours.

The Georgetown Steam Plant is a National Historic Landmark constructed 1906-1907 which generated energy for the first time on June 22, 1907. Created to energize some of Seattle’s first electric streetcar lines, including the interurban running Everett to Shoreline to Tacoma, the reinforced concrete building is among the first of its kind on the west coast and contains the last two vertical Curtis steam turbine generators known to exist in their original positions.

Seattle City Light has owned the facility since 1951 and it was completely decommissioned in 1977. It became a National Historic Landmark in 1977 and a Seattle Landmark in 1984. City Light staff and volunteers host free open houses for the public the second Saturday of every month from 10am – 2pm with guided tours at 11am and 1pm.

More information about the Georgetown Steam Plant can be found here or by calling 206-763-2542.



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Quidditch at the Richmond Beach Library June 17

Photo courtesy Quidditch Canada

Quidditch: Grab a Broom and Play! 
Saturday June 17, 11am-1pm
All ages welcome

Welcome to your first flying lesson! Join us for all-ages quidditch practice and quidditch games.

Members of the Emerald City Admirals will set up a quidditch pitch in the library park and teach rules and strategies for Chasers, Beaters, Keepers and Seekers.

No prior experience necessary, all equipment provided for you, and we will play rain or shine.

Richmond Beach Library 19601 21st Ave NW, Shoreline 98177



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LFP Council considers expansion of traffic cameras

Reactive traffic camera and add
two more at Ballinger and Bothell Way
At its 7pm meeting on Thursday, June 8, the Lake Forest Park City Council will consider a resolution to authorize expansion of the Traffic Safety Photo Enforcement Program.

Cameras would be added to the Intersection of SR 522 / Bothell Way NE and SR 104 / Ballinger Way NE, and the previously terminated NE 170th Street location would be reactivated. Staff documents.

The 6pm work session will focus on the consultant's report for the Safe Streets Project, with a discussion led by City Engineer Neil Jensen. Staff documents.

To view staff documents, click the PDF link in the agenda item.

Both meetings will be held in the City Hall Council Chambers, 17425 Ballinger NE, 2nd floor.



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Richmond Beach garden tour Saturday


Maps for the self-guided tour can be found at Sky Nursery, Richmond Beach Library, and Richmond Beach Coffee Company.

Map and garden descriptions can also be found online.


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Ridgecrest garage sales last Saturday

Photo by Steven H. Robinson

The Ridgecrest neighborhood held its annual garage sale last Saturday, in the parking lot of the Tabernacle Baptist Church, 16508 8th Ave NE.

Free hot dogs gave people the opportunity to shop a little longer for those bargains and treasures.

Many other people held garage sales at their homes. Address lists were given out at the church parking lot.

This is now an annual event for the neighborhood.



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