Death by Opera: local author reads at Third Place Books Saturday

Monday, May 28, 2018

Edmonds author Erica Miner
Edmonds author Erica Miner will read from her new release, Death by Opera, at Third Place Books in Lake Forest Park Town Center on Saturday, June 2 at 6 pm. The event is free.

Death by Opera is the second book in her Opera Murder Trilogy series, published by Twilight Times Books . Murder in the Pit, the first in the series, has won rave reviews in the US and overseas.

Erica talks about the background of the book,
In my 21 years as a violinist at the Metropolitan Opera, I had an insider’s view of the world behind the ‘golden curtain.’ 
Rivalries, jealousies and back-stabbing were a natural result of the intense, high-pressure situation in which the Pavarottis and Domingos jockey for space and attention with less famous singers, stage directors, chorus, orchestra musicians, stagehands, costume people and more. 
I wanted to portray that milieu from the perspective of a young, ingenuous violinist who, like myself in my early Met years, struggles to survive in that madhouse we call The Opera. The difference is, she also has to deal with murder.

Death by Opera (Twilight Times Books)
Saturday, June 2 at 6 pm
Third Place Books

In this sequel to Murder in the Pit, young violinist Julia Kogan, having survived her entanglement in a murder plot at the Metropolitan Opera, finds further operatic turmoil at the Santa Fe Opera.

Julia and her cohort, NYPD detective Larry Somers, head to the Santa Fe Opera House, where numerous musicians from the Met Opera perform each summer.

Against the backdrop of the mystical New Mexico mountains, chaos ensues, as murderous activities plague the performers on stage and off. 

Faced with a murderer on the loose who threatens the sanctity of the prestigious company, Julia and Larry join forces to stop the menace from wreaking further havoc.

Third Place Books is located on the upper level of Town Center, Lake Forest Park at the intersection of Ballinger Way and Bothell Way.



Read more...

For the Birds: Birds need bugs

Baby Barn Swallow
Photo by Joe Sweeney

By Christine Southwick

Baby birds are hatching. Parents are scrambling to keep feeding these hungry open mouths.

For bird parents this means finding bugs, caterpillars, spiders, etc. in the quickest, most efficient manner.

A yard with lots of native plants can help bird families grow, prosper and survive.

Birds need bugs that are familiar to them, which are found on native plants.

If you have a plant with no bug nibbles, then that plant isn’t helping wildlife, especially our resident and our migrating birds.

Black-capped Chickadee feeding young
Photo by Doug Parrott
A yard that has been sprayed with pesticides reduces the available food sources, and even if a bird does find bugs, the bugs may have enough poison to kill the baby bird, and maybe even the parent, which could result in the death of the whole family.

Herbicides are harmful to birds, especially robins, and sparrows, since these birds forage on the ground a lot. 
Herbicides will get on their feet, into their nests, and on worms, spiders, beetles, and other bugs found on/in the ground. 
Poisons kill blindly, and baby birds are very susceptible, since they are small, young and eating only food brought by the parents.

Purple Martin feeding young
Photo by Kim Stark
Pesticides, and herbicides are causing bees to die at alarming rates. Several pesticides have been banned in Europe, but still sold here.

February, 2018, a major report from the European Union’s scientific risk assessors (Efsa) concluded that the high risk to both honeybees and wild bees resulted from any outdoor use, because the pesticides contaminate soil and water.

This leads to the pesticides appearing in wildflowers or succeeding crops. A recent study of honey samples revealed global contamination by neonicotinoids.” The Guardian (April 27 2018)

Long-acting herbicides contaminate ground water before breaking up — the longer the advertised effect, the more likely it will get into our streams and into our lakes and the Sound and kill water plants. Local creeks, like Thornton and McAleer have measurable amounts of herbicides when tested.

Yellow Warbler with small caterpillar
Glyphosphate, usually sold as Roundup, is non-selective, and kills all plants it touches (including milkweeds needed by Monarch Butterflies).

On a windy day, drifting spray can kill plants nearby. Roses are especially vulnerable.

These two groups of poisons are this generation’s DDT.

Without bees and other pollinators there will be no crops.

Without bugs and their food plants there will be massive bird extinctions.

Mulch and pull weeds — don’t poison. Don't help cause a Silent Spring.


Read more...

Services Saturday for Dr. Bill Forney

William R. Forney, M.D.
1931-2018
Services will be held Saturday, June 2, 2018, 11am at First Lutheran Church of Richmond Beach, 18354 8th Ave NW, for Dr. Bill Forney, 54 year Shoreline resident and founder of the Richmond Pediatric Clinic.

After medical school at the University of Cincinnati, he accepted a commission in the U.S. Navy where he completed a residency in pediatrics in Philadelphia. He met and married his first wife Esther there, a marriage which lasted 53 years until her death.

In 1964 they moved to Shoreline where he began a private practice. Soon after, he founded the Richmond Pediatric Clinic where he was a beloved practitioner for the next 41 years.

He retired as Captain from the U.S. Navy reserves in 1977.

Involved in the community, he was active in the Shoreline Rotary for 50 years, including two terms as President.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Seattle Children's Hospital.


Read more...

Shoreline Resident Joe Campagna running for District Court Judge

Joe Campagna, candidate for
Shoreline District Court Judge
Shoreline resident Joe Campagna has filed for election to an open seat on the Shoreline District Court bench. Joe has been campaigning for the position since last December and has a campaign website with a list of more than 45 area judges and many local elected officials who have endorsed his candidacy.

Among his supporters are retiring Rep. Ruth Kagi, Rep. Cindy Ryu, Sen. Maralyn Chase, and Shoreline City Council Members Doris McConnell, Keith Scully, and Susan Chang. Mayor David Baker and Deputy Mayor Nigel Herbig of Kenmore are also supporting Campagna’s election to the Court. His website shows that he has been rated “exceptionally well qualified” for a position on the District Court bench by five independent Bar Associations.

Joe is currently a trial lawyer with the Seattle law firm Schroeter Goldmark and Bender and has tried criminal cases in both state and federal courts and also serves as a Judge Pro Tem in the King County District Courts and Lake Forest Park Municipal Court. He serves as a board member for Washington Appleseed, an organization that mobilizes volunteer attorneys to level the playing field for Washington’s vulnerable and marginalized populations. Joe is also a Shoreline Rotary member.

In talking about his campaign, Joe said, “I believe I have the right experience to be a great judge for our community -- and the drive and energy to work on making our court system more fair and efficient for everyone. I know the things our district courts are doing well, and I know where we need to improve. If I have the privilege of serving the people as a King County District Court Judge, I promise to work hard to make our court the best it can possibly be — more open to the public, more fair to those who can’t afford an attorney, and more efficient in the way we handle the taxpayers’ money.”

Joe lives in the North City neighborhood with his wife Margaretta, and their two children, Mira and David.


Read more...

Letter to the Editor: LFP Cluster Housing vote defies previous council agreement

To the Editor:

It is now clear who is behind the effort to allow multi-family development on a large percentage of LFP properties.

At the May 24th LFP Council meeting there was one councilwoman and Mayor who were absent thus three members on Council used the absentee circumstance to push through a vote to retain the contested ordinance for Cluster Housing. This action was in defiance to the agreement made in the previous work session by all Council which was to request an extensive review and recommendations for all LFP housing development by the Planning Commission and to allow sufficient time and purpose to inform all citizens of the impacts of Cluster Housing and other housing development options. Only after those issues were addressed in meetings open to the public would Council then consider creating a new ordinance.

The three council who voted to push ahead without further review of Cluster Housing development were: John Resha, Phillippa Kassover and Semra Riddle.

A number on Council who were denied the right to vote and numbers of citizens concerned over numerous inefficiencies of the existing Cluster Housing ordinance are requesting Mayor Johnson exercise his right of veto on the vote.

Jack Tonkin, Ned Lawson, Don Fiene (past councilmembers)
Lake Forest Park


Read more...

Shoreline’s 2018 Million Stair Challenge

The stairs at RB Saltwater Park
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Challenge yourself and compete against others in this free month long fitness event.

Did you know that stair climbing burns more calories per minute than jogging? The City of Shoreline invites you to take advantage of the many benefits of stair climbing by competing in the 7th Annual Million Stair Challenge. The month-long challenge starts on June 1 and encourages you, your family, and your friends to climb as many stairs as possible in the name of health, fitness, and friendly competition.

We started this popular health and fitness event in 2012 as a way to bring attention to the benefits of stair climbing. It also provided a great opportunity to draw people out to Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, famous for its sweeping view of Puget Sound and its large bank of 188 steps leading up from the water.

You can climb the stairs at Saltwater Park or anywhere else you choose, including at work or home or at your favorite climbing spot in or outside of Shoreline. There is no need to sign up, just log your total flights each day in the online tracking system and see your totals and standings posted in real time on the website.

Along with creating some friendly competition, you are encouraged to set a personal goal for the month, with small prizes awarded if you reach your goal. At the end of the challenge, we invite all participants to a closing potluck on Saturday, June 30 at 6:30pm at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, 2021 NW 190th St. Bring a dish to share and join us at the picnic shelter located at the bottom of the stairs. We will award prizes to participants who make their climbing goals.

More details on the Million Stair Challenge HERE or contact Recreation Specialist Marianne Johnson at 206-801-2638 or mjohnson@shorelinewa.gov.



Read more...

Global Affairs presents: Smiles Forever in Bolivia


Smiles Forever IV
Continuing the Tradition of Service-Learning in Bolivia

Katie Fleming
Dental Hygiene Program
Shoreline Community College

Tuesday, May 29, 2018
12:30-1:30 PM
Shoreline Community College


Shoreline Dental Hygiene faculty and students began a tradition in 2011 of providing practical work support at the first and only dental hygiene school in Cochabamba, Bolivia.

They learned many things, including how simple healthcare practices can make a difference in impoverished communities.

2018 will be the fourth year of offering this service-learning opportunity to Shoreline students and other students in other colleges. Katie Fleming, second-year instructor in Shoreline’s dental program and leader of the Smiles Forever team, along with a group of students, will discuss past and future programs.

This event is open to the public and FREE. However, in order to help better prepare, we ask you to register that you plan to attend. Click here, then click again on Sign Up. To receive email confirmation, you must provide your email address. Your email address will not be shared with others.

Small fee for parking on campus before 4:00pm.

Presented by ….
Global Affairs Center, Shoreline Community College

Additional support from ….
Center for Global Studies, Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies, University of Washington

Shoreline Community College is committed to nondiscrimination. To request disability accommodations, contact Services for Students with Disabilities at last ten days in advance (206-546-445, 205-546-4520 TTY, ssd@shoreline.edu).



Read more...

Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Memorial Day

Sunday, May 27, 2018



Memorial Day or Decoration Day is a federal holiday in the United States to remember the people who died while serving in the country's armed forces - Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.

Memorial Day is not to be confused with Veterans Day. Memorial Day is a day of remembering the men and women who died while serving, whereas Veterans Day celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans. It is also not to be confused with Armed Forces Day, a minor U.S. remembrance celebrated earlier in May, which specifically honors those currently serving in the U.S. military.

--Information from Wikipedia



Read more...

Heroes' Cafe holds Memorial Service for fallen servicemen and women

Traditional Boots and Helmet
of the fallen were on display
Text and photos by Jerry Pickard

On Tuesday, May 22, 2018 the Heroes' Cafe held memorial services for our fallen heroes from WWII, Korea, Vietnam and conflicts up to the present.

Heroes' Cafe is composed of veterans from all branches of service and meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month in Lynnwood.

In this month's meeting fallen heroes were recognized and remembered.

Dwight Stevens WWII B-17 pilot, showed a picture of a friend who was shot down over Europe and talked about him.

Gary Walderman, Vietnam veteran, also showed a picture of a friend who didn't make it back and talked about him.


Many members stood and told of friends and relatives lost in conflicts in far off places.


A wreath was presented in honor of all the fallen.

The Heroes' Cafe gives veterans a place to come together monthly for fellowship, to exchange information, and enjoy each other's company. 

They meet in the Verdant Building at 4710 196th St. SW in Lynnwood WA from 9:00am until 1:00pm. 



Read more...

ADD and Loving It - Eastside CHADD meets June 5

Eastside CHADD will show a movie about ADHD "ADD and Loving It" at their Tuesday, June 5, 2018 meeting from 7-9pm. Doors open at 6:30pm.

This movie features the well-known Canadian comedian, Patrick McKenna, who brings his wit and humor to the exploration of his own diagnosis of ADHD. Rick Green, the writer, actor, and comedian of the Red Green show, wrote and directed this documentary. Audience: Older teens and adults.

They will also show a special short about waiting and executive function.

More information about meetings HERE

NOTE: due to a scheduling conflict this meeting will be held the FIRST Tuesday of June at a NEW meeting location at Lake Washington Institute of Technology. Park in the West Parking Lot.
11605 132nd Ave NE, Kirkland, WA 98034.

DIRECTIONS :
From Southbound I-405
Head south on I-405, take exit 20 (124th St).
Turn left on NE 124th Street at end of exit ramp. Go over the freeway.
At the third stoplight (Totem Lake Blvd) turn right.
At the first stoplight, turn left onto 120th Street.
Go through light (Slater Ave) and up the hill.
The school is on your right.



Read more...

Training with Rep. Pramila Jayapal: How to be an Organizer

US Representative Pramila Jayapal (D-WA 7th District) is hosting a training event for those interested in learning about progressive community organizing.

Join in on seminars, workshops, and presentations run by local activists and longtime friends of Rep. Jayapal's campaign. From canvassing 101 to developing your personal accountability process, you’ll have opportunities to reflect on why you’re engaged in movement work and sign up to volunteer to use your on-the-ground expertise. There will be opportunities to learn the basics of canvassing, how to develop a personal story that dovetails with Pramila's, and the essential structure of a grassroots organizing model.

Join the Congresswoman and team at the Phinney Neighborhood Center on June 16, 2018 from 10am to 2pm to learn how to use your hands, heart, and feet to build movements for justice and win progressive victories.

--Jose Luis Gandara




Read more...

Crime in Shoreline week ending 5-7-2018 - someone's setting up a tool shop

Photo by Steven H. Robinson
Selected items from the Shoreline Police blotter, week ending May 7, 2018

Trending: Mental breakdowns requiring intervention; physical altercations between relatives and friends (kicking, shoving, choking, punching); tool thefts; car prowls.

04-29 Title and paperwork stolen from unlocked vehicle in driveway on N 163rd.
04-29 Mentally unstable female being evicted from house under construction attacked officer.
04-29 Power tools stolen from locked canopy of truck at 178xx 5th NE.
04-29 Person in North City Safeway parking lot taken for involuntary mental evaluation.
04-29 Package stolen from porch 145xx 26th found at neighbor's house.
04-29 Jewelry stolen from public storage locker at 14900 Aurora.
04-30 Large amount of tools stolen from construction site at Shoreline library.
05-01 Pistol stolen from vehicle parked at Office Max.
05-01 Tools, batteries, and cleaning supplies stolen from vehicles at Fircrest.
05-01 Tools stolen from work van parked at 175th Aurora Walgreens.
05-01 Theft from Y locker after lock was cut off.
05-01 Tools stolen from construction site at 172nd and Aurora.
05-01 Tools stolen from unlocked vehicle at residence on N 192nd.
05-01 Two suspects shoplift $100 worth of diapers from North City Walgreens.
05-02 Storage unit burglarized at Echo Lake apartments.
05-02 CPS asked for police to do a child welfare check. Officers found that kids had been wrestling.
05-02 Mother takes away 14 year old daughter's cell phone for skipping school; daughter kicks mother and leaves.
05-03 Condo resident alerts police to vehicle in parking lot with unconscious occupants. Drug overdose.
05-03 Illegal grow operation at 16th Ave NE.
05-03 House burglarized 160xx 6th NE.
05-03 Storage unit at Ballinger Commons broken into.
05-04 Two males arrested after being found inside a storage locker (not their own) which had been forced open at Ballinger Commons.
05-04 Tools stolen from construction site after lock cut on utility truck at 179xx Fremont.
05-04 Officer responding to a disturbance in apartment at Linden Highlands discovered 24 year old male and his juvenile runaway 14 year old girlfriend both had arrest warrants.
05-04 Driver referred to DOL for reevaluation after suffering a seizure while driving.
05-04 Checks recovered in Everett probably stolen from a Shoreline mailbox.
05-05 Male blocked the door of a Metro bus and refused to leave.
05-05 Commercial alcohol party in residential neighborhood at 18xx N 204th Pl. Entrepreneur holds party, charges admission, and serves alcohol to minors. Neighbors complain about noise.
05-05 Warrant suspect found in Echo Lake Park after dark turned over to Sno County Sheriff.
05-06 Person living in shed on property in unsanitary condition: bottles of urine, rotten food, garbage, and a heater.
05-06 Arrest made of suspect who slashed a female's tires and sprayed water into her house.



Read more...

Peter Stark presents his biography of the Young Washington on Wednesday at Third Place Books

Peter Stark reads from his new book, Young Washington, about our nation's first president, Wednesday, May 30, 2018 at 7pm at Third Place Books, upper level Town Center, intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way.

With powerful narrative drive and vivid writing, bestselling author Peter Stark presents a new, brash, and unexpected view of the president we thought we knew.

Young Washington: How Wilderness and War Forged America’s Founding Father. (Ecco/HarperCollins)

Two decades before he led America to independence, George Washington was a flailing young soldier serving the British Empire in the vast wilderness of the Ohio Valley. Naive and self-absorbed, the twenty-two-year-old officer accidentally ignited the French and Indian War — a conflict that opened colonists to the possibility of an American Revolution.

Enduring terrifying summer storms and subzero winters imparted resilience and self-reliance, helping prepare him for what he would one day face at Valley Forge. Leading the Virginia troops into battle taught him to set aside his own relentless ambitions and stand in solidarity with those who looked to him for leadership. Negotiating military strategy with British and colonial allies honed his diplomatic skills.

Author Peter Stark
By weaving together Washington’s harrowing wilderness adventures and a broader historical context, Young Washington offers new insights into the dramatic years that shaped the man who shaped a nation.

Peter Stark, author of Astoria, is an adventure and exploration writer and historian. Born in Wisconsin, he studied English and anthropology at Dartmouth College, took a master’s in journalism from the University of Wisconsin, and headed off to the remote spots of the world writing magazine articles and books.



Read more...

Shorecrest girls tennis team places 4th in state

Shorecrest sent six players to State for tennis. From left Sophie Ivens, Bella Saunders,
Kate Ivens, Ben Silber, Faiz Khan, Reed Tangeman, Coach Rob Mann 

The end of the tennis season concluded with the State Tournament at the Tri-City Court Club and Kamiakin High School in Kennewick, WA on 5/24-5/25. Shorecrest qualified a boy singles, boy doubles, a girl singles, and a girl doubles team. The team represented Shorecrest well, playing with heart through every point and showing class both on and off the court.

Every Shorecrest player played three full matches the first day with the first match starting at 8:30am and the last match ending at 6:00pm. It was a whirlwind of nonstop Shorecrest Tennis throughout the day. All the girls won two matches on the first day, so they made it to the coveted Day 2.

Kate Ivens placed 8th in singles

Kate Ivens placed 8th in her first State Tournament as a freshman, playing fundamental tennis and hitting beautiful groundstrokes. She will be a force to be reckoned with on the court next year.

Bella Saunders and Sophie Ivens placed 7th in doubles

Bella Saunders and Sophie Ivens placed 7th with big serves and solid returns. They faced some tough competition and showed a great amount of resilience. In their third match they have to overcome two match points in favor of Gig Harbor in the 3rd set tiebreak. They found a way to hold on and take the lead for good in the three-hour saga. This was Bella’s second year at State and Sophie’s first.

As a team, the girls walked away with a 4th place finish. This is the first time ever that the Shorecrest Girls Tennis Team has won a team award.

Faiz Khan had to serve underhand at the tournament due to some unforeseen circumstances in his second year at state. He remained in good spirits and still battled and once he got into a baseline rally, he would dominate with powerful forehand groundstrokes. The tournament didn’t go as well he would like, but he is motivated and excited to get back to State next year.

Ben Silber and Reed Tangeman worked on shaking off the cobwebs in the first match, but really pulled it together by the second match. Reed had his kick serve dialed in and Ben continued to rip forehands that gave their opponents fits.

It has been an amazing season and the future bodes well for Shorecrest tennis since everyone should be returning next year.

Shorecrest State Tennis Results

Kate Ivens (SC)

Lost to Addie Ecklund (Interlake) 6-0, 6-1
Defeated Christina Prieto (Stadium) 6-2, 6-2
Defeated Shreya Batra (Mountain View) 6-1, 6-0
Lost to Melina Nguyen (Lincoln) 6-4, 6-3

Sophie Ivens/Bella Saunders (SC)

Defeated Lena Janson/Sara Mayer (Peninsula) 6-3, 6-2
Lost to Aya Igaki-Meader/Emma Silber (Lakeside) 7-6(4), 6-0
Defeated Joyce Park/Ally Ivester (Gig Harbor) 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (8)
Lost to Tessa Tamongkoi./Julia Hasbrook (Bellevue) 6-1, 6-3

Faiz Khan (SC)

Lost to Tyler Feldbush (Central Kitsap) 6-1, 6-2
Defeated Mikay Ye (Wilson) 6-1, 6-1
Lost to Ranjan Sharangpani (Capital) 2-6, 6-0, 6-2

Ben Silber/Reed Tangeman (SC)

Lost to Garrett Merz/Leyton Peterson (Stadium)
Defeated Josh Kim/Lu Abuizza (Mountain View) 6-1, 6-1
Lost to Aaron Yun/Alex Blattner (Seattle Prep) 6-0, 6-3

--Robert Mann



Read more...

Shorewood tennis players represent the community at state tournament

Coach Arnie Moreno, Gunnar Thorstenson, Andrew Counter, Steven Lin
at state tennis tournament

Gunnar Thorstenson, Andrew Counter and Steven Lin traveled to Kennewick to play in the WIAA 3A State Tennis Tournament on May 25th and May 26th. Counter and Lin started the tournament early in the morning at 8:30am. They faced a tough tournament draw in Mercer Island. They lost a close 4-6, 5-7 match. Their next opponent also came from the Metro league in a doubles team from Seattle Prep. They lost another tough match 3-6, 6-7. Counter and Lin played extremely well against two top Seattle Metro tennis schools. Mercer Island and Seattle Prep went on to place in the top eight.

Gunnar Thorstenson
at state tennis tournament
Shorewood's Thorstenson came in to the tournament as last year's fourth placer in state and faced an opponent from Garfield high school. Thorstenson lost a close match but came back to win his next two matches versus Gig Harbor and Stadium. He faced an old foe from Capitol High School in his next medal match. He faced this opponent in last year's state tournament and lost a close match.

Thorstenson started the match with a convincing and impressive victory with a first set 6-3 win. The second set he found himself down 2-5. He was able to change the match momentum with a very effective powerful serve and volley game. He was able to get the match to a 6-6 tie and into a set tiebreaker. He lost the tiebreaker 4-7 to set up a third set that would decide the difference between 5 and 8th place.

The deciding third set was an action packed match featuring amazing shot making from both players. There were many momentum changes and leads. Thorstenson battled to a 5-4 lead and a chance to win the match on his serve. The Capitol opponent, to his credit, refused to give up and broke Thorstenson's serve and then held his serve for a 7-5 victory.

Senior Thorstenson ended his high school career as a three time state competitor and two time state placer, 4th in 2017 and 8th in 2018. Throughout the tournament, the Shorewood T-Birds played tennis at a high level and displayed great sportsmanship in wins and losses. The T-Birds tennis players were outstanding representatives of the Shorewood community.

--Arnie Moreno


Read more...

Shoreline is first Community College to offer #YouAreWelcomeHere scholarship

Shoreline Community College campus

Shoreline Community College, together with Temple University, leader of the widespread #YouAreWelcomeHere social media campaign to encourage international students to study in the United States, and seven other U.S. college and university partners, is launching a national scholarship program for incoming international students for fall 2019.

The other partners include Concordia College (Minnesota), Eastern Michigan University, James Madison University (Virginia), University of Minnesota – Twin Cities, Purdue University Northwest (Indiana), Seattle University, and Western New England University (Massachusetts).

Visual arts center
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

This new scholarship will provide financial support for incoming international students who are committed to furthering the #YouAreWelcomeHere message through intercultural exchange that bridges divides at their future campuses and beyond.

“Shoreline Community College is proud to be the first community college to help launch the #YouAreWelcomeHere scholarship, advancing our College’s commitment to all students and embracing our global interconnectedness,” said President Cheryl Roberts, Ed.D.

Admin building
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Participating colleges and universities will offer an annual, renewable scholarship that covers a minimum of 50 percent of recipients’ tuition.

“The #YouAreWelcomeHere campaign has built new bridges of goodwill between U.S. higher education and students worldwide,” said Jessica Sandberg, Temple University’s director of international admissions and campaign spokesperson. 
“This scholarship is our way of meeting students halfway across that bridge. It advances the campaign through meaningful action, adding concrete support for international students to our already well-received message and providing those students with a way to expand the conversation.”

1200 building
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

Shoreline Community College is pleased to recognize international students who have a vision for increasing understanding between different cultures. Shoreline will award a scholarship covering 50% of college-level tuition to two students for two years. The scholarship is open to all international student applicants in F-1 status who attended high school overseas, and the award may be applied to all areas of college-level study (i.e. excluding ESL or pre-college coursework).

“Especially in the wake of the anti-immigrant rhetoric coming from our policy leaders, it’s vital that U.S. institutions find ways to make international students and scholars feel welcome and valued on our campuses and in our communities,” stated Esther D. Brimmer, executive director and CEO of NAFSA: Association of International Educators. 
“We need more programs like this one that encourage international students to choose the United States as their study destination. Investing in international education will ensure our nation remains globally competitive and engaged, and I am heartened to see the U.S. higher education community take a proactive stance in this effort.”

Fountain by library
Photo by Diane Hettrick

The #YouAreWelcomeHere scholarship program has early commitments from several universities, and Sandberg expects that many more will join in the coming months. “We hope other colleges and universities will see the scholarship announcement as a call to action,” Sandberg said, outlining her vision for broad participation among U.S. higher education institutions.

Following expressions of apprehension by some international students about studying in the U.S., in November 2016, Temple University expanded the #YouAreWelcomeHere hashtag into an international campaign to ensure that international students at U.S. universities and colleges feel welcome in the United States.



Read more...

Flags at half-staff: Memorial Day

Governor Inslee hereby directs that Washington State and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff on Monday, May 28, 2018, in recognition of Memorial Day.

This federal holiday is in remembrance of the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. 

Flags should remain at half-staff until noon on May 28 or first thing Tuesday morning, May 29, 2018.

Other government entities, citizens and businesses are encouraged to join this recognition.

Please call 360-902-0383 if you have any questions about this flag lowering.


Read more...

Photos: Peonies

Saturday, May 26, 2018

Photo by Lee Lageschulte


Peonies have enough petals in each blossom to adorn an entire bush.

Overachievers.




Read more...

Death notices as of May 25, 2018

Obituaries are condensed biographies of people's lives, written by the people who loved them.

Like a memorial service, they tell us things we may not have known about the person, and may leave us wishing we had known them better.

Obituaries extracted from The Seattle Times

Eleanor (Ann) Gordon 1921-2018 Worked for years in Human Resources at the Fircrest School. Services were held at St. Mark Catholic church and interment at Holyrood.

Verena "Rena" Rose Britz 1925-2018 Services at St. Mark Catholic church for Shoreline resident who died in her sleep after a long illness. After her children were raised and her husband died, she spent the next 22 years traveling the world. She was an avid skier and hiker well into her 80s.

Lynell Diane Matsen 1955-2018 Services at Berean Bible Church for Gold Bar resident.

Leona Ruth Bus 1943-2018 She and husband Donald moved to Lake Forest Park 58 years ago. She died at home with her family by her side.

Marilyn Grey Died April 30, 2018 "Marilyn led a big, full life in many guises. She was a psychologist, a civil rights activist, a songwriter, a storyteller, a generous humanitarian, and an all-round amazing human being." Co-author of "It's All in Your Head" about enhancing the functionality of our right brains and creativity. A celebration of her life will be held at the Shoreline Unitarian Universalist Church on August 4.



Read more...

Obituary: Robert Joseph "Bob" Monks 1926-2018

Robert Joseph "Bob" Monks
1926-2018
Robert Joseph "Bob" Monks passed away on May 16, 2018. He was 91 years old. He was born in Red Lake, Minnesota on December 17, 1926, one of five children to Joseph and Rosella Monks.

He attended Chiloquin High School in Oregon and later served with the US Army in World War II in the Philippines. Bob graduated from the University of Portland in 1952 with a BS in Civil Engineering. He earned his Professional Engineering Certificate in 1964.

Bob and his wife Barbara (Burke) were married on June 19, 1954. They were married for 64 years. They had 7 children and lived in Shoreline for 30 years. Bob was employed by Pacific Northwest Bell Telephone Company for 32 years as a Professional Civil Engineer, where he worked on the design and construction of many major buildings in Seattle.

After his retirement in 1987, he worked for the Edmonds School District on the construction of the Edmonds Woodway High School Stadium. They built a house on Liberty Bay in Poulsbo, WA. and moved there in 1993. Bob volunteered on the construction of the Poulsbo Library and at the St. Vincent DePaul. He was a member of St. Luke Parish in Shoreline and St. Olaf Parish in Poulsbo.

Bob is survived by his wife Barbara and their six children: Joe Monks (Heather Lavin), Eileen Reza (Joe), Anne Monks, Casey Steinke (Mike), Patty Tomsett (Charlie), Bob Monks (Jacquie), and their 12 grandchildren: Kiel Monks, Josh Monks, Matthew Reza, Megan Reza, Mark Reza, Joel Steinke, Emma Tomsett, Claire Tomsett, Makenna Monks, Ellie Monks, Connor Monks and Annie Monks. Bob was preceded in death by his son Tom in January 2018.

His lifelong passions included fishing, hunting, investing and finance, watching Mariners games and spending time with his family and grandchildren. We will all miss Bob’s encouraging words, his gentle and caring nature and wonderful sense of humor.

A memorial service will be held June 4, 2018 at 11:00 AM at St. Luke’s Parish, 322 N. 175th St. Shoreline WA 98133. Condolences may be sent to the Monks Family, Woodland Terrace, 17502 102nd Ave. N.E. #329, Bothell, WA. 98011.



Read more...

SIFF films continue through the week at Shoreline Community College Theatre

The Seattle International Film Festival continues its showings at the Shoreline Community College Theatre during the week, starting with four films on Monday.

The theater is on campus at 16101 Greenwood Ave N. Free parking on campus evenings, weekends, and holidays.


Schedule for Monday through Thursday, May 28 - 31:


Monday, May 28, 2018 | Shoreline | 1:00 PM
Moomins and the Winter Wonderland

Sweden's beloved Rankin/Bass-style stop motion Christmas special features the adorable fuzzy hippopotamus-like creatures the Moomins, who wake one morning to discover that winter has come to their peaceful valley. This new English-language version features the voices of Alicia Vikander and Bill and Stellan Skarsgård.

Monday, May 28, 2018 | Shoreline | 3:15 PM
Freaks and Geeks: The Documentary

The creators and cast of the beloved and critically acclaimed show reunite to explore how their tale of high school's losers, weirdos, and outcasts was axed by network executives after only one season, yet still launched many of today's biggest stars.

Monday, May 28, 2018 | Shoreline | 5:30 PM
Cook Off

A Zimbabwean single mother and amateur cook competes in a televised cooking competition in the hopes of a better life for her son and in defiance of her own overbearing mom.

Monday, May 28, 2018 | Shoreline | 8:15 PM
Streaker

In this bawdy, warm-hearted, uproariously entertaining romp, a cash-strapped teacher and his bookie/barber come up with a brilliant idea: Instead of betting on soccer matches, why not collect bets on the length of time streakers can stay on the field?

Tuesday, May 29, 2018 | Shoreline | 6:30 PM
Amateurs

In this irresistible comedy, a sleepy Swedish province hopes to lure a discount store chain by hiring a pompous commercial director to document their town's worthiness, but two bright, brash high school girls from immigrant families use their cellphones and selfie sticks to tell the real story.

Tuesday, May 29, 2018| Shoreline | 9:00 PM
The Russian Five

Sports and politics clash in this compelling historical documentary about five Russian hockey stars who defected to America to join the Detroit Red Wings in the 1980s, leading to the team's back-to-back Stanley Cup championships.

Wednesday, May 30, 2018 | Shoreline | 6:30 PM
Prospect

On a remote moon, a teenage girl and her father search for elusive alien gems. But they aren't the only ones roaming the moon's toxic forest in this lean, locally made sci-fi western about survival and wanting to get home.

Wednesday, May 30, 2018 |Shoreline | 9:00 PM
Industrial Accident - The Story of Wax Trax! Records

Join Jim Nash and Dannie Flesher on a trip through the '80s underground as their revolutionary Chicago record store transforms into the pioneering label that launched industrial music icons Ministry, Front 242, My Life With the Thrill Kill Kult, and many more.

Thursday May 31, 2018 | Shoreline | 6:30 PM
Cuban Food Stories

A Cuban-American filmmaker returns to his native country on an exotic culinary road trip to discover the authentic flavors suffusing the island, and the rich cultural traditions behind them, from the bustle of high end dining in Havana to the distinctive cuisines of remote regions, some of which are in danger of becoming a lost art.

Thursday, May 31, 2018 | Shoreline | 8:30 PM
A Rough Draft

Action-packed, mind-bending adventure awaits a videogame designer after he is stripped of his identity and recruited by a mysterious force to be the gatekeeper of a multi-dimensional portal in this Russian science-fiction thriller from the makers of Battle of Sevastopol. Ages 15+



Read more...

Op-Ed: Council Vice-Chair urges Mayor to veto LFP Conservation Cluster Housing ordinance

Tom French
Tom French is Lake Forest Park City Council Vice-Chair and 49-year LFP resident

By Tom French

I am urging Mayor Johnson to veto the recently amended and passed Lake Forest Park Conservation Cluster Housing ordinance.

Despite a clear understanding at a recent Committee of the Whole meeting that the Council supported a path of repealing the Conservation Cluster Housing ordinance, a few council members took advantage of my good will and an unusual situation and passed the amended, but deeply flawed, Conservation Cluster Housing Ordinance.

I would have voted Thursday night to repeal the Conservation Cluster Housing ordinance.

Mayor Johnson was absent from the meeting and attending an FBI training session and Deputy Mayor Stanford was seriously ill and needed to rest. As a result, as Vice-Chair of the Council, the duty fell upon me to act in their stead and chair the Council meeting. By rule, I am not allowed to comment during discussion, nor am I allowed to vote in the proceedings, as the Mayor himself is constrained from doing.

I can assure you, I had a lot to say, but out of deep respect for the institution and its rules, I kept silent.

The Conservation Cluster Housing ordinance is supposed to do two things:

Firstly and foremost, (and the most important aspect) it is supposed to protect the environment; and

Secondly, it adds an additional housing option to the mix for those seeking to join our community or for others looking to downsize from an existing home in our city.

I am afraid that that I am not convinced that either would be accomplished under the present, amended ordinance.

While the CCH idea potentially has merit in the broader picture of housing in Lake Forest Park, the public process has been poorly managed and the amended ordinance itself is fraught with unknowns and unintended consequences. City Planning staff themselves have struggled to provide clear, cohesive examples of the various scenarios that could play out under the ordinance.

I stated publicly at the outset of the CCH discussion in early 2017 that I was deeply concerned about the CCH discussion happening under the umbrella of the Critical Areas Ordinance update and that there was the potential “for unintended consequences.”

Well, here we are, yet again.

The citizens of Lake Forest Park deserve better.

I urge Mayor Johnson to exercise his veto powers and encourage my colleagues to have a real conversation about the Conservation Cluster Housing ordinance with all Council Members present.

I look forward to an open and civil discussion about the community’s housing needs with my colleagues and the community.



Read more...

Lake Forest Park City Council approves city-wide Conservation Cluster Housing (CCH)

By Donna Hawkey

On Thursday, May 24, 2018 the Lake Forest Park City Council, by a three to two quorum vote, passed updated Conservation Cluster Housing Ordinance 1174 with one additional technical amendment.

It all created more concerns for residents that LFP now has a “band-aid” type ordinance for a significant housing change.

While all Councilmembers agree that Ordinance 1174 is not a perfect solution, not all agreed that it should pass. The ordinance now allows any residential property in LFP with over one acre or more in lot size to build Conservation Cluster Housing (CCH).

LFP residents have spoken quite loudly that this type of housing, which encourages more population density, is a concern in a City that already struggles with the ability to provide the essential services to its residents due to a lack of commercial tax base. However, stronger density is needed in LFP to support a commercial base, so the coyote is always chasing its tail.

Also, when LFP streets were first platted, they followed the natural curve of the land and with many blind and narrow turns and lack of sidewalks, adding density without safety features in place is not seen as a prudent thing to do.

Residents are already experiencing almost grid-locked arterial streets at rush hour. Many wonder how the roads can accommodate higher capacity, and where will more cars park as the CCH ordinance only requires one parking spot per unit? Councilmember Semra Riddle noted that those citizen concerns are all being well-addressed in the City’s Safe Street-Safe Highway initiatives.

There is no budget approval yet for this costly undertaking, so some residents are wondering – will Sound Transit 3 help bring the necessary funds for such plans? No one has those answers as of yet, and residents have not seen a commitment that ensures safer streets and highway at this point.

Councilmembers Kassover, Resha, and Riddle were the three 'yes' votes that passed Ordinance 1174. Councilmember Kassover expressed concerns about the increase the City sees in short plat permit applications with larger square footage homes being built that look out of character for LFP. “Short Plat” is LFP’s current short subdivision of land into four or fewer property lots. She believes that conservation cluster housing is a better option than the current short plat home building choice.

With CCH she believes LFP can better protect the tree canopy, provide for a range of diversity / affordability of housing, and retain more of the LFP character. For instance, in CCH, the setback requirement for building is 15 feet. In the City’s short plat ordinance, the setback requirement is only 5 feet.

Residents also wonder why the City can’t then update the short plat ordinance to incorporate greater setbacks and restrictions instead of offering another housing choice? Some cities restrict the size of homes that can be built on a single family lot to help maintain neighborhood character.

Other residents, as well as Councilmember John Wright, feel that the current tree canopy and critical tree ordinance updates address previous short plat development and environmental destruction issues. The CCH Ordinance could be a redundant effort for City Staff already burdened with a heavy workload.

Ordinance 1174 is “not a perfect solution,” stated Councilmember John Resha, and it would not impact current single-family zoning laws, even with duplex units included. Residents have expressed concerns that if zoning changes, property tax assessments for similar properties in that neighborhood or area could be assessed at higher rates due to new development potential.

It’s an idea with “good intentions but needs a more thorough approach,” said Councilmember Mark Phillips, who voted against the passage of Ordinance 1174. He has repeatedly questioned how CCH helps current LFP seniors who want to downsize and remain in the community they know and love. Many seniors show preference to move to a single floor home without stairs to age in place.

Councilmember Riddle said that CCH is not only for seniors who are “infirmed.” Stairs are not an issue to active seniors, she believes, and that CCH is more desirable to those whose primary concerns are with the continuation of maintaining a more extensive property.

One resident stated, after sitting through the Council Meeting on May 24th, that CCH, in theory, sounds like a great idea, but it does raise a lot of questions that have not been answered. Other dedicated residents gathered solemnly after the vote passed to discuss whether a lawsuit by the residents is feasible.

Councilmember John Wright stated that he does agree that CCH will not negatively affect property values. He believes LFP will always be an expensive place to live due to its proximity to Seattle, the fastest growing City in America, and that there is no such thing as affordable housing in LFP anymore.

But Councilmember Wright went on to say that he is mainly concerned about the voices of the “people who do live here and not the people who don’t live here.” He said he understands the meaning of a transparent process. For many residents in LFP, this appeared to be an opaque process rather than a transparent one.

He also stated he senses the residents feel “threatened by this CCH ordinance,” as they are viewing it as possibly affecting their overall “quality of life.”

Councilmember and Vice-Chair Tom French oversaw this meeting in the absence of Deputy Mayor Catherine Stanford so he did not have the ability to vote on this ordinance. Councilmember French has stated in previous recent meetings that he felt the topic of CCH “warrants a robust resident discussion,” and that he can clearly see the need to gather the right data to make informed decisions going forward. He said it would be “good for us all of to take a big breath and start over in 2019” regarding this topic.

Mayor Jeff Johnson was absent from the May 24th meeting.

Donna Hawkey is an 21-year resident of Lake Forest Park and can be reached at dhawkey@comcast.net.


Read more...

Hie thee to the (Phoenix) Theatre for "The Foreigner"

Charlie (Boyd Morrison) and Froggy (Phillip Keiman)

Review by Luanne Brown
Photos by James Sipes

Hie* (yes, it’s a word) yourself to “The Foreigner” at Edmonds own Phoenix Theater

While “The Foreigner” isn’t by William Shakespeare, it does have some of the Bard’s most beautiful expressions in it. And like any good work of Shakespeare, playwright Larry Shue (July 23, 1946 – September 23, 1985) manages to tell a tale that while farcical in nature reveals deeper human truths.

The story goes like this: Charlie Baker (Boyd Morrison), a boring British science-fiction magazine editor, is spirited away to a rural retreat in Georgia. Apparently, Charlie is so boring, even his dying wife wanted him gone. When Charlie discovers his place of refuge is a lodge with other guests, he freaks out. He’s simply no good at talking to anyone about anything. His friend, Staff Sargent Froggy LeSueur (Phillip Keiman) concocts a cock-eyed story that Charlie doesn’t speak English, so he won’t be expected to participate in lodge-life.

This set-up leads to great hilarity as the other characters in this tale come on stage. While hostess, Betty Meeks (Melanie Calderwood) is no Betty Crocker, she has kindness in her heart and truly believes the louder she speaks to Charlie, the more he’ll understand.

Rev. Lee (David Bailey) and Catherine Simms (Debra Rich)
 
The unctuous Reverend David Marshall Lee (David Bailey) and his magnolia-blossom bride-to-be, Catherine Simms (Debra Rich) are less than welcoming to Charlie — at first. The Rev, although suspicious of Charlie, is more intrigued by Catherine’s inheritance and does everything he can to get Catherine to disinherit her seemingly-simpleton brother, Ellard Simms (James Lynch).

Charlie, desperate not to give up his charade, quickly learns not to respond to anything being said in front of him — even when he’s bullied by the likes of Owen Musser (Michael McFadden), a self-righteous official who wants to condemn Betty Meeks’ lodge for his own darker purposes. 

And as they say, hijinks ensue, fueled by the chasm between our penchant to fear what (and who) we don’t know and our infallible tendency (thank goodness!) toward compassion and love. Given our times, this play makes the case for compassion — toward others and ourselves — which is a refreshing lesson, indeed.

“The Foreigner” is the 10th season closer for Phoenix Theater which deserves kudos for its high production values, from the inviting set, fun costuming (especially Owen’s ‘what to wear to a KKK meeting outfit) to the top-notch acting and direction.

The cast is composed of equally strong actors, each with their own set of charms. Boyd Morrison (actor by night, New York Times best-selling author and former engineer by day) rendered his version of Charlie with boyish charm. While robbed of words, Morrison’s emotive facial expressions were nothing short of hilarious and communicated everything the audience needed to know without being over-the-top. His physical humor in the second act, as he tries to teach his new friends his ‘native (made-up) tongue’ was hilarious.

Owen (Michael McFadden) and Charlie (Boyd Morrison)

Michael McFadden as Owen played the perfect bully — mean as heck, until he gets his comeuppance which turns him into a coward. Debra Rich as Catherine was pitch-perfect in her part as a former deb who isn’t as dense as she thought, and Melanie Calderwood gave an endearing comedic portrayal of an older woman looking for a family to love. James Lynch was poignant as Ellard, who has lived down to expectations his whole life — until someone sees him for the sweetheart he really is. David Bailey as Catherine’s fiancé makes you want to stand up and shout — “Don’t marry the creep.” Phillip Keiman as Froggy handled his part winningly and left this member of the audience wishing that he had more time on stage.

Shout-outs also go to director Eric Lewis, who managed the laughter-inducing moments (there were many), with a skilled hand so that lines weren’t drowned out by audience guffaws. There’s a lot happening on stage — and it was deftly handled. 

Ellard Simms (James Lynch) and Charles (Boyd Morrison)

The playwright, who sadly died too young, also deserves words of praise. Like the most skillful horticulturalist, Shue planted personality quirks, lines of dialogue, and plot points in exactly the right place within the dramatic structure of the play and brought them into bloom at exactly the right time. Especially enjoyable was Charlie Baker’s background as a science fiction editor, which he put to good use at the story’s climax making this play a true garden of comedic delights.

Having such high-quality, affordable theater in our own backyard is truly a gift. I haven’t laughed so much for way too long. Please, do yourself a favor — go see “The Foreigner.”

Show dates: May 25-June 17, 2018
Show times: Friday and Saturday evenings at 8pm, Sunday matinees at 2pm
Location: The Phoenix Theatre, 9673 Firdale Avenue, Edmonds, WA 98020

For tickets or information: online or by phone at 206-533-2000

There is plenty of free parking and ADA accessible access around the back of the building. Please call if you will need to use the back entrance or to have ADA seats reserved.

*Go in haste; speed


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

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

Back to TOP