LFP Rotary welcomed speaker from Seattle Education Access Nov 20

Saturday, November 23, 2019



President Robin Roat and Program Chair Phillippa Kassover of the Rotary Club of Lake Forest Park stand with speaker Katy Childers of Seattle Education Access (center)

Katy was the speaker at the November 20, 2019 meeting

The organization fills a much needed service by providing higher education advocacy and opportunity to young people struggling to overcome poverty and adversity throughout King County.

They help low-income young people with individualized support and advocacy as they navigate the complex systems of higher education and financial aid.

The Rotary Club of Lake Forest Park meets every Wednesday morning at 7:10am for breakfast at LFP Presbyterian Church on 17440 Brookside Boulevard NE.



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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: The word from the bird




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



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For the Birds: One in four birds have perished - but you can help

Wilson's Warbler looking for danger
Photo by Elaine Chuang
By Christine Southwick

Bird populations within the US and Canada have drastically declined by more than 2.9 billion birds across hundreds of species in just the last fifty years!

This list shows bird family losses:
  • 145 million FINCHES lost (including 6 out of 10 Purple Finches)
  • 182 million LARKS
  • 862 million SPARROWS (1 in 3 Dark-eyed Juncos have been lost)
  • 440 million Blackbirds (Red-winged Blackbird down one third of its population)
  • 618 million WOOD-Warblers (half of all Wilson’s Warblers are gone)

American Goldfinch feeding mate
Photo by Doug Parrott
What has caused these losses and what can we do to help change this deadly spiral?

The number one cause of these declines is destruction of bird-friendly habitat such as:

Large areas of habitat have been destroyed by large-scale farming which clears wide areas of all bushes, trees and hedgerows, including often filling-in inconveniently located wetlands 53% of our grassland birds have been lost as a result.

The clear-cutting of forests and roads bisecting dense forests has caused one billion forest birds to vanish since 1970 which is 29% of our Western Forest Birds.

Urban sprawl cutting down trees and paving over open fields needed for food, roosting and nesting.

Male Purple Finch
Photo by Christine Southwick


Action:
  • Keep as many trees in your yard as you can
  • Plant more trees
  • Plant native plants and shrubs
  • Don't use pesticides
  • Reduce lawns and fertilizers
  • Voice your conservation concerns

The second major cause comes from outdoor cats killing birds. 

Both feral and house cats kill birds.

“The total is large because of the sheer number of cats in the U.S. that hunt outdoors—up to 100 million unowned cats plus about 50 million owned cats that are allowed outside.”  -- (See article)

Action: 

Keep your cats indoors or create an outdoor containment like a catio. This way, your cat can't kill any birds or small garden mammals. 

This step alone would save at least 50 million birds a year, if each loose house cat only killed one bird a year.)

Female Dark-eyed Junco
Photo by Christine Southwick

The third major cause is window strikes. 

Over 50% of all birds that hit windows die on impact or later due to brain/breast injuries. Up to 1 billion birds die each year from window strikes.

Action: 

Reduce window foliage reflections.

Birds think they are seeing bushes and trees that they can use and fly into the invisible windowpanes.

Install:
  • Screens
  • UV decals
  • Hanging ribbons
  • Anything to break up the false views and save millions of lives.

You can help save birds by being proactive with these actions.

Read report and see graphs HERE


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STEM Festival is ready for volunteers

Planning for the May 16, 2020 Shoreline STEM Festival is underway and we are in need of some critical volunteers to help us make this year’s festival a success! 

The committee currently meets once per month from 8pm - 9pm at Meridian Park Elementary School Library 17077 Meridian Ave. N. Shoreline 98133, and our next meeting will be on Tuesday, January 14, 2020.

The majority of our current returning committee members are full time working parents with children in the Shoreline School District and surrounding areas with the addition of fresh input from new members from surrounding high schools and colleges.

Our goals are to focus on increasing publicity in local businesses and schools, increase student participation in the T-Shirt Art Contest, website maintenance and increasing social media presence, book professional STEM related speaker(s) and to have our first ever pseudo robot competition on festival day.

It takes a village to make this continuing STEM festival a success for the youth and the more volunteers we have the more successful this event will be!

The main roles we are needing to fill this year are Exhibits Coordinator and Hospitality Coordinator but if you have any interest in helping us to grow this event please email us at shorelinestemfestival@gmail.com or through http://shorelinestem.org/how-can-i-help.


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Book review by Aarene Storms: Sputnik's Guide to Life on Earth

Sputnik's Guide to Life on Earth 
by Frank Cottrell Boyce

Foster-kid Prez Mellows doesn't talk much, but his foster family doesn't mind because they are all really LOUD. One night when the family is being LOUD, Prez hears the doorbell and answers it.

In walks a very weird looking fellow called Sputnik who wears a kilt, a backpack, a leather aviator helmet, and a pair of scissors. Sputnik introduces himself to the family, and everyone shakes his hand... and that's when Prez figures out that everybody but him thinks that Sputnik is a dog.

Sputnik isn't a dog. Sputnik is an alien, and only Prez understands what Sputnik is saying!

Adventures ensue. Sputnik and Prez hijack a bus, surf on gravitational waves, and use the TV remote to rewind cows. They try to jailbreak Prez's granddad, but end up liberating a bunch of juvenile delinquents instead. When they finally locate the granddad, Prez learns things, and Sputnik completes his mission... mostly.

Recommended for readers ages 8 and up.


The events may not have happened; still, the story is true. --R. Silvern

Aarene Storms, youth services librarian
Richmond Beach and Lake Forest Park Libraries, KCLS astorms@kcls.org



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UnitedHealthcare of Washington fined $30,000 by Insurance Commissioner

Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler fined UnitedHealthcare of Washington, Seattle, $30,000, order 19-0360 for law violations during calendar year 2017, including:
 
  • Failure to maintain an adequate log of consumer complaints and claims appeals to determine if the company is handling them correctly.
  • Mishandled certain prescription claims that had prior authorization for coverage based on the medical condition they were treating.

Kreidler’s office oversees Washington’s insurance industry to ensure that companies, agents and brokers follow state laws. Since 2001, Kreidler has assessed more than $28 million in fines, which are deposited in the state's general fund to pay for state services.

The office publishes disciplinary orders against companies, agents and brokers. You can search by name or the year they took effect.

For an insurance question or complaint, contact Kreidler’s consumer advocates online or by phone at 800-562-6900.



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Amante Pizza and Pasta closes north Seattle location

Amante Pizza has closed its north Seattle
location

The restaurant voted Best Pizza in Seattle has been closed. The owner sold his north Seattle location on 12319 Roosevelt Way NE.

The owners posted a message:

Amante Pizza and Pasta 
We're sad to announce that Amante Pizza and Pasta on Roosevelt Way was sold on 11/20/19. It was a tough, and very personal, choice by the owners. It's been a pleasure serving pizza in North Seattle these last 15 years. 
The Unique Cafe and Wine will take over the space that was leased by Amante. We're excited to announce that they will be adding some of the customer favorites to their menu! You might even see a few familiar faces on staff! 
They will retain the phone number of 206-362-6666. The Unique Cafe and Wine will be opening in December 2019. Please see them on Facebook @ The Unique Cafe and Wine for updates about the remodeling schedule, menu updates, and to ask questions. 
Thank you so much for your business throughout the years. We couldn't have done this without your love and support! 
The (Now) Ex Owners of Amante Pizza and Pasta Roosevelt

They had so many Shoreline customers that they listed themselves as Amante Shoreline!

Amante had seven locations around Puget Sound. The menu is extensive - pizza and pasta, of course, but grinders, calzone, subs, soups and salads, and desserts were part of the fare.

They had the same menu at all locations but were owned individually. If you want to try one of the others, Kirkland, Everett, and Capitol Hill are the closest, so to speak.

Kirkland is at 12206 Juanita Dr NE, Kirkland, WA 98034. Go to Bothell Way and continue to Kenmore, turn right on 68th Ave NE (by Super Supplements) and just keep driving for 6-10 minutes. It is between 122nd Pl and 123rd St on Juanita Drive, next to the Shell station. Phone: (425) 825-0900.

Everett is at 12902 Bothell Everett Hwy, Everett, WA 98208. Bothell / Silver Lake / Everett. Take I-5 north, exit at 128th, go east on SR 96 to Murphy's Corner. Turn left on SR 527 and it's on the left, past Walgreen's.

Seattle: If you have ever been to the Capitol Hill location, the owners sold it and reopened at the north end of the hill at 2357 10th Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102.



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Local E. coli case connected to national outbreak - but local produce available Sunday at Commons farmers market

Romaine
Public Health just reported that a King County resident has been diagnosed with an E. coli infection genetically linked to the national outbreak connected to romaine lettuce from the Salinas, California growing region.

Public Health believes that this person became ill from eating leafy greens purchased in King County. He was hospitalized but is now recovering.

Public Health is also investigating additional E. coli cases among King County residents that may eventually be linked to the national outbreak, but complete information on these cases is pending.

“We encourage people to follow the CDC guidance and avoid buying or eating romaine lettuce from the Salinas, California growing area to protect yourself and your family,” said Dr. Meagan Kay, DVM, Medical Epidemiologist for Public Health – Seattle & King County. 
“If you have romaine lettuce at home and you don’t know where it was grown, don’t take chances. Don’t eat it and throw it away.”

Fortunately, this Sunday, November 24, 2019 is the November indoor farmers market (and craft fair) at Third Place Commons in Lake Forest Park. Organic growers from central and western Washington will have fruit and produce for sale from 10am to 3pm. See article.



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Thanksgiving Wednesday at the Senior Center

Come to the Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Senior Center for a delicious holiday meal next Wednesday, November 27, 2019, from 11:45 - 1pm.

A wonderful Thanksgiving Feast of roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans and cranberry orange relish AND pumpkin pie will be served.

Cost is $4 if the diner is over 60, and $10 if under 60.

Join in the fun festivities at 18560 1st Ave NE, Suite #1 in Shoreline. Free parking.




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Agenda for Shoreline council meeting Monday includes townhouse design standards and legislative priorities

Shoreline City Hall
Photo by Mike Remarcke

The Shoreline City Council meeting on Monday, November 25, 2019 has one action item and two study items.


Action Item 8(a) Adoption of Ordinance No. 872 – Amending the 2019-2020 Biennial Budget as Amended, According to the Mid-Biennium Budget Modification

Staff recommends that the City Council adopt Ordinance No. 872, as amended November 18, 2019: (i) to increase General Fund appropriations by $7,700, which will be funded with General Fund fund balance, for the development and mailing to all Shoreline households regarding the 2020 Census, and (ii) strike the Non-site Specific Comprehensive Plan or Development Regulation Amendment fee (3.01.010(G)(22)) from the 2020 Fee Schedule, which will have no financial impact on the revenues presented in the 2019-2020 Biennial Budget.


Study Item 9(a) Discussing Ordinance No. 871 – Amending Certain Sections of the Shoreline Development Code to Provide for Townhouse Design Standards

The City has experienced increasing demand for the townhouse housing style since in the 185th and 145th Station Areas in 2015 and 2016. The City’s current design standards for townhouses are better suited for apartment buildings than townhouses. it is important that townhouses are designed to ensure both functional and desirable places to live.


Study Item 9(b) Discussing the 2020 State Legislative Priorities
Council will discuss the upcoming 2020 Legislative Session and the City’s proposed 2020 Legislative Priorities. For 2020, staff proposes the continuation of efforts to secure funding and/or other legislative support for: a bike/pedestrian bridge at N 148th Street; the 145th Street/Interstate-5 interchange; and a Fircrest Campus redevelopment that aligns with City goals.


--Pam Cross



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Parkwood Elementary dedicated Nov 19

Friday, November 22, 2019


Photos courtesy Shoreline Schools except as noted

Parkwood Elementary opened their doors to the community and celebrated their new school’s dedication on November 19, 2019.

 

The school, which opened to students and staff in September, was completely rebuilt thanks to a 2017 school construction bond that was overwhelmingly approved by 73 percent of Shoreline School District voters.



That bond also included funding to construct the Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center and rebuild Einstein and Kellogg Middle Schools.



The new Parkwood Elementary features a bright and open two-story design. Its 64,800 square feet of space is home to classrooms and flexible learning spaces designed to support diverse learning experiences, styles and needs.



Parkwood Principal Ann Torres noted that the school was collaboratively designed to reflect their core mission, vision and values. 

“A 15-member design team worked for nearly a year to think and develop a physical building that will take our children into the future,” said Torres. 
“We worked to create a building that was inclusive, adaptive, flexible, fit within the neighborhood and prioritized a sense of community and teamwork.”



Its classrooms are grouped into learning pods that have a common shared space that is used for shared learning, projects, independent work, team teaching and creative activities.



The school’s overall layout maximizes instructional time by facilitating efficient movement and streamlined access to instructional resources.



The school’s spaces allow for large and small-scale performances, celebrations and community events. It also has centralized access to shared staff spaces while simultaneously provides quiet spaces for private activities and work.



Before attendees were led on tours of the building, Superintendent Rebecca Miner recognized the work of many in helping make the new Parkwood a reality. 

“Countless people and organizations contributed their time, effort and resources to build this school and provide many future generations of Shoreline’s youngest learners with a learning environment and experience that will set them on a path to become lifelong learners,” said Miner. 
“Today, we celebrate the many hands that helped build this school, both literally and figuratively.”
Photo by s cho

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Statement of Sound Transit Board Chair John Marchione on the agency’s review of I-976 issues

At its meeting on Thursday, November 21, 2019 the Sound Transit Board of Directors began the process of reviewing the agency’s response to the adoption of I-976 by statewide voters. After the meeting Board Chair and Redmond Mayor John Marchione issued the following statement:

"While I-976 passed statewide it failed within the Sound Transit District. The current estimate of 53 percent opposition is almost identical to the 54 percent who adopted the Sound Transit 3 program in 2016. 
For the second time in just three years, the district voters who actually pay Sound Transit’s motor vehicle excise tax have endorsed its continuation to finance the transit expansions our region so desperately needs.

The initiative and the Attorney General’s voter pamphlet summary both make clear that state law requires the MVET to be collected until Sound Transit’s bonds are repaid. We intend to continue fulfilling our obligation to advance critical voter-approved projects and services while we monitor litigation and closely review legal issues surrounding this initiative. No action by the Board is needed or prudent at this time.

Significantly reducing revenues would leave no alternative to cutting and delaying critical projects and services that provide our citizens with a path out of ever-worsening congestion. This would harm our commuters, our economy and our environment at the same time our population growth, gridlock and climate challenges intensify.

The greatest threats would fall upon completing light rail extensions to places like Tacoma, Everett, West Seattle, Ballard, South Kirkland and Issaquah, and to expanding Sounder commuter rail service within Pierce County and South King County in response to rising demand."

Background

State law, as clarified by past Supreme Court decisions and reflected in the initiative itself as well as voter pamphlet language produced by the Attorney General, requires continued collection of Sound Transit’s MVET until the retirement of bonds that the agency has promised to pay back with MVET revenues. Staff will continue to review legal issues and monitor upcoming judicial action on current litigation related to I-976 before updating the Sound Transit Board in early 2020.

Sound Transit’s financial staff today provided analysis illustrating the level of fiscal and program impact on the agency’s voter-approved projects and services if all outstanding Sound Transit bonds were retired and MVET and rental car taxes backing those bonds were eliminated.

While Sound Transit would lose a forecasted $7.2 billion in MVET and rental car tax revenue through 2041, the fiscal impact to regional taxpayers of delaying voter-approved projects would be far greater. 

To illustrate the order of magnitude of these impacts, staff analyzed a hypothetical delay of future Sounder expansions and light rail extensions to Everett, Tacoma, West Seattle, Ballard, South Kirkland and Issaquah by five years, the amount of delay that would be necessary to deliver these projects without MVET and rental car tax revenues. 

In this scenario, inflation and increased interest costs would require the collection of an additional $25 billion in taxes from local taxpayers. The date by which Sound Transit taxes would eventually be rolled back would be delayed by approximately 12 years.


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Bernadette Bascom in concert Sunday at NPAC

Bernadette Bascom

Bernadette Bascom is an American R/B singer and Bothell resident. 

She will perform Sunday, November 24 at 2:30pm at the Northshore Performing Arts Center in Bothell.

Bascom, the daughter of Civil Rights activist Rev. Marion C. Bascom, began her career as a disc jockey in Baltimore, Maryland.

Bascom was the first artist signed to Stevie Wonder’s label Black Bull. She later forged a great recording career in the Pacific Northwest.

For 15 years, Bascom sang on the Las Vegas strip and was the co-star in the award-winning show Divine Divas. She was also one of the Motown Moments at the Motown Cafe.

Bascom recorded for her own labels Penguin and Solidarity Records which was distributed by D-Town Records. Her standout performance of “Seattle Sunshine” is still her trademark song and she has worked with Elton John, Lenny Williams, and others.

In 2004 Bascom returned to Seattle where she has taught vocal lessons, performance, and production. She also is the creator of “PRAISE!, a Sunday Gospel Supper,” which has run at The Triple Door in downtown Seattle.

More about Bernadette

SPECIAL GUESTS
  • Roger Fisher of Heart
  • Geoffrey Castle
  • Praise Gospel Choir
Tickets are $42 for adults, $35 for seniors and military (with ID) and $15 for youth (17 and under)

Purchase TICKETS here or order by phone at 425-298-3449.

More:
  • You can hear Bernadette sing here
  • Checkout a recent interview with Bernadette

The Northshore Performing Arts Center is located on the campus of Bothell High School, 18125 92nd Ave NE, Bothell, WA 98011.




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Edmonds woman indicted for April 2018 arson at Highway 99 store

Aftermath of arson fire
An Edmonds business owner was arrested Thursday, November 21, 2019 on an indictment charging her with arson and wire fraud related to the April 30, 2018, fire at her business, announced U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran. 

Connie L. Bigelow, 52, will make her initial appearance on the indictment at 2pm Thursday.

The indictment alleges that Bigelow set fire to her business to collect insurance money as the store was struggling to make enough money to pay the rent. 

Bigelow moved her business, CJN Miniatures LLC, into the building at 23030 Highway 99, in Edmonds in September 2017.

The store maintained an inventory of miniatures and collectables for sale, consigned items on behalf of other individuals, and rented out space to other vendors.

Between October 2017 and April 2018, the business fell behind in rental payments and payments to consigners. Bigelow bounced checks as she over drafted her bank account.

Bigelow carried an insurance policy with State Farm Fire and Casualty Company that covered up to $100,000 in loss of business personal property, as well as loss of income. The policy did not cover loss arising from arson.

The indictment alleges that Bigelow set the fire underneath three Thomas Kinkade paintings worth thousands of dollars.

Inventory at Miniatures and More

On or about May 1, 2018, Bigelow initiated a claim to State Farm for the losses arising from the fire.

On May 3, 2018, Bigelow communicated with the insurance agent via email as part of the wire fraud scheme. Bigelow made false statements to law enforcement, as well as representatives of State Farm as part of the scheme to defraud.

Following the fire, Bigelow reopened the store as “Miniatures and More” on 5th Avenue in Edmonds.

Arson is punishable by a mandatory minimum five years in prison and up to 20 years in prison. Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), along with the Snohomish County Fire Marshals Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amy Jaquette.


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1,500 new and transfer students this autumn at UW Bothell

UW Bothell Campus


First-year students at the University of Washington Bothell are typically matched with a student mentor who will help them with their transition to life in college and speak from experience about how to succeed.

This year, the 829 incoming first-year students of the Class of 2023 were assigned a specific Personal, Academic and Community (PAC) Coach over the summer. Students started meeting with their PAC coaches before the start of autumn quarter as part of the First Year Advising and Orientation Program.

“Our goal is to help students identify goals, develop an action plan, follow through with their plan and make use of campus resources,” said Chancellor Wolf Yeigh. “The PAC coaches are just one of several programs UW Bothell has in place to foster the success of all students.”

Of the incoming first-year students this autumn quarter, 96% are Washington residents, with 57% coming from King County and 27% from Snohomish County. Forty percent of them would be the first in their immediate families to earn a four-year degree.

Of the 666 incoming transfer students, 91% are Washington residents, and 43% would be the first in their immediate families to earn a four-year degree. Of the incoming transfer students, 86% are transferring from a Washington state community college.

Thirty-six percent of incoming first-year students and 34% of incoming transfers are eligible for federal Pell Grants, the federal aid to students in financial need.

These students have an exciting future: A 2019 report by Seattle-based PayScale ranked UW Bothell No. 3 in the country, after analyzing top schools with the highest earning potential. In addition, according to CNBC Make It, UW Bothell ranks No. 2 in the nation for public colleges that provided the greatest return on investment.

In the 2018-19 academic year, UW Bothell graduated 2,218 students. Of the 1,982 undergraduates, 61% graduated debt free; among the 236 graduate students, 54% graduated debt free.

“We continue to hold the faculty-student relationship paramount while building pathways that provide students in our region with access to a broad array of majors and programs that align with their goals,” said Sharon A. Jones, vice chancellor for academic affairs.

Overall, 28% of UW Bothell students are enrolled in first-year and pre-major programs. Of students enrolled in a major field of study, the percentages are as follows.
  • 28% School of Science, Technology, Engineering / Mathematics
  • 16% School of Interdisciplinary Arts / Sciences
  • 15% School of Business
  • 9% School of Nursing / Health Studies
  • 4% School of Educational Studies

Among all students at UW Bothell, the top five cities of residence are:
  • Seattle (14%)
  • Bothell (8%)
  • Bellevue (7%)
  • Lynnwood (6%)
  • Everett (6%)

Here is another demographic snapshot of the UW Bothell student body:
  • 36% White
  • 30% Asian
  • 10% Hispanic or Latino
  • 9% international (nonresident alien)
  • 7% Black or African American
  • 6% indicated two or more races
  • Less than 1% indicated Native American or Alaska Native
  • 2% did not indicate a race or ethnicity

UW Bothell has a total student body of 5,936. There are 5,364 undergraduate students and 572 graduate or professional students enrolled this fall. The average class size is 30 for undergraduates and 19 for graduate/professional students.

Since opening in 1990, UW Bothell has 23,600 graduates of whom 88% live and work in the state of Washington.

The campus is in Bothell, just off SR522.




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Scene on the Sound: USCGC Mellon

USCGC Mellon on Puget Sound
Photo by Jan Hansen


Today the U.S. Coast Guard cutter, Mellon, passed through Shoreline on a beautiful morning. It was not possible for me to not take out a camera or reserve comment on this member of the fleet.

From the US Coast Guard website:

USCGC Mellon (WHEC 717)

The USCGC Mellon is a High Endurance Cutter homeported in Seattle, Washington. The cutter Mellon was designed to perform each of the Coast Guard’s missions, which include search and rescue, defense operations, law enforcement, and environmental protection.

The Mellon conducts Alaskan fishery patrols, enforcing international and domestic fishing requirements. Mellon patrols the Gulf of Alaska and Bering Sea, the Eastern Pacific down to South America.

--Jan Hansen



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Blues singer Janiva Magness presents her memoir at Third Place Books Sunday

Janiva Magness
Grammy nominated Blues singer Janiva Magness will be at Third Place Books on Sunday, with her memoir Weeds Like Us.

She released her fifteenth album this fall, Change in the Weather: Janiva Magness Sings John Fogerty, restyling songs from Fogerty's career from Creedence Clearwater to his solo career.

Her own career in blues was no accident.

According to an article in Broadway World Music, she says that "Blues is a lot more than my vocation. It's been my salvation."

She lost both parents to suicide as a child and was placed in a dozen foster homes. But, inspired by the encouragement of her final foster mother and a galvanizing performance by the legendary bluesman Otis Rush, she found stability and salvation-and, ultimately, triumph-in music.

She will speak and sign copies of her memoir, Weeds Like Us at 6pm Sunday, November 24, 2019, Third Place Books, upper level Town Center, intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park.

Call 206-366-3333 to order a copy of her book.




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Free Thanksgiving Dinner at Ronald Commons Café

Thanksgiving at Ronald Commons Café


Ronald Commons Café will host a FREE complete sit down Thanksgiving Dinner from 4 - 6pm on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2019.

Ronald Commons Cafe is a Dale Turner YMCA meal program hosted at Ronald United Methodist Church 17839 Aurora AVE N with volunteers from five area churches.

All are welcome.



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Hadlee loved autumn

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler


when the bees were largely gone and the flowers were All Hers...

(Hadlee is likely a hoverfly - sometimes I just can't find an exact match in any of my zillion field guides:)

--Gloria Z Nagler



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Ridgecrest food drive through December

Ridgecrest Neighborhood Holiday Food Drive for Hope Link

Donations accepted at the following locations until the end of December:
  • Cafe Aroma 509 NE 165th St, Shoreline 98155
  • Ridgecrest Pub 520 NE 165th St, Shoreline 98155

Hope Link needs Food Donations, but it also provides Emergency Services.

Suggested items that can be donated through Food Drive for Hope Link besides food:
For the Kids Gift Room: new and unopened and unwrapped games, toys, stuffed animals etc - and new, unworn and unwrapped kids clothing of any kind.

Always welcome - New and Unused Non-Food Items
  • Pet Food: canned and dry
  • Baby items: size 3-6 diapers, wipes, formula
  • Hygiene Items: toothpaste/toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, deodorant, razors, lotion, combs, brushes
  • Paper Items: toilet paper, paper towels, foil, zip-lock bags
  • Household and Cleaning Items: dish or dishwasher soap, household products, laundry soap

--Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association Facebook



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Call for Artists: 2020 Shoreline Arts Festival - Artist Marketplace

Cupcake Candle


Call for Artists: 2020 Shoreline Arts Festival - Artist Marketplace
Deadline: February 29, 2020


Apply by Dec. 31, 2019 and get 1/2 off the application fee. Coupon code: earlybird

Located at the Shoreline Community College!
16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133

Apply today to become one of the 70+ artists that make up the beating heart of the 30th Annual Shoreline Arts Festival!

This free community event will gather 10,000+ art lovers at the Shoreline Community College on June 27 - 28, 2020.

Why you should apply to the Shoreline Arts Festival Artist Marketplace:

The Shoreline Arts Festival gathers 10,000+ attendees for a summer celebration of the arts and local artists. The two-day event is a long-established tradition in this suburban Seattle community.This diverse Festival features an active Artists Marketplace along with juried art exhibitions, cultural performances, theatrical and literary performances, Hands-On Art, a children’s area, Food Court and much more.

Held at a great venue, the Festival is located on the grounds of the Shoreline Community College, with both indoor and outdoor activities, excellent amenities, and ample parking for attendees.

We’ve tightened up the layout this year and are proud to announce that activities will be surrounding the Artist Marketplace with Hands-on Art moving north of the marketplace. That puts the main stage and food court to the south, hands-on art to the north, and the marketplace right in the middle.

Richard Rhee

How to apply

Submit your application and $20 application fee online via Call for Entry by 10:59pm on Thursday, February 29th, 2020.

Apply by Dec. 31, 2019 and get 1/2 off the application fee. Coupon code: earlybird

Eligibility
  • All work must be handmade. No commercially produced work, kits, or imported goods
  • All work must be original and created by or under direction of the artists(s).
  • Artist(s) must attend the entire Festival (June 27, 10am – 6pm and June 28, 10am – 5pm).
  • Items must match type and quality submitted for jurying. No work by non-juried artists.
Booth Specifications

Three types of outdoor booth spaces are available:
  • Inline: 10’ x 10’ uncovered, on asphalt: $175
  • Corner: 10′ x 10′ uncovered, on asphalt: $200
  • Center: 10′ x 10′ uncovered, on asphalt: $215
  • (all booth types can be doubled)
All booths must withstand Northwest weather conditions, with canopies weighted or staked against wind. Tables and chairs are available for rental. Overnight security is provided. In addition to booth fee, a Shoreline business licenses may be needed.

Thorsteinson Woodworking

Jurying

The jury panel includes working artists, gallery managers, and/or Festival directors, who determine the balance of categories and select the artists. Category sizes are based in part on average sales from previous years. Jury decisions are confidential.

The Shoreline Arts Festival is a program of the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council with major support from the City of Shoreline, City of Lake Forest Park, and 4Culture.

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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Dr. Thomas Bird discussed Huntington Disease at LFP Rotary meeting Nov 13

Kim Anderson, author and scientist Tom Bird,
neighbor Mike Bonato, and President Robin Roat.
Photo courtesy Rotary Club of LFP


Dr Thomas Bird, a pioneer neurogeneticist, informed members of the Lake Forest Park Rotary Club of the devastation of Huntington Disease, a genetic brain disorder that confounds and can destroy its victims.

It usually hits during mid-life. In his book, Can You Help Me? Dr. Bird offers hope and aid "in the Turbulent World of Huntington Disease," as he shares surprising, insightful, challenging, and encouraging stories of patients and their families.

The Rotary Club of Lake Forest Park meets every Wednesday morning at 7:10am for breakfast at LFP Presbyterian Church on 17440 Brookside Boulevard NE.



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Another near cat-astrophy but Canopy Cat Rescue saves the day

50 feet up and crying for help
Photo by Doug Gochanour

Northshore Fire says that "A lot of people think firefighters rescue cats in trees, but unfortunately we don't ... We need the help of qualified experts like Canopy Cat Rescue. 
"Canopy Cat Rescue provides a free service - give them a call the next time you need some help rescuing a cat stuck in a tree!" 877-721-6369

By Doug Gochanour

You have posted articles about Canopy Cat Rescue in 2016, 2017, (and 2017 again) and 2018. See below.

Perhaps you would like a 2019 version from LFP, on 10/3/19. It is about the rescue of Sylvester, a very young, sweet and friendly kitty.

Shaun Sears climbed 50 feet up a challenging Golden Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia 'Frisia,' as two Eagles circled above.

Shaun nears Sylvester
Photo by Doug Gochanour
The overnight rain had stopped, so that must have been Eagle drool dropping down through the tree. This cat belongs to our neighbor, while the tree is in our yard.

Shaun says that there were 500 cat rescues in Washington in 2018. They are on a pace to make 540 rescues in 2019.

Shaun believes that all cats deserve to be rescued and reunited with their loved ones. Canopy Cat Rescue works on a donations-only basis, because it’s their mission and passion to rescue any cat stuck in any tree regardless of their families financial situation.

This is a 501 c-3 organization, so donations are tax deductible. It would be a fine cause for cat lovers, or any animal lovers, to consider for supporting.


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Scene on the Sound: M/V Puget - debris recovery vessel

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

The M/V Puget recovers debris from Puget Sound
Photo by Jan Hansen


The Army Corp of Engineers ship, the M/V Puget, is the debris recovery vessel for Seattle District. It operates under congressional authority listed below:

(a) Removal of Wrecks and Obstructions (Section 19, River and Harbor Act of 3 March 1899). The Corps may remove sunken vessels and similar objects if they are determined to be obstructions to navigation.

(b) Snagging and Clearing for Navigation (Section 3, River and Harbor Act of 1945). The Corps may remove trees, brush and other debris that may be determined to be obstructions to navigation or that may promote flooding.

(c) Drift and Debris Removal (Section 202, Water Resources Development Act Of 1976).

The Corps has continuing authority to study and undertake projects to remove and dispose of derelict objects such as sunken vessels, waterfront debris and derelict structures, and other sources of drift that may damage vessels or threaten public health, recreation, or the environment at publicly maintained commercial boat harbors. The harbor need not be, but usually is a Corps project. Congressional authorization is required for projects with Federal costs of $400,000 or more. (USACE Engineering Regulation 1105-2-100)

--Jan Hansen



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Washington launches consumer protection resource for college, vocational students

Washington has a new way for postsecondary students to file consumer protection complaints. 

Consumer complaints cover a variety of topics. Some of these include false or misleading advertising, failure to follow the school’s own published policies, and violations of state requirements.

The state's new online portal is for students attending any college or vocational school in Washington, as well as student loan borrowers.

Before, students and borrowers had to seek out the correct state agency to handle their complaints. But in 2017, a report noted that this was confusing for consumers. 

Three different state agencies share primary oversight of approximately 600 private for- and non-profit postsecondary schools in Washington. These schools serve close to 50,000 students — over 10 percent of all postsecondary enrollments.

Now, any student-loan borrower or student attending a college or vocational school in Washington can go to one place to file a consumer protection complaint. The state's new online portal will route complaints to the agency with jurisdiction. The site will also connect users to resources and information about next steps.

The state Legislature directed three agencies to create one central complaint portal
  • Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC), 
  • Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board (Workforce Board), and 
  • Department of Licensing (DOL)

The Department of Health's Nursing Commission and State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) also have oversight over private and public postsecondary schools. To develop the portal, WSAC collaborated with the Workforce Board and DOL and consulted with DOH and SBCTC.

The Washington Student Achievement Council is committed to increasing educational opportunities and attainment in Washington.


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Sculptors Workshop pottery sale Friday and Saturday in Edmonds

Pottery sale Friday - Saturday at
Frances Anderson center in Edmonds


The Sculptors Workshop pottery sale you know and love is back!

Come see us on Friday, November 22, 2019 from 12:00 - 7:00pm and Saturday, November 23rd 10:00am - 2:00pm.

Enjoy light refreshments as you browse new pottery made locally by our member-artists! 

The Sculptors Workshop has been a fixture on the beautiful Edmonds waterfront for more than 50 years. We look forward to meeting you and hope to help you find a great, new piece of art.

Sculpture, platters, bowls, mugs, vases, and many more items will be available. 

For more information — and sneak peeks of the artwork that will be available— visit the Sculptors Workshop’s Facebook page

Come see us, Friday, November 22nd (12-7pm) and Saturday, November 23rd (10am-2pm) at the Frances Anderson Center (Rm 210) at 700 Dayton St., Edmonds.



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Emergency boiler repair means cooler than normal pool temperatures over the weekend

Expect cooler than normal temps at the Shoreline Pool on Friday, November 22, 2019.

The boiler at the Shoreline Pool has sprung a small leak which is scheduled for repair early Friday morning.

This means the air temperature, pool water, and showers will be quite a bit cooler than usual through the weekend. 

As a result, the Arthritis Class and early morning Shallow Water Aerobics classes are cancelled on Friday; otherwise, the Pool will remain open as usual during this time. 

We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.

--City of Shoreline



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2019 November election results and the impacts to Shoreline: Shoreline Proposition 1 and I-976

From the City of Shoreline

Over the next several months, the City will discuss how the results of the November election will affect our community.

Passage of Initiative 976 (I-976) will place a significant strain on our transportation programs and the wider City budget as we search for ways to absorb the annual loss of more than $1.6 million from the City’s street and sidewalk maintenance and preservation programs. 

Failure of Shoreline Proposition 1 will require the Council and the community to have tough discussions about aquatics programming offered by the City and future investments in parks and City recreation facilities.

Shoreline Proposition 1

With an approval vote of 54%, Shoreline Proposition 1 failed. Because Prop. 1 was a bond measure, it required a 60% approval rate to pass. Over the past several years, hundreds of Shoreline residents have contributed to the discussion on developing the proposed Shoreline Aquatics, Recreation, and Community Center and on making improvements to our parks.

Whether you voted to approve or reject the proposition, we want to thank Shoreline residents for taking the time to learn about the issue, provide their input, and vote. As we work to identify a new path forward that will meet the needs of our growing community, we hope that those who supported and opposed the Proposition stay engaged and continue to contribute to the discussion.

Using the extensive input from the public and taking all the different community needs and interests into account, the Council felt it put the best option forward. Council will now begin to evaluate the results of the election and determine what next steps, if any, they should take regarding future investments in park improvements and the City’s recreation facilities.

Council will need to make some tough decisions regarding the Shoreline Pool. The repairs we made to the Pool in 2015 were meant to be temporary and not last much more than five to seven years.

Even with the $750,000 investment in 2015, the City has been experiencing increasing maintenance costs at the pool as it is over 50 years old and the pool systems and building structure are nearing the end of their useful lives. 

In 2019 alone, the City has seen pool repair costs exceed $125,000. Council will need to evaluate whether it makes economic sense to put further investment into the existing pool, refine options for a new facility, or decide not to provide aquatic programs in the long-term.

Until the School District decides to use the Spartan Recreation Center for other purposes, it will continue to operate as it does today. As the need for repairs arise, Council will have to determine how much to invest in an aging facility we do not own.

State, regional, and local transportation funding face cuts under I-976

Passage of I-976 eliminates Shoreline’s ability to charge a vehicle license fee (VLF) for transportation purposes.


  • In 2009, City Council adopted a $20 VLF to help fund the maintenance of Shoreline streets on a regular schedule. Over time, this has helped us preserve our streets and avoid more costly road replacements that can be the result of deferred maintenance. 
  • Council passed the other $20 VLF in 2018 for the repair and maintenance of our existing sidewalk network. 

I-976 does not affect the new sidewalk sales tax measure approved by Shoreline voters in 2018. The new sidewalk program will be able to move ahead as expected.


The combined fees generated approximately $1.6 million per year. The loss of that funding affects the entire transportation program, as well as other City programs and services, as we will need to find that funding elsewhere in the budget or reduce or eliminate these maintenance programs.

The City Council is already considering nearly $1.3 million in budget holds including delaying equipment purchases, redirecting funds for park improvements, and reallocating projected budget savings towards the City’s annual road surface maintenance program.

Passage of I-976 will also significantly affect State transportation funding, particularly for transit and paratransit. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), working with the State Legislature, will need to make decisions about how to maintain state highways, provide transportation options for individuals with disabilities, and more. State funding for local transportation projects, including ones in Shoreline, may be called into question in the coming months.

I-976 will also cut King County Metro funding, which in turn could affect routes serving Shoreline.

Finally, Sound Transit (ST) has indicated that the impacts to funding from I-976 will be significant as well.

While it is unlikely to impact the 2024 opening of light rail in Shoreline, other ST projects or programs, such as Bus Rapid Transit that is planned to serve our Shoreline South/145th Station, may be affected.

There is yet much to be determined about the impacts of this Initiative. Shoreline staff will be keeping an eye on developments and providing updated Shoreline-related information as we learn it.



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Read the sign, took a tomato...

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler


After all - it does say "Giving Garden"




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PTA Council Holiday Baskets provide for local children in need



The Holiday Basket event is a partnership between the Shoreline PTA Council, City of Shoreline, the Lake Forest Park Rotary, the Shoreline Fire Department, the Dale Turner YMCA and Hopelink to provide assistance to families in need in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park.

This year there are 500 Shoreline and Lake Forest Park families registered, which includes over 1000 children ages 0-18.

This is the equivalent of two elementary schools.

Community support is extremely important to be sure that no child goes without during this season. Contributions of money, items, and time are needed and appreciated.

The "baskets" include age appropriate toys, gift cards for teens, and food. Every PTA in the Shoreline School District makes major contributions.

The Shoreline Fire Department holds a toy drive. They will collect toys from November 29 up until December 13th at any Shoreline Fire Station.

Food and gift card donations can be dropped off at any Shoreline School District school or the Shoreline Center until December 13th.

The event will be held on December 14, 2019 at Kellogg Middle School.

To volunteer, sign up online. There is a large variety of jobs. You can pick your job and your time slot.

Cash donations can be made online here (Note that it is for the holiday baskets event)


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