Rob Oxford: Taylor’s 4 Runner and THE subwoofer

Sunday, January 19, 2020

Taylor's 4Runner
Photo by Rob Oxford
By Rob Oxford

Life is made up of a collection of very special moments. Sadly, many of them are forgotten over time.

For years I have been threatening to write a book. For admittedly selfish reasons, the book would be a collection of my own “special moments” and for the sole purpose of remembering them when the ability to do so becomes more difficult.

In essence it would be a memoir.

Now considering I’m not famous, haven’t invented anything and haven’t a great deal of worldly advice to impart, exactly who would be interested in reading such a memoir is a valid question. I can only hope that when I am laid to rest, whoever comes after will find what they read mildly amusing.

This Christmas I wanted to do something special for my eldest son. While my youngest is still happy with video games, clothes and $350 sneakers, Taylor’s tastes have become a bit more refined. 
Each year we ask both boys to give us a Wish List. Often times it is received after many of their gifts have already been purchased so it’s used more as a barometer. Exactly how well do we know our children and exactly how well were we listening when they started sharing their Christmas wishes with us.

Taylor has been spending a great deal of time modifying his 1999 Toyota 4Runner. He purchased new tires and wheels, added a lift kit (basically a device that makes the vehicle virtually impossible for his Mother or I to get into), mounted a custom rack to the roof and, among other things, installed fog lights and a new muffler which signals to us that he is on his way home yet still several blocks away. All of these things I might add he has purchased with his own money.

This year he asked Santa for a new car stereo.

In the past, having had some experience with cars and car stereos myself, I figured I had this handled. Santa would be free to concentrate on how to deliver my Harley Davidson (I wanted a Harley Davidson when I turned 40… I got a Taylor instead).

One afternoon I stopped by our local car stereo dealer and explained what I had hoped to accomplish. I said I didn’t want to spend thousands of dollars on a stereo for a 20-year-old “Monster Truck” and settled on a moderately priced name brand “in-dash” and a pair of 5.25 speakers for the doors. I scheduled the installation (which cost 3x’s as much as the stereo) and felt confident and proud of my purchase.

Upon completion of the install, Taylor and I excitedly drove to the dealer to pick up his vehicle. While I happily paid the bill, he fiddled with his new car stereo. After joining him in the parking lot, I could immediately sense something wasn’t quite right. In all honesty, I had been expecting delight and immense satisfaction. Instead he was reticent, hesitating to elaborate on exactly what was wrong. I was disappointed. Not sure as to what was the problem, I suggested he take the truck for a spin and we would discuss things at home.

We pulled up to the house together and he asked me if I wanted to hear the stereo? As he preceded to turn up the volume, I began to hear a fuzz or as the salesman would later identify, the speakers “washing out”. This concerned me. Did I purchase an inferior model? Were the speakers inadequate? Had I just wasted a bunch of money? All I wanted was for my son to be happy with his Christmas gift and I was determined to make sure he was.

The next few days were spent trying to figure out why the car stereo wasn’t exactly what either of us had envisioned. Was it the antenna? Was there a problem with the installation?

The very next Saturday Taylor had to work. I agreed to return to the dealer and find out why the stereo sounded the way it did and what if anything could be done.

Needless to say, I was loaded for bear. Raring to go. Prepared to walk in and give them a piece of my mind. How could they charge me so much for something that sounded so bad?

Now on the way there, I was listening to the classic rock station where I work and to me the stereo sounded fine. So, what was I going to tell these guys? How was I going to describe the fact that my son wasn’t happy?

I pulled up a few minutes before they were to open and began rehearsing my speech. Once inside I started to explain that I had spent what I thought was a considerable amount of money and that my son wasn’t overly impressed. I then asked if someone could come outside and listen to the system to see what might be the problem? After asking me a few questions and pulling up my account, a very nice young man replied, “Sure, let’s go check it out”.

Once outside, his first question to me was, “How old is your son?” I replied, “He’s 19”. After turning the volume way past what was comfortable for my 58-year-old ears and hearing what again appeared to be nothing but distortion, he turned to me and said “You need a subwoofer, your speakers are washing out”.

"You need a subwoofer"
Mind you that’s exactly what my wife said; “He needs a subwoofer.” No offense, but what did she know? I’m the one who plays in a band. I’m the one who works at a radio station. Why in the world does he need a subwoofer?

The car stereo specialist went on to explain that kids these days need that bottom end, that THUMP.

He said “it’s all about dat bass, ‘bout dat bass,” to which I replied “we don’t play that song on KZOK." 

He then went on to explain that a subwoofer splits the bass and treble, diverting it from the speakers in the door and evenly distributing it to something called the “sound table."

After assuring me that by adding a couple extra speakers in the back doors and a subwoofer, the stereo would sound exactly how my 19-year-old wanted it, I shelled out the additional cost and they went to work.

Now I thought I had done my homework. It was bluetooth compatible which is what he wanted and you can make the digital display any color you wanted. Cool! What more could a kid possible want? I would soon find out.

Later that afternoon Taylor and I went to pick up his 4Runner.

After paying for the additional speakers and installation, we walked out to the parking lot and Taylor got in the driver’s seat. The salesman from whom I had made the initial purchase joined us and began to demonstrate how the system worked.

Upon hearing the initial THUMP of the bass coming from the subwoofer (a box mounted in the very back of the vehicle) and the high end only coming from the additional door speakers, the corners of Taylor’s mouth began to curl upward ever so slightly until he smiled a smile I will not soon forget. Success! It was absolutely priceless. I could tell that I had knocked it out the park.

Like his Mother, I think he knew early on that he needed a subwoofer, but didn’t want to appear ungrateful or unappreciative.



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Legislature has the final word on road usage charges

Traffic jam
Photo by Mike Remarcke

The Washington State Legislature will ultimately decide if a road usage charge will be implemented in Washington

A road usage charge (RUC) system is a per-mile charge drivers would pay based on how many miles you drive, not how much gas you consume. This approach is similar to how people pay for their utilities, including electricity or water.

People who are interested in how a Road Usage Charge might work in Washington can now download the full report from the Washington Road Usage Charge Pilot Project website. 

On January 13, 2020 the Washington State Transportation Commission transmitted their final report to the governor, state Legislature and Federal Highway Administration on how Washington can begin a transition away from the state gas tax and toward a road usage charge system.

In collaboration with the Washington Road Usage Charge Steering Committee, the WSTC’S report includes analysis and findings of the legal, fiscal, operational, and policy impacts of a road usage charge and provides recommendations and options on how RUC could be implemented in Washington.

The state legislature will ultimately decide if a road usage charge will be implemented in Washington. 

Should the Legislature move forward with a road usage charge, it must consider several key topics, all of which the commission’s final report addressed. Those include how to: gradually transition to a RUC system, determine what vehicles should be subject to paying a RUC, determine the per-mile rate policy, set forth the allowable use of RUC revenue, and determine details around how a RUC program would be implemented.

“We thank the steering committee and volunteer pilot project participants for contributing to years of research and analysis on this innovative transportation funding policy,” said Jerry Litt, chair of the Washington State Transportation Commission. 
“We believe road usage charging is a promising and viable option for Washington, and we look forward to having the Legislature consider a gradual but necessary transition away from relying on the consumption of fossil fuel to fund our roads.”

The 29-member Road Usage Charge Steering Committee has guided Washington’s assessment of road usage charging since 2012. The committee supported and advised on the development of the RUC pilot project and submitted its final report on its road usage charging findings to the commission in October 2019. 

Based upon the findings of the steering committee, the commission determined its final set of recommendations and their final report, which details the results of the 7-year-long assessment of road usage charging. It includes the 12-month-long test drive portion of the pilot project that involved more than 2,000 statewide drivers who logged 15 million miles from February 2018 to January 2019.

As vehicles become more fuel-efficient or switch to electric power, gas tax revenue is expected to decline by as much as 45 percent by 2035. 

In 2012, the Legislature directed the commission to assess the potential of a road usage charge to replace the gas tax. A road usage charge is a per-mile charge drivers would pay for the use of the roads, as opposed to paying by the gallon of gas.



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Progress on new Kellogg Middle School

Kellogg Middle School
Photo by Steven H. Robinson


Construction on the new Kellogg Middle School is underway with an anticipated completion date of August 2020. The new 150,888 square foot school will have the capacity for 1,071 students in grades 6, 7, and 8. 

The architect for this project is Mahlum Architects and contractor is Hoffman Construction. The total estimated cost for the project is $106,150,000.

Kellogg Middle School
Photo by Steven H. Robinson


Frank B. Kellogg Junior High School was originally located at the Aldercrest site at 2545 NE 200th Street. In 1982 a couple of junior high boys shoved burning newspapers down the library book return, which eventually started a fire that destroyed the interior of the building.

The district worked around the damage for a few years, then in 1986 the entire school population was moved to its present site at the former Morgan Junior High on 16045 25th NE. Morgan had been a closed school, being used for district offices.

Kellogg Middle School
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools


The "new" Kellogg building was built in 1953. It has been remodeled several times, and has been home to thousands of students. Now it will be torn down, as soon as the New Kellogg is complete in August.

The "old" Kellogg was eventually completely demolished.

--Diane Hettrick



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“It was a nightmare…” World Concern remembers Haiti earthquake devastation at 10th Anniversary

World Concern staff assess damage - January 2010
Photo courtesy World Concern


“I heard a noise like a storm,” recalls Efanor Nore, World Concern Haiti Country Representative, of the moment when the magnitude 7.0 earthquake struck his home nation, on January 12, 2010. 

He was driving through Haiti’s capital city Port-au-Prince when the road buckled in front of him and another car smashed into the broken concrete. Buildings collapsed before his eyes, and people ran into the streets, screaming for help.

“It was a nightmare,” said Nore, as he recounts the day no Haitian will ever forget.

Sunday, January 12, 2020, marked the 10-year anniversary of the devastating quake that hit Port-au-Prince at 4:53pm local time. The disaster caused an estimated 300,000 deaths, displaced more than a million people, and damaged nearly half of all structures in the epicentral area.

World Concern, based in Shoreline, launched a massive response that assisted tens of thousands of people who were affected by the disaster.

Initial aid focused on meeting immediate needs for shelter, water, medical care, and income. In the months that followed, World Concern provided transitional shelters to families who lost their homes, and cash grants to families and business owners to restart businesses that were lost, among other activities.

Since 2010, World Concern has implemented multiple disaster risk reduction projects aimed at equipping families and communities to be better prepared and more resilient in the face of recurring disasters, particularly weather-related disasters, with a goal of bringing national disaster plans that are in place down to the household level, where training and equipping are needed most.

“Community members have to own the process,” explains World Concern Deputy Director of Disaster Response, Maggie Konstanski. “At World Concern, we don’t see disaster as a one-time event, but always aim to leave a community more resilient and protected than before.”
“When communities are truly equipped with early warning systems, trained on how to use them, and they’re owned at the community level, and an effective, safe plan is in place, it does save lives,” says Konstanski. “The community wants to protect and save themselves. We’re giving them the knowledge and tools to protect themselves.”

Despite efforts by the Haitian community, aid organizations, and the government, the unique and extensive challenges in Haiti have prolonged and even crippled rebuilding efforts. Nore believes only about 3% of buildings in Port-au-Prince have been rebuilt in 10 years. And an estimated 38,000 people still live in tents and makeshift camps that were set up after the quake.

Corruption, gang violence, political crisis, and drugs have left the city in a state of ruin Nore feels is even worse than 2010.

Is there hope for Haiti? Nore believes so.

“Haiti is really resilient. Even at this time of political crisis … Haitians still have hope,” he said. 
“They think a new day will come where people around the world will use the example of what Haiti has faced over the past 100 years of suffering to learn … The time of Haiti will come,” he said. 
“We continue to be an example—positively. We face more than any civilization has faced in the past. We hope to use our past experience to move forward.”

More information on World Concern, or to donate, HERE 

World Concern, headquartered in Shoreline, is a Christian global relief and development organization. With our supporters, our faith compels us to extend life-saving help and opportunity to people facing the most profound human challenges of extreme poverty. At World Concern, the solutions we offer, the work we do, creates lasting, sustainable change. Lasting change that provides lasting hope.Our areas of expertise include disaster response, clean water, education, food security, child protection, microfinance and health.



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Legislature: Salomon to focus on salmon habitat, protecting pets, cracking down on ‘swatting’

Saturday, January 18, 2020

Sen. Jesse Salomon, D 32
Photo Washington State LSS

OLYMPIA – As the 2020 legislative session gets underway this week, Sen. Jesse Salomon (D-Shoreline) introduced a slate of bills dealing with a variety of issues ranging from cracking down on “swatting” to protecting pets left alone in hot vehicles.

One of Salomon’s first bills to receive a public hearing was Senate Bill 6147 related to shoreline armoring. 

When bulkheads and seawalls are installed, the natural process of beach and sand erosion is disrupted. This can cause a chain reaction of negative environmental impacts including the disruption of fish habitats in the area.

A lack of adequate salmon population has been identified as one of the factors jeopardizing the Puget Sound’s Southern Resident Orca population.

SB 6147 would require the state Department of Fish and Wildlife to consider less environmentally disruptive alternatives when property owners look to repair or replace bulkheads.

“Last year the Legislature took a good step in the right direction by limiting the expansion of these bulkheads,” said Salomon. “But there’s still more work to be done to protect salmon habitats and our orca population. As these bulkheads and seawalls need to be repaired or replaced, property owners should be asked to consider alternative options that may accomplish the same goals but are less disruptive to the environment.”

Anti-swatting

With “swatting” incidents on the rise, local law enforcement agencies like the Seattle Police Department are developing creative solutions to address the problem. However, Salomon believes state laws have not kept up with the severity of these crimes and need to be updated.

Salomon introduced SB 6295, which aims to cut down on swatting by increasing criminal penalties for those who make a false report they know is likely to generate an emergency response. Punishments would be increased if there’s a reckless disregard for the safety of others and someone is hurt or killed as a result of the swatting attack.

The measure also allows swatting victims to pursue civil damages from their attackers.

Pets in unsafe vehicles

In 2015, the Legislature increased the penalties for pet owners who leave their animals unattended in unsafe conditions such as a hot vehicle with the windows rolled up. The 2015 law also allows law enforcement and animal control officers to forcibly remove the animal in danger.

SB 6151 would allow firefighters and other first responders to forcibly remove an animal in unsafe conditions and be immune from property damage liability. The bill also extends criminal and civil immunity to good Samaritans who rescue the animal under certain conditions.

SB 6151 is scheduled for a public hearing on Jan. 16 at 10am in the Senate Law and Justice Committee.

Punitive damages for aiding in domestic terrorism

Salomon also introduced SB 6239, which allows someone to pursue punitive damages if they are a victim of domestic terrorism. Punitive damages are special or extra damages on top of actual damages that must be authorized by the Legislature and are generally reserved for particularly abhorrent acts.

In 2019, the Legislature passed a law allowing victims of hate crimes to pursue punitive damages up to $100,000. SB 6239 would impose similar liability for acts of domestic terrorism.

“In a worsening political environment, lawmakers need to make a clear statement about what kind of behavior is out of bounds,” said Salomon.

Other legislation sponsored by Salomon this session:

* SB 6332 – Prohibits marijuana shops from selling products with a THC concentration greater than 10%, with some exceptions for medical marijuana patients.

* SB 6333 – Places restrictions on marijuana shops aimed at reducing advertisements and marketing that target youth.

* SB 6335 – Adds climate change as a stated goal of the state’s Growth Management Act.

* SB 6149 – Places additional restrictions on motorized or gravity-siphon aquatic mining.

* SB 6153 – Reduces legal burdens and challenges for those working to restore their driving privileges.

“While this year is a short 60-day session, I’m optimistic about moving these bills through the legislative process and to the governor’s desk,” said Salomon. “This is the work my constituents sent me here to do.”

Policy bills must be voted out of committee by Feb. 7 to be considered for the remainder of the legislative session.

The 60-day legislative session is scheduled to end on March 12.

Sen. Jesse Salomon, D-Shoreline, represents the 32nd Legislative District, which includes Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, Seattle, Shoreline, Woodway, and unincorporated Snohomish County.



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Frontier communications seeking bankruptcy to restructure

Frontier Communication in Stamford CT

Frontier Communications, which serves a large section of northwest Shoreline, is seeking bankruptcy protection from its creditors while it restructures its debt.

According to an article in The Seattle Times, "in May it announced plans to sell broadband assets serving 350,000 residential and commercial customers in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Montana for more than $1.35 billion as part of its debt-reduction efforts."
"Creditors have been pushing Frontier for a restructuring plan, and the Norwalk, Connecticut-based company has warned that bankruptcy might be the result."




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That's the last time I give dog treats to ducks! (But it's all I had, cries the photog...)

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler

Poor ducks drank and tried mightily to swallow the food while I stood by to render Duck First Aid if necessary (what the heck would I have done if any of them were in dire straits? Duck CPR? With a bill?)

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler


Fortunately, the ducks managed, and no Duck First Aid was needed...

--Gloria Z Nagler



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Work party at Twin Ponds North on Saturday



2020 Stewardship Work at Twin Ponds North

Saturday, January 18, 2020 from 10am - 1pm

On January 18th, from 10-1pm, the Washington Native Plant Urban Forest Stewards will be hosting a community work party, at Twin Ponds North.

All are Welcome!

We meet on the far NW side of the park, along 155th street, west of the parking lot.

Please bring gloves, hand pruners, and water. We will also have gloves, tools, water, and snacks on sight.

Contact us with any questions at northtwinpondsrestoration@gmail.com


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Book review by Aarene Storms: Trail of Lightning

Trail of Lightning by Rebecca Roanhorse

The climate has collapsed world-wide, and society has collapsed with it. One of the few remaining livable places is Dinetah, formerly known as Indian Country, and it is ringed by a 60' wall that makes the current US southern "border wall" look like a toddler's sand castle.

In this place, at this time, is Maggie Hoskie, and she hunts the monsters that have come with the end of the last world and the beginning of the new one.

She is aided (sometimes) by immortal beings and creatures out of myths and nightmares. But there are more monsters than monster-slayers, and that is going to be a problem.

If Joe Leaphorn, Harry Dresden, and Mad Max spawned a daughter, she would be a lot like Maggie Hoskie. And her story would be a lot like this one... but this one is maybe even more bad-ass.

The action is intense, the monsters are scary, and the blood flows copiously at times. Also, there's some cussing, and some kissing, and some magic. First in a series. Recommended.

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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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Oogh sandwich




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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Free Classic Movie Night at Edmonds' Phoenix Theatre

FREE Showing of It Happened One Night, Starring Clark Gable and Colette Colbert

The Phoenix Theatre in Edmonds' Firdale Village is hosting a free movie night on Saturday, January 25, 2020 at 7:30pm.

The classic film It Happened One Night is a 1934 romantic comedy in which a pampered socialite (Claudette Colbert) tries to get out from under her father's thumb and falls in love with a roguish reporter (Clark Gable).

Winner of the 1934 Academy Awards for Best Picture, Best Director (Frank Capra), Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Original Screenplay.

Classic cartoons will also be shown.

Phoenix Theatre, 9673 Firdale Avenue, Edmonds, WA 98020

Admission is free. Donations welcome.



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Tickets on sale now for Feb 29 Leap Day Dinner Fundraiser

The Lake Forest Park Stewardship Foundation (LFPSF) invites you to a Leap Day Dinner Fundraiser at the Lake Forest Park Civic Club on Saturday, February 29, 2020. 

Tickets are $85 each and are available now through February 22nd online or by mailed check

The featured guest speaker, Lori Mason Curran of Vulcan Real Estate, will present “Making the Case: Sustainable Design and Green Infrastructure.”

She will dispel the myth that going green is unprofitable by sharing how Vulcan develops commercial properties using innovative sustainable design.

Fundraising activities will include a live auction and raffle. This year’s theme is It’s Easy Being Green in keeping with LFPSF’s promotion of sustainable green development. Proceeds from the event will help LFPSF continue to support these important environmental advocacy initiatives:

  • Mobilizing the community and legal defenses to defend against threats to community environmental standards,
  • Fostering public awareness and involvement of potential development plans for Lake Forest Park Town Center and the environment and quality of life,
  • Recruiting and managing volunteers to remove invasive plants from area parks, plant native species, and repair streamside habitat,
  • Conducting research to restore Kokanee salmon to our streams,
  • Salmon in the Schools - a program to rear salmon in elementary schools that includes a visit by a Native American storyteller on salmon release day. 

Tickets for the salmon dinner and auction go fast so be sure to reserve your seats today. Join us for a fun and informative community event with dinner, dessert, wine, raffle and auction and some surprises too!

LFPSF is seeking sponsors and auction donors. If you would like more information, contact info@lfpsf.org or 206-361-7076.


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Lecture: Dementia - the basics and what we know about caregiving - Sunday at First Lutheran

Dr. Eric Larson

Dr. Eric Larson, a national leader in geriatrics, health services, and clinical research, will be presenting a program on Sunday, January 19, 2020 at 9:45am at First Lutheran Church of Richmond Beach. 

He will be addressing Dementia: the basics and what we know about caregiving, and all are welcome to learn from Dr. Larson’s vast medical experience.

Dr. Larson pursues extensive research, ranging from clinical interests such as Alzheimer’s disease and genomics to health services research. A professor of medicine and health services at the UW, he served as Medical Director for the UW Medical Center and Associate Dean for clinical affairs at its medical school from l989 to 2002. 

From 2002 to 2019 he served as a senior investigator at Kaiser Permanente’s Health Research Institute, and until 2019 he maintained a small but longstanding internal medicine practice. 

Additionally, he has written or co-authored more than 500 scientific papers and a dozen books, including 2017’s Enlightened Aging: Building Resilience for a Long, Active Life.

This hour-long presentation will start with some basic facts about dementia and the remarkable numbers of people who, in an aging society, experience Alzheimer’s as a victim or with a family member. Dr. Larson will focus on some of the “lessons learned” from research and personal experiences.

Bring your questions and concerns, as there will be time for Q and A!

Location: First Lutheran Church of Richmond Beach, 18354 8th Avenue N.W., Shoreline, WA 98177
Time: 9:45am in the upstairs room

Coffee, tea, and treats will be served.

Sponsored by the Adult Education Committee of First Lutheran Richmond Beach.  Dr. Larson is an long-time active member of our congregation, and we are happy to share his presentation with anyone interested.



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Sound Transit seeks a volunteer from North King County to serve on agency oversight panel

Sound Transit is looking for a volunteer to serve on the Citizen Oversight Panel representing North King County. 

There is currently one vacancy on the panel for North King County.

Sound Transit actively seeks to include persons from diverse backgrounds and professional areas of expertise to support agency oversight, planning and operations. Persons of color and women are encouraged to apply.

The COP was created in 1997 to independently monitor Sound Transit and make sure it meets its commitments to build and operate a regional bus, light rail and commuter rail transit system.

The 15 COP members represent a variety of interests, professional expertise and experience. The COP meets twice monthly during normal business hours and acts as an independent oversight entity by digging into agency details, asking hard questions and reporting its findings to the Sound Transit Board of Directors.

To Apply: Submit a completed application and a resume to Kent Keel, Sound Transit Board Chair, 401 South Jackson Street, Seattle, WA 98104-2826. 

To qualify an applicant must:
  • Be a registered voter within the Sound Transit District and reside and/or work in North King County.
  • Have experience/skills in one or more areas related to the panel's responsibilities: business and finance management, engineering, large projects construction management, public facilities and services, government processes, and public policy development or review.
  • Be able to attend meetings twice each month during normal business hours. (The panel’s current meeting schedule is the first and third Thursday of every month from 8:30-11:00am)
Appointment Process

Copies of all applications and resumes will be provided to the Sound Transit Board for its review. The Board's Executive Committee will review and recommend candidates. The Board of Directors will confirm the appointments.

CONTACT: John Gallagher 206-689-4980 or john.gallagher@soundtransit.org



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Community Transgender 101 Training Jan 23 open to the public

Friday, January 17, 2020



Shoreline Public Schools and Shoreline PTA Council will host a Community Transgender 101 Training on Thursday, January 23, 2020 from 6 - 8pm in the Mt. Rainier Room at the Shoreline Center, 18560 1st Ave NE, north end. The training is suitable for ages 12 and older.

The event will feature an engaging and interactive workshop, facilitated by Dr. Robin Nussbaum, will cover basic definitions and terms, concepts of gender and transition, ally/advocate behavior and scenarios/role plays.

The event is free and open to the community. Please RSVP to Equity@shorelineschools.org.



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Would you like to be in a musical? Audition for Shoreline Community College production



Shoreline Community College regularly stages musicals - and the auditions are open to the public. It's a volunteer gig and you will sign up for a college class to participate. A small price for fame.

Auditions January 30 - 31 for How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying at Shoreline Community College.

Main Characters
  • J. Pierrepont Finch - a window washer who applies for a job at the World Wide Wicket Company.
  • Rosemary Pilkington - a secretary at the World Wide Wicket Company who instantly falls in love with Finch.
  • J.B. Biggley - The boss of the World Wide Wicket Company.
  • Bud Frump - Biggley's arrogant and lazy nephew.
  • Hedy LaRue - Biggley's attractive and dim-witted mistress.
Supporting Characters
  • Miss Jones - Biggley's immovable secretary who is charmed by Finch.
  • Book voice - the "voice" of the book How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying which narrates the musical
  • Mr. Bert Bratt - Personnel manager
  • Mr. Twimble - Head of the mail room for 25 years; finally gets promoted to the shipping department.
  • Smitty - Rosemary's best friend and fellow secretary at the World Wide Wicket Company
  • Mr. Milton Gatch - head of the Plans and Systems department
  • Miss Krumholtz - a secretary of Mr. Gatch, then J. Pierrepont Finch.
  • Mr. Benjamin Burton Daniel Ovington - prospective head of the advertising department until Finch reveals that he has graduated from Biggley's college's arch-rival; he is often referred to in the show by his initials, "BBDO."
  • Mr. Wally Womper - the Chairman of the World Wide Wicket Company. He is traditionally played by the same actor as Twimble.
  • Executives and Secretaries - Chorus
Audition details

Thursday, January 30, 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Friday, January 31, 6:00pm - 9:00pm

To sign up:
Fill out the form and select your preferred date and time from the options provided.

Please prepare a 1-2 minute monologue. Please also come prepared to sing a short musical theater or operatic piece. Auditions should not exceed 4 minutes total. You should arrive prepared with sheet music. An accompanist will be provided. Resumes and headshots are appreciated but not required.

Callbacks:
Saturday, February 1, 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Rehearsal Schedule:
Spring Quarter, Monday - Friday 6:00pm - 9:30pm

Performance Dates:
May 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17
Friday and Saturdays - 7:30pm
Sunday - 3pm

Contact info:
Dr. Charles Enlow
Music Department, Shoreline Community College, 206-546-4524



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Photo: Hawthorne tree in snow

Photo by Stefanie Gendreau


Just so we can remember how much we like trees and how pretty they are in the first snow.




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Registration open for Shoreline Little League spring season


Registration is open for the 2020 Shoreline Little League Spring Season for baseball and softball. 

Interested in attending a free pre-season skills clinic? This clinic is available to registered players that are league age 9-12. All clinics will be held at the Spartan Recreation Center, 202 NE 185th St, Shoreline 98155.

At this clinic we will:
  • Get kids who might not have picked up a ball or a bat in several months warmed up for baseball and softball.
  • Give players a solid skill base for the assessment event in February & through the season.
  • Get players ENERGIZED about playing baseball and softball again.

Dates: January 18, January 25 and February 1

Time: 2:00 - 6:00pm - Players will be scheduled for specific 40 minute time slots and notified via email by the Friday prior for their specific clinic time.

Spots are limited, sign up today!

Shoreline Little League endeavors to mentor our community's youth in developing the qualities of sportspersonship, discipline, teamwork, confidence and physical well-being.





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Saving 130 trees on Dayton

Trees on N 155th
Photo by Jamie Holter

By Diane Hettrick

We published a story recently about the Shoreline city code requirements that would force the removal of 130 trees along the WSDOT property on Dayton and on N 155th. (See previous article)

The City is sending the first round of City review comments to WSDOT, so the project will be placed on hold until they submit revisions.

Caleb Miller, Associate Planner for the city says that, "We have asked them to provide an arborist report studying three alternatives to the required frontage improvements. 
"Most significantly, we are looking at eliminating the new parking lane that was initially required, which should help to retain many of those trees. But we will need to see the arborist report to know the specific impacts."

Citizens who have submitted comments are receiving this letter in response.

The City has set up a FAQ page that they will update as the process moves along.

In the meantime, concerned citizens have created an advocacy group Save Shoreline Trees, a Washington non-profit organization with over 75 volunteers.

Save Shoreline Trees has asked WSDOT and the City of Shoreline to look at options for the sidewalks which might help save these trees, including meandering sidewalks, permeable pavement sidewalks, or raised platform sidewalks.


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Millard fancied himself a square-rigger, braving the high seas...

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler


Bow wave




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Bachelor’s program scholarships available for female graduates of The Seattle Colleges

The Seattle Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is offering scholarships to women who will be 2020 graduates of The Seattle Colleges (North and South Seattle Colleges and Seattle Central College), and continuing on to earn their Bachelor’s degree in WA State. 

AAUW works to advance equity for women and girls through research, education and advocacy. Eligibility details and application here.



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Wrestling: Shorewood dominates Lynnwood

Hunter Tibodeau
Photo by Clark Norton

Shorewood wrestling continued their undefeated season with a dominant win over Lynnwood on Thursday night.

The match began with the big boys at 285 and Lynnwood grabbed a second round pin for an early lead. After a forfeit at 106 pounds the host Royals were ahead 12-0. The Thunderbirds came roaring back behind three pins, two forfeits, and a narrow 8-7 win by senior Kai Layton at 126lbs to score 33 straight team points over the next six weights.

Lynnwood tried to get a rally going after a close 3-2 double overtime win at 152 pounds, but the T-birds had too much depth and fire-power. From 160 to 195 pounds Shorewood grabbed three pins in a row and a major decision, including 182 pound freshman Hunter Tibodeau's team-leading 20th win, as they steamrolled Lynnwood for a 55-21 victory.

Shorewood's next match is Senior Night at home next Thursday, January 23, 2020 against Meadowdale. JV begins at 5:30pm and varsity is at 7pm.

Shorewood Record: 7-0 Overall, 3-0 Wesco South

Shorewood 55 - Lynnwood 21
@ Lynnwood High School

106: Phillipe Ban LYN win by forfeit
113: Clayton Elder SW win by forfeit
120: Quincy Laflin SW pinned Luis Hernandez 0:21
126: Kai Layton SW dec. Kayden Richman-Myers 8-7
132: Aidan Jung SW pinned Julian Mishoe 0:34
138: Curt Tanaka SW pinned Josiah Powell 0:30
145: Kody Carpenter SW win by forfeit
152: Georgino Moraga LYN dec. Devin Leach 3-2 2OT
160: Cole Becker SW pinned Nate Johnson 3:05
170: RJ Buchheit SW pinned Adrian Morgan 3:11
182: Hunter Tibodeau SW pinned Isaac Hernandez 5:45
195: Max Null SW maj. dec. Dylan White 12-3
220: Blake Hendersen LYN pinned Isaac Kabuchi 1:57
*285: Elisha Abahanna LYN pinned Milan Johnson 2:54

--Clark Norton



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Pollet, Ryu, Frockt lead legislative committees, three other local legislators hold vice chairmanships

32nd Legislative District
State Reps. Gerry Pollet and Cindy Ryu and State Sen. David Frockt are leading committees in the 2020 legislative session that convened Tuesday. Three other local legislators hold vice chairmanships.

Pollet is chairman of the House local government committee, and Ryu is chairwoman of the House committee on housing, community development and veterans.

Frockt is vice chairman of the senate ways and means committee on operating matters and leader on capital matters.

State Sen. Sen. Jesse Salomon is vice chairman of both the local government committee and the Senate committee on agriculture, water, natural resources and parks; State Rep. Lauren Davis is vice chairwoman of the House public safety committee; and State Rep. Javier Valdez is second vice chairman of the house transportation committee.

In addition, each of the legislators is a member of at least two other committees.

Salomon, Davis and Ryu are Democrats representing the 32nd Legislative District, including Shoreline, Lynnwood, Woodway, south Edmonds, unincorporated Esperance in south Snohomish County and another unincorporated area of Snohomish County north and northeast of Lynnwood.

Sen. David Frockt, Rep. Gerry Pollet, Rep. Javier Valdez
46th Legislative District


Frockt, Pollet and Valdez are Democrats representing the 46th Legislative District including Lake Forest Park, Kenmore and part of north and northeast Seattle.

Here are all of the committee assignments for all of the legislators from the 32nd and 46th legislative districts:

Sen. Jesse Salomon (D, 32nd Legislative District)

Committees-- Agriculture, Water, Natural Resources and Parks (Vice Chair)
Local Government (Vice Chair), Early Learning and K-12 Education, Law and Justice;

Sen. David Frockt (D, 46th Legislative District)

Committees-- Ways and Means (Vice Chair, Operating, Capital Lead)
Behavioral Health Subcommittee to Health and Long-Term Care; Health and Long-Term Care;

Rep. Lauren Davis (D, 32nd Legislative District)

Committees-- Public Safety (Vice Chair), Capital Budget, Health Care and Wellness, Rules;

Rep. Cindy Ryu (D, 32nd Legislative District)

Committees-- Housing, Community Development and Veterans (Chair), Appropriations, Consumer Protection and Business;

Rep. Gerry Pollet (D, 46th Legislative District)

Committees-- Local Government (Chair), Appropriations, College and Workforce Development;

Rep. Javier Valdez (D, 46th Legislative District)

Committees-- Transportation (2nd Vice Chair), Civil Rights and Judiciary, Education.

---Evan Smith



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Storm Warning: Historic Weather in the Evergreen State

Storm coming in
Photo by Jan Hansen

Storm Warning: Historic Weather in the Evergreen State

Thursday, January 23, 2020 from 7 - 8pm at the Shoreline Library Large Meeting Room, 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline 98155


With excellent timing for recent weather events, local broadcaster and historian Feliks Banel explores our region’s darkest weather days and most infamous storms.

With archival photos, radio, and TV clips, Banel takes us back in time to hear stories of those
who survived some of the worst Pacific Northwest weather in recorded history.

Further, Banel explores how these storms can revive our shared humanity. Frightening weather can bind communities together to share resources, commiserate, and protect each other.

Participants are encouraged to share their own memories of how they survive being snowed in, washed out, or left without power in the wake of a big storm — and why we remember those moments for the rest of our lives.

Sponsored by Humanities Washington.



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StoryBook Theater presents the musical adaptation of Little Red on Mar 21

StoryBook Theater opens its first musical of 2020 for young audiences, Little Red.

Little Red tells the story of a spirited girl and the “friends” she makes along the way to Granny’s house. In this musical adaptation, Red encounters a hungry Wolf and a zealous Hunter, and learns a valuable life lesson about friendship and working together.

Tickets to Little Red are $15 (including service fees) and can be purchased online or at by phone 425-820-1800.

StoryBook Theater’s musicals are 55 minutes. Little Red is best for ages 3+.

The local, professional cast will perform at the Shoreline Center, 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline 98155 on Saturday, March 21 @ 11am.

A sensory-friendly show is Mar 21 @ 1:30pm. Special ticket price: $7. 

StoryBook Theater is an adult professional touring troupe that introduces young children to live theater at venues throughout the Puget Sound area.



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A House on Stilts: Mothering in the Age of Opioid Addiction

Paula Becker
Photo by David Rhyder

The Shoreline Historical Museum and the Friends of the Shoreline Library are co-sponsoring a presentation by groundbreaking author Paula Becker.

Becker has written and co-written numerous books, including “Looking for Betty MacDonald,” and “The Future Remembered: the 1962 World’s Fair and its Legacy”, with Alan Stein for HistoryLink, among others.

On Saturday, January 25, 2020 at 2:00pm at the Shoreline Library, Paula Becker will present her powerful memoir, “A House on Stilts: Mothering in the Age of Opioid Addiction.” (University of Iowa Press, 2019).

A House on Stilts tells the story of one woman's struggle to reclaim wholeness while mothering a son addicted to opioids. 

Paula Becker's son Hunter was raised in a safe nurturing home by his writer/historian mom and his physician father. He was a bright, curious child. And yet, addiction found him. 

More than 2.5 million Americans are addicted to opioids, some half-million of these to heroin. For many of them -- for Hunter -- their drug addiction leads to lives of demoralization, homelessness, and constant peril. For parents -- for Paula -- a child's addiction upends family life, catapulting them onto a path no longer prescribed by Dr. Spock, but by Dante's Inferno.

This intensely personal account of trauma and survival offers a timely exploration of a family forced to grapple with America's opioid crisis.

The opioid crisis is now a part of our local and national history, and we will be dealing with the memories and repercussions of it for a long time.

Thanks to Elliot Bay Books, copies will be available for purchase at the presentation, and the author will be available to sign them.

The Shoreline Library is located at 345 NE 175th St. in Shoreline. For more information, contact the Shoreline Historical Museum, 206-542-7111, or email



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LFP Council Elects Deputy Mayor and Council Vice-Chair

At its regular meeting on January 9, 2020, the Lake Forest Park City Council elected Councilmember Phillippa Kassover as Deputy Mayor and Council Chair for a two-year term, through 2021.

She holds Position 4.

Councilmember Tom French was elected as Council Vice-Chair, for a two-year term, through 2021. He holds Position 6.

In addition to Kassover and French, the council includes:

Position 1 Semra Riddle
Position 2 Lorri Bodi
Position 3 John Wright
Position 5 Mark Phillips
Position 7 John Resha

The Mayor, Jeff Johnson, was elected separately by a vote of the people. Deputy Mayor/Council Chair and Council Vice-Chair are elected by councilmembers.



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Black Voices: A Community Opportunity



In recognition of Black History Month, you are invited to join Shoreline Public Schools and the City of Shoreline in our inaugural Black Voices: A Community Opportunity on February 3-7, 2020.

The week of community evening events seeks to center Black voices, as well as celebrate and affirm our Black students and their families. Our commitment to families extends beyond the walls of our schools and we recognize that when the lights go off in our buildings, we still live, work and socialize together throughout our community. We learn best when we learn alongside one another, and recognize the wealth of knowledge those within our communities offer.

As a community, we affirm our commitment to learn from and look out for our neighbors, including those whose voices have been underrepresented in our current systems. We are committed to fostering those opportunities and hope you will join us!

More information and registration links here

This week of events is supported by Shoreline Public Schools, Shoreline Schools Equity and Family Engagement Department, Shoreline PTA Council, Shoreline Foundation, Shoreline CORE (Collectively Organizing for Racial Equity), Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council, Shoreline Education Association, and the City of Shoreline.

If you have any questions, please reach out to us at BlackVoices@shorelineschools.org

Black Voices Events

Teaching for Black Lives
Monday, February 3
6:00-7:30 pm at Shorewood High School

Black Books Fair
Tuesday and Wednesday, February 4-5
4:00-8:00 pm at Ridgecrest Elementary School

Historically Black Colleges and Universities Night
Wednesday, February 5
6:00-7:30 pm at Shorecrest High School

Celebrate Black Arts *registration required*
Thursday, February 6
6:00-7:30 pm at Shoreline Room, Shoreline Center

Talking to Kids about Race *registration required*
Friday, February 7
6:00-8:00 pm at Shorecrest High School



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Former Shoreline school teacher dies of hypothermia in Snohomish county

The Seattle Times reports that Kathleen "Kathy" Jenks, 57, died of hypothermia.

She was reported missing on Monday and found on Wednesday night in the 6300 block of Snohomish Cascade Drive, east of Mill Creek.

She was a second grade teacher at Little Cedars Elementary in Snohomish county but before that had taught in Shoreline Schools for 27 years.

Article here

Correction: Kathleen, not Kathryn

Readers report that she taught Kindergarten at Briarcrest and Meridian Park elementaries.


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Emergency shelter will close until the next severe weather event



The Shoreline Severe Weather Shelter was open Thursday night for guests, but this will be the last night that conditions are predicted to meet requirements for activation.

When you talk to our unsheltered friends, please make sure they are aware of the other options available to them after this evening.

This article has information about finding shelter

For shelter help, call 211 from 8:00am to 6:00pm. Monday through Friday.

Outside of that time, call the King County’s Crisis Line at 866-427-4747 to connect people to the most up-to-date shelter options during severe weather.




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Update: SWAT team at 14800 Densmore 11:15pm - avoid area

Thursday, January 16, 2020

Swat team and crisis negotiation team (CNT) out at 14800 BLK Densmore AVE N, Shoreline for a felony DV warrant suspect refusing to come out. Roads closed in this area.


Update: the suspect has surrendered to deputies and has been arrested, thanks to the great work by CNT and TAC30 teams. Roads are once again open in this area.



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Shorecrest DECA takes 86 students to competition and qualifies 47 for State

Shorecrest DECA competitors 2020
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools


Shorecrest DECA took 86 students to the Area 2 DECA Competition where they competed against about 850+ students from 15 area high schools.

Shorecrest was very well represented in various events. Some missed an opportunity at a place for State by small margins.

 47 Shorecrest students qualified for the state level. The Washington state DECA Competition will take place in Bellevue, in March with 4,000+ students.








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Photo: A Snowy Sunset

Photo by Marty Happy Behnke

Winter sunset - Wednesday, January 15, 2020




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Call for entries - Youth art contest for Black Lives Matter at School National Week of Action



CALLING ALL SHORELINE YOUTH!

Black Lives Matter Shoreline wants to see your creative talents as we prepare to honor Black Lives Matter at School National Week of Action: February 3-8th, 2020!

HOW TO PARTICIPATE:

Create an art piece using the theme “My community shows Black Lives Matter when…” using the mode of expression of your choice:
  • Visual Arts: 2-D or 3-D
  • Written: poetry, essay, story
  • Music and/or Dance
  • Video
  • and more — get creative!

DEADLINE

Submit your work (include name, age, and contact info) by 8pm Sunday, January 26, 2020 to Dale Turner YMCA, Attn: Patrick Carr, 19290 Aurora Ave, Shoreline WA 98133, or digitally to blacklivesmattershoreline@gmail.com

Winning pieces will be announced by January 31, 2020 awarded prizes, and featured at Black Lives Matter Shoreline’s “Celebration of Black Arts” event at Shoreline Community College on February 8, 2020.



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