Burke-Gilman Trail work may cause delays Feb 11-12

Tuesday, February 9, 2021

Watch out for maintenance vehicles and crews on the Burke-Gilman trail beginning February 11-12, 2021 near the Lake Forest Park city limits.

Crews will be removing invasive plants, replacing them with native plants and laying down wood chip mulch. 

Safety cones and personnel will be on the trail to alert visitors of obstructions.



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City Light to relocate power lines over I-5 at NE 155th during night hours

Seattle City Light crews plan to relocate several overhead power lines on Interstate 5 at NE 155th St in Shoreline. 

The work, which supports Sound Transit’s Lynnwood Link Extension project, will result in overnight traffic impacts on February 10-12 from 1 - 3am.

To complete this work safely, Washington State Patrol troopers and construction crews must intermittently conduct rolling slowdowns of traffic in both directions of I-5 to ensure safe work operations and passage for motorists. 

Traffic will be intercepted and escorted at slow speeds for up to 15 minutes between Mountlake Terrace and north Seattle as crews pull overhead feeder cables across the freeway. 

Traffic will return to normal speeds once vehicles pass the work area. 

Rolling slowdowns will occur on the following dates:
  • Feb. 10 (Wednesday morning): 1 – 3am
  • Feb. 11 (Thursday morning): 1 – 3am
  • Feb. 12 (Friday morning): 1 – 3am
Traffic using the following on-ramps to I-5 will be affected:
  • On southbound I-5: 220th St SW (Mountlake Terrace), State Route 104, N 175th St and the King County Metro North Base (Shoreline)
  • On northbound I-5: 5th Ave NE (Shoreline), NE Northgate Way, NE 80th St and NE 70th St (Seattle)
Drivers should expect delays and plan to use alternate routes during construction. Real-time traffic information is available on the WSDOT mobile app and the WSDOT Traffic Twitter feed.

Please be aware that this electrical reliability work requires crew members to work closely together for their safety. This work follows protocols in place to meet all COVID-19 guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Washington State Department of Health, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

For more information on Sound Transit’s Lynnwood Link Extension project, visit soundtransit.org/system-expansion/lynnwood-link-extension. Learn more about City Light construction projects by visiting seattle.gov/city-light/in-the-community/current-projects.



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Jobs: Fire department facilities / vehicle technician (FVT)

SHORELINE FIRE DEPARTMENT 
FACILITIES/VEHICLE TECHNICIAN (FVT)

Application Packets Accepted until February 12, 2021 at 4:00pm

Shoreline Fire Department is currently seeking application packets for the position of Fire Department Facilities/Vehicle Technician (FVT)

This is a full time, non-exempt position reporting to, and working with the Shop Supervisor and under the supervision of the Deputy Chief of Support Services. The position encompasses a variety of duties and responsibilities that ensure that the work being completed supports the operational readiness of the Department.

As directed, the FVT shall be responsible to help maintain, and make necessary repairs of the various vehicles in the fleet and associated Department equipment. A working knowledge of vehicle systems is required. The central purpose of this position is to ensure that the Department’s apparatus and equipment receive the necessary care, repair, and maintenance to protect and extend the useful life and service of these capital assets.

The FVT shall also be responsible to help assist the Lead Facilities person as needed to help with work that is associated to maintain all of our facilities including but not limited to assisting with minor electrical, plumbing and HVAC maintenance/repair, along with other needs that arise to protect and extent the life of our capital assets. This facilities work is anticipated to be 30% to 40% of your job.

This is a non-uniformed position represented by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 1760.

Requested application packets must be received by 4pm, February 12, 2021

Job description and application here



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Irons Brothers Construction wins two awards from State Building Association

The Building Industry Association of Washington has announced the winners of its 2020 Excellence in Remodeling Awards. Irons Brothers Construction, Inc., members of the Master Builders Association of King & Snohomish Counties, took top honors in two categories.

The EIR awards program recognizes outstanding remodeling projects across Washington, ranging from additions and historic renovations to kitchen and bath updates to entire home transformations at a variety of price points. This year, remodelers from home builders’ associations across the state submitted 32 entries in 19 categories.

BIAW traditionally honors award winners at a live annual awards ceremony but COVID-19 restrictions forced the organization to cancel its live event for 2020.


Award winning bathroom remodel by Irons Brothers Construction

Bath $80,001+: Sweet Master Bathroom Addition

Irons Brothers Construction, Inc., Shoreline 
Melissa and Joseph Irons
Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties

Parents of two boys, the homeowners in this remodel wanted to be close to their children while also having a private retreat to themselves so Irons Brothers added a master suite using creative reconfiguration of existing space. The remodeling team built an addition to the rear of the home using the family’s existing laundry room and expanding into their outside-corner covered patio.

They then filled the bathroom retreat space with luxurious elements to combine modern-day comfort with 1955 architecture, including a curbless, walk-in shower with a wide doorway for accessibility.

Oversized white tiles surround the large shower niche, while marine blue dimensional gloss tiles create a statement at the vanity. The rich walnut custom cabinets with white quartz countertops and silvery-gray plank floor are durable and timeless. A clerestory window at the top of the shower and a large skylight maximizes the use of natural light.

Master suite of award winning Aging in Place remodeling project
by Irons Brothers Construction

Aging in Place/Universal Design Over $80,001: Hendrickson Universal AIP Master

Irons Brothers Construction, Inc.
Joseph and Melissa Irons
Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties

This third-floor master suite is the crowning glory of this redesigned home. Irons Brothers’ certified aging-in-place design team specified elements for the retired couple and their 120-pound pit bull terrier to age in place.

Exterior elevator to third floor master suite in award-winning
remodeling project by Irons Brothers Construction

The team added a new residential elevator to the west side of the home to access the master bedroom from all levels, placing the elevator shaft on the home's exterior to minimize the need for interior structural changes. This move also maximized the couple’s budget. The shed roof for the addition followed the site's slope, creating tall walls east of the master suite for clerestory windows that allow daylight without sacrificing wall space in the bathroom/closet area.

Indoor sauna is part of the 3rd floor master suite

This design kept western walls low to maximize the bedroom views. The master bathroom includes an easy-access shower, his-and-her wall-mounted vanities with motion-sensor lights, and pops of beachy blue for a spa-like feel. An extensive walk-through closet and indoor sauna completes the suite.

Other universal design features include wider doorways, slip-resistant flooring and reduced transitions, lever handles, and pocket doors for easy use.

The Building Industry Association of Washington is the voice of the housing industry as the state’s largest trade association with nearly 8,200 member companies employing approximately 265,000 people. www.biaw.com

Founded in 1909 and headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) is the nation’s oldest and largest local homebuilders association. www.mbaks.com



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Classifieds: Shoreline Fire Commissioners public hearing March 18

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Commissioners of Shoreline Fire Department will hold a public hearing at the date, time and place specified below to hear citizen appeals to the 2021 Fire Benefit Charge.

DATE OF HEARING: Thursday, March 18, 2021

TIME OF HEARING: 5:00 p.m.

LOCATION:
  • Due to the Governor's Proclamation 20-25 Stay Home – Stay Healthy (Open Public Meetings Act and Public Records Act) the Public Hearing meeting will be held via Zoom conference. 
  • The Zoom login information will be posted at the Department’s headquarters and website. You may also contact us at 206-533-6529.


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Classifieds: Shoreline Fire Commissioners public hearing March 4

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Commissioners of Shoreline Fire Department will hold a public hearing at the date, time and place specified below. The Shoreline Fire Department will be placing before the voters a ballot measure for re-authorizing and continuing the Fire Benefit Charge (FBC) for an additional ten-years. The purpose of this public hearing to allow for citizen comments and questions.

DATE OF HEARING: Thursday, March 4, 2021

TIME OF HEARING: 5:00 p.m.

LOCATION:
  • Due to the Governor's Proclamation 20-25 Stay Home – Stay Healthy (Open Public Meetings Act and Public Records Act) the Public Hearing meeting will be held via Zoom conference.
  • The Zoom login information will be posted at the Departments headquarters and website. You may also contact us at 206-533-6529.


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Gloria's Birds: Chickadee on a mission

Monday, February 8, 2021

 

A small bird on a branch points downward while its wing are spread just enough to see every separate feather. The wings are a pale muted brown but most of the body is a rich russet brown.  Top of the head is a brown cap, then a white racing stripe and finally a black throat.
Photo by Gloria Z Nagler


Take your shot pronto or I'm outta here!

(Patience is not a virtue of the Chestnut-backed Chickadee, but they sure are lovely little birds!)

--Gloria Z Nagler



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LFP Garden Club meets virtually on Tuesday morning

Photo by Jerry Pickard
The Lake Forest Park Garden Club will hold their annual tea on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at 10am.

Some of the members will give short presentations on the following subjects..
 
  • Bill Gruber - Will give a virtual tour of his magnificent Lake Forest Park Garden.
  • Cynthia Sheridan - Our very own Lake Forest Park Garden Club poet will share some of her garden poems.
  • Candy Richards - Will share an amazing garden tour of Venice California.
 
We will also have one of our members talk on climate issues.
 
We hope you will supply your own tea and treats and join in and enjoy the shows.
 
If interested please email me at janronzu@comcast.net and I will give you the Zoom info.



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Case updates February 6, 2021

  • Vaccine Phase Finder Vaccine Locations
Case updates February 6, 2021


United States
  • cases 26,761,047 - 107,489 new cases in one day
  • deaths 460,582 -  2,820 new deaths in one day 

Washington state - not updated
  • cases 320,146
  • hospitalizations 18,283
  • deaths 4,449

King county
  • cases 78,686 - 537 in one day
  • hospitalizations 4,902 - 12 in one day
  • deaths 1,299 - 0 in one day - not updated

Seattle - population 744,995 (2018)
  • cases 19,584 - 82 in one day
  • hospitalizations 1,168 -  2 in one day
  • deaths 342 - 1 in one day

Shoreline - population 56,752 (2018)
  • cases 1,965 - 9 in one day
  • hospitalizations 174 -   -1 in one day
  • deaths 86 - 1 in one day

Lake Forest Park - 13,569 (2018)
  • cases 258 - 4 in one day
  • hospitalizations 17 - 1 in one day
  • deaths 4 - 0 in one day

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LFP Officials defend proposed Town Center zoning changes

Town Center photo by Steven H. Robinson

By Tracy Furutani

City leaders in Lake Forest Park strongly defended proposed Town Center zoning changes against a strongly-worded letter from the Town Center owner critical of those changes.

“We listen very carefully to what the citizens say,” said LFP Deputy Mayor and councilmember Phillippa Kassover. “I think what [zoning code changes] you’ll see is all based on what we heard from the community.”

“We recognize the extensive effort that has gone into the preparation of these code changes,” said Jamas Gwilliam, vice-president of development at MerloneGeier Partners, the owner of the Town Center property, in the letter dated January 14, 

“but continue to believe that the City has either chosen to ignore our comments calling for a balanced set of development standards for the Town Center, or has knowingly adopted a position that is fundamentally at odds with our ownership interests.”

“The Council's first priority is to protect the interest of Lake Forest Park citizens and the current draft code reflects that,” said Planning Director Stephen Bennett. 

“The current draft also creates many opportunities for MerloneGeier to obtain some flexibility through the negotiation of a development agreement with LFP. MerloneGeier has done that for their project in the Shoreline and they may need to consider taking that approach in Lake Forest Park as well.”

On MerloneGeier’s Town Center blog, they state, “The incorporation of housing (affordable and market rate), open space, enhanced sustainability measures and all of the associated public benefits, will not come to fruition based on the code that has resulted from this process.”

Mayor Jeff Johnson was disappointed by the potential loss of public benefit, including environmental mitigation. “It was really a bummer… we had an opportunity to work together on wastewater runoff and stream quality,” he said.

“The city’s finances have never been a driving factor in this,” said Kassover, commenting on the fiscal effect of non-development. 

“It just simply isn’t an issue for us at all. We don’t make decisions about development based on finances, but based on what’s good for our community.”

MerloneGeier did not respond to requests for clarification about their plans for Town Center.

The City Council will have a work session at 6pm Thursday, in which Bennett and the city planning staff will present the final draft of the zoning code changes. This session will be followed by the regular council meeting at 7pm.

There will be a further Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting on Tuesday, February 16, followed by another COW meeting on Monday, February 22

The city council plans to hold a final public hearing on Thursday, February 25, before adopting the zoning code changes in time to meet the deadline of the moratorium on Town Center development expiring in March.

Kassover was pleased that the proposed zoning code changes were not just about Town Center. 

“I’m really glad that the council was addressing affordable housing in the plan,” she said. “I’m really excited the multifamily tax exemption chapter will affect other areas other than Town Center,” such as areas along Bothell Way near Southern Gateway, and along Ballinger Way.

She struck a final conciliatory note: “I very much hope that, when we have a final document, MerloneGeier will feel as excited about the future of Town Center and its possibilities and potential for a really forward-looking exquisitely environmentally sensitively designed commercial and residential space.”

Updated 2-9-21 to correct Kassover quote


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POSTPONED: Gourmet To Go at the Senior Center Friday

POSTPONED TO FEBRUARY 19: because of the weather, the usual 2nd Friday dinner is postponed to the next Friday, February 19, 2021


Join us at the Shoreline Senior Center Friday 
February 12, 2021 from 4-5:30pm for our monthly dinner 

Note the earlier hours (before dark).

This is a drive through and pick up event.

$10 ($5 Kids) includes Penne with Bolognese Meat Sauce, 
Caesar Salad and Garlic Bread.

It will be on a first come, first serve basis and 
we will only be accepting Cash or Checks.

18560 1st Ave NE - entrance on NE 185th



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Shorenorth Cooperative Preschool virtual open house March 6


Shorenorth Cooperative Preschool
VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, March 6th at 10am

Shorenorth Cooperative Preschool offers a unique and exciting educational experience for your family.

Parents benefit from an excellent education curriculum, and support from other caring peers. Children enjoy a wide variety of social interactions and creative experiences by “learning through play.” 

We pivoted to an all-outdoor preschool curriculum, divided into small groups within classes to reduce risk, and added virtual meet-ups to maximize play during the pandemic. 

Skills developed at Shorenorth Co-op Preschool will last a lifetime!

PLEASE JOIN US AT OUR VIRTUAL OPEN HOUSE: SATURDAY, MARCH 6TH at 10am

This is a wonderful opportunity to meet some of our members, talk with our wonderful teachers and see what our collaborative community is all about! 


3-1-21 Sign up information updated



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For the Birds: Trees Are the View—Just Ask a Bird

Anna's Hummingbird nest. Photo by Dan Harville

By Christine Southwick

On the wing, looking down, treetops and branches offer respite, safety, and food.

Our resident birds, plus migrating birds, use trees for so many things: resting and safe sleeping; shelter from rain, wind, and cold temperatures; food - fruits, nuts, bugs and caterpillars; nesting - either on branches or in trunk cavities; and prime territorial perches (both for singing to attract and keep mates, and for sighting territorial invaders).

Red-breasted Sapsucker making sap holes Photo by Christine Southwick

Which trees are best--Evergreens or deciduous?


Depends on the species of bird — Bald Eagles, Merlins, Band-tailed Pigeons, owls, hawks, and crows need tall trees, preferably conifers. 

Many smaller birds also prefer evergreen pines, cedars, spruces and firs: chickadees, nuthatches, Pileated, Downy, and Hairy Woodpeckers, Northern Flicker, and Red-breasted Sapsucker, even our Anna’s Hummingbird will use the sap holes in the trunks of large evergreens made by sapsuckers for much needed winter-time sugar energy.

It’s a delight to watch Bushtits and Black-capped and Chestnut-backed Chickadees flitting from one hemlock or cedar branch to the next branch, hanging upside down gleaning tiny insects unseen by human eyes.

Red-breasted Nuthatch on Trunk (with grub) Photo by Elaine Chuang

Deciduous trees are mostly smaller and have seasonal color.


Fruiting trees supply extra energy and have the additional advantage of colorful blossoms which nourish bees and other pollinators. 

Finches, American Robins and warblers like Yellow-rumped Warblers prefer native deciduous trees. The birds recognize and eat beneficial insects and help keep your trees healthy. The branches provide anchors and cover for nests and help restrict access to those necessary bird structures.

Even “ground birds” like Song Sparrows, Golden-crowned and White-crowned Sparrows, Spotted Towhees and Oregon Juncos use trees to their advantage.

Bewick's Wren fledgling. Photo by Elaine Chuang

Evergreen trees provide year-round shelter and slow down winter stormwater runoff, much needed in this region, plus they bestow greenness to our gray winters. There is a reason why Washington is officially the Evergreen State.

Did you know that 72% of Shoreline’s tree canopy is privately owned in yours and your neighbors yards? 

Unless a specific tree is in danger of falling, please keep your trees, or even plant more. (Leaves create a protective barrier in the winter and enrich your garden soil.) You can take pride in keeping your share of Shoreline’s canopy. You really are helping our city breath better.

Want to plant an evergreen tree? https://www.seattle.gov/trees/planting-and-care/tree-selection

If you want to figure out the value of a specific tree here is the link to the tree value calculator used by City of Edmonds http://www.treebenefits.com/calculator/



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CORRECTION: Shoreline parents to choose between hybrid learning and remote learning


CORRECTION: Hybrid learning begins March 8 for K-5 students. K-12 special education self contained classrooms will begin on Feb. 22. Dates for middle and high school grade levels to be phased in are still to be determined. 

~~~~~~ 
Shoreline Schools will begin to offer hybrid learning on February 22 for preschool and special education - the groups most negatively impacted by remote learning.

Hybrid learning will begin March 8 for the K-5 general population students.

Parents can choose to keep their students in remote learning.

The District sent emails to parents with information about the options and registration information and deadlines for most students.

Hybrid learning for K-5 students means in person class four days a week, either in a morning or an afternoon session with remote learning the rest of the school day.

Registration Information

More information here

Superintendent Rebecca Miner said, in part,
I want to extend my sincere gratitude to SEA and their members for their collaboration on this important agreement. We are committed to continuing to work alongside them and our other employee groups in implementing hybrid learning with the health and safety of our students, staff and families at the forefront of all we do.

I know that for some families it will be a difficult decision in choosing which learning model is best for their child. Please know that no matter which you choose, your child is going to have a high-quality learning experience with teachers and staff who care about them and give their all every day to support their growth and success.



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Home sales in Shoreline during the month of January

The following are properties that sold in Shoreline during the month of January 2021. Data compiled for the Shoreline Area News by the Shoreline Windermere office.





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Shoreline Emergency Cold Weather Shelter activated for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday

Sunday, February 7, 2021


The Shoreline Emergency Cold Weather Shelter has been activated for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday nights February 8, 9, 10, 2021.

The Hotline number is 206-801-2797. See previous information about the Shelter HERE

For shelter help at other times, 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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WeatherWatcher: Arctic Air, Snow possible this week

 
Snow in Shoreline, January 2012
Photo by Carl Dinse.

We went from looking like a rare La Niña winter, escaping any major snow event, to a change in the forecast for this week. Sunday night into Monday morning colder air is moving in place with a convergence zone that could drop 1-2 inches of snow north of Seattle in a narrow east-west band. The accumulations are not expected to stick around on the roads very long, if at all.

North winds are expected to continue through the week, bringing us more and more arctic air through the Fraser river gap in British Columbia. Temperatures are expected to cool down, with daytime high of 40°F on Monday, dropping to the low to mid 30's through the remainder of the week. Low temperatures are expected to drop into the 20's, with Thursday morning possibly dropping into the upper teens. 

This will be the coldest air we've had in our region so far this winter. 

What about snow? There has been huge uncertainty in the forecasts, but as of this writing, we are looking at a slight chance of spotty snow showers or flurries through Wednesday evening. There isn't a lot expected in accumulations - possibly 1-2 inches by Wednesday - though any snow is unlikely to survive the daytime warmth over the next two or three days.

Thursday and Friday, however, it looks like we could have a significant widespread snow event move in. It's looking to be between 2-8 inches of snow. Some models show double that amount but again, this is highly uncertain. I'll be more comfortable giving a forecast as we get closer to mid-week.

Long range forecasts are hinting that the following week could be cold, with more opportunities to see some snow in the area. Keep a close eye on the weather forecasts this week, it could be a wild one.


For current weather conditions visit www.shorelineweather.com



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Amaryllis on a gray day

Photo by Karen Riston

This may come as a shock, but the King county weather cameras transmit in color. Never mind that every transmission from downtown Seattle and Shorecrest High School look like black and gray photos.

Now if every camera had an amaryllis in view instead of spiders, it would be as obvious as this photo with the brilliantly colored flower next to a scene of typical Puget Sound weather.

--DKH



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Rob Oxford: The Bluest Wig You’ve Ever Seen Is In Seattle

Mama Blue in action at a Seahawks game
Photo by JM

Story by Rob Oxford
Photos by Rob Oxford unless otherwise noted

If you’re a Seahawk Fan, you’re most likely familiar with her story. After this weekend, fans in the other 31 NFL Cities should be familiar with it as well.

Patti Hammond, better known as Mama Blue, is truly a living legend in the Pacific Northwest. Elected in 1999 to represent the Seahawks in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, she is a true “Super Fan.” Which is why you’re reading a story about her on the morning of Super Bowl LV.

Unbeknownst to Patti, she was nominated for the NFL’s inaugural ‘Fan of the Year’ program. Honoring those fans who best represent their team and community. one of just three fans nominated, Patti was awarded an all-expenses paid trip to Tampa with all the trimmings and I mean ALL the trimmings. Including tickets to the biggest of games.

Sadly, with the pandemic still a major concern and her recent battle with cancer, which I am delighted to say she is successfully winning, Mama’s Doctors recommended she not do any traveling. Instead, she will be well represented this weekend by her great grandson Deon and her granddaughter Desirae, who will be wearing Mama’s signature blue wig.

Seahawks football legend Jim Zorn presenting Mama Blue with her
Seahawks Fan of the Year shirt, being held by her granddaughter Desirae.

Of course, Mama would love to have gone to the game, but as far as past Super Bowl experiences are concerned, nothing could possibly compare to watching her Hawks destroy the Denver Broncos at snowy Giant Stadium in Super Bowl XLVIII. 

Now if today, Seattle was again representing the NFC, instead of the Patriots, her family might have had a tougher time keeping her home.
 
Although the award was ultimately presented late Saturday Night to a fan from Tennessee, a state that didn’t even have a Pro NFL team until 1998, 20 years after Mama had already begun her cheering, her daughter told me she was thrilled to be honored and delighted her grandchildren could be a part of the celebration. I then reminded her daughter that the fan from Tennessee doesn’t have his own trading card and Oyo Sports figure… so there. As you can tell I’m just slightly bitter.

Mama Blue's 90th birthday was celebrated with a parade of cars past her home.
There were Seahawks, pirates, and Seahawk legend Jim Zorn

A Seahawks Season ticketholder since the very first day, a birthday present for her late husband “Tricky,” Mama has been passionate about sports her entire life. She learned to encourage fans to root for their favorite team as a Roosevelt High School Cheerleader and, before buying a white wig at Goodwill and dying it blue, wore a purple wig at Husky Stadium. She is a Super Fan indeed.

Mama has lived only blocks from Shorecrest H.S. since 1952. Her children and grandchildren were all Scots and she delights in being asked to come to the school in all her regalia for special occasions. A true ambassador for the Seahawks, she has also spent countless hours in Veterans Facilities and Nursing Homes where at 90 years old she jokes; “I’m just visiting, I’m not staying.”

I remember the first time I met my future wife and she told me, “Mama Blue lives right down the street.” I knew right then this had to be a cool neighborhood.

On Mama’s 90th birthday, her daughter Dee, with help from Seahawks V.P. of Community Outreach Mike Flood, arranged a parade of vehicles to roll down the street in front of her home. Dozens of vehicles filled with 12’s, the Seafair Pirates, Seahawk Legend Jim Zorn, it was a total surprise and Mama Blue was overwhelmed.


So how did Patti Hammond aka Mama Blue become such a beloved member of the Seahawk family? 

She weathered the storm. She never missed a game. When opponents would march into the Kingdome and blow out the Seahawks by 50, Mama Blue could be heard cheering. In 1992 when under Coach Tom Flores Seattle ended the season with a record of 2 – 14, their worst to date, Mama Blue and her husband spent every home game in their seats cheering.

Players don’t forget that type of thing. Especially when win or lose, the fan who stays behind to thank the team is wearing giant sunglasses and a crazy wig.

Interviewed dozens and dozens of times, by talent far more experienced than I, I wanted to ask Mama Blue questions she hadn’t been previously asked. That proved to be a difficult task.

As a sports fan myself and collector of memorabilia, I knew Mama had accumulated quite the collection over the years and I was curious as to her favorite item. Regrettably, it was a question I knew she’d been asked time and time again, and one I thought would be difficult to answer.

Not for Mama Blue.

She mentioned lots of autographed photos and footballs. In fact, one very special football was given to her on her 80th Birthday. She was in her seat congratulating the team after another win and Coach Pete walked up and presented her with a signed game ball.

Mama Blue has every media guide from every home game, game-used gloves and game-worn jerseys, but a pair of signed cleats from Walter Jones and a helmet signed by the late Paul Allen and Coach Mike Holmgren are among her most favorite keepsakes.

Webster defines “original” as: being the first instance or source from which to copy, reproduce…”

Look around Lumen Field next Seahawk season and as you revel in the number of 12’s wearing face paint and outrageous, self-made costumes, remember that most of them are mere copies of a true original.

It all started with a blue wig, blue and green eyeshadow, and a feather boa.



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Attend school board meeting virtually


School Board Regular Meeting and Study Session scheduled for Monday, February 8, 2021.

The study session will begin at 5:00pm to review and discuss school district budgets. 

The regular meeting will follow at 7:00pm. Topics on the meeting’s agenda include District priorities progress reports, 2021-2022 enrollment projections, legislative update and a policy revision.

You can view the posted agenda for these meetings on the website calendar. If you would like to listen to the meeting, you can do so by using the links or call-in phone numbers below. 

If you would like to provide written public comment for this meeting, you can do so by filling out this online form by Monday, February 8 and it will be provided to the Board.

School Board Study Session at 5:00 pm
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86548734168?pwd=VTJiNkMySXlzNXp2RGVRd2xIUlJvQT09

Passcode: 383343

Call-in numbers:  1-253-215-8782 or 1-346-248-7799
Webinar ID: 865 4873 4168

School Board Regular Meeting at 7:00 pm
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82123042381?pwd=ZEJpTjVlMWFnMG12bWhQbkhjaFliZz09

Passcode: 402118
Call-in numbers:  1-253-215-8782 or 1-346-248-7799
Webinar ID: 821 2304 2381



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COVID-19: Do your part to put COVID in the rear view mirror

 

There will an end to this pandemic, 

but how you get there makes a difference.  

Stay home when you can. Wear your mask. 

Keep your distance. Avoid gatherings. 

Don't let COVID-19 put YOU in the rear view mirror! 



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Case updates February 5, 2021

2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak (COVID-19)

  • Vaccine Phase Finder Vaccine Locations
Case updates February 5, 2021


United States
  • cases 26,653,558 - 130,261 new cases in one day
  • deaths 457,762 -  3,553 new deaths in one day 

Washington state 
  • cases 320,146 - 775 in one day
  • hospitalizations 18,283 - 127 in one day
  • deaths 4,449 - not reported

King county
  • cases 78,149 - 59 in one day
  • hospitalizations 4,890 - 25 in one day
  • deaths 1,299 - 7 in one day

Seattle - population 744,995 (2018)
  • cases 19,502 - 22 in one day
  • hospitalizations 1,166 -  3 in one day
  • deaths 341 - 1 in one day

Shoreline - population 56,752 (2018)
  • cases 1,956 - 3 in one day
  • hospitalizations 175 - 1 in one day
  • deaths 86 - 1 in one day

Lake Forest Park - 13,569 (2018)
  • cases 254 - 5 in one day
  • hospitalizations 16 -  -1 in one day
  • deaths 4 - 0 in one day

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Construction now substantially complete on all three Northgate Link stations

Northgate station during testing

Construction on all three stations of Sound Transit’s Northgate Link Extension is now substantially complete, a major milestone in progress toward the start of revenue service later this year. 

The elevated station at Northgate was the last to see construction substantially completed. 

Construction at the U District station was substantially completed last summer, and construction of the Roosevelt Station was substantially completed earlier last year.

“This achievement is remarkable given the construction challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoff. 
“Thanks to the commitment and professionalism of our construction team, our contractors, and their skilled and dedicated workforce, we remain on budget and on schedule to open this extension in September.”
Northgate station during testing

“The completion of station construction is an exciting milestone for the Northgate extension,” said King County Executive and Sound Transit Board Vice Chair Dow Constantine. 

“It’s another reminder that we are getting closer to the start of traffic-free commutes for thousands more workers and students, and the beginning of a three-year flurry of projects to nearly triple our light rail system.” 
Roosevelt station during testing

Light rail test trains began operating on the new elevated light rail tracks last month to test the overhead electrical power system throughout the Northgate line. Testing will continue for several months, mostly during morning hours.

Work on the project is now focused on completing systems work, which includes electrical and communications systems.

Roosevelt station during testing

When finished, the 4.3 mile regional light rail extension will offer riders reliable, traffic-free travel between Northgate and downtown Seattle in just 14 minutes. 

U District station during testing

Trains traveling in 3.5-mile twin tunnels north to and from the University of Washington Station at Husky Stadium will stop at underground stations in the U District and Roosevelt neighborhoods, exit the tunnels at First Avenue Northeast and Northeast 95th and transition to a 0.8-mile elevated guideway to reach the station.

U District station during testing

Sound Transit is simultaneously working to extend light rail north, south, east and west. Northgate Link will be followed in 2023 by the opening of service to Mercer Island, Bellevue and Redmond’s Overlake community. 

Additional extensions to Shoreline, Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood, Kent/Des Moines, Federal Way and downtown Redmond are planned in 2024.

--All photos courtesy Sound Transit



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In the Garden Now: Hellebore or Lenten Rose

Photo by Victoria Gilleland

The nodding saucer-shaped flowers of Lenten Rose turn winter into a brighter happier place. Clumps will naturalize beautifully at the edge of the woodland garden.

Purple buds and foliage are the perfect foil for the pastel flowers and rich greens of the winter garden.

--Victoria Gilleland


 

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Home sales in Lake Forest Park during January 2021

The following are properties that sold in Lake Forest Park during the month of January 2021. Data compiled for the Shoreline Area News by the Shoreline Windermere office.




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Coming Up at King County Council – Feb. 8-12

Saturday, February 6, 2021


When the full King County council meets on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 Public Health will share another update on the COVID-19 pandemic in King County.

The full council will also receive the King County Metro 2020 System Evaluation, which will be a key document in updating Metro Service Guidelines later this year.

Additionally, the Council will consider a motion to condemn preferential COVID-19 vaccine appointments that some area hospitals reportedly offered to volunteers, major donors and board members. 

The motion would ask that the state legislature take action to prohibit such activities going forward. Full council meets at 1pm on Tuesday, February 9.

All meetings continue to be virtual to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Meetings can be livestreamed on KCTV unless otherwise stated. View meeting agendas and legislation here.



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Wigeons winging westward...

 

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler

(or east or north or south, but American Wigeons are partial to alliteration:).
--Gloria Z Nagler





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Feb 15 deadline to enter short films in 2021 Shoreline Short Short Film Festival


Call for Short Films
2021 Shoreline Short Short Film Festival

Submission Deadline: February 15, 2021

ShoreLake Arts (formerly: Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council) is currently accepting submissions for the 2021 Shoreline Short Short Film Festival. Now celebrating its 5th year! 

This festival aims to support emerging and developing filmmakers in Washington State and encourage appreciation for the art of filmmaking in our community.

Entries of “short short” films must be between 3 and 13 minutes and will be judged by an esteemed jury of filmmakers and film advocates. 

Jurors include Tony Doupe, SAG/AFTRA Actor and Shoreline Community College Film Department Professor, Vivian Hua, Executive Director at the Northwest Film Forum, Amy Lillard, Executive Director at Washington Filmworks, and Zubi Mohammed, Supervising Producer for Magnussen Media Group. 

Accepted films will be screened on Saturday, April 24, 2021 as a pop-up drive-in event at Shorewood High School, and the best of the best will take home a handmade Golden Sasquatch Award as well as cash prizes!

AWARDS and PRIZES
  • Best Picture – $500
  • Best General Film –$250
  • Best Music Video – $250
  • Best Animation – $250
  • Best Comedy – $250
  • Best Student Film – $250
  • People’s Choice Award – $250
Fees for this year include a $15 standard fee for all categories except in the Student category. The Student category fee is $10. Thank you!

All winners will also receive a Golden Sasquatch Award that is sure to be the envy of any Pacific Northwest filmmaker!

Film Specifications

*FILMS MUST BE MADE BY FILMMAKERS WORKING IN WASHINGTON STATE*
  • Films should be 3-13 minutes in length, including credits
  • Filmmakers must have proper license to all copyrighted music, video, and images included in the duration of their submission(s)
  • Films must have been completed after January 1, 2019
  • All non-English films must have English subtitles
  • Submissions must be made online. DVDs and Blu-Rays will not be accepted
Submission and Acceptance
  • There is a $10 entry fee for Students
  • There is a $15 entry fee for all other categories
  • Filmmakers may submit only one film
  • Please submit to one category
  • Notification of acceptance will be sent via email by March 15th, 2021
  • Still shots and/or excerpts from selected films may be used by the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council for publicity purposes
  • All entries are final and may not be withdrawn from the festival once submitted
By submitting an entry to the Shoreline Short Short Film Festival, you attest that all information provided is accurate and complete, that you have the authority to submit said entry for consideration, and that you have read, understand, and agree to all terms of entry.

Additional information on our website!

Sponsorship opportunities for this event are available! Feel free to email Terri at programs@shorelakearts.org



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Case updates February 4, 2021

2019 Novel Coronavirus Outbreak (COVID-19)

  • Vaccine Phase Finder Vaccine Locations
Case updates February 4, 2021


United States
  • cases 26,523,297 - 124,960 new cases in one day
  • deaths 454,209 -  5,189 new deaths in one day 
Washington state 
  • cases 319,371 - 1,493 in one day
  • hospitalizations 18,156 - 85 in one day
  • deaths 4,449 - 33 in one day

King county
  • cases 78,090 - 249 in one day
  • hospitalizations 4,865 - 19 in one day
  • deaths 1,292 - 13 in one day

Seattle - population 744,995 (2018)
  • cases 19,480 - 95 in one day
  • hospitalizations 1,163 -  5 in one day
  • deaths 340 - 9 in one day

Shoreline - population 56,752 (2018)
  • cases 1,953 - 6 in one day
  • hospitalizations 174 -   -1 in one day
  • deaths 86 - 1 in one day

Lake Forest Park - 13,569 (2018)
  • cases 254 - 5 in one day
  • hospitalizations 17 - 1 in one day
  • deaths 4 - 0 in one day

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