Low tides continue

Sunday, July 17, 2022

 
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Low tides have been frequent this month. This was a -4 tide at the Edmonds ferry dock.

Photo by Steven H. Robinson

The piers are not usually exposed to this depth. Easy to tell what normal water height is.



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Beach Blanket Bingo

Beach Blanket Bingo in the Park,
Saturday, July 23, 5-7 pm
Richmond Beach Community Park (aka Library Park)

Bingo in the Park - Bring your family, friends, picnic blanket, some dinner and prepare to win some fun Richmond Beach themed bingo prizes.

Just like last year, it's super accessible ($1 to play 10 bingo games), we'll have prizes for the winners, beanie babies flung by a giant slingshot for the kiddos, great music for everyone.



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Book review by Aarene Storms: Awesome Dog 5000

Awesome Dog 5000 by Justin Dean

Marty, Skyler and Ralph aren't popular kids at their school until they discover Awesome Dog 5000, the robotic dog that can fly at 300 miles per hour and plays "fetch" with an atomic cannon. 

When the kids and their fabulous robot dog accidently mess with a genius super-villain with a lab full of crazy potions, things get wild -- and silly.

Fans of Dog Man, the Wimpy Kid, and all things ridiculous will love this slapstick episodic tale of science-gone-silly. First in a series.

Recommended for ages 8 to adult. No kissing, no cussing, but one character does get transformed into an evil pirate bunny with 20-foot-tall buttcheeks. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Aarene Storms is a librarian who reads and reviews books for all ages. She can be reached at aarenex@haikufarm.net



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Vaccination clinic at Senior Activity Center in Shoreline Friday for 6 months and older

 
Free COVID-19 vaccinates for adults and children 6 months and older on Friday July 22, 2022 from 9am to 3pm at the Shoreline / LFP Senior Activity Center 18560 1st Ave NE #1, Shoreline WA 98155.

Vaccines and boosters are free - no insurance required. Everyone is welcome, regardless of immigration status.

Registration:
  • Use the QR codes in the flyer - they will take you right to the page to make an appointment; 
    • Pfizer 6 months to 4 years and Moderna 6 months to 5 years
    • Adults and children age 5 and older
Masks and social distancing required. 
Information about safety:kingcounty.gov/vaccine

Update 7/19/22 The links do not work and have been removed from the article (but not the flyer). 

The QR codes work well.

In order to use them you need to have a smartphone. Find and download the app for QR codes. Once you have the app just hold your photo up to show the code and it will take you to the appointment site. As the codes are very close to each other in the flyer, it would be a good idea to hold a plain piece of paper over the code you do not want.

There are now advertisements at the bottom of the QR code screen so be careful not to touch the "install" button or you will end up with an app you don't want.



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COVID-19 Local Case Numbers as of Friday, July 15, 2022

KING COUNTY HOSPITALIZATIONS


COVID-19 Local Case Numbers as of Friday, July 15, 2022

King county transmission rates are edging into HIGH. Masks are recommended for indoor events.

The Shoreline Senior Activity Center will hold a vaccination clinic on Friday, July 22, 2022 from 9am to 3pm. Use the QR codes to register. Walk-ups ok but no guarantees. Vaccines available for 6mo through adult.  

King county cases

Cases in past 7 days - 7,060
Average daily cases - 1,052

King county hospitalizations

Hospitalizations in past 7 days - 134
Average daily hospitalizations - 19

King county deaths

Deaths in past 14 days - 38
Daily average deaths - 3


Seattle Cases

Cases in past 7 days - 2,646
Average daily cases - 389

Seattle Hospitalizations

Hospitalizations in past 7 days - 35
Average daily hospitalizations - 5

Seattle Deaths

Deaths in 14 days - 7
Average daily deaths - <1


Shoreline cases

Cases in past 7 days - 213
Average daily cases - 31

Shoreline Hospitalizations

Hospitalizations in past 7 days - 4
Average daily hospitalizations - <1

Shoreline Deaths

Total deaths - 145
Deaths in 14 days - 4
Average daily deaths - <1


Lake Forest Park cases

Cases in past 7 days - 36
Average daily cases - 5

Lake Forest Park Hospitalizations

Total hospitalizations - 40
Hospitalizations in past 7 days - 1
Average daily hospitalizations - <1

Lake Forest Park Deaths

Total deaths - 8
Deaths in 14 days - 1
Average daily deaths - <1



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Friday's sunset

Saturday, July 16, 2022

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

 Just something pretty to look at.




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Trader Joe's salad dressing with ready-to-eat chicken Caesar salad contains undisclosed eggs

WASHINGTON, July 12, 2022 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert due to concerns that the salad dressing component of ready-to-eat (RTE) Caesar salad with chicken may contain egg, a known allergen, which is not declared on the finished product label.

FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers with an allergy to eggs are aware that these products should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the products are no longer available for purchase.

The product is no longer sold in the stores but the concern is that customers with egg allergies may have previously purchased the item.

The Caesar salads with chicken were produced on July 5, 2022. The following products are subject to the public health alert: 9 oz. plastic clamshell containers of “TRADER JOE’S CAESAR SALAD WITH WHITE CHICKEN MEAT and Creamy Caesar Dressing” with best by dates of 07/11/22 and 07/12/22, and a lot code of GHNW 186-06.

The products bear establishment number “P-46987” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to Trader Joe’s locations in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.



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Nationwide dialing code 988 suicide and crisis lifeline

OLYMPIA -- 988 is the new, nationwide, three-digit dialing code for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. 

The 988 dialing code connects people via call, text, or chat, to the existing National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL) where compassionate, accessible care and support are available for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress. 

988 is the newest addition to the state’s network of crisis center providers and will not replace any crisis call centers in Washington. 

The current NSPL number, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), will remain active along with the new 988 dialing code.

“Thanks to the many partner organizations and agencies who have made this resource possible,” said Governor Jay Inslee. “In the same way 911 transformed our ability to respond to emergency safety or health situations, 988 will transform our ability to connect people to help in behavioral and mental health crisis situations.”

Text messaging
In addition to activating a new dialing code for anyone experiencing suicidal or mental health-related crisis to call, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline also allows text messaging as part of increasing access to services for youth and individuals with different abilities. 

Contact on behalf of a loved one
People can also dial or text 988 if they are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support. 988 will be available 24/7 and is free and confidential.

250 languages
Call services will be available in Spanish, along with interpretation services in over 250 languages. Spanish speakers may reach the Spanish Language Line by pressing 2 after dialing 9-8-8 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Text and chat services are available in English only.

Veterans
Veterans and service members may reach the Veterans Crisis Line by pressing 1 after dialing 9-8-8 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255). 

Native and Strong Lifeline
Soon, Washington will also be able to launch a Native and Strong Lifeline, dedicated to serving Washington’s American Indian and Alaska Native individuals.

Deaf / hard of hearing
People who are deaf, hard of hearing, and TTY users should use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.

Background
Made possible through the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is the first of a series of expansions to NSPL services, and includes House Bill 1477 (E2SHB 1477)

Signed by Governor Inslee last year, the bill expands Washington’s Behavioral Health Crisis Response System and suicide prevention services and designates the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and Health Care Authority (HCA) as lead agencies, alongside a new 988 Coordinator position under the Governor’s Office. 

The multi-year phased rollout of changes includes increasing options for youth and adults to receive help while in crisis and strengthening the state’s ability to provide culturally, geographically, and linguistically appropriate services.

DOH and HCA expect an increase in call volume as estimated by Vibrant Emotional Health, the National Administrator of the NSPL and 988.

Staffing 
To meet the expected increase in call volume, NSPL crisis centers increased hiring and recruitment efforts, trained over 132 individuals to provide NSPL counseling and support for 988 programs, and anticipate hiring another 20 or so positions. Those interested in a career helping people in crisis can apply for a job with an NSPL crisis center.

For more information, visit the 988 webpage.



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Make your own zine in free workshop Saturday July 23, 2022

July is International Zine Month. 

Celebrate by making your very own zine with cartoonist and teaching artist, Margaret Hartley, in a FREE workshop on Saturday, July 23rd, 12:30 – 1pm at Shorelake Arts Gallery. 

All supplies provided and all ages welcome.

The Gallery is located on the lower level of Town Center at the intersection of Bothell and Ballinger Way NE. 

The entrance is from the lobby.



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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: USBee


 Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter HERE




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Construction update: Lake Forest Park Reservoir Floating Cover Replacement Project

Construction crews installing floating cover panels
Photo courtesy Seattle Public Utilities

July 2022 Construction Update

After a pause in work due to significant shipment delays, SPU contractor crews resumed working on the Lake Forest Park Reservoir Floating Cover Replacement Project in May. 

Construction crews welding cover panels together
Photo courtesy SPU

Since then, our contractor has received all engineered materials and had begun to install the floating cover on the west cell. The contractor will continue to deploy and install the cover and anticipates completing the installation in late August.

Liner cleaned and inspected
Photo courtesy SPU

Remaining Construction Activities

The project is expected to be completed by fall 2022. Most of the remaining work will be focused on the west cell of the reservoir, and construction activities will include: 
  • Installing the floating cover over the west cell of the reservoir and performing remaining equipment upgrades
  • Bringing the reservoir back into operation once final inspection and testing are complete
  • Final site restoration and demobilization
The reservoir is located in the Horizon View neighborhood of Lake Forest Park.


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Gloria's Insects: Git outta here, Sylvester!


Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

I called dibs before we took off this morning! (Western Yellow Jackets in a territorial dispute:)

--Gloria Z. Nagler




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Two foreign nationals plead guilty to trafficking ivory and rhinoceros horn from the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Photo by Candi Foltz on Unsplash
WASHINGTON – Herdade Lokua, 34, and Jospin Mujangi, 32, of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Seattle to conspiracy and Lacey Act charges. They were indicted on Nov. 3, 2021, on 11 counts relating to trafficking wildlife from DRC to Seattle. The court scheduled the sentencing hearing for Nov. 1.

In pleading guilty, both defendants admitted that beginning in November 2019, they agreed to smuggle elephant ivory, white rhinoceros horn and pangolin scales to the United States. They worked with a middleman to negotiate the sales and coordinate imports to Seattle. Between August and September 2020, Lokua and Mujangi ship

ped three packages containing approximately 49 pounds of ivory from Kinshasa. They arranged for the ivory to be cut into smaller pieces and painted black; the packages were then falsely labeled as containing wood.

Lokua and Mujangi acknowledged that in June 2021, they sent nearly five pounds of rhinoceros horn to Seattle using a similar scheme. Lokua discussed sending two tons of ivory and one ton of pangolin scales concealed in a shipping container. He stated that payment would have to be routed through a bank account in China before they could access the cash in Kinshasa.

Lokua and Mujangi admitted that they traveled to Seattle on Nov. 2, 2021, to meet with prospective buyers who were actually undercover federal agents. After negotiating the details of a large shipment of ivory, rhinoceros horn and pangolin scales, agents arrested both men in Edmonds, Washington.

The investigation was part of “Operation Kuluna,” an international operation conducted between the Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Seattle, the Government of the DRC and the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa. After the arrests, the task force in DRC acted on information provided by HSI-Seattle to seize 2,067 pounds of ivory and 75 pounds of pangolin scales in Kinshasa worth approximately $3.5 million, all contraband related to wildlife trafficking.

The Lacey Act is the nation’s oldest wildlife trafficking statute and prohibits, among other things, falsely labeling shipments containing wildlife. The United States, DRC and approximately 181 other countries are signatories to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). CITES is an international treaty that restricts trade in species that may be threatened with extinction. CITES has permit requirements for protected wildlife, and the indictment alleges that the defendants did not obtain any of the necessary papers or declarations from DRC or the United States.

The CITES treaty has listed the white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) as a protected species since 1975 and the African elephant (Loxodanta africana) since 1977. All species of pangolin were added to the CITES appendix with the greatest level of protection in 2017. All three mammals are threatened by poaching and habitat loss.

HSI-Seattle conducted the investigation. The government is represented by Senior Trial Attorneys Patrick M. Duggan and Ryan C. Connors of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Washington.

--Department of Justice


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I-5, SR 104 ramps to close overnight for light rail work next week

There will be several overnight lane ramp closures on SR 104 and I-5 next week as Sound Transit contractor crews continue work on the Lynnwood Light Rail extension. 

Please plan ahead for the following closures:
  • Monday, July 18 – Thursday, July 21:
    • The northbound I-5 off-ramp to eastbound SR 104 will close nightly from 8pm to 4:30am through the morning of Thursday, July 21.
    • The northbound I-5 off-ramp to westbound SR 104 will close nightly from 9pm to 4am through the morning of Thursday, July 21.
  • Monday, July 18 – Friday, July 22:
    • The eastbound and westbound SR 520 on-ramps to northbound I-5 will close nightly from 8pm to 4:30am Monday, July 18 through the morning of Friday, July 22.
    • The HOV direct access ramps to connecting SR 104 and I-5 will close nightly from 10pm to 5am through the morning of Friday, July 22.


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Paint spill on N 155th

Photo courtesy City of Shoreline

A large amount of white paint was spilled along N 155th between Aurora Ave N and Westminster Way Thursday afternoon. 

Photo courtesy City of Shoreline

The City of Shoreline reports that "We're working on clean-up options and will hopefully have it removed on Friday."

The source of the paint was not listed.



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No need for a night light - "Buck" Super moon lights the skies

Friday, July 15, 2022


Photo by Bruce Hill
We were treated to clear skies and a very bright super moon this week. 

Photographer Bruce Hill said "I honestly thought I had left a light on when I woke up at 4am."

An article in CNN says there's a reason for that.

While there isn't a single definition of "supermoon," the term typically refers to a full moon that can stand out more than others because it is within 90% of its closest orbit to Earth. The buck moon is the supermoon that will come closest to Earth this year, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac.


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Shorecrest graduates awarded Theatre Arts scholarships from Driftwood Players

Following Board approval on June 27, 2022, Edmonds Driftwood Players is proud to announce our three scholarship recipients. 

Cami Taliaferro-Barber, recipient of the Ralph Eaton Technical Scholarship was awarded $500. 

Elizabeth Howlett and Harper Flynt are co-recipients of the Theatre Arts Scholarship and were awarded $250 each.

 
Elizabeth Howlett
Elizabeth Howlett
is a 2022 graduate of Shorecrest High School with plans to attend USC School of Dramatic Arts with an emphasis on acting for stage and screen, voice, and script analysis. 

Winner of the President’s Volunteer Service Award, Elizabeth was editor-in-chief of Shorecrest High School's literary arts magazine and a self-employed piano teacher.

Elizabeth sparkles. Without a doubt, she is one of the most remarkable performers I've worked with in both my academic and professional theatre career --- truly one of those people that is great at everything she leans in to. She embodies skill and talent rivaling any professional I know, and most impressively, grounds those in strong character. -- Andreas Kidd, Drama Instructor and English Department Chair at Shorecrest High School.

 
Harper Flynt
Harper Flynt
is a 2022 graduate of Shorecrest High School with plans to attend NYU Tisch School of Drama with an emphasis on acting, dance, voice, linguistics, and foreign languages. 

Harper is a National Honor Society Member and winner of the Presidential Award for Community Service.

Harper is known among their family and friends as a comedian; as such, they sport a full but guarded smile, eyes that narrow and widen at will, and a sense of humor always ready to laugh and joke as a means of self-defense.
Harper is a powerful, talented dramatic actor as well, with a sense of nuance, subtlety, and intensity (when needed) that frankly astonishes me. -- Jeff Berryman, Actor/Monologue Coach.

Cami Taliaferro-Barber is entering her senior year at Cornish College of the Arts pursuing a degree in Performance Production. A very promising and accomplished individual, this is the fourth scholarship that Edmonds Driftwood Players has awarded Cami.

Cami Taliaferro-Barber 

As a director, I am frequently leery of perfectionists as either an Assistant Director or a Designer. It is very important to me that I hold the reigns and can shape the direction of a production. This is the point that sets Cami apart: she can adopt the vision and direction of the Director and make it her own. In doing so, I have seen her blend her artistic concepts and thoughts with other designers [to help] create outstanding vibrant productions that are only achieved through a high degree of coordination. --Brent Stainer


EDMONDS DRIFTWOOD PLAYERS is a volunteer based 501(c)(3) non-profit community theatre. 

We have been entertaining and educating our community since 1958, making us one of the oldest continually operating community theatres in Washington State.



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Trees for Shoreline: Get a Free Tree for Your Property

Application opens July 15

Eligible Shoreline residents can apply to receive free trees through Trees for Shoreline, a pilot program aimed at growing and maintaining a healthy urban forest. 

Trees are important for a healthy Shoreline. They provide a wide range of benefits to our environment and to our homes and properties!

When you participate in Trees for Shoreline, you receive:
  • 1 free tree per household
  • Help selecting the right tree and planting location
  • A watering bag and mulch for your tree
  • Training on proper planting and care
  • Planting assistance (subject to volunteer availability)
  • Ongoing care reminders

The application for Trees for Shoreline is open July 15- August 15. Learn more and apply for your free tree here.




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CPR / First Aid certification class offered in hybrid format

CPR/First Aid certification with WestCoast Training and Shoreline Community College

Participants to gain or improve knowledge and skill proficiency in First Aid, CPR, and AED skills. 

You will learn how to help adult, child, and infant patients in emergency, including injuries and medical emergencies. 

This hybrid course is provided in partnership with WestCoast CPR Training and the Health and Safety Institute. Take a 4 hour self-paced online training course and then the training will conclude with a fun and interactive hands-on practice class at Shoreline Community College. 

The in-person portion will provide the opportunity to practice adult, child, and infant CPR, AED, and some basic first aid skills.

Upon successfully completing this course, participants will receive an adult, child, and infant CPR/AED and First Aid certification card valid for two years.

7/27 IN PERSON - Online course + 2 hours in person - Wednesday (1)
Fee: $109




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Agenda for Shoreline council meeting July 18, 2022


Shoreline City Council regular meeting on Monday, July 18, 2022 at 7pm is in hybrid format - in person at the Council Chamber · Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133 and online on Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/95015006341 253-215-8782 - Webinar ID: 950 1500 6341

The agenda for the July 18, 2022 Shoreline City Council meeting includes one Action item and two Study items:

Action Item 8(a) Action on Resolution No. 492 – Providing for the Submission to the Qualified Electors of the City of Shoreline at an Election to be Held on November 8, 2022, a Proposition Authorizing the City to Increase its Regular Property Tax Levy Above the Limit Established in RCW 84.55.010 to Fund Public Safety and Community Services

The staff report will be presented by Christina Arcidy, Management Analyst

The City Council directed staff to bring forward a Resolution to place a levy lid lift replacement on the November 8 General Election ballot, which was discussed in detail at the June 13 Council meeting. Council is scheduled to take action on the proposed Resolution.

Study item 9(a) Discussion of the Transportation Element and Transportation Master Plan Updates: Draft Project Prioritization

The staff report will be presented by Nora Daley-Peng, Senior Transportation Planner

The City of Shoreline is currently updating its Transportation Element (TE) and Transportation Master Plan (TMP) to better serve the community’s current and future transportation needs. This is the seventh in a series of briefings to Council.

The TE/TMP supports all forms of travel – by foot, bicycle, skateboard, scooter, stroller, wheelchair, transit, motorcycle, automobile, etc. With the upcoming arrival of light rail transit, new and higher frequency bus service, new pedestrian/bicycle connections, and land use changes and growth, the TE and TMP updates provide an opportunity to further align transportation vision, goals, objectives, and policies with the City’s Comprehensive Plan.

Staff will provide Council with a refresher on the Vision and Goals and a briefing on what we heard from the public during Outreach Series 3, the preliminary data-driven project prioritization process, and the draft TE/TMP project list.

Study Item 9(b) Discussion of Potential Westminster Park Design Process
Sponsored by Councilmembers Ramsdell and Roberts

The staff report will be presented by Nick Borer, Parks Fleet and Facilities Manager

The land purchased for Westminster Park had uninhabitable homes that have been demolished. The park has been cleared and graded as part of the demolition, and is being scheduled for periodic maintenance.

The request from Councilmembers Ramsdell and Roberts is for Council to reprioritize the order of projects in order to move the design and development of Westminster Park to 2022 or 2023 rather than the currently scheduled 2024 timeframe. This Westminster Triangle neighborhood does not have any developed parks and there are concerns about children playing in the streets so close to two arterials (145th and Westminster Way).

--Pam Cross



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Shoreline Walks: Hillwood and Richmond Highlands History Walk - Saturday July 16, 2022


Saturday, July 16, 10 am – 1 pm

Join staff from the Shoreline Historical Museum in a walk around Hillwood and Richmond Highlands that highlights various historic and contemporary aspects of these neighborhoods. 

Particular points of interest are the old Fircrest location and Sculpture Park. This walk is part of a three walk series; with each unique walk focusing on a different subject: “Boundaries”, “Historical Structures” and “Artworks”.



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Jobs: WSDOT Design and Construction Program Lead (TPS4)

WSDOT
Design and Construction Program Lead (TPS4)
Shoreline, WA. – Northwest Region
$75,096 - $100,963 Annually

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Northwest Region (NWR) Landscape Architecture Office is eager to hire an experienced Landscape Architect looking to advance their career and serve as our next Design and Construction Program Lead in support of WSDOT’s mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost effective transportation options to improve communities and economic vitality for people and businesses. 

The responsibilities of the Design and Construction Program Lead will support WSDOT’s mission through wise management of the roadside assets, delivering right-sized projects, supporting multi-modal transportation options, and improving environmental conditions. The successful candidate appointed to this position will also provide essential support for contract and construction work on WSDOT Right of Way (ROW) by managing quality control for contract documents prior to execution and provide expertise for construction field work.

Job description and application



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Jobs: City of Shoreline Engineer II – Development Review

City of Shoreline
Engineer II – Development Review
SALARY: $96,063.00 - $121,745.00 Annually
CLOSING DATE: 7/27/2022

GENERAL SUMMARY

Shoreline is an inclusive City that endeavors to build a work culture which embraces diversity, encourages participation, and promotes equity.

Note: This position is subject to August 8th City Council's approval.

The City's mission is to fulfill the community’s vision through highly valued public service. Our employees work relentlessly to achieve organizational goals while embracing the City’s values. City Mission, Values, and Goals The City offers generous benefits to all regular employees.

The City of Shoreline is going through an exciting period of growth and development including support of light rail extending through the City, increased density and development to support the City's vision for growth.

The APWA accredited Public Works Department is seeking an energetic and experienced person to be part of our team and serve the needs of the community. We are looking for an experienced engineer with strong customer service focus in supporting civil engineering review of development with the ability to effectively communicate with a variety of customers including engineers, contractors, inspectors and the public. The position requires good understanding of engineering codes, standards and best management practices specifically related to stormwater, wastewater, and roadway design.

SCOPE OF WORK

To provide responsible professional engineering assistance in the review of private development projects, in coordination with the Planning and Community Services and Public Works departments; to develop and update codes, standards, practices related to private development of public infrastructure; to serve as the project manager for various permits and projects as assigned; and to perform various office and field duties as required.

Job description and application



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Three cold cases solved with assist from Attorney General’s DNA forensic genetic genealogy program

Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced this week that his office’s DNA forensic genetic genealogy program has now helped solve three cold cases, including one with multiple victims:
  • A 2003 violent rape of a 17 year-old in McCleary, WA;
  • 2003 and 2004 violent home invasion sexual assaults in Pullman, WA; and
  • A 1995 murder in Kitsap County.

Before Ferguson’s office got involved, these cases did not have active leads. The DNA profiles had been uploaded to CODIS, the national criminal DNA database, with no results.

On July 8, 2022 a Grays Harbor County Superior Court judge sentenced Paul J. Bieker to 30 years in prison for the 2003 abduction and rape of a teenage girl. After a three-day trial, a jury convicted the 51-year-old of felony rape in the first degree with deliberate cruelty. The case was the first conviction and sentencing resulting from funds the Attorney General’s Office provided for forensic genetic genealogy research to help solve a sexually motivated cold case.

On the same day, Kenneth Downing pleaded guilty in Whitman County to four counts of rape in the first degree and one count of assault in the second degree with sexual motivation. Downing committed two Pullman home invasions in 2003 and 2004, both resulting in violent rapes. Forensic genetic genealogy connected Downing’s DNA to the DNA evidence collected from both sexual assault cases.

In March, law enforcement in Kitsap County tied a 1995 murder to now-deceased Douglas K. Krohne with assistance from the Attorney General’s forensic genetic genealogy program.

“This sends a message to survivors that we will not give up on cold cases,” Ferguson said. "My office will continue this initiative to help law enforcement close these cases.”


Ferguson’s forensic genetic genealogy program has assisted with 23 cold case investigations to date. Three cases have been solved with the assistance of this program, and the leads generated by the program may result in future arrests and convictions in the other 20 cases. The program is part of the Attorney General’s Sexual Assault Kit Initiative.

The Attorney General’s Office dedicated $292,275 to assist local law enforcement agencies with felony cold case investigations through forensic genetic genealogy testing. These resources are reserved for unsolved cold cases of felony crimes with a sexual motivation. Moreover, to be eligible, the cases must have no active leads and no CODIS matches.

To date, the Attorney General’s Office provided approximately $120,000 to local law enforcement agencies for testing. Ferguson’s Office has approximately $170,000 remaining to assist agencies with additional cold cases.

A 2003 rape without a named suspect

The Grays Harbor County Sheriff's Office first investigated the rape of a teenage girl in March 2003. The assailant abducted the girl, then 17-years-old, after she parked her car at home in McCleary, according to the initial 2010 arrest warrant. He taped her head and hands then bound her legs and put her in the trunk of her own car. He drove her to a remote location where he raped her.

He put her back in the car and drove her back to near her home. He told her that if she told anyone about what happened that “her dad would be dead and the house would be burned down and the rest of her life would be miserable.” He cut the ties from her wrist then left her. She was eventually able to drive herself back to her home.

Her father was at home and told law enforcement officers that she had duct tape on her and nylon wire tied around her ankles. He cut the ties then she locked the door and closed the windows out of fear that Bieker was watching them. She told her father what happened and he notified law enforcement.

Police officers examined her and took evidence from her. They compared the genetic evidence to databases available at the time but found no matches.

As there was no suspect at the time, the county issued an arrest warrant for a “John Doe” and the case went cold.

Grays Harbor County receives assist from Attorney General’s forensic genetic genealogy program

In 2020, a detective from the county sheriff’s office approached the Attorney General’s Office requesting funding for forensic genetic genealogical testing of the 2003 crime scene DNA. The Attorney General’s Office agreed to provide the resources and assist the sheriff’s office with the case.

The Attorney General’s Office paid $5,000 to send Bieker’s DNA to a private laboratory for genealogical testing. The main database used by law enforcement, the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), is limited by only having DNA from convicted offenders. Bieker had no prior convictions, so his information was not in CODIS.

Grays Harbor County law enforcement officers sent the assailant’s DNA evidence to DNA Labs International, which outsourced the creation of the DNA profile used for forensic genetic genealogy. DNA Labs International then uploaded that profile into a public database managed by GEDMatch and Family Tree DNA and created family trees. DNA Labs International genealogists provided the names of individuals who were potentially the suspect to Grays Harbor County law enforcement. One of those names was Bieker, who also lived in McCleary and near the survivor’s home at the time of the rape.

These details provide an active lead for law enforcement to investigate. Information from a genetic genealogy company does not provide grounds for an arrest by itself. Grays Harbor County law enforcement had to independently match Bieker’s DNA to the evidence collected from the crime scene. Grays Harbor County detectives then followed Bieker and collected a DNA sample after he left it at a public location.

The Washington State Patrol Crime Lab confirmed the DNA results were a match to the 2003 crime scene. The match was so solid that a June 15, 2021 motion to the court notes the chances of it not being Bieker were “one in 35 quadrillion.”

Grays Harbor County detectives then arrested Bieker in McCleary and charged him with the 2003 crime.

Forensic genetic genealogy program helps lead to Kenneth Downing’s arrest and guilty plea for two Pullman home invasions

After receiving funding from the Attorney General’s Office for forensic genetic genealogy testing, Spokane police arrested Kenneth Downing ofElk, WA in March for two home invasions and multiple rapes.

In 2003, a man broke into a home in Pullman and threatened a woman at gunpoint. He sexually assaulted her three times. At one point, she said the attacker made small talk and asked about her pets. Then in 2004, a man broke into an apartment, where two women were inside. The man, who had a gun, tied up one roommate and raped the other.

Forensic genetic genealogy testing helped match Downing’s DNA to the evidence in both cases. On July 8, 2022, Downing pleaded guilty to four counts of rape in the first degree and one count of assault in the second degree with sexual motivation. A Whitman County Superior Court judge will sentence him on August 19 and he faces a standard sentencing range of between 17 to 23 years in prison.

Forensic genetic genealogy program helps solve 1995 murder in Kitsap County

Also in March, the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office announced a match for the DNA left behind by the killer of 61-year-old Patricia Lorraine Barnes, who was murdered in 1995. A cigarette butt left at the scene provided a DNA sample, but no matches until forensic genetic genealogy testing in late 2021.

Police found Barnes without clothing and partially covered by a sleeping bag in a ditch in South Kitsap County. She had two bullet wounds in her head. The suspect, Douglas K. Krohne, died in 2016 and law enforcement closed the case.

Forensic genetic genealogy: a powerful tool for solving cold cases

In recent years, law enforcement and prosecutors have had success solving cold cases using forensic genetic genealogy. This involves a genealogist taking DNA evidence, uploading it to a public DNA database that allows access to its data then using that information to construct a family tree to identify potential suspects who may not themselves have a DNA profile available.

DNA samples in public databases contain more genetic information than those submitted to CODIS and the companies can conduct genealogical research to determine potential familial links to DNA samples — from a third cousin to a brother. The genealogists or law enforcement officers do not have access to specific genetic data, just the results from matches within the database.

Only a few companies that offer DNA testing provide access to their internal databases for law enforcement requests. Companies that provide their databases to law enforcement specifically note they will provide the information to law enforcement officers for open investigations and allow customers to opt out of having their information provided to law enforcement.

Attorney General Ferguson’s Sexual Assault Kit Initiative

Attorney General Ferguson has prioritized clearing the rape kit backlog and improving the state’s response to sexual assault. Through his Sexual Assault Kit Initiative, his office:
  • Inventoried all unsubmitted kits that were being housed in local law enforcement evidence rooms;
  • Allocated more than $2.25 million for testing to help clear the backlog;
  • Launched a website to keep the public up to date and provide comprehensive information about Washington’s SAKI program, part of a statewide initiative to end Washington’s rape kit backlog; and
  • Worked with local law enforcement to collect DNA samples from hundreds of registered sex offenders that failed to comply with a legal obligation to provide their DNA.

Ferguson’s Office is also convening two task forces intended to improve the state’s response to sexual assaults – the Sexual Assault Forensic Examination (SAFE) Advisory Group and the Sexual Assault Coordinated Community Response Working Group.



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Always toward the sun

Thursday, July 14, 2022

 
Photo by Susan Westphal

In case we forget where it is, this sunflower at the Twin Ponds community garden will keep us apprised of the location of the sun.

The Twin Ponds food bank garden provides organic, fresh vegetables to local food banks during the entire growing season, currently the Lake City North Helpline. 

It was created and is maintained by volunteers.

Correction: produce currently goes to the North Helpline Food Bank


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Local resident named to Dean's List at Dickinson College

CARLISLE, Pa. (July 13, 2022) - Lily Hogan, a rising sophomore environmental studies major at Dickinson College, has been named to the dean's list for the spring 2022 semester. 

A graduate of Shorewood High School, she is the daughter of Don and Shelly Hogan of Shoreline, Wash.

Dickinson College, located in historic Carlisle, Pa., was chartered in 1783. The private, liberal-arts college is nationally recognized for its cross-disciplinary, active approach to learning, international education, civic engagement and its commitment to teaching its students about sustainability across the curriculum, the community and the globe. www.dickinson.edu.



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Primary election ballots will soon arrive

King County Elections (KCE) has mailed more than 1.4 million ballots for the August 2, 2022 Primary to registered voters across King County. 

KCE is projecting 45% turnout for this election. In 2020, Primary turnout in King County reached 56%. In 2018, voters turned out at 43%.

The Primary election ballot will feature 162 candidates across 52 offices, 42 contested Precinct Committee Officer races, and six ballot measures. Voters’ pamphlets, featuring statements from each candidate and about each measure, will arrive in mailboxes later this week. Voters can also access a personalized voters’ guide on My Voter Information.

Voters will receive their ballots in the coming days and should have them by the Monday, July 18 mail delivery. Voters who have not received their ballots by Monday can call King County Elections at 206-296-VOTE (8683).

Ballots must be postmarked by Election Day, August 2, or returned to one of the 76 drop boxes locations across the county, including the newest locations in Woodinville and Queen Anne. Drop boxes are open 24-hours, seven days a week, until 8pm sharp on Election Day.

The deadline to register to vote online is July 25. Voters can register and vote through 8pm on Election Day at any of KCE’s Vote Center locations. All voters are encouraged to track their ballot to make sure their voice heard.



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Free Summer Meals for Kids and Teens @ the Shoreline Library

Free Summer Meals for Kids and Teens @ the Shoreline Library!

Mondays - Fridays, 
June 21 - August 26, 2022 
from 1-2pm

Ages 1 to 18.

Nourish your body and brain while you read this summer. Enjoy a FREE lunch and be a Summer Reader!

Healthy HIP Packs (food and snacks for the weekend) will be available on Fridays.

In-person event. Seating is limited. No registration required. Safety guidelines and current protocol followed.

Shoreline Library 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline WA 98155  

In partnership with Hunger Intervention Program.



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The Zaniac at Cromwell Park Sunday - family comedy experience


The Zaniac Comedy Show at Cromwell Park!
Sunday, July 17, 3:30pm
Family program, all ages welcome.

Presented by Alex Zerbe, the Zaniac

With the energy of 1,000 suns, The Zaniac moves like an untamed rubber band around the stage. Jaws will drop as the audience braces itself against an onslaught of physical and verbal comedy, eccentric juggling tricks, and wacky rap songs in the ultimate family comedy experience!

Sponsored by the Friends of the Shoreline Library.



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Cultural Dance and Potluck Saturday at Shoreline Community College

Cultural Dance and Potluck Saturday, July 16, 2022 from 6:00-8:30pm at Shoreline Community College PUB Dining Hall, Bldg #9000, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133

Free music and dance community event featuring JHP Legacy and Dabuli. 

Dabuli shares arts and cultural heritage of Nepal and the Himalayan region to build strong communities. 

JHP shares traditional African music and dance to bring people together. 

Beginning with a potluck, if you would like to share, bring a dish! 

Sponsored by Shoreline Community College and City of Shoreline. Contact Suni Tolton stolton@shorelinewa.gov or 206-801-2256 with any questions.



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Bands, Beer and Ticket Bundles for ShoreLake Battle of the Bands

2022 ShoreLake Battle of the Bands
August 1, 2, and 6, 2022
Pfingst Animal Acres Park in Lake Forest Park

ShoreLake Arts is excited to announce that ShoreLake Battle of the Bands is less than three weeks away. Buy your tickets now and save. Ticket options include multi day tickets packages and a limited edition collectable glass which can be used to purchase beer at a discount.

Whether you’re a “One Hit Wonder” - coming for just one night $7.00, a “Platinum Record” coming for all three nights $18.00 or taking home the “Grammy” all three nights plus the special collectible glass and beer $30.00, we can’t wait for you to discover and support your favorite local band. Tickets are on sale now.

The City of Lake Forest Park will be rockin’ on August 1 and 2, where each night five local bands compete to make it to the finals on August 6. Which band will take home the grand prize and studio time at the world famous Robert Lang Studios? Come vote for the People’s Choice Award and make your voice heard.

All shows will feature a beer garden (21+) with craft brews provided by Monka Brewing Co., and Food Trucks.

ShoreLake Arts is proud to present this event with major support from Jack Malek of Windermere, Robert Lang Studios, Robert Lang Studios Academy, Annex Room Studio, Mackie, Monka Brewing Co., the City of Lake Forest Park, ArtsWA, National Endowment for the Arts, and individual donors, like you.

Questions can be emailed to Teresa at programs@shorelakearts.org

ShoreLake Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to cultivate creativity and inspire our community through the arts. Established in 1989.



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