Dahlias for Seniors project 2022 completed

Monday, October 17, 2022

Bouquets at the Ridgecrest Pub

Please join us for a Fall and Winter Dahlia Care Webinar Tuesday October 18, 2022 from 1-2:30pm

Another successful Dahlias for Seniors fundraiser generated donations to the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center this summer. Generous efforts by neighbors and friends, including Megan Kogut and her Ridgecrest Public House and Drumlin family eatery, were once again the key. Flowers were also available at the Senior Center.

Photo by John Hibbs
We had an unusually wet, cold May-June this year, causing our blooming season to begin late and reducing blossom numbers. Loyal supporters came through, taking beautiful flowers home and making the fundraiser a success. 

And, if you grow dahlias in the Puget Sound area and your flowers did not thrive this year, be consoled – it was the spring weather, not you, that made it so.

To wrap up the season, you are invited to attend a free webinar on Fall and Winter Dahlia Care this week Tuesday, October 18th, from 1-2:30pm in Zoom. Topics to be covered include:
  • When the season’s over – timing and cutting your dahlia plants back
  • Options for wintering tubers – leaving them in the ground or digging & storing options
  • Correct digging, washing, and cutting tubers before storage
  • Preventing tuber injury from freezing, drying out, molding over winter
  • Preparing a garden for next Spring
Please call the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center to register for the webinar 206-365-1536.

--John Hibbs



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Letter to the Editor: 3 reasons why I'm voting for Proposition 1

To the Editor:

3 reasons  why I’m voting for Proposition 1.

First: Proposition 1 will allow Shoreline Police to expand the RADAR program making it available 24/7. RADAR pairs a mental health professional with law enforcement and is recognized as an effective way to help people with a mental health crisis. Shoreline citizens cite mental health and homelessness as top provides for our city, this is an opportunity to improve RADAR.

Second: Proposition 1 will allow the city to keep traffic enforcement in school zones and crime prevention programs in neighborhoods

Third: Proposition 1 will put needed funds into human services for seniors, youth and families.

6 years ago we voted to enact a levy lift of 1.39 per $1000 of assessed value. This is the same rate we are being asked to approve now. It amounts to $30 per month.

Supporting Proposition 1 is common sense. I hope we can show common sense and pass this measure.

Mary Ellen Stone
Shoreline



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Lake Forest Park police calls 10-7 to 10-14-22

Sunday, October 16, 2022

Lake Forest Park Police
Weekly Police Calls 10/07-10/14

Your officers responded to 260 calls for service or self-initiated incidents, which included the following:
  • 80 Traffic related incidents
  • 90 Extra patrols / Business checks
  • 24 Suspicious Circumstances
  • 8 Theft / Shoplift / Fraud
  • 9 Welfare checks / Suicidal subject
  • 6 Alarms
  • 6 Disturbance / 911
  • 7 Warrant Arrests

While we don't routinely respond to social media posts, please call 206-364-8216 if you have any questions.



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82º in Shoreline Sunday - 88º in SeaTac

Multiple smoke plumes from old and new wildfires in the mountains impacting air quality.

82°F was our high temperature today, both at Northridge in central Shoreline and Richmond Beach in west Shoreline. 

At 7pm it was obvious that our onshore flow had returned, as Richmond Beach was 7 degrees cooler than the Northridge station, 76°F vs 69°F. By 9:30pm it was down to 60°F in Northridge and 59°F in Richmond Beach.

October 2022 high and low daily temperatures.
With the onshore flow returning, air quality is now starting to improve with most areas down to the moderate level on the AQI index.

SeaTac's preliminary high temperature of 88°F shatters the record. The old record for the day was 72°F. This is by far the latest in the year it has ever been recorded as that warm. The all-time October high temperature record is 89°F, set on October 1, 1987.





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Former Public Information Officer explains Bolt Creek fire

Sunday on Hwy 2. Photo courtesy WSDOT
By Amanda Monthei

Happy Sunday—it’s still smoky in Northwest Washington and the frustration is palpable as we approach six weeks of high AQI. With all the questions I’ve been seeing on this, I’d like to try to explain why the smoke is so bad and why we need to prepare for more smoke now

The #BoltCreekFire is just one of multiple fires actively burning in the Cascades right now, all of which are contributing to the smoke we’re seeing on the coast. An east wind yesterday didn’t help our cause and it straight up smells like fire camp outside my house right now.

The smoke sucks but it’s important to note that these fires aren’t really moving much—maybe 100-200 acres a day on the now 14k+ acre Bolt Creek. They’re also burning in remote places that aren’t conducive with putting resources on the ground.

Also, this is the west side, and fires here are fought differently than on the east side. People were demanding retardant while I was a PIO for the BCF-but on top of being a pollutant and requiring significant pilot hours, retardant just doesn’t work that well in timber.

Similar with h2o—it’s a lot of risk on the part of pilots, and for what reward? Maybe calming parts of the fire down for a few hrs before it flares back up because no ground crews could access those areas for mop up? and that’s assuming the water even makes it through the canopy!

However, water drops have been used on the edges of the Bolt Creek where firefighters can engage and actively mop up. Some small burn operations have also taken place to create clean containment lines along roads and near values, which creates a buffer should anything act up.

Another thing worth noting here is that all of these fires, and the Bolt Creek especially, are being somewhat allowed to burn (in certain places) in order to create a buffer against future fires. The more fuel that burns this year is less fuel that can burn next year!

This helps protect the US 2 corridor from future fire impacts from the north, and is especially useful as a buffer for the communities in that stretch (Index, Skykomish etc). The Bolt Creek burn area might not see fire again for decades because of the fire effects we’re seeing

The last thing I want to touch on is why it’s taking so long for this to wrap up. For one, the unseasonable lack of rain. Two, the difficult terrain in the areas where these fires are burning. But there’s one more reason that hasn’t gotten much attention lately—

And that is that the mgmt strategy used—a consumptive strategy, as it’s called—is a strategy that requires patience but has huge payoffs down the road. In this case, letting the bolt creek burn to US 2 on its own terms meant that the fire behavior was very mellow.

This means that some ground vegetation burned but the larger vegetation that holds the slope together didn’t. Allowing it to burn itself out as it approached the road resulted in less intense fire than, say, if they’d burned off the road because they wanted a black edge ASAP.

This strategy requires so much patience and people are understandably running out of it. But it will pay off, I promise. The slope above the road has vegetation that will keep it together once the rain comes, and US 2 will undoubtedly have less mudslide closures this winter.

When I was working the Bolt Creek as an info officer, it was clear that the people employing this strategy knew what the long term benefit was and also just how hard it would be to maintain patience as they allowed the fire to move at its own (admittedly very slow) pace.

But they also understood that this strategy produces smoke—and something I think everyone in the NW should be thinking about right now is how to prepare for more days like this next year and the year after.

It’s easy to think this is a fluke year but without getting too deep into fire ecology and our history of suppression, it’s veryyyyy likely we will see impacts like this during most summers/falls moving forward. The time to prepare for that reality is right now.

Proper filtration systems, air purifiers, N-95 masks etc are all good steps. Clean air shelters might be something we need to consider in places where people don’t have access to expensive filtration systems in their homes. Support for vulnerable communities will be essential.

We have to start thinking and acting like we live in a fire adapted ecosystem, because we do—despite that we’ve done a great job of hiding that fact through a century of fire suppression. Built up fuel, prolonged droughts and more people will inevitably result in more large fires

Start planning for that future now, and consider learning more about how to build fire resilience in your community/neighborhood/life. Here are some resources for that:
Amanda Monthui is a former public information officer for the Department of Natural Resources, assigned to the Bolt Creek Fire.



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Halloweentown #3 - pirates attack

 
Captain Dry Bones
Photo by Barbara Twaddell

Barbara says that "One of the Pirates of the Caribbean made his way to my house." I'd worry if I were her - it looks like he has settled in.

Photo by Patricia Hale
And this Pirate captain is steering the Jolly Roger through a traffic circle in Ridgecrest. You WILL be careful at intersections!  Aargh

The sign says "Made Spooky by Team Trost and Post.



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Elf-The Musical by Driftwood Players runs November 18 to December 18, 2022

Elf-The Musical
Book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin
Music by Matthew Sklar
Lyrics by Chad Beguelin
Based upon the New Line Cinema film written by David Berenbaum

Edmonds, WA – A title known the world over, Elf-The Musical is a must-see holiday musical, based on the cherished 2003 New Line Cinema hit, Elf. 

Buddy, a young orphan, mistakenly crawls into Santa’s bag of gifts and is transported to the North Pole. The would-be elf is raised, unaware that he is actually a human until his enormous size and poor toy-making abilities cause him to face the truth. 

With Santa’s permission, Buddy embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and discover his true identity. Faced with the harsh realities that his father is on the naughty list and his half-brother doesn’t even believe in Santa, Buddy is determined to win over his new family and help New York remember the true meaning of Christmas. 

This modern-day holiday classic is sure to make everyone embrace their inner elf. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer is singing loud for all to hear.

Directed by Craig Schieber and featuring the acting talents of Jordan King (Buddy), Sydney Penticuff (Jovi), Ben Fitch (Walter Hobbs), Sydney Kaser (Emily Hobbs), Calvin Stephens (Michael Hobbs), Miki Murray (Deb), Lillie Paries (Manager), Issac Tian (Mr. Greenway), and Eric L. Hartley (Santa Claus). 

Ensemble characters feature the following actors Meagan Castillo, Jonathan Olson, Keri Hill, Eric Wu, Erin Carter, Chloe Miller, Jaret Miller, and Olivia Markle.

The creative team includes Mark and Nancy Press (Music Directors), Christopher Puckett (Vocal Director), Elizabeth Posluns and Laura McFarlane (Co-Choreographers), Tom Williams (Scenic Designer), Richard Beckerman (Lighting Designer), Brian Fletcher (Sound Designer/Production Supervisor), Jeffrey Vaughan (Sound Engineer), Nancy Johnson (Properties Designer), Melina Boivin and Faye Fattingley (Co-Costume Designers), Jenna McElroy (Assistant Costume Designer), Sean Morrone (Stage Manager), and Katie Soulé (Production Manager/Managing Director).

WHEN: November 18-December 18, 2022 - Thursdays-Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 2pm (18 total performances).

TICKETS: $28 General Adults (ages 19-59); $25 Junior/Senior/Military. Available online at www.edmondsdriftwoodplayers.org or by phone at 425-774-9600. Discounted tickets for groups of 10+ people are also available.

Edmonds Driftwood Players is a volunteer-based, non-profit community theatre with the mission to produce live theatre that entertains, enriches and engages the community. Established in 1958, it is one of the oldest operating community theatres in Washington State.

Performances at the Wade James Theatre, 950 Main Street, Edmonds.
“Elf-The Musical” is presented through special arrangement with Musical Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com 
 
Thank you to DME CPA Group and The Branding Iron for sponsoring Elf-The Musical, and special thanks to our Season 64 Sponsors: Rick Steves’ Europe, Windermere Real Estate Edmonds, and Templar Financial Services.
 


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Dinner at the Lake Forest Grill on October 24, 2022 will help End Polio

The Lake Forest Grill and Lake Forest Park Rotary are working together to End Polio.

Monday, October 24, 2020 at Lake Forest Grill, come eat and drink. From 5pm to 10pm 20% of proceeds will go to the eradication of polio. 
 
Take out orders made through their app during that time and call ins will be included, (but not orders on Grubhub or Doordash). 




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Community fundraiser to support disabled adults

Waterfront hotel stays. Wine-tasting with friends. A glass-blowing experience not to be outdone. Even a visit from the Seafair Pirates, who challenge you to ride along with them -- if you dare! (And bid enough!)

Join the Camelot Society at its 50th Anniversary Fundraiser and Auction on Saturday, November 5 at 5:30pm at Holy Rosary Parish in Edmonds. 

Enjoy a plated dinner, beverages, entertainment hosted by radio personality Gee Scott, and of course, some stunning auction items that make for not only great early holiday gifts, but also some memorable experiences and useful items for yourself -- all in support of empowering people with disabilities, and those who support them, to live extraordinary lives.

Tickets are available here: https://camelotsociety.ejoinme.org/auction2022 or by calling 425-771-2108.

Camelot Society is a non-profit organization providing residential services for adults with developmental disabilities. We currently serve 46 adults at 15 different locations throughout King and Snohomish Counties, including Group Training Home settings and Supported Living sites. 

While being the primary provider in Washington state for people with Prader-Willi Syndrome, we also serve clients with a wide range of developmental disabilities including cerebral palsy, autism, Down Syndrome, and other genetic disorders.



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Northshore Fire Public Hearing November 1, 2022 - Hybrid Format




Notice of Public Hearing
Northshore Fire Department
King County Fire Protection District No.16

TO: All owners of personal property and improvements to real property located within the geographical boundaries of King County Fire District No. 16 (City of Lake Forest Park and the City of Kenmore):

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Fire Commissioners of Northshore Fire Department will hold a public hearing at the date, time and place specified below to:
  1. Review sources of revenue for the District’s 2023 expense budget, including revenue from property taxes and possible increases in property tax revenues, if any, as required by RCW 84.55.120; and
  2. Review and establish the District’s benefit charge to be imposed in 2023 for the support of its legally authorized activities which will maintain or improve the services afforded in the District as provided in RCW 52.18.060.
DATE OF HEARING: Tuesday, November 1, 2022

TIME OF HEARING: 5:00pm or as soon thereafter as may be heard

PLACE OF HEARING: Meeting will be held at Station 51, 7220 NE 181st Street, Kenmore, WA 98028 and via Zoom.

Go to www.Zoom.com and select “Join a Meeting”

Meeting ID: 850 4471 3997
Passcode: 743608

Or call in to Zoom Meeting at: (253) 215-8782

DATED this 14th Day of October 2022.

Josh Pratt, Chair
Board of Fire Commissioners


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Letter to the Editor: Your Yes vote for Prop 1 will continue to fund community services and programs

Saturday, October 15, 2022

To the Editor:

This is a plea to all sensible Shoreline residents who enjoy the benefits our city provides – such things as police and community safety services, crime prevention programs, and our safe, well-maintained park system – to support Proposition 1 to maintain the current level of our valued city services. 

Your Yes vote for Prop 1 will continue to fund community services and programs for seniors, youth, and families in need. Specifically, passage of Prop 1 will enhance the successful RADAR program to address the behavioral health crisis with mental health professional teams that provide 24/7 response.

Twice before we have voted to allow the City of Shoreline to increase the levy to address a forecasted budget gap that prevented a reduction in services. Restoring the tax levy rate to $1.39 – the same increase we approved in 2016 - will ensure that basic services will be maintained. Homeowners in the median range ($731,300) would pay an average of $30 per month over the six-year period.

It is true, we are all aware of rising inflation. No one escapes the affects – particularly at the grocery store and the gas pump. Prices are high; we feel the pinch.

However, I believe we must step up to support Proposition 1 so we can continue to count on the services we take for granted, need, and enjoy. A safe park with reliable playground equipment is an asset to families. Rapid response to people in crisis is imperative. I rely on code enforcement to maintain neighborhood integrity and traffic enforcement that allows me to walk safely around town.

Join the ranks of those who believe Shoreline is a great place to live and vote yes on Proposition 1.

Robin McClelland
Shoreline
Member, Financial Sustainability Citizen Advisory Committee
Member, People for Shoreline Campaign Committee



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Air quality on Saturday was pretty terrible

Puget Sound air quality 10-15-22
Air quality was terrible on Saturday, but anyone who looked outside will have figured that out.

The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency said,

Air quality in much of the Puget Sound Region is UNHEALTHY for everyone. 
In the Cascades and along US 2, SR 530, and Darrington, the air quality is reaching VERY UNHEALTHY or worse. Everyone should be taking steps to reduce their exposure.
The current conditions are expected to continue through Sunday. There may be some improvement in Pierce County on Sunday. We will continue to update as the conditions change. Visit http://pscleanair.gov/wildfires for steps on how to reduce exposure.


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Free Eye Exams and Glasses at Seattle / King County Clinic October 20-23, 2022

Eye exam at Seattle/King County Clinic.
Photo by Auston James
Seattle/King County Clinic returns to Seattle Center for a seventh year, October 20-23, 2022 with free eye exams and prescription eyeglasses for those who struggle to access or afford eye care. 

According to Washington Healthcare Access Alliance, vision care is one of the scarcest health services in the state. 

Led by Seattle Center and Seattle Center Foundation, Seattle/King County Clinic brings together healthcare organizations, civic agencies, nonprofits and private businesses to transform Seattle Center facilities into a vision care operation. We’re proud to be part of it!

Free vision care

Seattle/King County Clinic is open to everyone, and it is not restricted to residents of Seattle or King County — however, tickets are limited, and participants are admitted for service on a first come, first served basis. 

Organizers open the facility and begin to distribute free admission tickets in Fisher Pavilion at Seattle Center (corner of 2nd Ave N and Thomas St / Lenny Wilkens Way) each day beginning at 6am, with the doors to the Clinic opening at 7:30am. 

Once the Clinic opens, patients are escorted to the service facility and admitted by ticket number to be registered and receive free eye care.

If prescription eyeglasses are ordered, they will be distributed in early December.

The Seattle/King County Clinic has been on hiatus during the pandemic. Returning this year, the Clinic will only be able to offer vision care. Other medical and dental care will not be available at the Clinic at this time.

What to know before you go
  • Face masks are required, though people should not attend if they are feeling sick
  • Identification or proof of immigration status are not required
  • Free interpretation services are available
  • Free parking is available at the Mercer Street Parking Garage at Seattle Center (650 3rd Ave N)
  • Additional information is available at seattlecenter.org/patients

From Public Health Insider, by Meredith Li-Vollmer


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Halloweentown #2 Hillwood - not exactly




Thanks to John Crawford who found these beauties on his morning walk around his neighborhood. And this is apparently in the Richmond Beach / Richmond Highlands area.

10-16-22 semi-corrected





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Access expanded to child care subsidy in King county

King County Executive Dow Constantine announced the launch of a $160 million investment to expand equitable access to child care for families in King County. 

The program is designed to support people who don’t qualify for other child care subsidies and is anticipated to reach 2,000 children in the region annually over the next six years.

Families may be eligible for the subsidy if they live in King County and fall below the income cap, about $91,000 for a family of four. The application is now open, with financial support beginning in November.

"Our core commitment - our True North - is to make King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive, and that includes our youngest residents. We must invest in positive outcomes for our children now, and into the future,” said Executive Constantine. 

"The child care sector has long been under-resourced, with low wages for workers and increasingly unaffordable care for families with low or moderate incomes. 
"This new child care subsidy helps ensure equitable access to high-quality child care for all, and is part of the County’s commitment to treat child care as an essential service.”


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Gloria's Birds: Lookin' up

 
Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

Star light, star bright,
First star I see tonight…

[Or, more likely in the case of a Steller's Jay: "Yikes, is that a hawk overhead? Or just a crow?" Ever vigilant: the wildlife code.]

--Gloria Z. Nagler



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Shoreline Police participate in Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The Shoreline Police department will be taking part in the “Pink Patch Project” to bring attention to the fight against breast cancer. 

Shoreline PD will be selling pink patches for $10 each. Almost all proceeds are donated to cancer research.
 
Purchase a patch by stopping by the Shoreline Police department with $10 cash during business hours Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5pm.

The station is located within Shoreline City Hall at 17500 Midvale Ave N.



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DOH: Updated COVID-19 booster eligibility expanded to people ages 5 and older

OLYMPIA  – The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and other healthcare providers will soon begin offering Omicron variant-targeted bivalent booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines to people ages 5 and older, following guidance and recommendations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup.

“This is another step forward to a healthier tomorrow for everyone in Washington state,” said Umair A. Shah, MD, MPH, Secretary of Health. 
“The more people who are eligible for COVID-19 boosters, the better protection we can provide to our communities.


This new demographic of booster eligibility expansion follows last month’s rollout of the updated (bivalent) COVID-19 vaccine, which specifically targets the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants that currently make up the majority of COVID-19 cases across the country. 

The Department of Health urges all individuals 5 and older to prioritize receiving the updated booster as we enter the beginning of cold and flu season. Additionally, flu vaccines are now available at many provider offices and pharmacies across the state and are safe to receive concurrently with the COVID-19 bivalent booster.

"It's also time to get your flu shot," Dr. Shah added. "We are entering respiratory illness seasons and it is a critical time to protect yourself and those around you from influenza."


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AG Ferguson seeks maximum $24.6M penalty against Facebook parent Meta for violating Washington's campaign finance transparency law

OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced today he has filed a motion seeking the maximum penalty of $24.6 million against Facebook’s parent company, Meta, over its 822 intentional violations of Washington’s campaign finance transparency law.

On Oct. 6, King County Superior Court Judge Douglass North ruled that Meta violated Washington law 822 times, and that its violations were intentional. Because the violations were intentional, it allows the court to triple the penalty, for a maximum of $30,000 per violation. By law, campaign finance penalties go to the State Public Disclosure Transparency Account.

At a Sept. 2 hearing, Judge North rejected assertions by Meta that complying with the law was too burdensome, saying: “The only … information that has to be made available is the information that Meta is already collecting. They necessarily collect it in order to be able to run the ads that they’re running. So all they have to do in order to display it is essentially press a button.”

“We have penalties for a reason,” Ferguson said. “Facebook is a repeat, intentional violator of the law. It’s a sophisticated company. Instead of accepting responsibility and apologizing for its conduct, Facebook went to court to gut our campaign finance law in order to avoid accountability. If this case doesn’t warrant a maximum penalty, what does?”


This law requires campaign advertisers, including entities such as Meta that host political ads, to make information about Washington political ads that run on their platforms available for public inspection in a timely manner. The state asserted that Meta violated the law repeatedly since December 2018 and committed hundreds of violations.

The judge concluded that Meta repeatedly and intentionally violated the law and must pay penalties. The exact amount of penalties will be determined at a later date. Under state law, the court can assess a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation. 

In addition, because Meta’s violations are found to have been intentional, the court may triple the amount of the judgment as punitive damages. By law, campaign finance penalties go to the State Public Disclosure Transparency Account.

More information here



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Plan for overnight ramp closures at SR 104 all week

Sound Transit will close several ramps overnight next week as part of the ongoing Lynnwood Link extension project. Please make plans to prepare for the below closures:

The eastbound and westbound SR 104 on-ramps to northbound I-5 will close nightly from 8pm to 4:30am  the following morning, Monday, October 17 through the morning of Friday, October 21, 2022.

The HOV direct access ramps between SR 104 and I-5 will close nightly from 10pm to 5am Monday, October 17 through the morning of Friday, October 21.



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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Inflation

 Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter HERE



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Reception honors Stewardship Leader Mamie Bolender

A new plaque honors volunteer Mamie Bolender

Story and photos by Kim Josund

On a lovely autumn afternoon at Grace Cole Nature Park, a large group of people gathered to witness the unveiling of a new plaque honoring volunteer Mamie Bolender.

An appreciative crowd attended the reception

Mamie, now in her 90s, is a founding member of the LFP Stewardship Foundation and oversaw the volunteer restoration of the park for decades, before stepping down just a few years ago. 

Saving the land that is now Grace Cole Nature Park (map link) was the very first project for the LFP Stewardship Foundation, which formed back in 1998 in Mamie’s living room. 

During that long fight to protect the wetlands and steep forested slopes from becoming a housing development, Mamie’s strong leadership brought together neighbors and support from City, County and State elected officials. 

Mamie shares some of the history of her advocacy

Mamie wrote grants for acquisition, and later, wrote and managed grants for restoration work. In those early years, the Stewardship Foundation was dubbed “a scrappy band of neighbors” a.k.a. “Mamie’s Gang.” Once the land became a public park, Mamie stepped up to lead regular volunteer work parties to create what we all enjoy today at the Nature Park.

Mamie has always had the wisdom and the fortitude to know that partnering with Mother Nature is always a good investment; that big things can happen with persistent advocacy for what you know is right. Mamie is known for her way of speaking up, kindly, asking questions, countering with gentle logic to make her point. 


She is reliably the definition of a good neighbor. She was out in the park pulling ivy and blackberry, putting native plants in the ground, and teaching others how to do it, until well into her 80s. Her steadfast determination is an inspiration to all, building a strong base of support for stewardship in Lake Forest Park, which continues today.

Mamie’s impact on Lake Forest Park goes well beyond the protection and restoration of Grace Cole Nature Park. She has mentored students from Shorecrest high school on trail building and habitat restoration. Mamie coordinated with Volunteers for Outdoor Washington, Friends of Cedar River Watershed, Adopt-A-Stream and other groups to help improve the park.


She studied environmental issues such as the City Comprehensive Plan, Sensitive Area Ordinances, and the Urban Tree Management Plan, strengthening her advocacy for the natural resources of our watersheds. 

In addition to the Stewardship Foundation, where she served as Treasurer, Vice President and Co-President, Mamie was active for many years in planning the LFP Secret Gardens Tour, and guided the Community Wildlife Habitat certification through the National Wildlife Federation with Libby Fiene. Mamie also served on several City Commissions and Boards over the years.

Mamie and Chuck Bolender, son-in-law and daughter

Mamie attended the September 25th reception with her husband Chuck, and her daughter and son-in-law. She enjoyed visiting with long time friends and supporters of the Stewardship Foundation, including a few members of the original “Mamie’s Gang.”

Jean Reid, Mamie Bolender, Jean Robbins

LFPSF founding Board member, Dr. Jean Reid, spoke about Mamie’s legacy and LFP Mayor Jeff Johnson thanked Mamie. 

Jim Mead with Mamie Bolender

Current volunteer park restoration leader Jim Mead (a neighbor of Mamie’s recruited by her) had Mamie unveil the plaque which is mounted atop the park kiosk. Mamie shared some memories of work to save the park, and appreciation to those who have joined to help the cause.

Now whenever Mamie passes by the Nature Park, she can see that plaque as a heartfelt THANK YOU for her advocacy and leadership over the years!

Volunteer work parties continue monthly at Grace Cole Nature Park on the third Saturday from 9am -12noon. More information available on the Stewardship Foundation website at lfpsf.org

Grace Cole Nature Park is located at 16735 30th Ave NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155


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LFP Planning Commission to discuss comp plan

A special meeting of the Lake Forest Park Planning Commission will be held on Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at 7pm in a hybrid format - both in person at city hall and online on Zoom. 

Commissioners will begin to discuss updates to the city's comprehensive plan.


Correction: photo previously published was not the LFP Planning Commission




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WeatherWatcher: Air Quality Alert, Rain finally in distant sight

 

Smoke filtered sun
Photo by Carl Dinse


The summer that keeps on giving and should have ended a month ago continues. We have had no measurable precipitation for the entire month of October thus far, and we are far above the average temperature for this time of year. 

There is an end in sight, though and much needed rains are appearing on the horizon. We must get through this weekend and next week first.

October temperatures compared to average in Shoreline (Echo Lake/North Ridge station)

An Air Quality Alert is in effect through the weekend. Offshore flow is expected to increase during the weekend, bringing us warmer and drier air and smoke from the Bolt Creek Fire. Winds in the mountains will be increasing from the east as well, which will fan the wildfires and increase their activity.

Forecast calls for sunny skies and areas of smoke. Temperatures Saturday are expected to be in the 70's and Sunday we could see temps near 80°F. Onshore flow (westerly winds) returns Sunday evening which will cool us back down and hopefully clear some of the smoke out.

Monday through Thursday next week is expected to have continued sunny skies with temperatures in the mid 60's to near 70°F. Not much of a change day to day until we get to around Friday. The jet stream begins to drop south, aiming the river of storms and cold fronts to our region.

Long range suggests we'll switch to more normal October weather overnight Friday and continue, as far as models can go. Accuracy is highly degraded though when going that far out in forecasting. One thing is for sure, we are heading into our third La Niña winter season in a row, which means more rain and colder than normal temperatures in general.

Winter season outlook: With the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) deep into a cold phase and a triple dip La Niña, we can expect this winter to be on the cold and rainier side of things, not unlike the past few winter seasons we've had. Usual frequency of storms is expected with probably at least one significant snow event. 

I do expect Shoreline and Lake Forest Park to be snowier than average again this winter. Keep in mind the official average annual snowfall for Seattle is around 4.6-6.3 inches. I expect we will see more than 6 inches of snow this winter through one or multiple events.

If the smoke doesn't get too unhealthy this is probably the last weekend to do outside stuff before the rains finally return. I'll be checking air quality on the Puget Sound Clean Air agency website to determine if it's safe to do any outdoor stuff this weekend. Summer is finally coming to an end.

For current weather conditions visit www.shorelineweather.com



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Halloweentown #1

Friday, October 14, 2022

 
Photo by Lee Lageschulte

I do love Halloween and truly appreciate all the decorations. Lee took these photos in Richmond Beach.

I'm being optimistic by labeling this #1 - I hope there will be more.

Don't make her do all the work - uphold the pride of your neighborhood and send in those photos of outdoor decorations!

--Diane Hettrick
Editor@ShorelineAreaNews.com



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Judges on the ballot

By Diane Hettrick

First of all, all the judicial races we vote on this year have unopposed candidates.

Second - put this website in your bookmarks for future elections: VotingForJudges.com

The site was created to provide voters with information about people running for judicial positions. It provides information from newspaper editorial boards and includes rating from every group that rates candidates.

Our local Shoreline District Court at the Robert A. Wacker courthouse on Meridian will be getting two new justices.

Judge Marcine Anderson is retiring after this year. Karama Hawkins is taking her place and is on our ballot.

Joe Campagna has been named by Gov. Inslee to Superior Court. (See article) The appointment took place after the filing deadline, so he is on our ballot for Shoreline District court. After the election he will resign and an interim will be appointed. 



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Glassblowing demo at Café Aroma Saturday from 1-6pm

Dan Friday, glassblower, was featured in season 3 of the Netflix series Blown Away

This Saturday at Café Aroma, 509 NE 165th St in The Ridgecrest Neighborhood from 1-6pm, acclaimed Glass Blowing Artist and Ridgecrest resident Dan Friday will be making some amazing glass pieces while you watch.

Tickets are no longer available for seating, but Dan says everyone is welcome to come by to see him work his magic. 

There will be displays of created glass pieces, chances to win prizes, and of course- Café Aroma will be open for business.

--Patricia Hale, Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association



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Letter to the Editor: For the first time in 37 years I am voting against a levy

 
To the Editor:

After gathering information from the Voters Pamphlet, a Shoreline Community Presentation, answers from the City Manager’s Office, and Citizens for a Fair Levy (website: ShorelineLevy.info), I am voting against Prop 1. This has been a difficult decision because I have always voted yes on every Shoreline proposition, bond, and levy for the last 37 years. However, Prop 1 is a very big increase and the City Council has not explained exactly what it plans to use the additional money for.
 
Proposition 1 is a Levy Lid Lift that will raise the property tax from $1.13 to $1.39 per $1,000. assessed value. This Levy Lid Lift increase will be in addition to the Park Bond we passed Feb 8 that will add about $0.22/$1,000 assessed value for the next 20 years beginning in January 2023.
 
This Levy Lid Lift will be applied to our new (generally higher) property value assessment we all just received from the County Assessor. The City of Shoreline currently has a surplus of several million dollars. I presume with a jump to $1.39 it will enlarge the current surplus. I am NOT against paying property taxes; this is just too big of an increase.
 
If Prop 1, the Levy Lid Lift, fails, the City can continue to tax us at $1.13+1% for 2023. They can then resubmit another Levy Lid Lift at a more realistic rate, and with a better explanation of why the City needs the money, in a spring or November election in 2023.

Jane Lowell
Shoreline


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Shoreline Fire public hearing October 20, 2022 - hybrid format

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

TO: All owners of personal property and improvements to real property located within the geographical boundaries of Shoreline Fire Department.

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:

1. Review sources of revenue for the Department’s 2023 General Expense, General Capital, and ALS Expense, including revenue from property taxes and possible increases in property tax revenues, if any, as required by RCW 84.55.120; and

2. Review and establish the Department’s benefit charge to be imposed in 2023 for the support of its legally authorized activities which will maintain or improve the services afforded in the Department as provided in RCW 52.18.060.

DATE OF HEARING: Thursday, October 20, 2022

TIME OF HEARING: The public hearing portion of the agenda will begin at 5:00pm.

LOCATION:

Ø The meeting will be held at the location below:

Shoreline Fire Department Station 61
17525 Aurora Avenue North
Shoreline, WA 98133

To attend the meeting online please use the below information:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84248066884?pwd=cnRLWXB5ZVYwYTIxTDBVeWhNRXdCZz09

Meeting ID: 842 4806 6884
Passcode: 069285

Dial by your location: #253 215 8782

All interested persons are encouraged to attend and provide input.

Notice posted by: Beatriz Goldsmith

Executive Assistant
October 6, 2022


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Free seminars and individual appointments with Medicare consultants at the Senior Center beginning Monday


Medicare 101 presentation 
Monday, October 17 from 1-2 at the Senior Center 
Appointments beginning on 10/17 

Retiring soon? New to Medicare? Questions about your current Medicare plan? 

David Washington is the new independent Broker with WeCare Medicare, a program of Sound Generations. 

David has been in the insurance industry for over 15 years and enjoys making navigating Medicare options an easy and painless decision for people’s health and their wallet. David will be conducting Medicare Seminars at The Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center. He will also be available for individual appointments. 

David Washington will be here on the following dates for Medicare appointments. 10/17, 10/31, and 11/7. His appointment hours are 1-3pm but can be later. Appointments will generally be 45 minutes to an hour in length. 

Medicare Solutions with Shoeb Ismail, MBA, United Healthcare, at the Senior Center Appointments beginning 10/17 at 6pm and 7pm 

Join Shoeb for Medicare education meetings at Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Center. Get help navigating the world of Medicare and obtain proper coverage for your current and future needs. What are the 3 requirements for Medicare? How do I enroll in Medicare for the first time? Who is not eligible for Medicare? How long does it take for a Medicare application to be approved? 

Medicare Educational Meetings -Review your plan
- Medicare part B savings program
- Medicaid Qualification
- Low income subsidy - Help with prescription drugs

10/17/20226:00 PM7:00 PM
10/31/20226:00 PM7:00 PM
11/14/20226:00 PM7:00 PM
11/28/20226:00 PM7:00 PM
12/5/20226:00 PM7:00 PM

To make your Medicare appointment with David or Shoeb please call the Center at 206-365-1536

The Senior Center is located at 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline WA 98155, the southernmost building on the Shoreline Center campus.


 

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Dahlia Fall and Winter Care webinar Tuesday October 18, 2022 on Zoom

John Hibbs and friend
Dahlia Fall and Winter Care Webinar 

On Tuesday October 18, 2022 from 1-2:30pm Dahlias for Seniors Project of the Shoreline Senior Center will offer a webinar on Fall-Winter Dahlia care with John Hibbs of the Dahlias for Seniors Project 2022. 

Hibbs will cover topics including: 
  • When the season’s over – timing and cutting your dahlia plants back 
  • Options for wintering tubers – leaving them in the ground or digging and storing options 
  • Correct digging, washing, and cutting tubers before storage 
  • Preventing tuber injury – freezing, drying out, molding over winter 
  • Tending your soil for next Spring
Please call the Senior Center (206-365-1536) to register for the Webinar and get the Zoom link



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