Reader reports: icy roads

Friday, December 23, 2022

5:26am  The hills in the area of 24th NW and 201st NW are super slick. Studded tires didn’t help.
--Rebekah







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Dec. 23 7:30am: All Metro service suspended due to ice

Photo courtesy Metro Transit
From King County Metro Matters blog

As first shared on Dec. 23 at 5am, King County Metro’s buses are unable to leave bus bases due to deteriorating and unsafe road conditions. 

We regret the impact on our riders. We continue to reassess and will provide the next update at 10am. 

We remain optimistic that we will be able to provide service later today.

Since Metro communicated yesterday its move to the Emergency Snow Network (ESN), fast-accumulating ice and sub-freezing temperatures across King County have worsened and make it impossible for any buses to travel at the present time. 

We will add bus service as soon as it is safe for customers and employees.

Other service updates for Fri., Dec. 23
  • Access paratransit is suspended today other than for than life-sustaining medical needs. Providers are assessing conditions and icy roads may interfere with additional trips.
  • City of Seattle Streetcar is currently suspended on both the First Hill and South Lake Union lines.
  • King County Water Taxi’s morning trips today on both the Vashon and West Seattle routes are canceled.
  • On-demand services including Community Ride, Community Van, Ride Pingo and Via to Transit are suspended today.
  • Sound Transit Link light rail is currently operating.

The National Weather Service Seattle recommends staying indoors and not driving if you can. Cold weather shelter locations are available through the King County Regional Homelessness Authority.

Thank you for your understanding. Please stay safe and warm. Our crews continue to work throughout the night and the morning to ensure safe operating conditions for our vehicles, and access to bases, bus stops and transit centers.


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When your living room looks like a Christmas card


Photo by Jan Hansen
Jan Hansen doesn't need Christmas cards - she lives in one.

 

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Congressional and Legislative District recounts certified

Secretary of State Steve Hobbs
OLYMPIA — Election recounts for the 3rd and 9th Congressional Districts and the 10th Legislative District have been completed, confirming the General Election outcomes certified by Secretary of State Steve Hobbs Dec. 7.

The amended results certified by the Office of the Secretary of State reflect the outcomes of the recount processes prescribed in state law.

The requested machine recount of the full 3rd Congressional District, certified today, resulted in a 14-vote change in the total. 

The addition of nine votes for Democratic candidate Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and five votes for Republican candidate Joe Kent adjusted the margin of victory from 2,629 votes to 2,633 votes. 

Seven counties took part in the recount, which amended the vote totals in Clark County by 10 votes, Cowlitz County by two votes, and Skamania and Thurston counties by one vote each.

A requested two-precinct hand recount in the 9th Congressional District did not change the vote totals for the race. A machine recount required by state law in the 10th Legislative District added five votes to the total, all for Democratic candidate Clyde Shavers. 

The recount adjusted the margin of victory from 211 votes to 216 votes. All five votes were from Island County.

Election certification documents can be found at the Office of the Secretary of State’s 2022 General Election data web page.



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Irons Brothers: Secure your home for the winter cold

Photo by Bruce Hill
Winter tips from Irons Brothers Construction Design-Build

While snow or extreme cold may not be frequent for us in the Pacific Northwest, when we experience even moderate snow falls or brief cold snaps during the winter, these temperatures can take a big toll on your home.

Winter weather can also knock out heat, power and other services to your home, sometimes for several consecutive days.

Here are some tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help you make sure your home is the best shelter possible for you and your family during the colder months that have just begun for us.
  • Ensure you are keeping out outside air and moisture. Insulate walls and attics, caulk and weather-strip doors and windows, and install storm windows.
  • Clear rain gutters so they don’t fill with water that could freeze and cause damage to the roof due to the added weight.
  • Trim tree branches that could potentially fall on your home during a storm. Hiring a professional is strongly advised, especially if any branches are near power lines.
  • Have your heating equipment and chimney cleaned and inspected every year. Ensure there are no openings in the chimney bricks or mortar or flashing.
  • Insulate water pipes with foam wrap or similar products to help prevent them from freezing.
  • Make sure all your fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside, and the vent openings are clear of debris and snow.
  • Learn how to shut off your main water valve in case your pipes do freeze and burst.
  • Hire a contractor to check the structural integrity of your roof to sustain the weight of accumulated snow or water.
During the winter, many people use alternate heating and power sources. But doing so can increase the risk of electric shock, house fire or carbon monoxide poisoning if the necessary safety precautions are not taken:
  • Keep fire extinguishers around the home, and make sure all family members know how to use them.
  • Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning device inside your home, garage, basement, crawl space or any partially enclosed area. And do not place the unit near a door, window or vent where carbon monoxide could seep indoors.
  • Space heaters should only be placed on a level surface and away from heavy foot traffic when in use, especially if pets or small children are nearby. It’s best to have space heaters that automatically turn off when a room reaches the desired temperature or in the event it is tipped over.
We hope these small lessons will help you in being safe and smart this winter season. Stay warm and safe!



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Pink mountains

Photo by Lee Wolfe

For a few moments Thursday morning the mountains glowed with pink snow.

--Lee Wolfe



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City of Shoreline Winter Weather update 12/22/2022 2:30pm

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Boeing Creek Park photo copyright Tom Wear
City of Shoreline Winter Weather update REVISED - Thursday 12/22 - 2:30pm Update
  • Holiday Break Camps at Spartan Recreation Center are CANCELLED for Friday, December 23.
  • Spartan Recreation Center and Shoreline City Hall will both delay opening until 10:00am Friday December 23. 
  • Depending on conditions Friday morning, these facilities may close all together.
Conditions forecast

Cold temperatures and wind chills will impact the area overnight and there is a strong chance of widespread freezing rain overnight through the Friday morning commute. 

Avoid or delay travel if possible. 

If you must travel, check road and transit conditions before beginning your trip and prepare for possible delays.

What is freezing rain?

Freezing rain is liquid precipitation that freezes on contact with cold surfaces as it enters a shallower layer of temperatures at or below 32 degrees F near the surface. 

This creates a dangerous coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees, and power lines.

With an accumulation of ice, there is a possibility of tree limbs snapping and taking out power lines. Prepare for potential power outages.

For the latest weather forecast go to National Weather Service.

Stay Safe!
  • Live Wire Warning - Keep your distance from any downed lines and report them at 206-684-3000.
  • Darkened Intersections - Treat all darkened intersections as a four way stop and to be cautious of drivers who may not stop.
  • Apartments without Fire Alarms - Apartment buildings without power for long periods of time can lose their fire alarm systems. Conduct a fire watch to keep residents safe.
  • Carbon Monoxide Poisoning - Do not use barbecue or other open flame sources in the home. The smoke from an open flame indoors can lead to death or injury from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Snow Removal

Shoreline crews have worked hard to clear primary and secondary routes and are prepping them with sand/deicer in anticipation of cold overnight temperatures causing ice. Reminder, plows only move to neighborhood streets after primary and secondary roads are clear. Depending on conditions, it could take several days before you see a plow on your street. 

Property Owner Responsibilities - Clear your sidewalks and driveways

Shoreline homeowners and business/property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice off driveways and sidewalks near their property, including the ridge of snow left along the edge of driveways by the snow plow. Please keep your sidewalks clear for pedestrians.
  • If snow is removed from your property, make sure the snow is not placed in the right of way.
  • Right of way and catch basins must also be kept clear to accommodate melting snow and to avoid pooling water.
  • More information about stormwater drains can be found on the Adopt-A-Drain page.
Road Closures

Depending on conditions, the City may post road closure signs on some of our known danger spots. You can see where those are on the Snow Event Closure Map. The City may also need to close other roads due to conditions.

Current road closures (additional closures may be added as conditions are assessed):
  • All roads on the Snow Event Closure Map are currently closed.
Facility closures and/or hours of operations and meeting notices:

We are monitoring weather and road conditions. City facility hours might be impacted if conditions warrant late opening or early closure.
  • City Hall
    • Delayed opening until 10:00am Friday December 23. Depending on conditions Friday morning, City facilities may close all together.
  • Spartan Recreation Center
    • Delayed opening until 10:00am Friday December 23. Depending on conditions Friday morning, City facilities may close all together.
  • Richmond Highlands Recreation Center
    • Open. Depending on conditions Friday morning, City facilities may be closed.
  • Shoreline Parks
    • Richmond Beach Saltwater Park is closed to vehicle traffic.
    • Our other parks are open; however, we encourage visitors to use caution. Ice on trees from freezing rain can cause tree branches to snap and trees to fall. Please stay out from under trees and avoid forested park areas during the current weather conditions.
Power Outages

The Seattle City Light website allows you to check the status of a power outage. Contact Seattle City Light for more information at (206) 684-7000.
  • Never use a generator, charcoal, or gas grill in an enclosed space, including your home and garage. These emit carbon monoxide, which is a poisonous gas you cannot see or smell but can kill a person in minutes. Carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious threat especially when families look for alternate ways to heat their homes during a power outage.
  • Never touch or go near any downed power lines.
  • Remember to treat all intersections as a 4-way stop when traffic lights are out.
Power outage safety and carbon monoxide poisoning prevention information

Public Transit

Some King County Metro and Community Transit buses are running on snow reroutes. Please check your route before traveling. For more information, visit Metro's Service Advisories website or Community Transit's Rider Alerts.

Storm drains and localized flooding

As the snow melts, street drains and culverts can plug as chunks of snow and slush move towards the drainage inlets. If this occurs there may be localized flooding as the water ponds or bypasses plugged drains. 

City maintenance crews will be clearing drainage inlets and culverts but may not be able to catch them all in advance of a problem. You can help prevent problems in your area - if you see snow plugging a drain or culvert consider clearing it and putting the snow uphill of the drain where it can melt without causing problems.

Locate storm drains near your house

A similar situation can arise on roofs with snow that may plug roof drains or scuppers as it melts. If possible, monitor your roof and maintain the roof drains. Some structures, such as out buildings and car ports, are at a higher risk of collapse under wet snow, so please use caution.

Winter Storm Resources


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Lake Forest Park City Hall to be closed on Friday, December 23, 2022, due to inclement weather

LFP City Hall
Photo by Steven H. Robinson
In view of the winter storm warning and inclement weather predicted for Friday, December 23, 2022, Mayor Jeff Johnson has determined that, for the safety of the public and city employees, City Hall will be closed.

Reminder that City Hall is closed on Monday, December 26, in observance of the Christmas Day holiday.

City Hall will reopen on Tuesday, December 27, at 9:00am.


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Decision about Severe Weather Shelter to be made Friday morning

The weather forecast is a little uncertain right now (welcome to Northwest weather!).

It looks like we will not meet conditions to open Friday, however we are also hearing about nasty weather Thursday night which might change predictions for Friday night.

At this time, we are going to wait to make that call in the morning.

The shelter is housed at St. Dunstan’s Church at 722 N 145th St, Shoreline WA 98133.

If you would like to be a shelter volunteer, email staff@nuhsa.org or call 206-550-5626



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Paramount School Park in snow

 
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Familiar landscapes look very different in snow.




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COVID relief funding awarded to PSE clears more than $20 million in unpaid customer bills

BELLEVUE, Wash. (Dec. 21, 2022) – Puget Sound Energy (PSE) helped thousands of customers this holiday season pay off millions in past due bills.

The Washington State Department of Commerce (Commerce) awarded PSE $20.4 million in COVID relief funding authorized by the American Rescue Plan Act, passed in 2021. 

The money went toward paying off or reducing unpaid electric and natural gas utility bills for nearly 36,000 current and former customers.

“Ensuring every household can meet basic needs is essential for an equitable economy that provides opportunities for all. We are pleased to be able to support PSE in their commitment to make sure no customer has to choose between keeping the lights on and paying for food, medicine or other necessities,” said Commerce Director Lisa Brown.

Eligible customers were those who received bill assistance during the pandemic and had a current outstanding debt of at least $10 accrued between March 2020 and Dec. 2021. PSE ended up crediting an average of $570 to the nearly 36,000 customers.

Customers who continue to need help can check on whether they qualify through PSE’s bill assistance program (Home Energy Lifeline Program), the government LIHEAP program, and the Salvation Army Warm Home Fund. 

All customers can participate in PSE’s payment arrangement plan and we will work with customers to create a manageable payment schedule.

In 2023, PSE plans to introduce a new discount rate for low-income customers and seniors, increased funding for low-income bill payment assistance, as well as a new pilot program that would help manage the debt of eligible customers facing significant past-due balances.



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Snowflakes bloom in Shoreline Park

Photo by Sara Cameresi
Shoreline resident Sara Camaresi took advantage of a beautiful day to check out her favorite Shoreline park and was delighted to find these snowflakes in bloom.

Photo by Sara Cameresi
While not rare, this is the first time they have been seen in this environment. The red one is particularly rare and may have been consorting with the COVID family.

--Diane Hettrick



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AG Ferguson files lawsuits against three national pharmacy chains

Photo by Stephen Foster on Unsplash
Attorney General Bob Ferguson filed a lawsuit today against Albertsons, Krogers and Rite Aid, whose pharmacy chains helped fuel Washington state’s opioid epidemic. 

Ferguson asserts the pharmacies served as the last line of defense in the opioid supply chain and failed in their collective responsibility to prevent the overuse of opioid prescriptions.

Ferguson also announced today resolutions with five other companies that produced or sold opioids. This will bring Washington state’s total recoveries to more than $1.1 billion for funding opioid abatement and treatment programs.

These announced resolutions are not final until certain conditions are met: Each company will evaluate the number of states that join then decide whether to proceed with notices to local governments.

“Opioids tore apart Washington families, overburdened our health care system and caused an epidemic of addiction we are still struggling to contain,” Ferguson said. 
“My office won a billion dollars to help fund recovery efforts, but I am not done. I will continue to hold accountable the corporations that enriched themselves off the suffering of Washington families.”

More information here



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and what will poor robin do then, poor thing?

 
Robin in snow photo by David Walton

The North wind doth blow,
And we shall have snow,
And what will poor robin do then, poor thing?

He'll sit in a barn,
And keep himself warm,
And hide his head under his wing, poor thing.

--16th century English rhyme


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Shoreline road closure map and other winter storm resources

Check the map for current conditions

Depending on conditions, the City of Shoreline may post road closure signs on some of our known danger spots. You can see where those are on the Snow Event Closure Map

Additional closures may be added as conditions are assessed.

Winter Storm Resources


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2022 Winter Porch Light Parade through December 31


The 2022 Winter Porch Light Parade Map is available for the rest of December! Enjoy a walk or drive around your neighborhood to see the displays across Lake Forest Park, Shoreline, Kenmore, and Bothell.

View the map and learn more about the Winter Porch Light Parade here.



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Learn Basic Quilting in workshop February 5th - register now

Photo courtesy Shoreline Community College
Practice quilting design, cutting, measuring, applique, and machine sewing in this workshop from Shoreline Community College's continuing education.

By the end of class, you will go away with a quilting square and knowledge to move forward on bigger projects. For students 16+ and adults of all ages.

2/5 - 1:30 – 4:30 pm Sunday - Fee: $59 -Lee Ann Hittenberger
Location: 1500 Building, Room 1515, Shoreline CC Campus
16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133




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Shoreline Severe Weather Shelter will be open Thursday, December 22, 2022

The Shoreline Severe Weather Shelter will be open Thursday, December 22, 2022 at 8:30pm.

The shelter is housed at St. Dunstan’s Church at 722 N 145th St, Shoreline WA 98133.

If you would like to be a shelter volunteer, email staff@nuhsa.org or call 206-550-5626




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WeatherWatcher: Winter storm watch Thursday afternoon through Friday evening

 
Freezing rain event in February 2021
Photo by Carl Dinse
The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Winter Storm Watch in effect for Thursday afternoon into Friday evening. This is for our next winter storm that is expected to move into the area before we thaw. A messy wintery transition is expected to happen Friday morning through afternoon.

  • First Act: Accumulating snow (1-3 inches)
  • Second Act: Accumulating freezing rain ( 0.0 to 0.25 inches )
  • Gradual warm up starting Friday morning - moving above freezing Friday evening.
  • Potential flooding rains over the weekend, with potential for wind.

Temperatures Wednesday night and Thursday night are expected to dive into the teens to low 20's. An approaching Pacific storm is moving in from the southwest. This storm has sub-tropical origins and is very warm, but we have very cold air in place before and as it arrives.

Precipitation is expected to start around Thursday afternoon in the 1pm to 3pm time frame, starting mainly as light snow for the most part. We could see an additional 1-3 inches of snow accumulation before freezing rain begins mixing in during the overnight hours into Friday. 

The precipitation that arrives Thursday afternoon is expected to continue non-stop through Saturday and beyond. Around 1am to 3am Friday morning the atmosphere is expected to warm up enough for that snow to change over to rain or mix with rain. 

Temperatures at the ground level though are expected to remain below freezing, which means freezing rain. Around a quarter of an inch of freezing rain accumulation is possible from Friday morning through Friday evening.

This kind of event can put a lot of weight on trees and power lines, and it is expected that scattered power outages will occur. Travel will also be extremely difficult as roads become glazed in ice on top of new snowfall.

Once we get through Friday temperatures are expected to warm to the upper 40's or low 50's. It'll feel very nice compared to the temperatures we've had for all of December so far. With the warm air comes a lot of rain. 

We have a large atmospheric river approaching that could bring us 4-6 inches of rain through the holiday weekend. Urban flooding and stream flooding will be our next concerns as everything melts and the heavy rains arrive.

There is a lot of uncertainty in our forecast for this transition over to rain and for coming events through the weekend. Snow or freezing rain could linger several hours longer than forecasted. 

Another item in the forecast is potential for a wind event. The general trend for the remainder of the month looks to be an active and seasonal pattern. A lot of rain, and potential for one or several wind events on the horizon.


For current weather conditions please visit www.shorelineweather.com



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Senior Activity Center closed Thursday and Friday

Wednesday, December 21, 2022


From the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center

We have decided out of consideration of safety and the state of our parking lot, among many other factors, to close the Center tomorrow 12/22/2022, Thursday. 

Friday is a staff holiday, the center was already planned to be closed this day.

We thank you all so much for being part of a wonderful 2022 here with us! We look forward to seeing you all next year,

2023 will be an exciting year for all of us together at the Shoreline Lake-Forest-Park Senior Activity Center!



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Today was something to crow about

Photo by Jan Hansen

Crow in Snow


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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Rudolph

 
Cartoon by Whitney Potter



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Christmas Eve service live and livestreamed at First Lutheran Richmond Beach

 
Christmas Eve Worship
at First Lutheran Richmond Beach

4:30 pm - Family Candlelight Service
8:30 pm - Traditional Candlelight Service*
10:30 pm - Traditional Candlelight Service

*Service livestreamed, visit www.flrb.org for livestream details

18354 8th Ave NW, Shoreline, WA 98177, 206-546-4253


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Recology and Republic Services kept their trucks home on Tuesday

Bins ready for collection
Photo courtesy Republic Services
Both Recology in Shoreline and Republic Services in LFP and Kenmore chose to be prudent and keep their collection trucks off the streets on Tuesday because of the weather and road conditions.

They may not be out on Wednesday, either. Both companies will rely on robocalls to inform the day's customers what to do.

On Tuesday, Recology advised customers to leave their bins by the street in case the trucks are able to get to them. 

In any case, customers can leave double for the next collection day, without extra charge.

--Diane Hettrick


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Seasonal services at Richmond Beach Congregational Church, United Church of Christ


Richmond Beach Congregational Church, United Church of Christ
Corner of NW Richmond Beach Rd and 15th Ave NW

In-Person or Live Online on YouTube: https://www.youtubecom/channel/UC ju7FWIhoY hn4-Ig7mF-A
  • Advent services
  • Blue Christmas Service
  • Christmas Eve service


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CDC National Health Survey is coming to King County

Tuesday, December 20, 2022

Dr. Faisal Khan, Director of Public
Health Seattle-King county
The CDC’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey will be surveying randomly selected households in King County beginning January 4, 2023. 

Begun in 1960, the NHANES is the most comprehensive survey of health and nutritional status of the U.S. population, with data informing national health policy, programs and care. 

Each year, NHANES selects different U.S. counties to survey, and this year King County will be surveyed. 

Randomly selected King County households will be mailed a letter inviting them to be a part of the study and are strongly encouraged to participate.

“I’m so pleased that our community was selected to participate in this year’s study,” said Dr. Faisal Khan, Director of Public Health — Seattle - King County. 
“I would encourage anyone who has the opportunity to participate to do so. The information provided by our residents will help us to better inform our policy makers and provide us with important information as we make decisions on how to best use our public health resources to meet the needs of our community.”

Since 1960, NHANES has had a prominent role in improving the health of all people living in the U.S. 

NHANES data address critical health concerns, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Public health officials, legislators, and physicians use this information to develop evidence-based health policies, direct and design health programs and services, and expand the health knowledge of the nation. NHANES data also help produce national references and standardized growth charts used by pediatricians across the country.

NHANES collects a broad range of data that affect the lives of everyone in the country, regardless of age, addressing everything from air quality to the low-fat and “light” foods found in grocery stores.

Study participant selection and study involvement

An NHANES team of health professionals, nutritionists, and health technicians is heading to King County and urges everyone who has been selected for the survey to participate.

Residents will have an invitation-only opportunity to participate in NHANES. Addresses are randomly sampled within the county. By selecting participants this way, when combining data from all counties visited this year, NHANES data can more accurately represent the U.S. population.

Benefits of participating in NHANES, if selected:
  • Participants receive a free and comprehensive health and nutrition evaluation.
  • Participants help develop and evolve national health programs and policies.
  • Participants receive a token of appreciation for their time.
All information collected in the survey is kept confidential and individual privacy is protected by law. NHANES is taking all precautions needed, as recommended by the CDC, to keep survey participants and staff safe by following guidelines on social distancing, use of personal protective equipment, handwashing, and sanitation of the mobile examination center and all equipment.



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Shoreline Severe Weather Shelter will be open on Wednesday December 21, 2022

The Shoreline Severe Weather Shelter will be open Wednesday, December 21, 2022 at 8:30pm.

The shelter is housed at St. Dunstan’s Church at 722 N 145th St, Shoreline WA 98133.

If you would like to be a shelter volunteer, email staff@nuhsa.org or call 206-550-5626.



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King county libraries were closed on Tuesday - check for Wednesday

Shoreline Library photo by
Steven H. Robinson
Due to weather conditions, all King County libraries were closed Tuesday, December 20. 

Holds and due dates will be extended. 

You can still access digital collections. Enjoy downloadable eBooks, audiobooks, and magazines. Stream movies, music, and more. 


Check for openings on Wednesday and the rest of the week

Our King county libraries are Richmond Beach, Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore.



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Slow down and make way for snow plows

Photo courtesy WSDOT
By Diane Hettrick

Every municipality I follow is saying the same thing. Stay home. Stay out of the way while they take care of the roads.

People are going too fast and treating snow plows as an annoyance. Already someone managed to run into a state patrol vehicle that was blocking the road for the snow plow. No one hurt.

The photo looks west on SR 104 (aka Ballinger Way, NE 205th, 244th SW, Lake Ballinger Way, Edmonds Way). Right here it's Ballinger Way.

WSDOT didn't explain the photo but it looks like a couple of collisions.



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Jobs: City of Lake Forest Park - Maintenance Worker

City of Lake Forest Park
Public Works - Maintenance Worker full time
$5,136.00 - $6,043.00 Monthly

We're looking for the newest member for our Public Works Team! The City of Lake Forest Park offers competitive benefits, a great work environment, and supports the growth and training of our staff. 


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Jobs: Shoreline Farmers Market - Market Director

Shoreline Farmers Market
Market Director
Priority Application Date: January 9, 2023
Compensation: Dependent on experience, starts at $65,000/year, full time 

Are you passionate about the local food system and creating opportunities for the community? We’ve got great news: Shoreline Farmers Market has the job for you!
 
We’re seeking a Market Director to oversee the farmers market, develop programming, cultivate partnerships, and outreach to the community. 

The Market Director will be the face of the organization, working directly with the Board of Directors and community organizations. This role will focus on fundraising, strategic planning, and oversee all market operations.
 
Get more detailed info on our website: shorelinefarmersmarket.org/jobs



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Check before you go out

Photo courtesy Sky Nursery
Leena's closed early on Tuesday. So did Sky Nursery. So did a lot of businesses in the face of this weather. 

Check before you try to go anywhere to see if they are open and how long they think they will stay open.

By the way, Wednesday is the first day of winter.



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Canopy Cat Rescue is still on the job

Felix was 12 days in a tree 
See the YouTube video of the rescue
By Diane Hettrick

The arborists / cat rescuers of Canopy Cat Rescue (CCR) are my heroes. They travel Puget Sound from Bellingham to Olympia getting cats out of trees. I think I have the distinction of having owned the only cat in the known universe who knew how to climb down a tree. The rest are great at climbing up, particularly when they are being chased by a coyote, but can't get back down.

The CCR guys climb 100' trees to coax kitties into nets to take them safely to their owners on the ground. And they only ask for donations!

They just published an Ask with the one year anniversary of their Mewsletter:

"Tis the season for our one year anniversary of our CCR "Mews" AND for giving so that CCR can help rescue more cats who need us in the coming years.

"In this edition, with our #KittyStarofCCR Omar prominently featured... in a bread basket no less (his merch will be launching soon!) - you'll read about Felix, the sweetest grey kitty with his moon eyes who was adopted because of a professional business pitch, survived a house fire and then went missing 13 days in a tree with the family giving up all hope... until CCR saved the day!

"(spoiler alpurrt) Plus our partnership with Your Cat Backpack by Travel Cat and upcoming event on Dec 28!

"You can read the "mews" with this link - https://files.constantcontact.com/.../3718d524-140c-4b6f...

"We have so many big plans for CCR to expand our reach to be able save cats in other areas. We need to train new climbers with extensive knowledge of cat behavior and we can do that in the future with your help!

"We want to assist as many families and kitties like Felix' that we can, which is why we humbly ask you to consider making a tax-deductible donation this holiday by December 31st.

"You can do this in many ways - visit our website and donate here - https://www.canopycatrescue.com/donate-.html , our Venmo @canopycatrescur, create a Facebook or Instagram campaign and outreach to your kitty loving network (it's SO easy), become a monthly supporter, make a planned gift or a gift of stock... or just share our organization with your friends and family!
 
"No matter which way you decide to give, it makes a HUGE difference for us and cats who need our help, both kitties with families and stray kitties. Last year we rescued around 720 cat and this year over 800. So we definitely need your help so we can keep growing! You helped us do this!
 
"Thank you so much for believing in what we do, and for your unwavering support. All of us and the kitties we save wish you a very meowy holiday with lots of purrs and chin scratches! If you need assistance making a donation, please reach out to erin@canopycatrescue.com

#canopycatrescue "


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Winter update: City of Shoreline

Winter weather update 12/20/2022 10am:
ROADS: Snow crews moved to 12 hours shifts Monday night and are currently plowing primary routes. Once the snow stops and primary routes are cleared, they will move to secondary routes. Only after primary and secondary roads are clear will we start plowing neighborhood streets. See plow maps at update link below.

SIDEWALKS: Please clear your sidewalks! Shoreline homeowners and business/property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice off driveways and sidewalks near their property. Help our pedestrians stay safe!

ROAD CLOSURES: Road conditions are being assessed and some of our known danger spots are already closed. See more at update below.

CITY FACILITIES and PARKS: Camp Shoreline has been cancelled for today, but Spartan remains open for drop-in use. Richmond Highlands Rec Center is closed and teen programming is cancelled. City Hall is open. Richmond Beach Saltwater Park is closed to vehicles.

  • Spartan Recreation Center closed at 5:00pm. today, Tuesday, December 20.
  • All of the roads on the Snow Event Road Closure Map are currently closed.
  • Road crews will work to apply as much salt and sand where necessary on primary and secondary routes before the temperatures drop and wet spots freeze over. 
    • If you do not need to be on the roads, please stay home! Ice on roadways will pose a significant danger tonight and tomorrow morning. 
    • If you do drive, go slow, leave extra room for others, and be aware of your surroundings.
  • We expect Holiday Break Camps to be open tomorrow. However, if that changes, we will notify families via email.


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Shoreline Lake-Forest-Park Senior Activity Center will be closed Wednesday, 12/21/2022

Photo by Jon Ann Cruver
The Shoreline Lake-Forest-Park Senior Activity Center will be closed Wednesday, 12/21/2022 due to inclement weather.

The Senior Activity Center normally closes for weather when the school district has a snow day.

Since the school district is closed from December 19 to January 2, the Senior Activity Center has sent out a separate notice.



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LFP Police Blotter as of 12-7-2022

Lake Forest Park police blotter 12-7-2022

On 11-04-22, Officers responded to a domestic violence call. The caller stated her husband slapped her in the face during an argument. Officers found history of domestic calls at the residence. Officers completed an investigation and sent assault charges to the spouse.

Officers arrested a suspect in a theft at Ross. The suspect admitted stealing clothing, hats, and shoes from the store. The suspect was found in possession of a bottle of Smirnoff Vodka with a partially attached broken Rite-Aid security lock. The suspect claimed that he purchased the vodka. When the questioned further, he said he bought it from someone else who had stolen it.

On 11-05-22, a strong windstorm went through our city. Officers and Public Works crews worked through the night and day conducting traffic control and street closures. Officers also responded to several traffic collisions, two DUI investigations and arrests during the storm and power outage.

Officers responded to three death investigations over the last two weeks, consisting of medical conditions, two calls were CPR, and an AED were utilized.

On 11-16-22, a fight occurred at Ballinger Estates between two tenants. One of the tenants was playing loud music, which was reported as being a constant issue over several months. The other tenant knocked on the door to ask the male occupant to turn down the music. The subject initially threw something at the door, which the complainant then opened. The tenant immediately attacked the complainant inside his apartment. The victim stated said he was punched in the head three times and knocked to the floor by the suspect. The victim stated he was able to get up and the suspect then chased him down the hallway. The victim stated that as he was chased, the suspect told him he had a gun and threatened to shoot him. The specific threat was he would “make me bleed” the next time. The suspect was arrested for assault.

A small child called 911 to say hi to the police. Ofc. Carlsrud had conversation on how to use 911 and invited him to come by the police station one day to say hi.

An officer located a lost dog. The officer called the number on the collar and eventually received a call-back from the dog owner and claimed her dog. The dog had bolted after a deer and was separated from its owner.

Officers were dispatched to a possible fight, the reporting person (RP) stated they heard a fight and yelling. The RP stated he heard someone say "come outside, you’re dead” outside his bedroom door. Officers investigated determining there was no fight. Another tenant was woken up by officers, who indicated there was no sign of disturbance within the residence.

A husband called reporting his wife had been missing for a several hours. Officers located the wife in the backyard where she had fallen, injuring her shoulder. The husband stated his wife suffers from dementia. Shoreline Fire provided husband with resources.

Det. Teschlog responded to Lake Forest Park Elementary School for a malicious mischief report. Principal Minor advised that sometime over the weekend someone had damaged roofing material at the school and had burned some signage. She then advised that two staff members had signed in at the school the day before and had observed an unknown number of juveniles on the roof. The staff scared them off but did not call the police. They believed the unidentified juveniles caused the damage.

An officer contacted two subjects washing a truck at Subaru's Only. The truck had no license or vehicle ID. One subject stayed and spoke with officers, the second walked away. Officers arrested the subject on a Lynnwood warrant and issued him a trespass warning from Subarus Only. The vehicle was impounded for VIN verification, and later confirmed stolen out of Marysville. The vehicle had catalytic converter cutting tools inside the cab along with stolen mail.

Officers responded to a possible fight at Deja Vu. A subject was reportedly becoming aggressive and had attacked a staff member. Officers determined the subject had been involved in an altercation with security. At the businesses request the subject was issued a trespass warning and escorted from the property.

An unknown subject detonated a battery of commercial grade fireworks in the parking lot of city hall. They were positioned to fire directly into a stand of trees and within feet of a motorhome. Officers collected the spent fireworks for fingerprint processing and collected video surveillance of the incident. The investigation is ongoing.

Officers contacted a subject in a motorhome in the parking lot of the mall. It was determined the owner works a business at the mall. The owner stated they are homeless other than the motorhome. Resource/housing assistance information provided.

In the Sheridan Heights neighborhood, a resident reported an unknown person/s had removed and stolen a catalytic converter from their vehicle sometime overnight.



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Space available in Hopelink's English for Work orientations

There is still space available in Hopelink's upcoming English for Work orientations.

Winter quarter orientations are offered on January 4 and 5. New students can contact us now to register.

We are eager to welcome Afghan and Ukrainian refugees into our program. Please see our webpage for flyers in Dari, Pashto, Ukrainian, and other languages.

About English for Work

This one-quarter program supports refugees and immigrants with improving their English language skills and preparing for employment. Students practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing while learning about topics such as skills and strengths, job search, resumes, and interviewing. 

Near the end of the quarter, students participate in mock interviews conducted by local employers—a highlight of the program!

Class Information
  • Students participate in online class on Zoom two times per week. Hopelink computers are available to borrow if needed.
  • Morning and evening class options are available.
  • Classes are best for students who have intermediate or advanced-level English skills. We assess students to determine their level and help decide if our program is a good fit.
Eligibility
  • Students must: plan to get a job in the U.S. or enroll in job training/college to prepare to get a job (within the next 6 months)
  • be 18 years or older
  • not have a temporary visa (for example, individuals who have a B, F, J, M, or other non-immigrant visa are not eligible)
  • live in Hopelink’s service area (for example, in Shoreline, Bothell, Kenmore, Kirkland, Bellevue, Redmond, or surrounding cities)
Please contact us at englishforwork@hopelink.org or 425-250-3007 if you have any questions. We are happy to help!



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Ecology news: Washington adopts plan for transition to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs)

OLYMPIA – Today, the Washington Department of Ecology updated its Clean Vehicles Program to require that all new, light-duty vehicles sold in Washington meet zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) standards by 2035.

Washington is only the third state in the nation to adopt the expanded ZEV standards since an historic decision by the California Air Resources Board paved the way in August. 

Under a law passed by the Washington Legislature in 2020, Ecology is required to follow California’s strong emissions standards for cleaner vehicles. A further 15 states are also committed to transitioning to zero-emission transportation.

“The EV revolution has begun, and momentum will only continue to build over the coming years,” said Washington Gov. Jay Inslee. 
“I’m excited to see the future unfold as more and more electric vehicles and charging infrastructure come online, battery range increases, and ZEVs transform into the most affordable and convenient option for almost everyone in Washington.”

Under the new standards, “ZEVs” include electric vehicles (EVs), hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and plug-in hybrids with at least 50 miles of all-electric range.

Most major automakers are increasing ZEV production now, including some that are already committed to the emerging trend of 100% ZEVs for new car sales by 2035. ZEVs currently make up approximately 13% of new vehicle sales in Washington, and numerous new models – including trucks and SUVs – are being introduced to the market. 

Studies indicate that many ZEVs are cheaper to own over the long term than comparable gas- and diesel-powered vehicles due to major fuel savings and lower maintenance costs.

“These new standards will accelerate a market transition that is already happening,” said Laura Watson, Ecology’s director. 
“They’re designed to incentivize manufacturers to produce more affordable, clean vehicles in a wider array of models to suit everyone’s needs. And by targeting transportation – the state’s largest source of harmful greenhouse gas emissions – these standards will make a significant contribution on our path to net zero carbon emissions by 2050.”

The new ZEV standards begin with model year 2026, affecting 35% of new passenger vehicle sales. Auto manufacturers will be required to sell 6 to 9% more new ZEVs per year until ZEVs make up 100% of new sales starting in model year 2035. The standards do not apply to the use or sale of older, gas-powered vehicles.

In addition to requiring 100% ZEVs for new car sales by 2035, today’s adopted standards include California’s rules for cleaner, heavy-duty internal combustion engines, early-action credits for ZEV sales in model years 2023 and 2024, and a one-time fleet reporting requirement.

Ecology has adopted the new standards after a six-week public comment period. The department received and responded to more than 1,400 comments.

The transition to ZEVs will work alongside Washington’s other major new climate policies – the Clean Fuel Standard and Cap-and-Invest Program – both of which begin on Jan. 1, 2023.



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Photo:Poem - Christmas Tree

Boeing Creek Park photo by Tom Wear

Christmas Tree

See the meaning in the seed
Recipe awaiting life and growth
Its story waiting to be told.

Hear the whisper speaking truth.
See the quiet dance of fingers.
It is so graceful to behold.

Feel the fresh against your touch,
Breathe the scent and fill your lungs,
Calm the noise of daylong stress.

Evergreens mean so much, no wonder
We cherish and remember
There in the dark of winter night.

An evergreen tree is ours to ponder.
It leaves room for hope to grow
All year long. And in December

We love it, light it tenderly
And hang our cherished memories.
As it bathes us in it’s glow.

Dec. 9, 2022 Vicki Westberg



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