School board meeting draws hundreds as district ponders massive budget cuts

Wednesday, April 5, 2023

People lining up for the school board meeting. Photo by Tanner Phillips

By Diane Hettrick

The Shoreline School District is facing massive budget cuts as are many public school districts in the state. Districts are funded by the state based on the number of students enrolled in the district. Local special levies pay for technology, nurses, school advocates, construction and previously made up for some of the shortfalls in state budget funding.

During the pandemic, when schools had to reinvent their technology and teaching methods, first to remote learning and then to hybrid learning, many students left the district.

Some just dropped out. Others were enrolled in private schools, which stayed open during COVID-19. Others? No one really knows. And they didn't come back.


The enrollment in Shoreline has dropped enough that the district has a $16 million shortfall. The district is struggling with what to cut and everything not mandated is on the table.

Hundreds of people filled the Shoreline Room at the Shoreline Center for the school board meeting. Photo by Tanner Phillips


Hundreds of parents showed up at the school board meeting on Monday, April 3, 2023. Most were advocating for arts and music programs in the district.

The Shoreline PTA Council posted an advocacy link to send alerts and updates to subscribers HERE

The district has several online information sessions scheduled

Thursday, April 6, 5:00-6:00 pm
Zoom link: https://ssd412-org.zoom.us/j/83671867560?pwd=WlJVa1diL3lENmNtd0xBWHNsalRoUT09
Webinar ID: 836 7186 7560
Passcode: 163959

Thursday, April 6, 6:30-7:30 pm - 
Presentation and Q.A in Spanish
Zoom link: https://ssd412-org.zoom.us/j/87511372042?pwd=dEV2dmhUcThNRVg3WEZwSnNVSThsUT09
Webinar ID: 875 1137 2042
Passcode: 116785

Monday, April 10, 7:00-8:00 pm
Zoom link: https://ssd412-org.zoom.us/j/87546703104?pwd=d1hOcnpiMnVjU2VUc29IaTRDMWRrUT09
Webinar ID: 875 4670 3104
Passcode: 577824

Black and Brown Town Hall: Tuesday, April 13, 5-6:00 pm
Register in advance for this meeting: https://ssd412-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZErcuCgqjwsGdWKr2-rjkVLCMed6rrWfMja
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

The Black and Brown Town Hall will be hosted by the Department of Equity and Family Engagement. Questions can be submitted in advance of the meeting using this form: https://bit.ly/BBTownHallQs


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Jobs: Come work at the Shoreline Teen Center this Summer


Summers at the teen center include our after school and late night drop in activities which include sports and games for middle and high school youth. 

We also have the summer camps for youth ages 10-15: Camp of all Trades, SportQuest, Harry Potter camp, and CIT (Counselors in training)!

Provide direction, leadership, mentorship and support for youth at after school and late night drop-in programs, and in summer programs! Assist in promoting and supervising youth and teen-related programs. 

Supervise field trips to a variety of locations including parks, pools and community centers. Directly facilitate the activities and ideas generated by citywide youth and teen population. And More!!!

Qualifications:
  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Valid Washington State Drivers License
  • Previous recreational leadership or teaching experience with youth 10-18 years old
  • Current First Aid/CPR certification is required, on-site training will be provided for those who are not currently certified.
Job description and application



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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Dish

 

Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter HERE


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Shoreline police investigate suspicious vehicle and end up solving cases linked to Mountlake Terrace and Sammamish

Photo courtesy Shoreline Police
On April 3, 2023 at about 12:00pm. Shoreline Police Officers responded to an occupied suspicious vehicle in the 20000 Block of 15th Ave NE. 

Upon arrival, officers discovered that the vehicle was reported stolen out of Mountlake Terrace, and recently eluded Officers in the city of Sammamish. 

Two subjects were found inside the vehicle sleeping, and a after a brief struggle both subjects were arrested. 

Paraphernalia and a large amount of power tools were located inside the stolen vehicle.

Both subjects were arrested and booked for several active warrants and Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle.


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Annual Worker Memorial honored 60 WSDOT workers who have died in work zones since 1950

A display near Capitol Way in Olympia shows 60 traffic barrels, representing each WSDOT worker who has died in work zones since 1950. Photo courtesy WSDOT.

WSDOT (Washington Department of Transportation) held their annual Worker Memorial event on Tuesday at their headquarters building in Olympia.

During the ceremony they honored 60 colleagues who have died in work zones since 1950. They also took time to emphasize the need for everyone to do their part to keep everyone on the highway safe.

During the ceremony, Gov. Inslee signed a bill authorizing the use of speed safety cameras in work zones, a welcome step in efforts to keep highway workers safe. 

He also named Adam Gonzalez, a maintenance worker in the Lacey area, “Washingtonian of the Day.” 
Adam shared his story of being hit three times in work zones since he started at our agency in 2016. 

Secretary of Transportation Roger Millar, Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste and Mike Gribner, President of the WSDOT Memorial Foundation whose uncle was killed in a work zone, also spoke.

Thanks to everyone who was a part of the ceremony and, more importantly, everyone who does their part to keep everyone safe on the roads.

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The weather may not be delightful but the daffodils are still blooming

Tuesday, April 4, 2023

 
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

The daffodils are blooming on schedule in the Skagit Valley, as you can see by this panoramic photo by Wayne Pridemore.

They never seem to care when the weather changes to rain, ice, and hail. However, there are reports of snow, giant hailstones, and ice north of us, so you might want to delay your visit until the weather changes again.

--Diane Hettrick



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Ridgecrest Neighborhood offers $1500 scholarship for a neighborhood student

 The Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association (RNA) is offering one $1500 scholarship to high school seniors who grew up or are currently living in the Ridgecrest neighborhood. 

Ridgecrest is defined by its boundaries of • 175th Street NE (North) to 145th Street NE (South) • 15th Avenue NE (East) to I-5 freeway (West).

The scholarship is for qualified students who plan to pursue continuing education through a technical program, community college or a university. 

Awarded funds may cover the cost of tuition and fees, books or supplies required for courses of instruction at the educational institution of your choice. 

The scholarships will be paid by RNA directly to the educational institution, for the use of the scholarship recipient once enrolled.

Download scholarship application and submit it one of two ways:
  1. Submitted via email to scholarship@ridgecrestneighborhood.org - the email message must include an attachment or scanned image of the application
  2. Mailed to: Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association, PO BOX 55654, Shoreline WA 98155-0654
Applications are due by Tuesday, May 2, 2023 at 11:59pm. Anything submitted or postmarked after will not be considered. 

Winners will be notified on or before June 7th.




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Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center 2023-24 Preschool enrollment has begun

Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Applications and interest forms are now available for preschool at Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center for the 2023-24 school year.

All Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center preschool classes are high-quality, inclusive programs serving students from Head Start, ECEAP, tuition-based preschool, and special education. For tuition-based, Head Start, and ECEAP enrollment, children must be three years old by August 31, 2023.

Greeting new students
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Head Start/ECEAP


Head Start and Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program (ECEAP) are free preschool programs for eligible families. Learn more about program eligibility

Applications are available online: Head Start and ECEAP Preschool / Applications, or you can pick up printed applications in the Edwin Pratt office at 1900 N 170th St., Shoreline, WA 98133.

You can also speak with one of our Head Start Family Advocates to learn if your family is eligible or to help with the application process. They can be reached at 206-393-4354.

  • Head Start students attend Monday-Friday, 9:00am - 3:00pm or 9:15am - 3:15pm.
  • ECEAP students attend half-day classes Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 12:45pm - 3:45pm.
A classroom at Edwin Pratt
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Tuition Preschool

Tuition-based preschool programs are open to all. Learn more about our tuition preschool programs, schedules, rates, and more.

If you are interested in being considered for a space in our tuition preschool for the 2023-2024 school year, please complete the Preschool Interest Form New and Out-of-District Families by 12 pm on April 13.

Learn more about Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center

Edwin Pratt Early Learning Center is located at 1900 N 170th St, Shoreline, WA 98133, just south of Meridian Park Elementary School.


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Middle School Night this Saturday, April 8, 2023


Come for an evening inspired by one of our favorite films, Studio Ghibli’s “Howl’s Moving Castle”. We will be decorating hats, doing some watercolor, eating ramen, while watching this movie!

This event is 100% free and open to all middle school students or students in grades 6-8th.
  • Location: Richmond Highlands Recreation Center, Shoreline Teen Center 16554 Fremont Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133, South of Shorewood High School
  • Time: 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM
  • Free to 6th-8th grade students
More about Middle School Night

Calling all middle schoolers! Middle School Night happens every Saturday night during the school year, at the Shoreline Teen Center. 

Join us on Saturday nights for sports, games, art, and food. Our staff run activities catered to Middle School aged youth and create a safe, supervised space for your youth to hang out with friends, meet new people, and have a great time!

Middle School night is on Saturday nights from 6:00pm -10:30pm. This is a free, drop-in program.

More events at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/shoreline-teen-center-39781181543


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Jobs: Calling any HS sophomores and Juniors looking for work! (Must be at least 16)


Youth Outreach Leadership and Opportunities (YOLO) proposes a different approach to reach the youth in our community and connect them to services and programs - work with youth to connect with youth. 

This program aims to reach youth through the community connections of other youth. This will be accomplished in two ways, by providing youth employment through a program called Youth Outreach Leadership and Opportunities (YOLO), and by providing direct access to needed services based on youth input and community need. 

YOLO is a job-skill and leadership development program as well as a youth outreach program.

The Youth Outreach Leaders (YOLOs) will provide information and support to help youth access programs and services in their community. 

The Youth Outreach Leaders will have the opportunity to outreach to their peers to assess the needed resources in their community and gain experience and knowledge on how to market and run youth programming. 

The YOLO team will work closely together to design and lead events throughout the year. This position will work 8-10 hours a week and is required to attend a weekly meeting and trainings throughout the school year. This program receives funding from King County Best Starts for Kids

What to know about the job:
  • $15.74 - $16.94 Hourly
  • Work what fits your schedule, after school and /or Saturdays
  • Be enthusiastic about planning activities and events
  • Be comfortable providing outreach to your peers and community
  • Help run teen center social media
  • Be able to attend (approximately) weekly meetings and monthly major teen center events
  • Must be at least 16 years old and enrolled in high school level classes.
  • Employment is contingent upon successfully passing State/Federal pre-employment background checks

APPLY HERE
https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/shorelinewa/jobs/3976205/extra-help-youth-outreach-leader?pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Questions? 

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Holy Week at Saint Dunstan's


Saint Dunstan’s invites you to join us for the rest of our Holy Week services. We started on Sunday on Palm Sunday, with Jesus’s welcome into Jerusalem and a retelling of the story of the Passion.

Thursday will be Maundy Thursday, as we will remember the Last Supper and how Communion was instituted, Service is at 7pm.

Good Friday is when we remember Jesus’s sacrifice at 7pm. Then you can join us Saturday Night at 8pm to usher in the Resurrected Christ with the new flame, and or Sunday morning at 10am come and worship with us.

Following worship on Sunday Morning a brunch will be served and we are hosting an easter egg hunt for the kids.

Click here to see more information on our website.

St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church 722 N 145th St, Shoreline WA 98133
206-363-4319



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Sew Thoughtful walker bags

Help sew walker bag similar to this one on Etsy
The sewing community is invited to Sew Thoughtful to help the Snohomish County Clothing and Textile Advisors (CTA) sew walker bags that attach to the front of the walker to carry items. 

We sew Friday, April 21, 2023 at the Cedar Valley Grange 20526 52nd Avenue West, Lynnwood from 10am to 2pm. 

Ready-to-sew kits for the bags will be provided. Bring your sewing machine/accessories, your lunch and a beverage. 

We donate these bags to the Donor Closet in Edmonds. The Donor Closet is a 501(c)(3) and is run by many volunteers who make used medical equipment available for others in need. 

Often medical equipment is needed that Medicare or private insurance will not provide. Used equipment donated to the Donor Closet www.mshh-onorcloset.com is refurbished and priced to help people get the equipment they need, when they need it.


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Collisions due to rain and ice on I-5 at NE 205th block all lanes of freeway


At 1am on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 rain and ice on I-5 at SR 104 (NE 205th) caused so many collisions that all lanes, northbound and southbound were blocked.

Emergency crews were on scene and travelers were advised to seek alternate routes or except delays.

45 minutes later, the southbound lanes were opened but northbound were still blocked.

All lanes were open by 2am.


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Burglars ram stolen vehicle into cannabis shop on Aurora

Burglars rammed a stolen vehicle into the storefront
Photo by Bruce Miller

On Monday April 3, 2023 at about 2:12am Shoreline Police responded to a burglary in progress at Dockside Cannabis in the 15000 Block of Aurora Ave N, where a suspect used a stolen vehicle to ram into the front of the business.
 
Surveillance camera shows other suspects rummaging through the metal shelves and throwing products into bags. The suspects then all jumped into a second vehicle and left the area.

The case is being investigated by Criminal Investigations Unit detectives.


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WeatherWatcher: Unsettled Weather and March in review

Photo by Tim Davis

This late winter and early spring have been a classic La Niña weather pattern. We've been dominated by a northwest flow from the arctic out through the Gulf of Alaska into the region. This is creating a situation where air in the atmosphere or aloft is much colder than the air at the surface. 

The cold air above is producing the perfect conditions to bring us very unstable air, with heavy short lived rain showers, hail showers and rain/snow mix showers. Some of these showers are strong enough to produce a lightning strike and occasional rumble of thunder.

Rainfall compared to average at the Northridge Weather Station in March 2023.

Despite all the intermittent heavy rain showers we are below average on rainfall, which has been the trend most of the winter. This is somewhat unusual for La Niña, but sometimes we get too far on the cold side of the jet stream and that can limit the amount of moisture our area gets.

High and Low Temperatures compared to average at the Northridge Weather Station in March 2023.

Temperatures have for most of March trended below normal, except for a couple of rare mild days in the second half of the month. Also, not unusual for a few days to be warmer than normal to balance out a March. The average temperature for March at the Northridge station has been 44.9°F over the past 12 years. This year's average was 43.7°F so a little over 1 degree cooler than normal.

Forecast: Unsettled cooler than normal weather is expected to continue into Wednesday evening before we transition back to more seasonable temperatures. Don't expect sunny warm days soon though, more weather systems will be moving through bringing us a more winter typical steady rain event Thursday morning lasting through Friday night. Temperatures will come up to the lower 50's though with lows in the 40's.

Over the weekend we transition from rain to showers, with high temperatures climbing up into the lower 60's on Sunday. The chance of rain continues however well into the middle of next week.

Long Range Forecast: When will we start to see real spring weather? Longer range hints towards our first 70°F sunny day to be sometime out in May. April looks cooler than normal in general with more unsettled weather likely at least several times over the next 3-4 weeks.


For current weather conditions visit www.shorelineweather.com



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Not again! Brief hail storm hits area

Monday, April 3, 2023

Hailstorm as far north as Everett
Photo by Carl Dinse

By Diane Hettrick

This is the third time this season that the immediate area has been hit with a dramatic hail storm. Around 2:30pm on Sunday there was beautiful sunshine in my front yard in Shoreline. The backyard was a little darker. The sky that I could see through the trees was layered.

Light and white clouds were just below one of those leaden gray-blue skies that mean the air is full of snow or heavy moisture. I heard what sounded like thunder.

A few minutes later we were getting pounded with hail. The hailstones were hitting my deck so hard they were bouncing three feet in the air.

And then it was over.


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Annual fundraiser and gala auction event for LFP Elementary PTA scheduled for May 20, 2023

The Lake Forest Park Elementary PTA is hosting their annual fundraiser, gala auction event, Shine Your Light! on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at The Nile in Mountlake Terrace. 

This adult only event is open to the community. 

Doors open at 5:30pm and tickets are required.

Ticket purchasing information as well as donation and sponsorship opportunities are available online. 

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Update on Suni's

Photo by Patricia Hale
The Kyrkos family, owners of arson-destroyed Suni's restaurant in the North City Business district, are working their way through insurance claims and city permits, "trying to figure out what the next steps are."

We do plan on rebuilding. We are just trying to figure out everything that goes with it. There’s a lot of steps that have to be taken before we have set plans.  

They are still in shock and grief at the loss, but very thankful for the community support.

Shoreline is a special place with amazing people and we hope to see everyone again as soon as we can.
 
--Diane Hettrick

4-3-2023 Correct spelling of family name is Kyrkos

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Celebrate Earth Day in Kenmore on April 22, 2023

Lisa Taylor will conduct nature walk
Make a plan to celebrate Earth Day in Kenmore this year at a fun event with free activities for all ages at Rhododendron Park, 6910 NE 170th St, Kenmore, WA 98028

The event will run from 11am - 2pm on April 22, 2023 and will include a scavenger hunt, vendor and community booths, and a volunteer work party opportunity. 

Lisa Taylor, a garden educator and author of the Maritime Northwest Garden Guide, 2nd ed. and Your Farm in the City: An Urban Dweller’s Guide to Growing Food and Raising Animals will offer a guided nature walk.



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Olympic Fly Fishers to hear about recreational trout fisheries at April 11, 2023 meeting

The Olympic Fly Fishers of Edmonds welcomes Mike Schmuck on Tuesday, April 11, 2023 from 6-8pm at the Mountlake Terrace Community Senior Center, 23000 Lakeview Dr, Mountlake Terrace WA 98043

Mr.Schmuck has been the District 5 (Adams and Grant counties) Fish Biologist for the WDFW since 2018. Mike primarily manages recreational trout fisheries and he will bring us an update on the District 5 fisheries.

The meeting is open to the public, and the doors open at 5:30pm. 

For further information visit olympicflyfishers.com



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Single vehicle DUI crash on 100th in Edmonds

No one was hurt from this DUI crash. Photo courtesy Edmonds Police

Edmonds Police reported a dramatic single vehicle crash that took place on busy 100th Ave W in Edmonds.

The driver went through a fence in the 23400 block of 100th Ave W and down an embankment, taking down a power pole and lines on the way.

A female suspect, in her 50s, from Edmonds, was evaluated at an area hospital and processed for DUI.

Power was out and road closed 4-6 hours
Photo courtesy Edmonds Police

There were no injuries but power was disrupted and the road closed for next 4-8 hours.


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Gelli Plate Print Making workshop April 8, 2023 at Red Sky Gallery


Gelli Plate Print Making With Marcia Meckelson Miller

Red Sky Gallery in Lake Forest Park
3 hrs $60

April 8, 2023, 1pm

206-755-3529


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Cascade K-8 Community School and one Kellogg student at Technology Student Association (TSA) state conference

Cascade K-8 and one Kellogg student at TSA conference
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

29 Cascade K-8 Community School students and one Kellogg student participated in the Washington Technology Student Association (TSA) state conference. 

Advisor Becca Drury says, "they represented our schools with an incredible level of kindness and professionalism, and we are so proud of all of them."

The 30+ middle school events included Biotechnology, Coding, Fashion Design, Data Science and Analytics, Video Game Design, Prepared Speech, Children’s Stories, and many more. 

Students built and raced cardboard boats, went to an Education Fair with schools and organizations in Washington and beyond, and a variety of Leadership Workshops.

1st Place in Medical Technology
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Students from Cascade K-8 were semifinalists, finalists, and top three in a variety of events. 

Coding
Finalists, Top 5: Silas Maas and Declan Stark

Data Science and Analytics
2nd Place: Semra Aemmer and Jenabel Towillis (Kellogg)

Digital Photography
Semifinalist, Top 10: Jenabel Towillis

Fashion Design
3rd Place: Olivia Braaten, Jenabel Towillis, Fiona Whiteside
Finalists: Alice, Erin, Adwin, Reyn

Leadership Strategies
Finalists, Top 5: Olivia Braaten, Jenabel Towillis, Fiona Whiteside

Mass Production
Semifinalists, Top 10: Zora Barchechat, Alice Cameron, Mina Pearson, Fiona Whiteside

Medical Technology
1st Place: Carlee Rollins and Luke Stone

Off the Grid
Semifinalists, Top 10: Olivia Braaten, Mina Pearson, Nainoa Witwer

Prepared Speech
Semifinalist, Top 10: Carlee Rollins
Semifinalist, Top 10: Dasia Noll



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Flower of the Day: Camelia

Sunday, April 2, 2023

 
Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler
And here is your flower of the day - a delicate pink camellia 






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Shorewood girls golf play their personal bests but lose to Meadowdale

Senior Mae Lunde tees it up on the first hole.
It was great to have ‘SW Cheers’ teammates.
Photo by Val Patrick 

On Wednesday March 29, 2023 the Shorewood Girls Golf team hosted Meadowdale Mavericks at Jackson Park. 

Shorewood Girls rallied and all players scored their 'personal bests,' however it was not enough to hold the Mavericks from crossing the finish line with the win.



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Team results from dual meet March 30, 2023 - Shorecrest - Jackson - Mountlake Terrace

Dual track and field meet, March 30, 2023 - Shorecrest, Jackson, Mountlake Terrace at the Shoreline Stadium in Shoreline.


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Wild and Wacky Disco-themed Bingo night at Shoreline Elks April 16, 2023

Join the Shoreline Elks for Rainbow Bingo on Sunday, April 16, 2023 at 5pm. Doors open at 4pm.
Rainbow Bingo Disco Style with hostess Sylvia Stayformore!

Dig out your favorite 1970s outfit and enter our costume contest.  (Costumes not required to play Bingo.)  

This is a 21 and older event.  Proceeds to benefit the Tall Elks Therapy for Children, which provides in-home services for children.

Raffles will also be held in addition to the door prizes.  Beer, wine and Jello shots in addition to pop sold on site. No tickets sold at the door.



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Open house to meet Shoreline City Manager Bristol Ellington April 17, 2023

Get to Know Bristol Ellington - Shoreline City Manager Open House

Monday April 17, 2023 5:30pm - 6:45pm
Shoreline City Hall - Lobby

Please join us for a open house on Monday, April 17 from 5:30pm to 6:45pm with an opportunity to get to know City Manager Bristol Ellington.

There will be brief remarks at 5:45pm and light refreshments will be served.

Please call 206-801-2214 if you have any questions.


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Sno-Isle Genealogical Society April 5, 2023 will hear a presentation on using DNA in your genealogical quest

A DNA Q/A is the topic of the Wednesday, April 5, 2023 Sno-Isle Genealogical Society (SIGS) general meeting. 

SIGS member Craig Gowen will bring his knowledge and experience to help answer your questions about using DNA in your genealogy quest. 

The event begins with a short business meeting at 7:00pm with the DNA Q/A beginning at 7:20pm. 

This is an in-person meeting with the addition of a live-stream option via our Facebook Page

Meetings are held at Heritage Park in the Wicker's Building 19921 Poplar Way, Lynnwood, WA 98036


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20 community members complete three-day CERT training through NEMCo

20 graduate from CERT training

Last month marked the completion of NEMCo’s first Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) basic course since the COVID pandemic. 

This program offered more than 20 members of the community a three-day course that provided more than 24 hours of training on local hazards and basic disaster preparedness. 

The training included hands-on training in fire safety, light search and rescue, and disaster medical operations. 

At its conclusion, and after a hands-on final practical exercise testing their new skills, each student earned a certificate indicating that they have been trained in these basic skills which will allow them to join CERT groups throughout the region and better help their friends, neighbors, and the public in the event of an emergency. 

Some of those newly certified CERT participants have already taken the initial steps to become State-certified volunteer emergency workers and will be further enhancing their skills and experiences as members of NEMCo.

NEMCo is the Northshore Emergency Management Coalition serving Kenmore and Lake Forest Park and partnering with the Shoreline Fire Department and the Northshore Utility District (NUD)


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Community Work Party at Twin Ponds North Saturday, April 8, 2023


On April 8, 2023 from 9:30-12:30pm, the Washington Native Plant Urban Forest Stewards will host a community work party, at Twin Ponds North.

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

Please bring gloves, hand pruners, water, and snack. We will have tools on site to help with the plantings.

Contact us with any questions at northtwinpondsrestoration@gmail.com

All Are Welcome!


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For the Birds: Baby birds are emerging

Bewick's Wren fledgling. Photo by Elaine Chuang
By Christine Southwick

Baby birds are hatching — Spotted Towhees and Anna’s Hummingbird young have been spotted in my yard, which means Dark-eyed Juncos and Bewick’s Wrens are close behind. 

These are the first breeders, others will follow; Song Sparrows, chickadees, Flickers, Downy, Hairy, and Pileated Woodpeckers, White-crowned Sparrows, finches, and American Robins to name a few.

Nestlings and fledglings need our help — don’t poison them with herbicides such as Round-up which get on their parents’ feet and get brought into the nests and cause them to die.

Bushtit looking for bugs to feed nestlings.
Photo by Elaine Chuang
American Robins are in sharp decline
, and one major cause is the poisoning of their lawns and the worms they eat.

Spraying bugs also kills birds. Parent birds feed their hatchlings a solid diet of bugs. 

Caterpillars, gnats, aphids, spiders, mosquitos, and bugs in leaf litter are the babies’ food. 

There aren’t any fruits to eat until later in the season, so if the bugs are poisoned, then birds perish.

Rufous Hummingbird on nest.
Photo by Doug Parrott
Native plants and trees help provide the bugs birds need and recognize
. More shrubs and less lawn provide cover for the safety of birds, especially fledglings. 

As you start cleaning up your yard, look for ground nests before whacking and mowing weedy areas.

If you find a baby bird on the ground, and it has feathers, it is a fledgling, and doesn’t need your help – its parents are nearby ready to nurture it. 

Keep dogs and cats away from it, and it will survive. 

Many ground birds leave the nest before they can fly — they scurry in different directions to enhance their chances of survival — nests can provide a quick and tasty meal for raccoons and other hungry creatures.

Dark-eyed Junco nest in fuschia.
Photo by Christine Southwick
Here is a yes/no link to determine if the baby bird you found needs your help.

https://www.pugetsoundbirds.org/baby-bird-advice 

Let our local birds take care of the bugs. Smile as a new generation of birds prospers with your help.

---
Note: I carefully watered around the nest in the fuschia. Three juncos. 

Locally if you see a bird flying into your hanging basket, a junco probably has a nest inside. They usually hatch in two weeks, and leave the nest two weeks later.


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Cherry blossoms in bloom at UW

 
Photo by Steven H. Robinson
An artist paints the cherry trees in the quad at the University of Washington, while students go about their business amid the beauty of the blossoming trees, brick path, and beautiful buildings.


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Obituary: Jeanne Elaine Monger February 19, 1948 – March 27, 2023

Jeanne Monger 1948-2023
Jeanne Elaine Monger (née Peterson) passed away peacefully on March 27, 2023 following a cardiac arrest incident while battling cancer. Jeanne was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and church and Shoreline community volunteer.

She was born February 19, 1948, and lived all her life in Seattle and Shoreline. She worked as a personnel representative at Boeing for 11 years, starting the day after she graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1966. Larry and Jeanne were married in April 1970 and celebrated nearly 53 years together, along with five couples who married the same year and remain close friends. Jeanne and Larry have two daughters, Janice and Cindy, and two grandchildren Freya and Lorelei. Jeanne was proud of her family and raising their daughters.

Jeanne gave of her time as a dedicated volunteer in the local community. She was a board member for the Echo Lake Neighborhood Association (ELNA) for 18 years, volunteering for almost every weeding and blackberry removal event, with her husband Larry. They even helped paint the first Echo Lake mural on NE 205th. Jeanne planned, prepared, and served a full picnic dinner for 100 at the annual ELNA work party and picnic in Echo Lake Park.

Jeanne was an active PTA member for all the years her daughters Janice and Cindy were in Shoreline Schools. She received PTA's greatest volunteer honor, the Golden Acorn, from Echo Lake Elementary PTA and an additional Golden Acorn from Shorewood High School PTSA. Jeanne and Larry remain members of the Echo Lake Elementary PTA and she organized annual reunion dinners for her fellow PTA volunteers. She was a Girl Scout and involved in her children’s troops for many years.

Additional volunteering Jeanne was proud of included the Machinist Union volunteer program, North Helpline supporter, and school volunteer at Echo Lake Elementary and Shorewood High School, handling the newsletter circulation with a committee and baking Otis Spunkmeyer cookies – and going home smelling like cookies.

She has been arguably the most active Block Watch Captain in Shoreline, communicating with police and neighbors, performing vacation watches, and with adjoining block watches, closing streets and organizing food and activities for a big National Night Out event every year.

She was just as active at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, helping to run plant sales, and volunteering with events like the free dinners, and homeless shelters. Jeanne was a Sunday School Teacher for over 15 years. Most of all, Jeanne and Larry are the maintenance committee, responding to all the issues that arise with the building infrastructure, no matter what time of night, and working with contractors, tenants and neighbors. In recognition of her church volunteering, she was honored as the Lutheran Woman of the Year.

One of her proudest accomplishments was establishing an Advent Festival at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church with her friends Nancy and Londa, a large-scale event she planned annually for 33 years with crafts, music, and family activities.

She volunteered with the ShoreLake Arts Council from the day it started, including being the “sign lady” and in 2009 was honored with their heART award, in part for her volunteering with the Shoreline Arts Festival, as well as the sound stage at Jazz Walk.

Jeanne was recently honored with the 2022 Distinguished Community Service Award at the Student Success Luncheon of the Shoreline Community College Foundation. In her acceptance speech, she thanked her husband Larry, who since retirement has joined her in most of her volunteer activities. She was delighted that both of their daughters were at the luncheon, traveling from Bellingham and Staten Island, NY to be there.

Jeanne loved visiting the ocean (especially Seaside, OR and Deception Pass, WA), eating good food with friends and family, and playing games. She took pride in volunteering and supporting others. She loved to laugh, sometimes to the point of tears. Jeanne enjoyed the music of Neil Diamond, Elvis, the Beatles, and attending concerts. She was famous for her Christmas cookies and the picture Christmas Cards she created on the computer. She loved being Grandma to Freya and Lorelei, hosting sleepovers, making crafts, and video-chatting with them.

Jeanne is survived by her beloved husband Larry, daughters Cindy and Janice and son-in-law Nathan, granddaughters Freya and Lorelei, brother-in-law Jack and niece Chris. She also had close friends she considered sisters, her godchildren, and chosen son Steve. Jeanne is blessed with a large extended family and community of friends she made throughout her life, including through church and neighborhood activities. She is preceded in death by her parents, Rose and Robert Peterson, and her sister Charlotte.

The family is grateful for the outpouring of love and support, and to all those who visited and sent love and prayers to usher her through her final days. We thank the compassionate and exceptional staff at Providence Everett. We will miss her greatly and are thankful for the strong community who will support Larry and the family in the days ahead.

Arrangements are being handled by Acacia Memorial Park and Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date. In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations and cards may be made to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 14514 20th Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155, where Larry and Jeanne have been congregants for more than 50 years.


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New Shorewood Technology Student Association sends team to state competition and returns with honors

Saturday, April 1, 2023

Shorewood Technology Student Association
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Shorewood High School started its first Technology Student Association (TSA) chapter this year and entered the Washington TSA state competition.

Shares TSA Advisor Ms. Nouwens, “These students have just been amazing in their determination, perseverance, and positive energy to get their chapter off the ground. At the 11th hour, TSA Chapter President Grace Abernathy and Maddy Costello rallied the troops to form teams and enter the state competition.”

Eleven students competed, with teams and individuals participating in 10 different events as well as two entries into the cardboard boat contest, with “The Perfect Storm” and “The SS Stormray.” 

Ready for the cardboard boat contest
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Students also put in more than 25 hours of volunteer time over the three days to help events run smoothly.

Grace Abernathy 1st in State for Debating Technological Issues
Reagan Dunphy 1st in State for Forensics

Finalist Results:

  • Debating Technological Issues: Grace Abernathy and Andrew Mitchell placed 1st in State!
  • Forensics: Reagan Dunphy and Andrew Mitchell placed 1st in State!
  • Structures: Lily Doll and Rachel Li were finalist competitors in the top 20.
  • Board Games Design: Inara Cutler, Kat Sitaras, Rachel Li, Lily Doll, and Aya Burpee were finalist competitors and finished in the top 12.
Forensics team Andrew Mitchell and Reagan Dunphy placed 1st in State
Andrew also placed first in State for Debating Technological Issues
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Participants and Events:
  • Grace Abernathy: Tech Debate, Essays on Tech, Extemp Speech, Tech Problem Solving, On Demand Video
  • Aspasia Banchero: Architectural Design, Promotional Design, Board Games
  • Maddy Costello: Tech Problem Solving, On Demand Video
  • Inara Cutler: Tech Problem Solving, On Demand Video, Board Games
  • Lily Doll: Structural Design, Tech Problem Solving, Board Games
  • Reagan Dunphy: Forensics, Essays on Tech
  • Kian Hammer: Board Games
  • Corbin LeRahl: Board Games
  • Rachel Li: Structural Design, Promotional Design, Board Games
  • Andrew Mitchell: Forensics, Tech Debate
  • Kat Sitaras: On Demand Video, Board Games

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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Fix ??

 
Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter HERE


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