Northwest Neighbors Network: Providing services to senior neighbors that help them age well in their own homes

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

Photo courtesy Northwest Neighbors Network
By Jerry Patterson

The phrase “It takes a village to raise a child” originates from an ancient African proverb and conveys the message that it takes many people (the village) to support a healthy environment for children to develop and flourish.

Now, let’s take the rich meaning of the proverb, fast-forward to today and apply the proverb’s meaning to the other end of the age spectrum, seniors in the community. 

Local villages (neighborhoods) face a challenge similar to the African village: 

How can we support our seniors so they can age well in their own homes and stay engaged in their community?

The Northwest Neighbors Network (NNN) Model

For the past four years a local non-profit organization has passionately accepted the challenge. Northwest Neighbors Network (NNN) serves Shoreline, Lake Forest Park as well as other neighborhoods in North King County and South Snohomish County. NNN's central mission is dedicated to all of us working together to provide services and social interactions that help seniors remain active and engaged and in their community.

Here’s how the model works. Members email, phone or text the service coordination team to request services. NNN had over 300 service requests in August. Volunteers access a secure online system to view the list of service requests. The volunteers sign up for a requested service that works for their schedule and interests. That’s all there is to it.

If you are supportive of the NNN mission and would like to get more involved in serving your local community, NNN encourages you to consider several options.

Option 1: Become a volunteer, the centerpiece to NNN success

Many of our community residents are looking for a chance to volunteer for a worthy cause, but they don’t want to get tied down to rigid schedules or become overly committed.

Vince, a long-time resident in Shoreline, describes his journey to becoming a volunteer for NNN.
“For a few months after I retired, I did various projects around the house. Then I decided it was time for me to figure out how I could give back to the community, particularly our senior community.

"I went to a website, volunteermatch.com. I scrolled down the list to see what I wanted to do. This was all new to me. I came across Northwest Neighbors Network and read their mission statement about supporting our seniors so they can age well in their own homes. I said to myself “What a great idea!” So, I promptly signed up and I’ve really had a blast serving our seniors for about eighteen months now.

"Each week, I go online and look for requests made by NNN members for services such as a ride to a medical appointment, help cleaning their apartment or getting some yard work done. These are the type of things I’ve helped with so far. It’s been a year and a half and it hasn’t gotten old at all.”

When I asked Vince if he had any advice for prospective volunteers or members, he said, “Try it. You may like it. You’ll make new friends, and get a whole new perspective on thinking of things in a different way based on the variety of people you interact with. I average about 3 or 4 trips a week.”

Option 2. Become a member and start enjoying the many benefits NNN extends to seniors

NNN is dedicated to enriching the lives of our seniors by offering them a rich array of services and events. Nona is one of the more than 100 members benefitting from NNN services. In a recent conversation with Nona, she told me how she first learned about NNN and how she feels about the quality of her experiences. 

She said, “A staff member at the Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Senior Center told me about someone using NNN and said I should check it out. Sandy, an NNN board member, came to my house and she was amazing. A real powerhouse. Needless to say, I signed up.”

When asked how she has used NNN services, Nona said, “I mostly use the transportation service provided by NNN. I’ve been so pleased. The drivers that come are just wonderful. I’ve learned so many things about other people’s lives during our drives. It’s been a good thing for me and I would recommend this for anyone in my situation.”

Another member, Susan, said she first learned about NNN by reading an article in the Shoreline Area News. In addition to being a member receiving NNN services, Susan also serves as a volunteer offering services. 

“In my volunteer role, I visit by phone with a person who resides in a rehab facility and is very lonely. I call her every couple of weeks and we just chat. We’re both avid readers so we talk books for about 30 or 40 minutes.”
Option 3: Become an NNN board member

Another way you can contribute to the mission of NNN is to consider serving on the NNN Board of Directors. Perhaps you are recently retired and are looking for ways to give back to your community. Or maybe you have senior loved ones who could benefit from NNN services. As a board member you can have a direct impact in helping us continue to grow our services. If you would like more information or have questions, please see below for contact information.

Option 4: Invest in the NNN mission

If you share the passion for the NNN mission and you want to make a difference in the lives of seniors, we encourage you to invest in NNNs future. Go to the NNN website where you can do one-stop shopping: make a one-time or recurring donation, apply to be a volunteer, member, sponsor, or inquire about applying to serve on the board of directors. 

You can also contact NNN by email info@northwestneighborsnetwork.org or call 253-237-2848. Then spread the word far and wide about NNN and its service to seniors.

Does it cost anything to become a member?

NNN is committed to making services accessible to all. No one will be turned away based on inability to pay.

Recommended dues for those wishing to join as full-service members are $50/month for a household of one or two living at the same address. Recommended annual social membership dues are $120 per person. 

They will work with you to make a payment plan that fits your budget. Please contact them for more information.

Who can join NNN?

People living in the neighborhoods and areas immediately surrounding:
  • Shoreline
  • Lake Forest Park
  • Edmonds
  • Woodway
  • Mountlake Terrace
  • Brier
  • Lynnwood
  • The very northeast corner of Seattle

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Gloria's Birds: Eat and run? How gauche do you think I am, photog, said Chuck the Black-capped Chickadee

Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

Fly and run, though, now that's enviably sophisticated.
(Chickadees don't lack confidence:)

--Gloria Z. Nagler


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Help feed the community: food drive Saturday at Richmond Beach Congregational Church


Food Drive Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 11am to 1pj
1512 Richmond Beach Road upper parking lot

All donations gratefully accepted with particular requests for:
Masa flour
Tortillas (flour or corn)
Baby formula
Shelf stable milk
Rice (especially jasmine, basmati)

Join us in feeding our community!


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Ferry crew saves customer's life at Edmonds terminal

Edmonds ferry dock
Photo courtesy WA State Ferries

Washington state ferry vessel and terminal employees helped save a customer's life on Saturday, August 26, 2023 after he fell and was knocked unconscious while boarding #Spokane ferry at the #Edmonds dock.

They administered CPR and used an AED until he regained consciousness. Paramedics responded and took him for medical evaluation.


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All lanes of northbound Aurora blocked Monday morning


All lanes of northbound Aurora (SR 99) just north of the downtown tunnel (milepost 33) at Dexter in Seattle were closed due to an incident just before 3:30am on Monday, September 4, 2023.

The Seattle Police Department and fire assistance responded.

Northbound 99 was closed for four hours
Photo courtesy WSDOT

All lanes of NB 99 were blocked, and vehicles were directed to the off-ramp to Dexter Avenue North.

The roadway was fully cleared four hours later.



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Wrong way driver causes injuries to six people and shuts down southbound I-5 for five hours

Six people injuried and freeway lanes blocked for five hours
Photo courtesy WSDOT

After 5am on Monday, September 4, 2023, a wrong way driver in a semi going northbound straddling two southbound lanes of I-5 at Mercer, collided head on with a vehicle which was then hit by another southbound vehicle.

The three vehicles ended up in two of the lanes and a shoulder, blocking three of the four lanes.

Southbound I-5 was completely closed for over five hours for the emergency response and police investigation. Traffic was diverted to Mercer.

State Patrol, fire assistance and the Incident Response Team (IRT) responded. 

Six people were injured. The causing driver was impaired by drugs or alcohol.


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Shorewood Varsity football - Shorewood 35 - Lakeside 15

9/1/2023, 7:00 PM
Regular Season, non-district
Shoreline Stadium


 

 1 

 2 

 3 

 4 

Total

Lakeside

0

7

0

8

15

Shorewood

6

8

21

0

35


SCORING SUMMARY:

1st Quarter
SW: Niko Zacharias 7 yd Pass from Tyler Giles (CNV) 0-6

2nd Quarter
LAK: 46 yd Rush (TD) 6-6
LAK: (PAT) 7-6
SW: Jacob Lindberg 34 yd Rush (TD) 7-12
SW: Tyler Giles 3 yd Rush (CNV) 7-14

3rd Quarter
SW: Tyler Giles 27 yd Rush (TD) 7-20
SW: Christian Costello (PAT) 7-21
SW: Reid Petschl 1 yd Rush (TD) 7-27
SW: Christian Costello (PAT) 7-28
SW: Jacob Lindberg 3 yd Rush (TD) 7-34
SW: Christian Costello (PAT) 7-35

4th Quarter
LAK: 14 yd Pass (CNV) 13-35
LAK: 3 yd Rush (CNV) 15-35

Highlights
  • Jacob Lindberg 20 carries 154 yards 2 td
  • Tyler Giles 9-14 passing 1 td, 16 -85 rushing 1 td
  • Reid Petschl 5 tackles , 1 td
  • Kristian Stickelmaier and Gatsby Palmer each with an Interception.
The next game is Friday 9/15/2023 7pm, a home game against Mountlake Terrace.

--Rob Petschi

Shorecrest lost to Meadowdale in an away game on Friday, 44-6 in a non-league competition.

On Thursday, King’s made a strong start to the season with a win over Lincoln (Seattle) 26 - 7 in a non-league game.


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Residential fire in north Seattle Monday

Photo by John Odegard

Just after 4pm on Monday September 4, 2023 Seattle firefighters responded to a residential fire in the 2000 block of NE 130th St in the Olympic Hills neighborhood of NE Seattle

Upon arrival, the detached garage was fully engulfed in flames and the fire had already spread to the single-story house.

Photo by John Odegard

Crews fought the fire defensively from the exterior and searched survivable spaces within the back of the home for possible occupants. 

A man who lived in the home was able to make it out safely, with escort of fire personnel. 

Photo by John Odegard

Approximately 40 minutes after arrival on scene, the fire was put under control. The cause of the fire is under investigation.


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Services for Briarcrest resident Afifi Durr Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Monday, September 4, 2023

Afifi Durr 1935-2023
Afifi Durr, beloved storyteller, peace activist, neighborhood leader and true force of nature, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 at her home at Crista Assisted Living Center on Friday, August 25. 2023. 

Her memorial service, graveside service, and potluck reception will be held Tuesday, September 5, 2023.

She leaves behind three sons, George, William and Charlie, a sister and two brothers, along with many friends, students, and storytelling fans. She will be missed by the many who loved her.

Originally from Lebanon, Afifi was a passionate advocate for peace in the Middle East, which led her, along with her friend and mentor Kay Bullitt, to establish the Middle East Peace Camp for youth as well as the Arabic Festival in 2002. 

Afifi remained active with both festivals until she moved into assisted living this past February.

Afifi was also passionate about storytelling and was a board member and Golden Circle inductee of the Seattle Storytellers Guild. Her very first public storytelling took place at Seattle's Folklife Festival! 

She loved sharing stories about her own larger-than-life experiences at American embassies around the world where she worked as a translator in addition to being married to a diplomatic corps officer.

Afifi Durr, Seattle Storytellers Guild Golden Circle Award 2021
After settling down in Shoreline in 1980 with her three boys, Afifi started her own business providing translation and interpretation services to attorneys, courthouses, hospitals and businesses including Boeing, Microsoft, Starbucks, and the Seattle school district. 

She also became a leader in the Briarcrest Neighborhood Association with whom she sponsored a very popular every-other-month storytelling gathering for neighbors, a number of community-wide events featuring well-known storytellers and poets, and a day-long storytelling workshop which taught attendees how to tell their own tales.

Afifi lived in the Briarcrest neighborhood of Shoreline for over 40 years. In addition to being a single parent, Afifi cared for her aging mother, whom she had brought from Lebanon to the United States. 

Afifi enjoyed cooking and gardening, chatting over mint tea and cookies with friends, watching Lebanese television, checking out new Mediterranean restaurants, and giving Arabic lessons to students of all ages. 

She was a devout Christian who was a member of three different church families, including the congregation of the Carmelite Monastery located in her own neighborhood of Briarcrest.

A memorial service will be held at Washelli Funeral Home, 11111 Aurora Avenue in Seattle, on Tuesday, September 5th starting at 10:00am. 

The memorial will be followed at 12:00noon by a graveside service at Holyrood Cemetery, 205 NE 205th Street in Shoreline, and a potluck reception gathering at North Seattle Church of the Nazarene, 13130 5th Avenue NE in Seattle, at 1:00pm. 

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared here for the Durr family. Her formal obituary, written by her son George, can be seen here.

Donations in Afifi's honor may be made to the Middle East Peace Camp for Children (MEPC), c/o Kadima, PO Box 28455 Seattle, WA 98118

--Jean Hilde


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Make same-day camping reservations at three popular state parks with expanded program

Deception Pass Bridge
Photo by Wayne Pridemore 
Washington State Parks expands pilot program for same-day reservations at Deception Pass, Millersylvania and Cape Disappointment

OLYMPIA – Aug. 28, 2023 – Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission (Parks) is excited to expand its pilot program for same-day reservations at select parks.

Beginning September 5, 2023 Park visitors can make same-day camping reservations at Millersylvania and Cape Disappointment as well as Deception Pass, which has offered same-day reservations for more than five years. 

With the expansion of the program, Deception Pass will also begin accepting same-day reservations during the off season.

Same-day reservations will allow visitors to secure campsites before heading to a park instead of loading up and arriving in hopes that an empty site will be available when they arrive. This will also allow parks to better fill empty sites when there are last-minute cancellations.

Visitors can make same-day camping reservations during the following timeframes:
  • June 1– Sept. 30: reservations can be made until 8:00pm
  • Oct. 1 – May 31: reservations can be made until 4:00pm

Same day reservations are only available for campsites and do not apply to group sites, roofed accommodations, vacation rentals or other facilities.

They plan to evaluate the pilot program and any necessary improvements over the next several months before considering adding additional parks to the program.

Same-day reservations can be made just like regular reservations. Book your stay online here, or by calling (888) CAMPOUT or 888-226-7688).


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LFP Planning Director Steve Bennett retires after a 19 year career

Steve Bennett cutting his retirement cake
Photo courtesy City of Lake Forest Park
On August 4, 2023, LFP Planning Director Stephen Bennett retired from the City of Lake Forest Park. 

He spent more than 19 years serving the residents of Lake Forest Park. 

During his tenure with the City, Director Bennett was involved in numerous large-scale planning efforts in support of the City, including, but not limited to; 
  • Legacy 100-Year Vision, 
  • Tree Ordinance, 
  • Southern Gateway, 
  • Big Five, 
  • Cottage Housing, 
  • Town Center, 
  • Shoreline Master Program updates, 
  • Comprehensive Plan updates, 
  • ADU/DADU Code, and 
  • Stride BRT. 
Throughout his career, Director Bennett constantly demonstrated that his priority was always the success of the LFP organization.
We wish Steve all the best in his retirement.

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Come learn about the advantages of gardening with native plants in this free class

Thursday September 14, 2023, 6:30 – 8:00pm at North City Water District 1519 NE 177th St in Shoreline

Come discover just how beautiful, sustainable, and low-maintenance gardening can be with native plants. 

Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions where they naturally occur... which means they can often solve many landscape woes. 

Gardening with native plants typically means less watering, less need for pesticides and fertilizers, and less chance of introduction and spread of invasive species. 

Plus these important plant species provide nectar, pollen, and seeds for native butterflies, insects, birds, and other animals native to your area.

This class will provide you with an appreciation for giving your yard a Northwest aesthetic— complete with design techniques, plant combinations, and many plant choices for different conditions— all in perfect time for fall plant sales!

Class is free, but you must register to attend.
About The Presenter:

Greg Rabourn's passion for native plants collided with his dislike of mowing many years ago. He has been practicing and promoting native plant and low maintenance landscaping techniques ever since. 

Greg has worked with King County in native habitat restoration, was the past co-host of KCTV’s Yard Talk, and a weekly guest for the Greendays Gardening Panel, on KUOW, 94.9 FM. 

Read more about him in this article

Learn More About Native Plant Gardening:
From the Washington Native Plant Society, Puget Sound Chapter:

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AG Ferguson defeats third attempt to block Washington’s ban on the sale of assault weapons

OLYMPIA — A Thurston County Superior Court judge agreed with Attorney General Bob Ferguson and rejected another attempt to block Washington’s new law banning the sale of assault weapons. 

This is the third time in less than three months a judge has ruled that the ban should remain in place while legal challenges continue.

On Friday, Judge Allyson Zipp rejected a request in Guardian Arms v. Inslee for a preliminary injunction blocking the implementation of House Bill 1240

Judge Zipp rejected a similar motion for a temporary restraining order that would have blocked the law in the same case on June 23.

On June 6, U.S. District Court Judge Robert Bryan also rejected a request to block the law in a separate case, Hartford, et al. v. Ferguson, et al.

Ferguson and Gov. Jay Inslee jointly requested HB 1240 during the 2023 legislative session.

Ferguson first proposed a ban on the sale of assault weapons in 2017 in the wake of the 2016 mass shooting at a Mukilteo house party. The shooter used a military-style assault rifle and a high-capacity magazine. The 2023 legislative session was the second time Inslee joined Ferguson to call for a ban on the sale of assault weapons.

The new law went into effect immediately after Inslee signed it on April 25. Legal challenges began the same day.

“My legal team remains undefeated against the gun lobby in court,” Ferguson said. “This common-sense gun reform will save lives by restricting access to the preferred weapon of mass shooters.”

Judge Zipp delivered an oral ruling denying the preliminary injunction today. A written order will be filed at a later date.

The new law prohibits the sale, manufacture, and import of assault weapons in Washington state while allowing reasonable exemptions for manufacture and sale to law enforcement and the military. The law does not prohibit the possession of assault weapons.

Washington is the 10th state to adopt legislation restricting assault weapons. Multiple federal courts have upheld these public safety laws as constitutional.

Guardian Arms was originally filed in Grant County, but Ferguson successfully had the case transferred to Thurston County. In addition to Guardian Arms and Hartford, there is one other challenge to HB 1240 pending in federal court in the Eastern District of Washington, Banta v. Ferguson.

The Attorney General’s Office is undefeated in defending state law from attacks by the gun lobby:
  • Northwest School of Safety v. Ferguson: Plaintiffs including the Second Amendment Foundation challenge to Initiative 594, which required background checks on all gun sales.
  • Mitchell v. Atkins: Plaintiffs including the National Rifle Association and the Second Amendment Foundation challenge to Initiative 1639, which restricted the sale of assault weapons to individuals over the age of 21, and imposed background check requirements.
  • Slone v. Washington: Plaintiffs including Gun Owners of America challenge to I-1639.
  • Silent Majority Foundation, et al. v. Jay Inslee, et al.: Plaintiffs including the Silent Majority Foundation challenge to House Bill 1705, banning ghost guns.
  • Hartford, et al. v. Ferguson, et al.: Plaintiffs including the Second Amendment Foundation and the Firearms Policy Coalition challenge to House Bill 1240, which bans the sale of assault weapons in Washington.
  • Guardian Arms v. Inslee: Plaintiffs including the Silent Majority Foundation challenge to House Bill 1240, which bans the sale of assault weapons in Washington.
The Attorney General’s Office has also successfully brought cases to enforce firearms safety laws:
  • State of Washington, et al., v. U.S. Department of State, et al.: Defendants including Defense Distributed and the Second Amendment Foundation, sought to distribute 3D-printable gun files.
  • State of Washington v. Federal Way Discount Guns: Defendants represented initially by the Silent Majority Foundation sold high-capacity magazines in violation of Washington law.

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LFP Police department collecting goods for Maui Fire Emergency Relief effort

Sunday, September 3, 2023

The Lake Forest Park Police Department is collecting donations to support the Port of Seattle Police Department’s Maui Fire Emergency Relief Effort Donation Drive.

Donations can be dropped off at the Lake Forest Park Police Department, located on the upper level of City Hall at 17425 Ballinger Way NE, in Town Center from 8 - 5pm Monday through Friday.

Since City Hall opens at 9am, please use the after-hours drop-off process if arriving between 8 - 9am. For after-hours drop-off or further information, please contact Officer Brandon Carlsrud, 206-364-8216, ext. 569, or by email.

Items needed:
  • clean clothing for all ages, shoes, slippers, sandals, flip-flops, 
  • first aid kits, Advil, Aleve, aspirin, Tylenol, 
  • infant supplies, baby formula, diapers, wipes, 
  • toiletries, shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, 
  • blankets, canvas tarps, camping tents, 
  • trash receptacle bags, cleaning supplies, 
  • flashlights, lanterns, batteries, chargers, 
  • non-perishable shelf-stable food, 
  • baby and kids’ books and toys, school supplies, 
  • pet food and supplies.


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Block party Saturday at Shoreline Covenant Church on 185th


BLOCK PARTY THIS SATURDAY, 11am-2pm!

Everyone is welcome to stop by for free food, music, crafts for kids, a bounce house, and more. 

Kona Ice (11-12:30pm) and Kool Kidz Ice Cream (12-1pm) trucks will also be on site! 

Come celebrate the last little bit of summer and say hello to fall.

Shoreline Covenant Church
1330 N 185th St, Shoreline WA 98133 (corner of 185th and Ashworth, near the 7-11)



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Call before you dig

Gas leak on 1st NE
Photo by Wes Brandon

Shoreline fire responded to a gas leak on 1st NE near the Shoreline Center after a backhoe fractured a residential gas line. PSE arrived on scene promptly and secured the fractured line.

This area is in the high density zoning for the 185th station area, so it may have been a developer in charge of the project,

However, if individual property owners with rented backhoes are doing the digging, dialing 811 "Call before you dig" will get you to the Washington Utility Notification Center to help you locate your buried utility lines.

The 811 number is staffed 24/7.


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Photo:Poem - I'm so shy

Photo by Wayne Pridemore


I'm so shy

can't look you in the eye,

don't know why,

I'm so shy.

--by Wayne



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HomeTechHacker: 5 Settings to Configure on Your WI-FI Router Now

Router
By Marlon Buchanan

Your Wi-Fi router is the most important home networking device. It protects your home from bad actors. It also plays a key role in your network’s speed and stability. 

Making sure your Wi-Fi router is configured to give the safest and the best experience is important. Here are seven settings that you should configure now.

1. Use the highest Wi-Fi security standard

WPA3, or Wi-Fi Protected Access 3, is the latest standard for securing Wi-Fi connections. It uses more powerful encryption than WPA2, better protecting your network from snooping hackers. Most Wi-Fi devices don’t yet support WPA3, but newer devices do and soon they will become ubiquitous.

Make sure you have WPA3 enabled on your router for the devices that do support it. Routers that support WPA3 are backward compatible with WPA2, which is the lowest standard you should use (WEP isn’t secure anymore).

WiFi lock
2. Set your router to automatically update your firmware

Your router (and the firewall in it) is your primary defense against hackers penetrating your network. 

New vulnerabilities are discovered all the time, and you want to make sure that your router has the latest protections. 

Periodically check to see whether your router has an available firmware update and keep your router up to date. Many routers will notify you of a firmware update, or automatically update it based on a schedule you choose.

3. Set up Quality of Service (QoS)

Quality of service, or QoS, allows your router to prioritize Internet uploads and downloads for certain types of traffic (e.g., video streaming, videoconferencing, and voice over IP) and devices (e.g., computers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles). This helps improve the experience of devices that need solid connections. I recommend taking the time to learn how to enable and configure your router’s QoS settings, especially if you have a slower Internet connection.

4. Change the default router username and password

You never want to leave the default username and password on any Internet-connected device. It leaves an easy door to compromise your network security. I highly recommend that you change the default username and password before doing any configuration of your router.

5. Set up a guest network

If you don’t have a guest network, you may find yourself in a situation where you have guests over and you have to give them your password so they can access your network. 

This gives your guests not only your password, which may be sensitive and used for different accounts (although, you should not reuse passwords) but also access to all of your networked devices (printers, network shares, PCs, etc.).

A proper guest network allows you to set a separate and shareable password for your guests. It also protects your private computer resources from being compromised by guests.

Many routers make configuring a guest network simple. If yours does, it’s worth learning how to configure it. Otherwise, consider purchasing a router or access point that has the feature.

Marlon Buchanan
HomeTechHacker.com
Be sure to check out my free Wi-Fi Tuneup guide for more tips about making your Wi-Fi top-notch. Get a copy of my best-selling book, The Home Network Manual

If you are looking for a comprehensive guide to making your home network, fast, stable, and secure. It’s available in Kindle, paperback, and audiobook formats.

Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. 

If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or on Twitter.


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Neighborhood Subarea Planning to be discussed at Shoreline Planning Commission retreat

Mountlake Terrace created a subarea
for its Town Center
The Shoreline Planning Commission will consider Subarea Planning at its retreat on September 7, 2023.

What is Neighborhood Subarea Planning?

Neighborhood subarea plans (or subarea plan) are detailed plans for a smaller geographic area within a community. 

The areas can include neighborhoods, commercial nodes, downtowns, corridors, or other types of districts with cohesive characteristics.

Subarea plans provide a way for residents and businesses in these areas to better define and understand how their area fits within the rest of the City and identify specific goals and objectives for their area while still achieving the broader goals of the citywide Comprehensive Plan. 

For example, a subarea plan might include how and where to focus commercial or mixed uses, address walkability / connectivity, open space, etc. 

Planning on a “smaller scale” also provides an opportunity for active engagement and direct community input into the plan.

Subarea Plan Examples

There are countless examples nationwide, but some local examples of subarea plans include the Mountlake Terrace Town Center Subarea Plan and the City of Issaquah Olde Town Plan.

The City of Shoreline has a history of subarea planning such as the Town Center Subarea Plan (2011) and the two light rail station subarea plans. Previous plans, no longer in effect, also included North City and Ridgecrest.

Relationship to Comprehensive Plan

The 2024 Comprehensive Plan update is well underway and provides an opportunity to establish a policy foundation for future subarea planning work that could occur following the completion of the Comprehensive Plan at the end of 2024.

Discussion Questions
  • Would the Planning Commission like to further explore neighborhood subarea planning in future years?
  • Are there particular areas of focus to consider as it relates to defining neighborhood subareas?


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September at the Teen Center - free activities for teens and tweens

Shoreline Teen Center 
(Richmond Highlands Recreation Center)
Shoreline, WA 98133
South of Shorewood High School



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Scene on the Sound: Sub heading south, continued

Wildfire smoke did not help with identification
of this sub. Photo by Jan Hansen
Recently we published this photo of a submarine by Jan Hansen. She said she couldn't see the boat ID and asked if anyone knew what it was.

We heard from contributor Bruce Hill, retired Navy man who served on submarines.

He sent an explanation and provided a file photo of a sub to illustrate his point.

SSBN Henry Clay
Photo courtesy US Navy
"Normally, the only large visible marking to identify a U.S. submarine will the found on the sides of the conning tower - way above the waterline.

"During wartime, these numbers are sometimes muted or absent for obvious reasons.

"My guess is that the quality of the air at that moment was such as to degrade Jan Hansen's ability to capture those numbers.

'The only other prominent markings on a submarine are depth markings at the front - mostly under the waterline.

'This does seem to be a Fleet Ballistic Missile submarine, telltale being the long flat deck aft of the conning tower - which holds those missile silos.

'I am certain these numbers are there - just not visible at such a distance."


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Presentation on Student Loan Repayment - online Tuesday September 5, 2023

Let's Talk About 
Student Loan Repayment

Online program
Tuesday, September 5, 6:30-7:30pm

The student loan repayment pause is ending. Payments will be due starting in October. 

Learn the basics about repayment from a Hopelink Financial Coach. Ask questions in a small group setting.

Part of the KCLS Invest In Yourself series. In partnership with Hopelink and the King County Library System.

For teens and adults.

Please register.
You will be emailed a link no later than one hour before the program start time. If you do not see an email, check your Junk or Spam folder.

Please find additional financial workshops here


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Auburn man sentenced to 18 years in prison for leading Proud Boys in breach of U.S. Capitol on January 6th

Auburn resident Ethan Nordean
WASHINGTON – Two former leaders of the Proud Boys organization were sentenced Friday on multiple felony charges related to their roles in the breach of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. 

Their actions disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress that was in the process of ascertaining and counting the electoral votes necessary to certify the 2020 presidential election.

  • Ethan Nordean, 32, of Auburn, Washington, was sentenced to 18 years in prison and 36 months of supervised release.
  • Dominic Pezzola, 45, of Rochester, New York, was sentenced to 10 years in prison and 36 months of supervised release.

On May 4, 2023, a jury found Nordean, Pezzola, and three other co-defendants guilty of multiple felonies, including obstruction of an official proceeding and conspiracy to prevent members of Congress or federal officers from discharging their duties before and during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Defendant Ethan Nordean was previously convicted of seditious conspiracy.

According to court documents and evidence presented during the trial, the Proud Boys organization had played a significant and often violent role in prior Washington, D.C. rallies in November and December 2020. 

In the aftermath of that violent conduct, Nordean and other co-defendants served as members and leaders of a special chapter of the Proud Boys known as the “Ministry of Self-Defense.”

Beginning after December 19, 2020, Nordean, Pezzola, and other co-defendants conspired to prevent, hinder, and delay the certification of the Electoral College vote and to oppose by force the authority of the government of the United States.

In the days leading to January 6, Nordean and other leaders of the Ministry of Self-Defense hand-selected co-defendant Dominic Pezzola and others known as “rally boys” to participate in the attack on the Capitol that day. 

This group established a chain of command, chose a time and place for their attack, and recruited others who would follow their top-down leadership and who were prepared to engage in physical violence if necessary.
  • On January 6, Nordean, Pezzola, and others they led participated in every consequential breach at the Capitol. The defendants directed and mobilized a group of Proud Boys onto the Capitol grounds, leading to the dismantling of metal barricades, destruction of property, breaching of the Capitol building, and assaults on law enforcement.
  • The group began their assault that day at 10am. when Nordean and others marched nearly 200 individuals away from speeches at the Ellipse directly toward the Capitol. They arrived at the First Street gate at 12:50pm.
  • Nordean, Pezzola, and other co-defendants led their recruits up the First Street walkway, breaching multiple barricades and tearing down fencing.
  • Nearly an hour later, when law enforcement appeared to have successfully controlled the crowd by pushing them back, the men again pushed forward.
  • Nordean, Pezzola, and others gathered at the base of the concrete stairs that led to the doors and windows of the Capitol with many of their co-conspirators and other men they had led to the Capitol. 
  • The group again surged toward the Capitol and overwhelmed officers who had been battling the crowd for nearly an hour. Pezzola smashed open a window allowing the first rioters to enter the Capitol at 2:11pm.

During the hearing, U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Kelly applied the enhancement for a federal crime of terrorism to the defendants convictions for destruction of government property.

This case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, and the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. The charges in the investigation are the result of significant cooperation between agents and staff across numerous FBI Field Offices and law enforcement agencies.

In the 31 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,106 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 350 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement.

Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov


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Public Hearing Sept. 14, 2023 for Emergency, Transitional, and Permanent Supportive Housing City of Lake Forest Park

City of Lake Forest Park
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2023 – 7:00 P.M.
Renewal of Interim Regulations related to Indoor Emergency Shelters, Emergency Housing, Transitional Housing, and Permanent Supportive Housing
__________________________________________________________
The City of Lake Forest Park City Council passed Ordinance Number 1227 on September 9, 2021, adopting interim regulations for indoor emergency shelters, emergency housing, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing. 

The interim regulations were renewed in Ordinance Number 23-1264 on March 9, 2023, and are set to expire on September 19, 2023. 

The City Council will consider renewing the interim regulations in Ordinance Number 1227 for another six months. The public hearing is intended to provide an opportunity for public testimony regarding the proposed renewal. The terms of the interim regulations can be found in the agenda packet for the hearing and in Ordinance Number 1227.

The public hearing will be conducted during the City Council’s regular meeting on September 14, 2023. The meeting will begin at 7:00pm, and the public hearing will commence thereafter. The public hearing will be held virtually and in person. *Instructions for how to participate in the virtual public hearing may be found on the agenda for the meeting. Written testimony will be accepted prior to the meeting and distributed to the City Council, and verbal testimony will be accepted during the public hearing.

  • Written comments should be submitted to City Clerk Matt McLean at mmclean@cityoflfp.gov no later than 5:00pm local time on the date of the hearing. 
  • Any person wishing to provide oral testimony at the hearing is encouraged to register via the Remote Public Comment Sign-in Form on the  City’s Hybrid Meetings webpage by 5:00pm on the date of the meeting. 
  • Persons who have not signed up on the online public hearing sign-in sheet will be called upon to raise their hand through the Zoom meeting webinar feature, or the sign-in form at the meeting, and will be added to the speakers’ queue by the City Clerk, to be called upon by the Meeting Chair or designee. 
  • A request to speak can also be made by phone directly to the City Clerk at 206-368-5540 prior to 5:00pm on the date of the meeting.
Matt McLean
City Clerk
September 1, 2023
*The agenda will be available here by end of business on Monday, September 11.


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With the start of school around the corner, ICHS gets kids immunized

Saturday, September 2, 2023

On August 29, 2023, International Community Health Services (ICHS) held a one-day immunization clinic for Shoreline families to get their school-required vaccines.

ICHS pediatrician, Dr. Dennis Pang, and ICHS pharmacy staff immunized over 50 children with school required immunizations as well as 32 children with COVID-19 bivalent booster vaccines. 

Members of ICHS’ multilingual certified enrollment navigators were also present to assist uninsured families navigate insurance enrollment.

The clinic was part of ICHS’ ongoing efforts to reduce barriers to vaccination for all people.

"As medical providers and parents, we know that keeping up to date on immunizations are vital to keep our families healthy," said Lakshimi Deepa Yerram, ICHS Chief Medical Officer. 
"In fact, vaccines have saved more lives than any other medical intervention."

The American Academy of Pediatrics reported that there was a "significant drop in well-child visits" and delayed vaccinations due to the pandemic.

With the school year beginning now, one essential step to starting the new year healthy and strong is ensuring children are caught up with their routine immunizations.

KOMO News visited the clinic to learn about ICHS’ efforts first hand. Of particular interest was staying up to day on COVID-19 vaccinations. ICHS Pediatrician Dennis Pang, spoke with KOMO News Reporter Denise Whitaker.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for ages 6 months and older.

Earlier this year, three ICHS clinic sites achieved Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards in the 2023 Immunize WA provider recognition program. The awards recognize individual medical clinics/medical practices for high immunization coverage rates on childhood and adolescent vaccines.


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Olympic Fly Fishers Club meets September 12, 2023 in Mountlake Terrace

The Olympic Fly Fishers Club meetings will resume after our summer’s break Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at the Mountlake Terrace Community Senior Center, 23000 Lakeview Dr, Mountlake Terrace WA 98043

The doors open at 5:30pm and the meeting will be from 6 - 8:30pm. Be entertained and educated by a medley of reports from members, and any guests who wish to chime in, about their most enjoyable and memorable fishing trips. 

It will also be an opportunity for us to meet in person those new members who joined the club during the summer. The meeting is open to all. 


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Seattle Wind Symphony season opener at UW's Meany Hall on September 30, 2023 features humor in music

Seattle Wind Symphony is opening their 13th concert season with a program featuring humor in various forms of music for wind band. 

Seattle Wind Symphony is honored to feature Jason Gilliam, celebrated euphonium soloist, clinician, and music educator, in this concert.

Some program highlights: 
  • In Variations on “America”, composer Charles Ives paints a musical caricature that celebrates the diversity of our country. 
  • Candide is one of the most famous works of literary satire, and was converted into a music production by Leonard Bernstein. 
  • Kwyjibo by Daniel Montoya Jr is inspired by Bart Simpson.

Throughout the 2023-2024 season, Seattle Wind Symphony will explore music for wind inspired by a variety of themes, including reflections on nature, resistance and social justice, and space and other worlds.

Seattle Wind Symphony will return to Shoreline for the remainder of its season.

For more information about Seattle Wind Symphony and upcoming performances, visit seattlewindsymphony.org

Laughter
Saturday, September 30 at 7:30 pm
Meany Hall (UW)
4040 George Washington Lane NE, Seattle WA 98195

Conducted by Dr. John Falskow
Featuring Jason Gilliam, euphonium soloist

Purchase Tickets
  • Tickets are available now for our September 30 concert at Meany Hall.
  • General $25 / Student $10


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Wildfires: Yellepit Fire in Benton county at 2,000 acres, threatening crops, power infrastructure, and the BNSF mainline

Benton County – State fire assistance has been mobilized under the Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan in support of local firefighters working to contain the Yellepit Fire located in Benton County, near the town of Finley. 

Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste authorized the mobilization of state firefighting resources on September 2, 2023, at 8:15am at the request of Fire Chief Lonnie Click, Benton County Fire District 1.

The Yellepit Fire started on September 1, 2023, at approximately 6:18pm. This fire is estimated at 2,000 acres and growing. It is burning in grass and brush and is threatening crops, power infrastructure, and the BNSF mainline. 

No evacuations are in effect at this time. The fire cause is currently under investigation.


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Seattle Naval Hospital Chapel at Fircrest now listed on WA State Historic Registry

Fircrest Chapel
Photo by Janet Way

Today, September 1, the Washington State Advisory Council voted unanimously to approve the listing of the Seattle Naval Hospital Chapel at Fircrest School in Shoreline, built in 1944 during WWII, on the State Registry of Historic Places.

The Chapel and 2.6 acres of surrounding forest was nominated by the Shoreline Preservation Society and Northwest Vernacular, an expert historic consulting firm. It was previously Landmarked by the Shoreline Landmarks Preservation Board in 2021, after receiving two grants from 4Culture.

The WA State Advisory Council praised the nomination and condition of the building and beauty of the grounds, now managed by DSHS and owned by Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

The Advisory Board also recommended the Chapel nomination be forwarded to the National Parks Service for approval for the National Register of Historic Places. Their process will likely take a few months to complete.

The Chapel was conceived by Captain JT Boone, Commander of the Hospital Naval Base as a place of respite to restore the spirits of the over 2000 sailors and marines being treated for wounds received in the Pacific battle theater and stationed in the barracks at the site. 

Captain Boone was an inspirational leader who had been awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor in WWI and served as physician to three presidents.

Janet Way, Chair of Shoreline Preservation Society said, 
“We are extremely proud that our beautiful, historic gem at Fircrest School set in a Northwest Forest ecosystem, is receiving the recognition it deserves and can continue to be an inspiration to generations to come, for the healing work done at the Naval Hospital and that the Chapel can continue to provide refuge for people in Shoreline and the entire State.”

Fircrest is located at 15800 15th Ave NE in Shoreline WA 98155.


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Just in time for Labor Day weekend - burn ban downgraded to allow recreational fires

With increased moisture, and projected weather conditions, the burn ban has been modified to allow recreational fires. 

Recreational fires are limited to cooking, ceremonial, or pleasure purposes only.

Recreational fires shall be less than three feet in diameter and two feet high and shall not be conducted within 25 feet of a structure or combustible materials. 

Recreational fires shall be always monitored and must have a water source readily available; at a minimum, a charged water hose or a five-gallon bucket of water. 

Please consult your Fire Department for additional information and required permits.

Outdoor burning of yard debris (residential burning) is still prohibited at this time under the Stage 1 Burn Ban. Burning of garbage, other prohibited items and using a burn barrels is prohibited at all times.


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