Peace is not as controversial as some might think

Monday, October 30, 2023

Glen Milner of Lake Forest Park and Bob Trutnau of
Kenmore. Photo by Paul LaFond of Lake Forest Park.
Story by Glen Milner

Lake Forest Park, Saturday, October 28
 
Peace is not as controversial as some might think. 
 
Responses from those passing by on Saturday in Lake Forest Park were nearly all positive. 
 
Please share your views with your representatives in Congress and with President Biden.
 
Please join with Lake Forest Park for Peace - every Saturday from 11am to noon.

Corner of Bothell Way NE (SR 522) and Ballinger Way NE (SR 104)
 

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Miyawaki Urban Forest History Project at the Shoreline Historical Museum

By Sally Yamasaki

For two years, community members from Lake Forest Park and Shoreline worked together to develop a plan to build a Museum Forest in a vacant field adjacent to the Shoreline Historical Museum. 

Instead of a brick-and-mortar building, they envisioned a Forest that would sequester carbon while they walked a pathway that would guide them through the natural and human history of that area.

On October 4, 2023, their vision of planting a forest became real. 

The Shoreline Historical Museum signed a contract with Ethan Bryson of Natural Urban Forests to help the Museum community plant their Miyawaki Urban Forest. 

Funding for the Forest portion of the project came from an anonymous donor through the SUGi Project.

The Forest Museum will cover 4800 square feet of space that is currently a vacant field adjacent to the museum which is located a few blocks off Aurora Ave N / SR 99 in Shoreline, Washington. 

The Forest will provide a respite for people as well as provide a natural habitat for birds and other wild animals.

Aerial shot shows the section to be planted
Photo courtesy Shoreline Historical Museum

Once the Forest is planted, it will have exhibits incorporating local, natural, and human history as well as ongoing educational programming with the intent to build community.

PLANTING DAY

The Museum’s Forest Planting Day is on Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 10:00am – 2:00pm.
  • At 10:00am there will be a Forest Dedication followed by community forest planting.
  • There will be refreshments, children’s activities as well as museum tours.
  • Those interested in Planting or Volunteering can email: Volunteer@shorelinehistoricalmuseum.org
For more information contact:

Kenneth Doutt (he/him)
Executive Director ǀ Shoreline Historical Museum
18501 Linden Ave N., Shoreline, WA 98155
Tue-Sat 10am-4pm
206-542-7111
shm@shorelinehistoricalmuseum.org

Other resources:
Funder and Landscape designer:

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Danger in the woods

Sunday, October 29, 2023

Photo by Gay Armsden in Hamlin Park

If you go down to the woods today
You'd better not go alone

It's lovely down in the woods today
But safer to stay at home

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Rainbow Bingo at the Senior Activity Center November 3 and December 1, 2023


RAINBOW BINGO 

Friday, November 3, 2023

Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center holds our monthly fundraiser RAINBOW BINGO with our incredible hostess Sylvia O’Stayformore!  

Note – We are a week early due to Sylvia’s schedule.
  • Friday, November 3, 2023
  • Games start 7pm, doors open at 6:00pm.
  • Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center,  southernmost building on the Shoreline Center campus, 18560 1st Ave NE #1, Shoreline WA 98155
  • Participants can expect ten (10) rousing rounds of bingo, complete with prizes and a few musical numbers!
  • Cost: $20 Admission and $10 at the door for your bingo cards.
  • The $20 Admission reserves your seats and includes the evening’s entertainment and loaded nachos.
  • $10 Bingo cards must be purchased at the door by cash or check as required by the Washington State Gambling Commission.
  • Register online https://shorelinelfpseniorcenter.org/events/special-events/
  • Call 206-365-1536 if not registering online.
Bingo is a 21 and over event. Cash bar will serve soft drinks, water, beer, wine and Jell-O shots.


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Scene over the Sound: Airlift Northwest

Story and photos by Jan Hansen

Airlift Northwest, a program of the University of Washington School of Medicine and Harborview Medical Center, provides flight transport via helicopter and fixed wing aircraft for patients needing intensive medical care in Washington, Idaho, Montana and Alaska.

Wikimedia has a history of the service:

Airlift Northwest was founded in 1982 after three children perished following a Sitka, Alaska, house fire because there was no way to rapidly transport them to a facility capable of treating their injuries. 

The University of Washington's Dr. Michael Copass was the driving force behind the service which started with one Seattle-based fixed wing aircraft and a medical crew of one physician and one nurse.[2] 

It was the first critical care air ambulance service in the region.

Since 1982, Airlift Northwest has had four incidents:
  1. One of the organization's helicopters crashed into Puget Sound on September 11, 1995, while en route to Bainbridge Island to pick up a woman in labor. Two nurses and one pilot were killed in the incident.
  2. The pilot and sole occupant of an Airlift Northwest helicopter sustained serious injuries in a crash near Granite Falls in 2002.
  3. In 2005, another Airlift Northwest helicopter crashed into the waters off of Edmonds on the evening of September 28; all occupants (a pilot and two nurses) were killed.
  4. On October 28, 2005, an Airlift Northwest helicopter crashed during takeoff from the rooftop helipad of Providence St. Peter Hospital in Olympia, Washington. One flight nurse received minor injuries.
Airlift Northwest crews played key roles in the response to the 2014 Oso mudslide, transporting 5 injured survivors to area hospitals


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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Quackula

Saturday, October 28, 2023



 

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Studded tires legal for use starting November 1, 2023

Studded tire at Les Schwab
Photo by John Boril
Beginning Wednesday, Nov. 1, studded tires are legal for use in Washington state, but by law, they must be removed by March 31. 

Studded tires do not meet a posted chain requirement, and drivers still need to install chains over studded tires to proceed in areas posted for chains.

Studded tires cause between $20 million and $29 million in pavement damage to state-owned asphalt and concrete roadways each year and WSDOT encourages you to visit a tire dealer to learn about options, including stud-free, winter tread traction tires.


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Celebrate Dia de los Muertos with the Community in Lake Forest Park

Celebrate Dia de los Muertos with the Community in Lake Forest Park!

ShoreLake Arts is pleased to celebrate Dia de los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) in Lake Forest Park this year.

You're invited to honor your loved ones at our ofrenda, located right in front of the ShoreLake Arts Gallery within the Town Center at Lake Forest Park (off the lobby on the lower level). 

The ofrenda will be on display from October 26 to November 2, 2023 and we warmly welcome the community's contributions of non-returnable images and/or memorabilia.

Visit the Gallery during open hours (Tuesday through Saturday, 12pm to 5pm) to collect your free DIY DĂ­a de los Muertos art project and sugar skull sticker to celebrate - while supplies last.


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Dia de los Muertos event in Shoreline at Spartan Rec Center Thursday, November 2, 2023

Dia de los Muertos event in Shoreline
Thursday, November 2, 2023
5:00pm – 7:30pm

Join family and friends as we remember and honor special people from our lives who have passed away. Enjoy music, dance, and hands-on activities. Come prepared to purchase food from the food truck onsite. Sponsored by the City of Shoreline and ShoreLake Arts 
  • Performances by Nuestras Raices 
  • Nepantla Cultural Arts: Exhibition (on display for 3 months)
  • Hands on Art Projects including Sugar Skull Decorating, Face Painting
  • Food Truck: El Cabrito
Ofrendas (Altars), community is welcome to bring photos of their lost loved ones to set on the Community Altar

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Jobs: WSDOT Title Assistant (PAS1)

WSDOT
Title Assistant (PAS1)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$44,566 – $59,509 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a Title Assistant - Property and Acquisition Specialist 1 in the Northwest Region Real Estate Services office. 

In this role, you will serve as a Title Assistant, playing a crucial part in delivering property rights essential for highway construction projects that support WSDOT's mission of providing safe and reliable transportation. 

Specifically, you will support the Title Department by maintaining data and communication flow, ordering title reports, processing invoices, and assisting with document preparation and file organization. 

Your attention to detail and strong organizational skills will be key to success in this position. Additionally, you will contribute to fostering a respectful and diverse work environment. Join us in making transportation safer and more efficient for our communities and businesses.

Job description and application


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Sound Transit seeks feedback on passenger experience

Photo courtesy Sound Transit

Sound Transit seeks feedback on passenger experience
Survey open through Nov. 22; results help set agency priorities

Sound Transit launched its Passenger Experience Survey, which seeks to evaluate how passengers view all of Sound Transit’s services. The findings are used to identify key areas of improvement and prioritize efforts to provide a better passenger experience.

Specifically, the survey collects passenger perspectives on the following:
  • accessibility
  • availability
  • cleanliness
  • safety
  • passenger care
  • maintenance
  • passenger information
Additionally, the survey also collects ridership behavior and demographic information to help understand how perceptions of Sound Transit’s performance vary across different groups.

The survey, found here, takes about 15 minutes to complete. Participants are eligible to be entered in a raffle for one of four $250 gift cards or one of 15 gift cards valued at $100.

Sound Transit builds and operates regional transit service throughout the urban areas of King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. Transit services include light rail, commuter trains, express bus and their associated stations and facilities.


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Q/A with candidate for Shoreline Council Pos #4: Doris McConnell

Doris McConnell
On behalf of the Shoreline Area News, Oliver Moffat sent a set of questions to both candidates for Shoreline City Council Pos. #4. 

Here are the responses from incumbent Doris McConnell:

Fatal drug and alcohol overdoses are at an all-time high in our city. What will you do about this public health crisis?

The city council did not support clinics in our city that users could go to for their fix. This was a result of the strong public criticisms received. However, short of that, our city heavily funds Human Services and equips our police force to deal with these situations immediately.

Shoreline lacks a walkable downtown and gathering area. What can be done?

Since Shoreline doesn’t have just one walkable area with businesses/shops/residents, I have been a part of and sometimes an early proponent of redesigning or rezoning an area to increase walkability and gathering:

As part of the city council, and particularly because I believe we need to be able to get out of our cars and use more sustainable modes of transportation, I was an early proponent of the Sears/Central Market site to be better utilized for shopping and a gathering place. I worked with many past Economic Development Directors to encourage them to look at ways we can improve what is on that site. The city needed to think outside the box to make this large acreage more desirable to its citizens. I am proud of these conversations as they eventually started conversations which then started the process of changes for that large site. The first move was for the city council to declare it an “economic blight” and that started all the work that eventually has new housing and businesses coming soon, 
Shoreline Place: https://www.shorelinewa.gov/business/aurora-square-community-renewal-area

The improvements in the Town Center increases walkability and a gathering area (park/sidewalks/art pieces along the trail) which was a result of all the city council action on zoning and approving budget to improve that open space.

Another recent sidewalk project to increase safety walk to Richmond Beach Saltwater Park which was reassessed for the final design based on input from the neighbors as well as myself: https://www.shorelinewa.gov/government/projects-initiatives/sidewalks/new-sidewalks-project-20th-avenue-nw-nw-190th-nw-195th-street

The common thread in all these improvements is that I am a collaborative member of the past 16 years of city councils and therefore since my time on the council, the city has activated and completed many projects that have had huge public support. The final decisions are made as a result of collaboration amongst all of us and with the number of incumbents on the council, there is a wealth of experience and knowledge we bring to every discussion. With three seats in 2021 that were vacated, there was a large turnover and therefore if you look to our neighboring jurisdictions, when you have a majority of a governing body that are all inexperienced, often decisions made by that body are decisions regretted by the public.

How do you plan to involve all of Shorelines residents in decision making? Name specific actions you will take to ensure equity, inclusion and social justice in our city?

Our council supports the annual survey which reaches out to random people over the broad categories in our population. Also, as a woman of a minority group, I have actively and behind the scenes helped to promote and groom future leadership in our region as well as nationally. We need to have all groups at the table where there are decisions to be made. Our council is a good reflection of the diversity in our city but individually, we can all do our part to engage people in decision making. This starts at our smaller organizations in our communities as this is often where public servants develop their skills.

How will you help our unhoused neighbors? How will you improve housing affordability?

The city has done more than our adjoining cities in housing vulnerable people. Although I voted to not move on approving the Oaks Shelter, it was because the council was not thinking about guardrails/requirements for the Shelter which would calm fears in the surrounding neighborhoods. Change is difficult for those who see a possible threat. I knew the Shelter would pass and was ok with this outcome, but two councilmembers (CM Chang and myself) submitted amendments for the shelter in order for it be accountable to the public and the neighborhood. Most of those amendments were passed by the city council. Since the vote, I have been very supportive of the shelter’s continued success.

Finally, I volunteered last winter for the Severe Weather Shelter which has been in existence for several years. This is a necessary program for the homeless. This coming winter NUHSA and the city will have a more permanent solution for this situation. The council also permitted the construction of housing for our vulnerable population (being constructed on Aurora Ave near Costco). I was on the Hopelink Board of Directors as well as the unhoused and vulnerable population has always been something I have been involved with.

Some residents are concerned about traffic, parking and transportation in Shoreline. What will you do?

The coming of two light rail stations will significantly help traffic along our streets and freeways. As a councilmember, I was involved in all the early discussions and work getting two stations in our city. This is one of my proudest accomplishments but individually, as a member of Seashore Transportation Forum, I have fought for more garage parking at those stations while Sound Transit reduces spots for budgetary reasons. My goal was to get people out of their cars and using light rail which will reduce their carbon footprint. I am also acutely aware and concerned that higher density developments may increase parking off the street and have asked a staff member to come to us when the problem first arises so we can institute change in reaction to the growing problem. We are putting more bike lanes throughout our city roads as well as adding or repairing sidewalks as we have funding which will improve the flow of people and cars. These are significant expenses that we must consider funding as we inherited a horrible and aging infrastructure for roads when we voted to become a city from unincorporated King County, which never addressed bicyclists and pedestrians.

Our climate is getting warmer and dryer. What does the city need to do to prepare for the future in the face of a changing climate?

This city council has unanimously declared Climate Change as a crisis for our region, as well as in our world. Increasing density of housing to prepare for increased population in our region, planting more trees and at the same time saving trees where possible will help control heat. Sidewalk trees that are destroying the walk tragically are being removed but need to for walkable sidewalks. The city has numerous program to encourage better storm water infiltration and continue to create more programs such as these: https://www.shorelinewa.gov/government/projects-initiatives/ne-148th-street-infiltration-facilities-project

Individually, I have supported supporting the use of alternative vehicle which will reduce fossil fuel consumption as I have owned several generations of hybrid vehicles. As a councilmember, we supported building a new city hall that used sustainable resources as well as making it more energy efficient. At both levels of our city hall garages, we have EV charging stations and at the time, it was a relatively new concept.

Some Shoreline residents are concerned about gun violence and crime in our city. What will you do to help our neighbors feel safe?

We have a healthy police force budget but recruiting all over the country has been dismal. We have been told by our Police Chief that officers want to work in Shoreline, however the pipeline of recruitment is small because of years of the public/police relationships have taken a beating and many chose to go into a different line of work. Cities are initiating hiring incentives as well as better pay.

The number of guns in our country is an American problem…

How will you improve arts and culture in Shoreline?

I and the city council continue to support the arts by keeping a 1% budget for the creation of art projects with a new city project. We are fully supported by our citizens although often have a robust discussion on the choices that are put in place. Shoreline also support ShoreLake Arts in their budget, and I personally attend as many of their auctions as possible.

What questions have I forgotten to ask you?

When I decided to challenge the incumbent in position 4 back in 2007, it was because the city council was divisive and often disrespectful of the city manager and staff. It was an embarrassment to our citizens, but no one wanted to run against this person. I am of the personality that when something needs to be improved, I do not criticize but join in to assist in making needed improvements. I also spend more time than any other city councilmembers in grooming new leadership. I will be doing this at an intense capacity as I am planning to retire after this term. A healthy organization always needs to spend a quantity of time bringing in qualified new leadership.

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Q/A with candidate for Shoreline Council Pos #4: Annette Ademasu

Annette Ademasu
On behalf of the Shoreline Area News, Oliver Moffat sent a set of questions to both candidates for Shoreline City Council Pos. #4. 

Here are the responses from challenger Annette Ademasu:

Fatal drug and alcohol overdoses are at an all-time high in our city. What will you do about this public health crisis? 

From my understanding and life experience I know drug overdoses are part of a bigger problem which affects all in our community, that is our healthcare crisis. The opioid crisis and substance use disorder requires not just isolated targeted interventions but a holistic interprofessional collaboration with integrated coordinated care. Access to quality care services and resources benefits all, not the few. The health care crisis should not be seen as an individual problem but a community problem. Addressing overdoses involves collaboration between professionals, agencies, and regions. The medically underserved populations in Shoreline rely on the public health system which has been suffering from budget cuts over the years, and decisions will be made whether or not to close some of the public health clinics in King County by 2025. I will fight for individuals who rely on public health by advocating for equity in a public health system that cares for all. I support increased funding for our integrated public health clinics and programs, to both treat and prevent the overdose crisis.

Shoreline lacks a walkable downtown and gathering area. What can be done? 

While door knocking for my campaign, residents have spoken about a need for Shoreline to have gathering spaces with restaurants, retail, and activities. City planners have mentioned over the years that Shoreline Place might act as a “downtown” on the west side. New ground floor commercial space in North City could be a hub on the east side. Another area to increase walkability would be to create a pocket park on Firlands (N 185th to 192nd) in Shoreline's "pioneer district" with historical significance. I will ensure our Economic Development Program Mgr. Nathan Daum and staff have the tools to achieve agreed upon goals. I support the new building ground floor amendments that recently passed, this is a positive step for future retail spaces. I will work to ensure small business access to space is a priority in order to have a thriving community for residents and small businesses. 

How do you plan to involve all of Shorelines residents in decision making? Name specific actions you will take to ensure equity, inclusion and social justice in our city?

I am approachable, a patient listener, and I care about people. Kindness goes a long way in people feeling welcome and stepping forward with concerns. Most of my professional work has been spent in public service and I work to ensure the spaces and systems I work in are diverse, equitable, and inclusive. I am a member of an anti-racist organization in Shoreline and will continue to be engaged in community outreach efforts. To be responsive as a Council member I will respond within 3 business days to emails and phone calls. I will go to gatherings organized by social justice leaders in our community, build relationships, and keep lines of communication open.

How will you help our unhoused neighbors? How will you improve housing affordability? 

I became a single parent when our twins were two years old. We lived in a small 1-bedroom duplex on a limited income for 4 years and later bought a home in Shoreline. Housing issues are close to my heart and I made the choice to be an affordable housing landlord. For our houseless neighbors, I am excited to see partnerships like St Margaret’s Place to open at Aurora and 198th which will help. Shoreline has limited affordable housing and the new apartment rental rates are very high; too much for our seniors, not large enough and expensive for young families. Shoreline has many 1- and 2-bedroom apartments in the works. Residents are asking for more 3-bedroom options with green space. I will explore options for first time home buyer programs with experienced affordable housing entities like non-profit developers, Habitat for Humanity, Land Trusts, etc. Another possibility I am exploring, is utilizing monies in green building from the federal Inflation Reduction Act to lessen the cost of affordable homes and remodels (green affordable housing). I will work with the expanding King County affordable housing program within Shoreline and help residents know how this program works. I agree, too many people need affordable housing and I will work towards more options. 

Some residents are concerned about traffic, parking and transportation in Shoreline. What will you do? 

Keeping lines of communication open and building relationships between Sound Transit, Shoreline planners, and residents is paramount, when deciding parking code requirements in new buildings. I am listening to neighbors who are concerned about large apartment residents parking along residential streets, and not having access in front of their homes. With our changing climate, we need to move toward more transit, car sharing, etc. to lessen the impact on our environment. New large apartments could provide incentives for their residents with ORCA cards and discounts on car sharing to lessen the need for everyone to have a vehicle.
 
Our climate is getting warmer and dryer. What does the city need to do to prepare for the future in the face of a changing climate? 

I have a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology with over 40 years of critical thinking and scientific analysis. My goal is to see Shoreline’s infrastructure resilient to our changing climate. Addressing climate change intersects housing, health, and transportation. Taking action on protection of urban tree canopy ecosystems, our aquifer, and critical areas like salmon streams. High intensity rain events with flooding are becoming more frequent, our tree ecosystems and more green spaces will lessen this impact. More building and less tree canopy are causing a heat island effect. When we cut our tree canopy and create more impervious surfaces, we need large expensive stormwater infrastructure to handle all the rainwater, which then goes to the sea, instead of replenishing our aquifer. Will we have enough snowmelt into our watersheds for drinking water 20 years from now? I am forward thinking; I will engage with experts to explore solutions. 

Some Shoreline residents are concerned about gun violence and crime in our city. What will you do to help our neighbors feel safe?

My Elect Annette campaign has been awarded the 2023 Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate distinction. Preventing gun deaths is a public health emergency. It is the second leading cause of death for children, both by homicide and suicide. I will partner with programs in King Co., such as firearm return programs, education on extreme risk protection orders, etc. to prevent gun deaths. Gun violence is now a national epidemic and in King County it is responsible for the murder and suicide of over 40,000 lives per year; let’s work together for a safe environment. 

How will you improve arts and culture in Shoreline?

I am a science nerd. To have balance, I envelope the arts into my life. Where would I be without the musicians, artists, writers, poets, playwrights, actors, etc. Let’s ensure the arts are spread equally around Shoreline. How do artists find affordable living here in Shoreline? Is Shoreline a welcoming place for the arts? Let’s get to work.

What questions have I forgotten to ask you?

During the last 5 months, I have knocked on thousands of doors, spoken with Shoreline residents, and listened to their issues. I share the same concerns. I am concerned by all of the issues addressed above. I am concerned by threats to small business, the health of our seniors, and racial inequity. I have the energy and the capability to work with the existing Council as we improve the life of residents in Shoreline. 


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Free Halloween event at St. Edward Sunday - but parking is a challenge

HAUNTED HALLS OF ST. EDWARD
Sunday, October 29, 2023
4 PM - 7 PM - Free Event - All Ages (and paws) welcome!

The halls of St. Edward are getting a spooky makeover with thanks to a few of our community partners and friends. You won't want to miss this killer evening of fearsome fun and games. 

The spiced and spiked cider will be flowing along with many tricks and treats along the way, including pumpkin decorating and a costume contest for kids, adults, and pups! 

All are welcome to enjoy our first-ever Haunted Halls of St. Edward HOWL-oween event.

Parking  
  • Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to the state park and parking lots.
  • Public transportation, rideshare, or taxi is recommended for visitors not dining at Cedar+Elm or staying overnight.

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Spooky Moon and Halloween Poem

Photo by Bruce Hill

Hallowe’en Poem

It’s time again to celebrate
With creatures knocking at my gate,
Wanting mostly things to eat,
Their sacks hang nearly to their feet!

Watch out there! Here comes a spook!
Collecting piles of gobbledegook.
Candy, cake, gum and such …
Can he really eat that much?

I hope the creatures won’t want more.
After all, this isn’t a store (!)
The only other thing to show ‘em
Is the annual Hallowe’en poem.

Yours scarily, Witchie Westberg

aka Vicki Westberg
Oct. 31, 1990


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Pottery Sale from Diane Kallaway Designs Friday - Saturday November 3-4, 2023

Diane Kallaway Designs
Ceramics
Home studio sale 503 N 190th St 
Friday November 3, 2023 - 4 - 8pm
Saturday November 4, 2023 - 9am - 4pm

Diane is a Shoreline resident of 30 years and among her many interests she has collected pottery her whole life. Seven years ago, she made the decision to make some herself. 

Self-taught and dedicated to constant learning and experimenting, she finds ways to express all her passions through ceramic arts. “There really are no limits and the variety drives my creativity.”


Hand decorating wheel thrown forms with original carvings or leaves and a wide variety of stoneware glazes make each piece unique.


Her love of birds inspires hand sculpted and glazed nuthatches, sparrows, and loons; hand painted wild bird eggs and nests made from nature. 

Her love of food and pottery meet at a delicious crossroad as she considers roasted carrots in a cobalt blue bowl or a wild rice and kale soup in a wide rimmed bowl of speckled green. 


All the work is mid-fire stoneware, applied with lead-free glazes.


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Jobs: City of Shoreline Procurement Coordinator

City of Shoreline
Procurement Coordinator
Job type: Full-time Regular
$36.10 - $45.75 Hourly
Opening date: 10/25/23
Closing date: 11/12/23 11:59 pm

Shoreline’s Finance Operations team is looking for an experienced and detail-oriented Procurement and Purchasing Coordinator who will support the City’s Procurement program. 

Reporting to the Finance Manager, Finance Operations, but acting independently, this position will work across the entire organization, as well as collaborate with staff from other departments within the City to perform a variety of contracting and procurement related tasks. 

The City’s procurement processes demonstrate a commitment to the principles of open competition and fairness. We work to ensure that all purchases are made in accordance with federal, state, and local purchasing laws and aim to get the best value for tax dollars, while emphasizing the City’s values of integrity, teamwork, respect, innovation, and sustainability. 

The City is also committed to organization strength and enhancing the effectiveness of our organization through development of employee skills and knowledge.

This position will be involved in the continued growth and development of the City. Development activity continues to be strong with many major projects in the pipeline. 

In 2022 Shoreline voters supported a $38.5 million Parks Bond proposition, which is providing funding for eight park renovation projects that have a targeted completion in late 2024. Overall, the 2023-2024 City adopted budget for capital projects is $137 Million.

DEFINITION

To ensure that all City purchasing is done in a manner that meets all state, federal and local laws, ordinances, rules and regulations; to guide and instruct Shoreline employees in purchasing policies and procedures; to act as the program administrator for the City’s credit card program; to manage the Citywide Operating program that includes all cross-departmental supplies, equipment and materials; to administer the City’s routine purchase programs and contracts; to administer bid processes, conduct bid comparisons, draft bid summaries, create purchase orders and process contracts.

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Jobs: City of Shoreline Combination Inspector

City of Shoreline
Combination Inspector
Job type: Full-time Regular
$39.85 - $50.50 Hourly
Opening date: 10/25/23
Closing date: 11/12/23 11:59 pm

The City is preparing for two Link Light Rail Stations and the School District touts an aggressive school facilities capital improvement plan. City Staff is proud of our customer service focused work ethic. 

This position is one of building inspectors sustaining local redevelopment construction growth in this inner-ring city of 55,000. The position will focus on conducting commercial and residential on-site inspections (IBC, IMC, IFGC, UPC and IRC) for compliance with locally adopted WA State Building Codes.

An ideal candidate will be able to read and interpret engineering plans; interpret, apply and enforce applicable building construction and site development codes; perform on-site inspections; perform computer data entry (iPADs and PCs); provide exceptional customer service for requests and inquiries.

DEFINITION

To perform a broad range of advanced and technical building and civil inspections for compliance with federal, state and local codes. Assure compliance through inspection and code enforcement with City of Shoreline Development Code, City of Shoreline Engineering Development Guide, adopted surface water design manual and other applicable regulations and ordinances. 

Work with developers, architects and contractors to maintain code requirements and resolve problems relating to code compliance. Perform project site inspections and perform a variety of inspection tasks relative to assigned area of responsibility. Work at this level requires outstanding communication skills and the ability to facilitate and establish effective working relationships with staff and with the development community.

Please apply at: Job description and application


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Jobs: City of Shoreline Payroll Coordinator

City of Shoreline
Payroll Coordinator
Job type: Full-time Regular
$36.10 - $45.75 Hourly
Opening date: 10/25/23
Closing date: 11/12/23 11:59 pm

The Administrative Services Department assures the effective management and financial integrity of the City's programs, activities and resources by developing, implementing and monitoring policies and systems in the areas of budget, financial administration, accounting, procurement, internal controls, utility billing, parks, facility and fleet management and information technology functions. 

The department has 40 employees amongst 4 work units reporting to the ASD Director: Finance Operations, Budget and Tax, Parks, Fleet and Facilities, and Information Technology.

This position is a part of the Finance Operations division in the Administrative Services Department reporting directly to the Finance Manager and supports all aspects of payroll administration including an online timecard system.

The ideal candidate is detail oriented, a quick learner, and an independent thinker who excels at systems and fast-paced environment driven by a short time frame for payroll processing.

DEFINITION

Performs complex, analytical, technical, and administrative duties related to processing payroll in accordance with regulations, policies, and union labor agreements. Oversees implementation and updates to existing payroll systems. Coordinates and processes the City’s benefit and retirement system programs. Maintains payroll documentation and records; works independently under the direction and supervision of the Finance Manager.

Job description and application


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CORRECTION: Haunted Halls of St. Edward - Sunday October 29, 2023 from 4 - 7pm

Lodge at St. Edward
Sunday, October 29, 2023

The halls of the Lodge at St. Edward are getting a spooky makeover on Sunday from 4pm - 7pm for a free community Halloween event. 

The spiced cider will be flowing along with many tricks and treats along the way, including pumpkin decorating and a costume contest for kids, adults, and pups!

This is a FREE community event, all ages (and paws) are welcome.


Highlights of the Event:
  • Trick-or-Treating
  • Costume Contest: Categories include kids, adults, and even pets! Prizes await those with the most creative and captivating costumes.
  • Refreshments: Enjoy a hot cider station.
  • Pumpkin Decorating: Showcase your artistic flair with pumpkin artistry.
  • Haunted Music: Set the mood with eerie tunes in the Ballroom.
  • Photo booth: Capture the memories with a themed photobooth.

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Environmental Rotary Club work party Sunday at North City Park

Urban Forest Restoration Work Party Sunday, October 29, 2023 from 2-4pm. 
North City Park in Shoreline.  

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Public safety discussion in Woodway on November 6, 2023

Town of Woodway
Public Safety Discussion
Monday, November 6, 2023 
from 5-6 pm at Town Hall

We have increasingly heard concerns from residents about speeding and burglaries in Town. Please join me and the Town Council for a discussion on policing and public safety in Woodway. 

This will be an opportunity to learn about how the Town funds and provides police services. 

We will be joined by Police Chief Jason Valentine, who will provide an update on regional trends and safety tips that you can use at home and in your neighborhood. We also look forward to hearing from you.

The meeting will be at Town Hall on Monday, November 6, at 5 pm. Please feel free to stay after the discussion for a public hearing on the Town’s budget during the Council meeting, which starts at 6 pm.

Mayor Mike Quinn


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Spokane Super 1 Foods grocery clerk bags 2023 Best Bagger title

Best Baggers (l-r) Jadan White, Peyton Conger, and winner Emma Beeler

SHORELINE — Oct. 27, 2023 — Spokane shoppers: Emma Beeler has got your eggs, bread and soup safely in the bag! Beeler, a courtesy clerk with Super 1 Foods in Spokane is Washington state’s 2023 Best Bagger Champion.

Beeler bested four other contestants Thursday at the 2023 Best Bagger Competition at the Aurora Borealis Event Center in Shoreline. The contest marks the resumption of the competition, which has been on hold since the pandemic. 

Jadan White of Goose Grocer in Langley was the first runner up; Peyton Conger of Camano Plaza IGA on Camano Island earned the second runner up spot.

“We are thrilled to once again host this fun and fast-paced event, featuring some of the best baggers from stores all over Washington state,” said Tammie Hetrick, president and CEO of the Washington Food Industry Association. 
“Courtesy clerks are important members of any grocery store team. They provide customers with a lasting impression of the store by ensuring their groceries arrive home safely. Many of these clerks are students or working parents who help earn money for school or family extras. We’re glad to showcase their talents and give them a chance to shine.”

Beeler, 18, is a student at Spokane Falls Community College and works part-time at Super 1 Foods in the Manito Shopping Center. Super 1 Foods is owned by Rosauers Supermarkets.

The Best Bagger Battle is sponsored by the Washington Food Industry Association’s Education Foundation and is open to clerks from grocers around the state.

Participants in the Best Bagger Battle load reusable grocery bags in two separate rounds with 30-38 commonly purchased items. This may include paper towels, cereal, jam, potato chips, cooking spray, cookies, soup, mustard, bread, soda, and eggs.

Baggers are evaluated based on a variety of factors, including overall speed; bag building technique (damaged items, placement of crushable items, etc.); distribution of weight between bags; and style, attitude, and appearance.

Each year, grocers from all over the state send their best grocery store baggers to compete in the challenge. As the state champion, Beeler will receive a $2,000 cash prize and an all-expense paid trip to compete for the national title and a $10,000 cash prize this March at the 2024 National Grocers Association National Best Bagging Championship in Las Vegas.

Contestants from Washington have won the National Best Bagger title in 1989, 2013, 2015 and 2016.

The Washington Food Industry Association Educational Foundation is dedicated to the advancement of education and employment opportunities in the food industry. Founded in 2014, the foundation has awarded over $200,000 to more than 70 well-deserving individuals who wish to advance their careers in the food and beverage industry.


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Nature has her own color palette

Friday, October 27, 2023

 
Photo by Lee Lageschulte
The cities may be lighting up in orange, but M. Nature has her own colors. The first snowfall of the season made the Olympics suitable for framing.

WSDOT is talking about closing the northern passes in the Cascades but so far has kept the roads plowed. 

The City of Shoreline is conducting snowplow driver training, so don't be alarmed to see snowplows traveling the streets.

We are equipped with six trucks fully outfitted with plows and spreaders dedicated to snow removal and ice control. We have stocked approximately 8,000 gallons of liquid calcium chloride and 200 tons of rock salt and ready to aid the snow and ice removal efforts. 

While the City is responsible for plowing and salting most city streets and bike lanes, residents, business owners, and property owners have responsibilities too. These include clearing sidewalks of snow and ice. For more information on this and our primary and secondary plow routes, go to shorelinewa.gov/stormready 
--Diane Hettrick


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NaNoWriMo 2023 in the Shoreline Community College Library Halloween night 10pm to 1am

It's time to write your novel!


We're welcoming the neighborhood into our library at Shoreline Community College on Halloween 10/31 at 10pm until 1am. It's a nice activity for adults but all ages are invited!

For NaNoWriMo 2023, we’re embracing the magic of fairy tales: talking animals, enchanted lands, unimagined possibilities glittering just around the corner, waiting to be discovered by the lucky storyteller. 


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Don’t Miss the Free, Safe Halloween Night Festivities at Third Place Commons

There’s no better place to spend Halloween night with the family than at Third Place Commons!

The fun begins on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 with trick-or-treating all across Lake Forest Park Town Center from 4 to 6pm. Don’t miss the perfect spot to load up on candy in a safe, dry, well-lit setting with lots of other families joining in the festivities.

Participating merchants are still being confirmed, but visit ThirdPlaceCommons.org for an updated list of merchants who will be giving out candy as the event approaches.

Following trick-or-treating at 6pm, head to the Third Place Commons stage for “The Scarecrow,” an all-ages family friendly show perfect for Halloween night!

“The Scarecrow” is an original musical comedy based on a short story of the same name by Washington Irving. 

It’s the story of a poor widow forced to leave town by a pompous mayor and his daughter. A group of mysterious little men in the Catskills take pity on her and give her a magic pipe that breathes life into a scarecrow she creates for company. 

What will happen when the widow sends the scarecrow into town to embarrass the mayor? Join us to find out!

The Scarecrow presented by Last Leaf Productions is sponsored in part by the good folks at the Friends of the Lake Forest Park Library, so thanks to them for making this fantastic, family event possible.

And remember that events at Third Place Commons are always free and open to everyone, so join in the fun!

Third Place Commons, a community-supported 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, has been building community in the heart of Lake Forest Park for more than 20 years. Third Place Commons is located in Lake Forest Park Town Center at 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park 98155. 

To learn more or to make a gift, visit ThirdPlaceCommons.org


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Halloween Decor from Mickey Mouse to dragons

Photo by Linda Gardner
This is on 26th Ave NE between NE 155th and NE 153rd. The neighbors have also decorated.

This is on 27th Ave NE between NE 163rd and 165th NE
Photo by Linda Gardner

There are a lot of decorated homes in this area - drive around!

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Shorecrest JV Soccer ends their season in a record breaking 16-0 shut out and 1st in WesCo

Undefeated Shorecrest girls JV soccer team
Photo by Casie Tubbs

Shorecrest soccer legend, Coach Teddy Mitalas, took this Shorecrest JV soccer team to an undefeated season. 

Not only did they win all 16 games, but NO ONE scored on them in any game. They scored 98 goals, and 0 against.

--Casie Tubbs


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LFP Police change 911 dispatch services - but only the non-emergency number is different for users

On Wednesday November 1, 2023 at 6am Lake Forest Park police dispatch services will change from Bothell PD to Norcom dispatch center. 

911 calls will not be disrupted during this change. 

Please note the new non-emergency number for dispatch is now (425) 577-5656

Lake Forest Park Police Department business numbers and hours will stay the same.


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Lands Commissioner Hilary Franz: 95% of DNR fires kept under 10 acres

Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz 

From Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz 

I’ve heard people on the westside say, “Wow, we got lucky this fire season.”

In fact, the numbers tell a different story. Washington saw 1,880 ignitions — the second-most in state history. But only 165,365 acres burned — well below our 10-year average of 472,812 acres. For comparison, in 2015 we had around 2,000 fires and one million acres burned.

So, no, it wasn’t luck that left us with blue skies most of the year. 

It was leadership — from local fire districts, from within my agency, from investments we’ve made in aviation, personnel, and ground resources, from our move from 8 Vietnam rotors to having exclusive control of 40 air resources that we pre-positioned throughout our state, so we could be on the fire in 15-30 minutes.

Our ability to keep 95% of DNR fires under 10 acres is a testament to our firefighters and our emphasis on initial attack – getting on fires early and often with planes and helicopters – so that we keep fires small. 

Kodiak plane at DNR facility
Photo courtesy Dept of Natural Resources

And our investments in new technologies like our Kodiak and partnership with Pano AI and T-Mobile which are giving us the ability to spot these fires more quickly.

It is a testament to the positive impacts of our forest health work, having restored already 500,000 acres in 6 years, making Washington’s forests more able to withstand wildfire’s flames.

And it’s a testament to our community resiliency work, and the Wildfire Ready Neighbors program we launched helping homeowners take steps to both harden their property to wildfire and help firefighters get around fires faster and more effectively.

It’s a testament to our All Hands, All Lands, All Together approach.


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