Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Time Change

Saturday, November 4, 2023

 

November 5th at 2am, that is!


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New group show at Graphite Arts Center in Edmonds opens Saturday, November 11, 2023

Poster art by Andy Eccleshall

Gallery Exhibit at Graphite Arts Center
Narrative: The Art of Storytelling

Opening Night Artists Reception 
Saturday, November 11, 2023 from 7 - 8.30pm

Exhibit open to the public
Saturdays, November 11 - January 6, 12 - 4pm

Graphite Arts Center in downtown Edmonds is a true creative space. At the heart of this vibrant facility is a community of professional, working artists who rent private studios at Graphite as their places to create. These artist studios are active places where the Graphite Studio Artists work and create.

The Graphite Studio Artists share new works in the upcoming group show, Narrative: The Art of Storytelling. Featured works will highlight the power of visual art to tell the stories of our past and present. 

Artists in the show include:
  • Sarah Crumb
  • Andy Eccleshall - known in Shoreline for his murals
  • Tracy Felix
  • Johanne Friedrichs
  • Mike O’Day
  • Mary Olsen
  • Julie Perrine
  • Amy Pleasant
  • Bill Whitbeck
  • Rainny Zhao
Inspiration for works in Narrative: The Art of Storytelling have come from poems, rhymes, song lyrics, family memories, relationships with friends, experiences with animals, and more. 

Some works are reminders, some works are interpretations and some works are illustrations of things either real or unreal. 

Visitors to the show will enjoy the stories revealed in the artworks as told by the artists, as well as create their own personal narratives for the works through their individual experiences with the art.

Ceramic artist Mike O'Day
Moved by the lyrics of a song, ceramic artist Mike O’Day says:

The visual of smoke from the burning house developing into a cloud for the angel to perch upon was the inspiration for this sculpture.

The public is invited to the opening night artists reception on November 11. Visitors will have a chance to see the new exhibit, meet the artists, enjoy a bite to eat and hear live music by The Bill Witbeck Jazz Band. Exhibit runs through January 6, 2024.

Artist Amy Pleasant talk on December 6

In conjunction with Narrative: The Art of Storytelling, featured artist Amy Pleasant will give a talk on December 6, 2023 from 7-8.30pm. 

 “Family Album” by Pleasant will discuss how the notion of family develops in visual narratives. Artist talk is free and open to the public. Suggested donation $10.

Narrative: The Art of Storytelling
November 11 - January 6, 2023
The Gallery at Graphite at Graphite Arts Center
Open Saturdays, 12-4pm - Open daily 4-9pm through Charcoal Restaurant
Art Walk Edmonds, November 18 and December 21, 5-8pm

The Gallery at Graphite is located within Graphite Arts Center, Edmonds' newest facility dedicated to the arts. Graphite includes The Gallery at Graphite; ten artist studios; an art book library; classroom space, and more.

Graphite is also home to the non-profit Art Start Northwest which was founded in 2015 by Mary Olsen and Tracy Felix to champion the creative process and to make art accessible to all who seek to learn and create.

Graphite and Charcoal restaurant are both located at 202 Main Street, Edmonds WA 98020


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South Snohomish County to reduce speed limit on Hwy 99 (Aurora) to match Shoreline

Starting the week of November 13, 2023, the speed limit on SR 99 in Edmonds and Lynnwood will be reduced from 45 to 40mph.

The reduced speed limit follows completion of Edmonds’ Highway 99 Revitalization and Gateway Project that was completed in August. 

As part of this project — aimed at improving both pedestrian and traffic safety — the center two-way left turn lane was replaced with landscaped raised medians and mid-block left-turn pockets along the entire Highway 99 corridor through Edmonds.

In a press release regarding the change, the City of Edmonds said that the proposed speed limit is consistent with the speed limit in Shoreline, which has been 40mph since the raised median was added as part of their Aurora project approximately eight years ago.

This speed limit reduction will provide safer conditions for all modes of transportation along the corridor, which has daily traffic volumes of approximately 40,000 vehicles.


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Collision on I-5 near 195th blocked two lanes Friday afternoon

The camera was at 236th but the collision was south of 195th

A collision blocked the two left lanes on NB I-5 just south of SR 104* in Shoreline around 1:15pm Friday, November 3, 2023.

Emergency crews were on scene. No information is available about cause of collision or injuries to drivers or passengers.

*SR 104 is the county line at this location. It runs from Lake Forest Park to Edmonds and beyond. In King county under the freeway it is NE 205th. Just east of the freeway it becomes Ballinger Way. West of the freeway it is NE 205th on the King county side and 244th SW on the Snohomish county side. As it continues west it becomes Lake Ballinger Way, then Edmonds Way. (There will be a test)


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For the Birds: Pileated Woodpecker - Largest in North America

Male Pileated - note red mustache.
Photo by Craig Kerns
By Christine Southwick

We in the Pacific Northwest are enamored with “our” large and impressive black, white, and red Pileated Woodpeckers. In North America only the Imperial and the Ivory-billed woodpeckers were larger, and both of those are presumed extinct.

Pileated Woodpeckers are 16-19 inches tall with a wingspan up to 30 inches across. With their red cap, roller-coaster undulating flight, and usually loud call preceding their arrival at your suet feeder, these are impressive birds.

They are non-migratory, can live to be 12 years old, and stay with the same partner, only replacing a mate due to their partner’s death. They have a very large territory which they defend all year long.

Father and son drinking at birdbath.
Photo by Craig Kerns
Fortunately, as long as humans leave large dead or dying trees (called snags) for Pileated Woodpeckers to use for nesting, and roosting, we should be able to keep these magnificent woodpeckers viable.

Pileated Woodpeckers are found across much of the US and Canada, wherever stands of large diameter deciduous and evergreen trees are found and the dead trees are allowed to remain.

Mother bringing son to suet feeder.
Photo by Craig Kerns
Dead or dying trees are the housing needed for these large birds. Indeed, these birds are so large that the mated pair sleep in separate cavities due to how large a hole would be needed to accommodate two adult Pileated Woodpeckers.

Creating a nesting hole for the three to five offspring can take 3-6 weeks, be 10-24 inches deep, and has an oblong opening. Both parents help make the nest cavity, with the male doing the heavy work, and the female mostly completing the finishing touches.

Carpenter ants are their primary food, followed by beetle larvae, termites, spruce budworm, and other wood boring insects. They help make our forest healthier. They also eat blackberries and elderberries and have been known to eat apples in the wintertime.

Female -note black mustache.
Photo by Yokari Yoshioka
Being insect eaters, they will gladly eat suet all year long, and teach their young to use suet feeders. What a delight it is to watch these awkward punk-headed youngsters first being fed that suet, and then trying to retrieve it themselves.

I call them punk-headed because their topknot sticks up in unruly fashion, and is a pinkish-not-quite red. Next spring their head covering (the pilum) will be that brilliant red. Even the red mustache that identifies the males from the females is that lighter color the first season.

Put out suet where you can see it and watch for these magnificent birds. You will be pleased that you did so.


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Postseason sports update from Shorecrest Athletic Director Alan Bruns

Shorecrest cross country athletes. Both boys and girls teams qualified for State for the second consecutive year. Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

By Alan Bruns, Shorecrest Athletic Director

It's a great time of the year for our athletes and their fans! Postseason is underway and our teams are primed for success. Check out the latest on each team and try to find a time to come out and root for the Scots!

Cross Country
  • Both boys and girls teams qualified for State, in the 2nd consecutive year, which is a first in program history (thanks to our XC research staff for that fact)
  • The following kids are off to Pasco tomorrow morning for the race on Saturday:
    • Boys: Fedem Irungu, Ben Wick, Lewis Stotler, Jayden Heighway, Ethan Urquhart, Ben Goenen, Ole Lynass
    • Girls: Vivi Hakim, Scout Lynass, Addison Phillips, Rebecca Rhodes, Rosie Campbell , Siana Grams, Ruby Pierce
Football
  • The team continued their strong 2nd half of the season with a 14-13 victory at Marysville Getchell last Friday night. They will now lace it up in a first round playoff game against O'Dea today at 5:00 pm, at Seattle Memorial Stadium.
Volleyball
  • The girls finished the regular season with an overall record of 14-4, good for 4th place in Wesco. They'll start the District tournament with a home match on Tuesday at 7:00pm, against the winner of Monroe and Marysville Pilchuck.
  • Special shoutout to Violet Burchak who has just recently signed a letter of intent to play volleyball at Western Washington next year!
Girls soccer team has qualified for State. They will meet Shorewood Saturday in the District Championship match. Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools.
Girls Soccer
  • The team has again qualified for State with wins in their first two games of the District tournament. 
  • Still to come is a Shoreline Showdown against Shorewood on Saturday at 7:00pm, at Shoreline Stadium. The winner will be District Champion.
Girls Swim/Dive
  • The team will take part in the 2-day District 1 meet tomorrow and Saturday at the Snohomish Aquatic Center, with hopes of qualifying a number of girls into the State meet later this month. There's a good chance of new school records being set!
Boys Tennis
  • The team was represented in the District tournament by the strong doubles pairing of Indigo Vining and Haakon Jakobsen.

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Photo:Poem - Autumn at the Japanese Garden

Friday, November 3, 2023

Photo by Wayne Pridemore

The Autumn Sky
Was blue.
 
The sun shining bright
in afternoon light.
 
I went for a walk
in a nearby park.

Photo by Wayne Pridemore
 
Monoku poem by David Kavanagh


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Sen. Jesse Salomon toured the Shoreline ICHS clinic

(L-R) ICHS Clinic Manager Nga Vo, CEO Kelli Nomura, Sen. Jesse Salomon, Assistant Medical Director Dr. Kimo Hirayama at the Shoreline ICHS Clinic. Photo courtesy ICHS.

Sen. Jesse Salomon joined leaders on a tour of ICHS' Shoreline Medical and Dental Clinic last Friday.

WA Senator Salomon represents Washington's 32nd Legislative District, which includes Shoreline, Woodway, Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, and Northwest Seattle.

Clinic Manager Nga Vo gave Sen. Salomon a tour of the clinic
Photo courtesy ICHS

Clinic manager, Nga Vo, gave Sen. Salomon a tour through the clinic to see first-hand the services offered. 

As their newest clinic site, ICHS Shoreline provides integrated medical, dental, behavioral health, WIC, nutrition, and medication assisted treatment services for nearly 7,000 patients annually.

Sen. Salomon and ICHS CEO Kelli Nomura
Photo courtesy ICHS

After the tour, CEO Kelli Nomura and other ICHS leaders spoke with Sen. Salomon about important issues that affect patients and communities in the 'Northend' that they proudly serve.


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“All About Soils and Fertilizers” at LFP Garden Club November 14, 2023 meeting

Photo by Jerry Pickard

November 14, 2023 Fred Wermer will speak to the LFP Garden Club “All About Soils and Fertilizers”.

This class discusses soil information, how to determine texture and its importance and the best testing methods to use when determining soil properties and for soil testing. 

From there, soil improvement is easier to control. Nutrient advice, fertilizer tips and calculations and manure(s) will all be evaluated in this 90 minute program.

The Key to a successful garden is soil and Fred Wermer has the Key.

Meeting at Town Center Ballinger Way NE and Bothell Way NE, Upper level at Stage area.

9:15 to 9:30am check in
9:30 to 10:00am General Meeting
10:00 to 10:30 refreshments
10:30 to 11:30 Speaker

All are welcome. You may attend two meetings for free and then we ask that you join the club. Yearly dues are $35.00

We are novice and experienced gardeners and have great speakers and learn much for these talks. We also have a great time getting to know our fellow club members.


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Camp United We Stand returns to St. Dunstan's in Shoreline the weekend of November 3-5, 2023

CUWS Main entrance
Photo by Lisa McDonald
By Lisa McDonald

Camp United We Stand returns to St. Dunstan's in Shoreline the weekend of November 3-5 and they would appreciate some help.

Did you know they have designated hosting sites in the greater Shoreline/North Seattle/Kirkland/Bothell area for the homeless to reside in community in a safe, protected space?

Camp United We Stand, Inc. is a 501(C)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to provide safe shelter for homeless individuals. They work toward this mission by operating a transient homeless encampment for the provision of shelter, the residents’ daily needs and to facilitate their transition to independent living.

This encampment was formed in 2014 in order to focus on finding housing, keeping employment, and getting the support needed to move forward.

CUWS staffed 24/7
Photo by Lisa McDonald

Camp United We Stand provides its own security detail 24/7 to patrol the camp perimeter. If needed, the police are called. Neighborhoods near our hosting sites have found there are fewer problems in the area when there is such an encampment as the residents intentionally attempt to be conscientious neighbors to their surrounding area by keeping their hosting site neat/tidy, and noises to a minimum.

The homeless encampment houses up to 35 adults, some of whom work outside the camp. They are assured of returning to the same place night after night to lay their heads. To having food and drink. To having their basic human needs met.

The camp has garbage and recycling service, porta-potties, water access (for dishwashing and showers), and weekly laundry service by a team of volunteers.

In addition:
  • The residents are screened.
  • No sex offenders or people with outstanding warrants are permitted.
  • No weapons are permitted in the camp.
  • No street drugs or alcohol are permitted in the camp.
  • The rules for CUWS are strictly enforced.
  • CUWS has a volunteer Board of Directors.
If interested in more information or in joining their efforts, please visit the CUWS website and contact us.

Donation tent.
Photo by Lisa McDonald
Moving back to Shoreline


Due to city permitting regulations, the CUWS hosting site needs to relocate every 90 days. Their current hosting site is Kirkland Congregational Church (106 – 5th Avenue)

On the weekend of Nov 3 - 5, 2023 they will be relocating to St Dunstan’s Episcopal Church 722 N 145th St, Shoreline.

It takes a village to move the entire camp! There are many “moving parts” in getting things packed up, loaded onto trucks, unloaded at the new location, then setting everything back up again.

Volunteers needed to help with the move. Any amount of time you can give would be greatly appreciated.

Click here to sign up to volunteer if you’re able to help in any way.

Choose from either work site:
  • Current Hosting Site: Kirkland Congregational Church: 106 5th Ave, Kirkland. Site moving coordinator: Chris K
  • Moving to NEW hosting site: St Dunstan’s Episcopal Church 722 N 145th St, Shoreline. Site moving coordinator: Christopher
Kitchen tent. Photo by K Taylor
Meals needed

They are also in need of meal delivery throughout the moving process, as the kitchen items will be packed up during the transition – so the residents will not have access to food items.

If you’re interested in providing a meal please visit the Meal Service link and sign up for the many ways you can help. 

We also offer a hot dinner service each Friday and Sunday night, so those slots are also available to sign up for.

Laundry service
Photo by Lisa McDonald
Laundry Service


Finally, we offer a weekly LAUNDRY SERVICE for each of the residents at CUWS. If you are interested in learning more about our service, or would like to join our team of “Laundry Angels” please contact Lisa McDonald for additional information at: lisa_mcd@comcast.net


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Daylight Saving Time ends this weekend - clocks go back an hour


Yes, we voted to make Daylight Saving Time permanent. So did Oregon and California and other states.

The problem is that it requires congressional action. Enough said.

We still have to turn our clocks twice a year and this weekend is the date.

So turn your clocks back an hour to Standard Time before you go to bed on Saturday night.


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Shoreline City Council candidate statement: Betsy Robertson Pos #6

Betsy Robertson, Pos #6
Shoreline City Council
Betsy Robertson, incumbent, is running unopposed for Position #6 on the Shoreline City Council.
Serving on the Shoreline City Council has been one of the most important responsibilities of my life. Challenging and rewarding in (almost) equal measures. 

I want to thank the voters who elected me four years ago and the previous council members who appointed me prior to that. 

I ran as an advocate for our Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services, and on that measure alone I am overwhelmingly proud of what we have accomplished together. I helmed the campaign to pass our Parks Bond in 2021 with the help of friends and fellow community leaders. 

This fall, the first of those projects began and by Summer of 2024, most should be complete. I look forward to walking and playing in the new spaces, loving and sharing them with you.
 
I am also proud of the direction Shoreline is heading, creating neighborhoods with amenities you can walk or bike to safely. We're working hard to create a community where everyone is welcome, invited to participate and appreciated for the diversity of thought and experience they bring. There will always be more work to do, but I remain one of the many public servants in our city committed to that goal.

And to everyone who has wondered why none of this is in the voters' pamphlet? I sincerely apologize. I have been teased six ways from Sunday by those who know me. Criticized by those who don't. I deserve it all. It certainly was not my intention. I missed the deadline. It's as simple as that. I got distracted by life and my day job - and missed it! BIG mistake.

Thank you for this opportunity to share a few thoughts - and however you vote, the most important thing is TO vote. Participation in the process is so important. Please return your ballot by Tuesday!


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Shoreline City Council candidate for Position 6: Betsy Robertson Q/A

Betsy Robertson, Shoreline City Council Pos #6
Oliver Moffat sent the same questions to all candidates for the Shoreline City Council. 

Betsy Robertson, incumbent, is running unopposed for Position 6. Her candidate statement is published separately here.

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

Continue to support programs that make services and programs available to individuals and families throughout the city. I believe social services and community building programs can make a big difference when we reach/support people at all stages of life and development, especially early on. I also will continue to support our police and RACR programs to ensure they have resources to tackle their work and these challenges appropriately.
 
Shoreline lacks a walkable downtown and gathering area. What can be done?

Instead of a single, centralized space, I support the idea of multiple neighborhoods having thriving, walkable business districts. North City and Ridgecrest are two of the best examples. 

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?

The city is actively working to become anti-racist in all of its operational facets. Training and conversations are ongoing and I will continue to be part of them. CityWise and CityLearn are two programs that are available to members of the community and I strongly encourage individuals to attend. De-mystifying the work and processes involved with governing is an important step. 

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

I was an advocate for and continue to support the Oaks facility in Shoreline. I am the council representative on the North King County Coalition on Homelessness, actively working on short and long-term solutions, including a cold-weather shelter for the upcoming season. I am co-sponsoring a council discussion on increasing tenant protections in Shoreline and will also continue to support programs that help people on the edge of homelessness, stay housed. 

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

I share those concerns! I believe we are at a point where traffic cameras should be considered in school zones near major intersections. So far, I don't have enough support from fellow councilmembers to have that conversation, but I will keep asking. In the meantime, we are working to make our community more pedestrian and bicycle-friendly so that more people feel comfortable getting out of their cars.

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?

Stick to the goals laid out in the Climate Action Plan. And continue to encourage individuals to do be informed and do their part as well. 

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

I have heard this as well, particularly from business owners along the Aurora corridor, and immediately connected with our police chief and economic development program manager to discuss the steps available/possible to support. I also asked for the Council goals to be amended to include safety concerns as one of our challenges with business retention. 

How will you improve arts and culture in Shoreline?

I led the campaign to pass our most recent Parks Bond, which included $1 million specifically for public art. 

What questions have I forgotten to ask you?

Why didn't I have a statement in the Voters' Pamphlet?  (UGH!) I was consumed by life and my day-job and completely missed the deadline. I sincerely apologize to the voters. 


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Shoreline Tool Library launch and info session Tuesday November 7, 2023

Thursday, November 2, 2023

Tool library NE Seattle
Join Seattle REconomy for the launch of the Shoreline Tool Library, coming in 2024. You'll learn about membership, volunteering, and more!

Tuesday November 7, 2023
6:00 to 8:00pm
Council Chamber at Shoreline City Hall
17500 Midvale Avenue N

This is a FREE community event. RSVPs appreciated, but not required. Reserve your spot today.

Join us for a presentation with a question-and-answer session about the new tool library coming to Shoreline in January 2024.
  • Learn about our new location, offerings, classes, and how to get involved.
  • Sign up for your tool library membership or to volunteer!
  • Light refreshments will be provided.
What is a tool library?

A tool library is similar to a book library: it is a collection of tools that you can check out, use for a while, and then return. The term “tools” is used broadly to include any items that someone might use on an irregular basis such as the usual woodworking and gardening tools, but also tools for cooking, food preservation, sewing, and even special events. 

Tool libraries provide community access to a wide variety of tools, training, and sustainable resources. By sharing items rather than owning them each individually, we reduce waste and increase community connections.

Seattle REconomy's vision for the tool library is larger than simply making tools available to borrow, however. They intend to host workshops to help people learn various skills from using the tools in the library to fixing broken items. They hope to use the tool library to collaborate with other groups in the neighborhood and to serve as a resource to increase community resilience and connectedness.

Learn more about tool libraries and the repair and reuse community on King County EcoConsumer.

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Down from 16,000 - City Light still dealing with power outages

2,000 without power in King county at 10pm 11-2-2023

The King County outage map looks bad until you enlarge it. Earlier in the day, City Light reported 16,000 customers without power, most presumably from wind blown branches and trees downing power lines.

At 10pm on Thursday, November 2, 2023, the number was just under 2,000, scattered all over the county.

Echo Lake has 168 without power at 10pm

Shoreline / LFP has just under 200 without power with most being in the Echo Lake Neighborhood.

Police were assisting with traffic control near the intersection of Lake City Way NE/NE 95th ST for wires down in the roadway.

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Sno-Park permits now on sale


OLYMPIA – Nov. 1, 2023 – Washington Sno-Park permits are now on sale. The State Parks Winter Recreation Program manages over 130 recreation sites, or Sno-Parks, across the state for recreators to enjoy during the winter season. Parking at these sites requires special permits.

Seasonal or daily Sno-Park permits can be purchased online or through a licensed vendor.

Snowmobilers also must register their snowmobile through the Washington Department of Licensing and receive a free Sno-park parking permit.

In addition to the seasonal permit, a special sticker is required to park at several high-use Sno-Parks, including Crystal Springs, Cabin Creek, Hyak, Lake Easton, Lake Wenatchee, Chiwawa, Nason Ridge, and Mount Spokane. The Special Groomed sticker helps pay for more frequent trail grooming, snow removal, sanitation and staffing at locations. The Special Groomed sticker is not required with a daily permit.

A Discover Pass is not required at Sno-Parks, and the Sno-Park permit is still required, even on the 12 days a year when the Discover Pass is not required for parking on state lands.

Washington State Sno-Parks provide access for a variety of winter recreation activities like cross-county skiing, snow shoeing, dog sledding, tubing and more. Some Sno-parks are also designated for use by motorized vehicles including snowmobiles. Sno-Park permits are required from December 1 through April 30.


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State-backed GET Prepaid Tuition Program marks 25 years of helping Washington families

Olympia—Washington’s popular Guaranteed Education Tuition (GET) program opens Wednesday, November 1, 2023 for a new enrollment period, providing families a fresh opportunity to start saving for future education and career training costs while their children are young. 

The 2023-2024 enrollment period runs through May 31, 2024, and provides a unique opportunity to prepay future tuition costs by locking in today’s rates. The unit purchase price for the new enrollment period is $120.16.

GET is a 529 prepaid tuition program, carrying a state-backed guarantee that units purchased today will always keep pace with in-state college tuition costs. 

“GET savers can literally buy tomorrow’s education at today’s price, whether they plan to use those funds five, 10, or even 18 years from now,” says Washington College Savings Plans director, Luke Minor.

New this year
, savers can open a new GET account with as little as $25, making it even easier to start saving. Savings in a GET account grow tax-free and are not subject to the ups and downs of financial markets, so families can save with confidence. 

“The current economic environment is an important reminder of the unique value that GET can provide a family looking for peace of mind as they prepare for their student’s educational future,” says Minor.

GET funds are flexible and can be used for a variety of expenses beyond tuition and fees, such as housing and food, books, computers, and other supplies. Students can use GET at nearly any public or private university, community college, or technical school worldwide, and even for apprenticeship programs and student loan repayments.

The flexibility of all 529 plans, including GET, is set to expand in 2024. 

Beginning in January, unused 529 funds can be rolled into a Roth IRA retirement savings account for the student. “The option to roll 529 funds into a Roth gives families confidence that no matter what pathway their student pursues, their savings can be put to good use,” said Minor.

GET opened in 1998, and for 25 years has helped families cover more than $1.4 billion in educational costs. More than 65,000 students have used their GET accounts to further their education in all 50 states and around the globe.


GET is one of two college savings options offered by Washington College Savings Plans (WA529). WA529’s other 529 plan, DreamAhead, is a nationally recognized investment-based 529 plan launched in 2018 to help Washingtonians save toward the full cost of college.

Washington residents who want to help a student save for future education costs can open a GET or DreamAhead account online at 529.wa.gov with no enrollment fee. 

The website also offers details, charts, planning tools, and answers to questions. The GET contact center is ready to help at 800-955-2318 or GETInfo@wsac.wa.gov

For questions about DreamAhead, the DreamAhead contact center can be reached at 844-529-5845.

About WA529

Washington College Savings Plans (WA529) offers two 529 college savings programs to Washingtonians: the Guaranteed Education Tuition Program (GET) and the DreamAhead College Investment Plan. 

Both programs offer individuals and families tax-advantaged options to save for education and career training. The Committee on Advanced Tuition Payment and College Savings, commonly known as the WA529 Committee, provides oversight and sets program policies. 

The five-member committee consists of the executive director of the Washington Student Achievement Council, the State Treasurer, the director of the Office of Financial Management, and two citizen representatives. 

The Washington Student Achievement Council supports and helps administer the programs, based on the Committee’s direction.

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Holidays can be tough

Sunday November 5, 2023 at 11:45am Saint Dunstan’s invites you to a conversation about how the holidays can be tough. Especially because our world wants to say they should be fun. 

If you need to talk about it, we're here to listen. Saint Dunstan's is once again holding a 3 Practice circle discussion. You can learn more about the 3 Practices by watching this video. Click Here. Or going to their website. Click Here.

This time we are doing a supportive conversation about how some people find the holidays to be very difficult. Everyone will be welcome to come to share, ask questions and be "Curious to know" about their struggles, and others.
This conversation is open to everyone, no matter where you are on your Spiritual Journey or where you are headed in it. If you feel this would benefit you, we would be honored for you to join us!

You can RSVP on Eventbrite by clicking here or Facebook by clicking here.

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Rotary grant supports Miyawaki Urban Forest History Project at the Shoreline Museum

By Judy McCully

The Environmental Rotary Club, along with Rotary Clubs of Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Mill Creek, and Emerald City, are working together to ensure the success of the Miyawaki Urban Forest History Project at the Shoreline Historical Museum by making a joint grant request to District 5030. 

Amplifying the funding from these rotary clubs, on October 25, 2023 Rotary District 5030 approved our joint grant request, more than doubling the financial assistance for this worthy project.

The Rotary Grant will fund an entryway and artwork for the forest which will serve as a community gathering place and host educational programs. 

This Miyawaki Urban Forest History Project aims to create a beautiful and sustainable urban forest that celebrates the history of the area and promotes environmental awareness. The entryway and artwork will reflect the rich history of the community and provide a welcoming entrance for visitors. 

The Rotary Grant will help to fund this important project and ensure its success. With the support of the community and organizations like Rotary, the Miyawaki Urban Forest History Project is sure to become a valuable asset for the Shoreline community and a source of pride for years to come.

Environmental Rotary Club president, Kimberly Peterson commented, “We are excited to be a part of this community-driven project which was developed by a group of people invested in preserving the natural world and highlighting Indigenous relationships to our landscapes.”

Miyawaki Urban Forests are a unique type of urban forest developed by Japanese botanist, Dr. Akira Miyawaki. These compact forests are not only beautiful, but they also provide a host of benefits to the environment and to the people who live in urban areas. 

Unlike traditional urban forests, which are often composed of just one or two species of trees, Miyawaki Urban Forests are composed of a diverse mix of native trees and shrubs, planted closely together in a small area. This high-density planting method allows the forest to grow quickly and become self-sustaining in just a few years.

One of the key benefits of Miyawaki Urban Forests is their ability to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. 

The high-density planting method allows these forests to store up to 40 times more carbon than traditional urban forests. 

Additionally, these forests also provide many other benefits including the reduction of urban heat island effects, reduced air and noise pollution, and improved biodiversity. Overall, Miyawaki Urban Forests are an innovative and effective way to improve urban environments while also mitigating the effects of climate change.

By involving community members in the planning, planting, and maintenance of the forest, the project will help to build a sense of community and collective responsibility. 

Additionally, by documenting the history of the project and the community members involved, the project will help to preserve and celebrate the unique cultural heritage of the area. 

Overall, a Miyawaki Urban Forest History Project provides a range of benefits to the community it serves, from mitigating the effects of climate change to improving the health and well-being of community members.

The forest will be planted on the land adjacent to the Museum at N 185th and Linden Ave N in Shoreline.

Other resources:
Funder and Landscape designer:

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Garden Hotline Event: Safe and Healthy Edible Gardening November 15, 2023


Safe and Healthy Edible Gardening
Wednesday, November 15, 5:30pm

Richmond Beach Library

Edible gardening is increasing in popularity, and it is important to know how to determine if the site, soil and containers you have chosen for growing food are safe to use. In this workshop, learn how to choose safe materials for building raised beds, determine how healthy your soil is and when it is important to test for toxins in the soils.


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Holy Rosary Holiday Fair November 10-12, 2023 in Edmonds

Holy Rosary holiday fair

The Holy Rosary Edmonds Holiday Fair sponsored by the Women’s Association is set for November 10-12, 2023 at the church’s pastoral center in Edmonds.

All are invited to browse new and gently used treasures featuring Christmas decorations, household goods, handcrafted items, collectables, jewelry, games, toys, and more. 

Homemade pies and baked goods will be for sale, with light lunch and snacks available on Friday, lunch on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday.

  • Friday, Nov. 10, 1 - 4pm 
  • Saturday Nov. 11, 9am - 4pm
  • Sunday, Nov. 12, 8:30am - 1:30pm

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ShoreLake Arts camps for kids on Veterans Day Friday November 10, 2023


Looking for a fun, creative way for your kids to spend Veterans Day?

ShoreLake Arts has you covered!

Our ShoreLake Arts camps allow students to work with professional artists to make art, learn creative skills, and have tons of fun! 

This year’s Veterans Day camps will be on Friday, November 10 at the Shoreline Center and at Spartan Recreation Center. HURRY- Camps are already more than half full.

Thank you to Spartan Recreation Center and Cascadia Training for making these Camps possible!

More Information and Registration

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The ghost of Halloween

 
Photo by Barbara Twaddell

One last Halloween decoration before we switch to Christmas colors. Barbara Twaddell found this in Richmond Beach and calls the photo: Just look up!

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Have dinner at McMenamins Tavern on the Square November 7, 2023 to support Wonderland

Have dinner on November 7, 2023 at McMenamins Tavern on the Square in Bothell to support Wonderland

50% of all proceeds between 5pm and 10pm will be donated to Wonderland! All ages are welcome. 

Please note: reservations are highly encouraged and can be made here.

Wonderland, headquartered in the Richmond Beach neighborhood in Shoreline, serves families from four school districts, providing services and support for developmentally delayed and disabled children and their families. 

Wonderland’s Hope RISING Clinic is the only comprehensive prenatal substance exposure clinic for children in Washington state.

McMenamins Tavern on the Square is located at 18607 Bothell Way NE, Bothell WA 98011 


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Explore Nature Poetry of Mary Oliver in online class beginning Monday November 6, 2023

Mary Oliver is one of America's premier nature poets. She spent a lifetime deeply considering such topics as presence, life, loss, grace, silence, and longing - and celebrates the beauty, transformation, the wonder of nature. 

Learn about her expressive writing in her book "Devotions" from the comfort of your couch!

Robert Stahl has been teaching Continuing Education classes at Seattle-area colleges for several decades. 

He has previously taught poetry classes on Mary Oliver, Emily Dickinson, Rilke, Rumi, and Haiku poetry. He has also taught courses on Buddhism, Taoism, and Zen.

Dates: 11/6 - 11/27 (4 Mondays)
Times: 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Fee: $99.00
Room: Online



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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Dia de los Muertos

The Day of the Dead (Spanish: el Día de Muertos or el Día de los Muertos)[2][3] is a holiday traditionally celebrated on November 1 and 2, though other days, such as October 31 or November 6, may be included depending on the locality.[4][5][6] 

It is widely observed in Mexico, where it largely developed, and is also observed in other places, especially by people of Mexican heritage. 

Although related to the simultaneous Christian remembrances for Hallowtide,[1] it has a much less solemn tone and is portrayed as a holiday of joyful celebration rather than mourning.[7] 

Some argue that there are Indigenous Mexican or ancient Aztec influences that account for the custom, and it has become a way to remember those forebears of Mexican culture. The multi-day holiday involves family and friends gathering to pay respects and to remember friends and family members who have died. These celebrations can take a humorous tone, as celebrants remember funny events and anecdotes about the departed.[8]

Traditions connected with the holiday include honoring the deceased using calaveras and marigold flowers known as cempazúchitl, building home altars called ofrendas with the favorite foods and beverages of the departed, and visiting graves with these items as gifts for the deceased.[9] 

The celebration is not solely focused on the dead, as it is also common to give gifts to friends such as candy sugar skulls, to share traditional pan de muerto with family and friends, and to write light-hearted and often irreverent verses in the form of mock epitaphs dedicated to living friends and acquaintances, a literary form known as calaveras literarias.[10]

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Free clothing at Shoreline Teen Center Friday afternoon November 3, 2023

Wednesday, November 1, 2023


Free event at the Shoreline Teen Center Friday, November 3, 2023 from 2:30 to 6pm.

Come to gym at the Richmond Highlands Rec Center 16554 Fremont Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133 after school and check out what’s on offer!

We will have 100% free, second hand clothing from shoes to jackets and more. Come browse and shop for free.

As per usual we will also have video games, billiards, ping pong, and plenty of food to enjoy while you hang out.

This event is open to all 6th through 12th grade!

Open Friday 2:30 to 9:00pm


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Daylight Saving Time ends this weekend and PSE offers tips to keep energy costs down

PSE offers tips for the end of Daylight Saving Time - Sunday November 4, 2023 at 2am

It’s the time of the year again for big jackets, warm drinks and setting your clocks to fall back an hour.

The winter season is quickly approaching and Puget Sound Energy (PSE) is providing tips for customers to keep energy costs down during the colder, darker months.

Get smart with your thermostat.

You can save as much as 10% a year by simply turning your thermostat down 7-10°F for 8 hours a day. Install and properly set a smart thermostat to make this happen automatically. PSE also offers discounted smart thermostats on the PSE Marketplace.

Weatherize and replace old insulation.

Proper weatherization can save more than $200 a year in reduced heating and cooling costs. 

Insulation is like a blanket for your home – the heavier the blanket, the warmer your home will be in the winter. 

Even adding insulation to a newer home can pay for itself within a few years. 

You can put sweeps along the bottom of your doors or purchase and install inexpensive window sealing kit to block cold drafts. PSE also offers a variety of rebates on weatherization upgrades and window replacements.

Optimize your heating system

Heating can account for up to 60% of monthly energy costs. Schedule a check-up for your heating system to make sure it’s running as smoothly as possible. 

If you have a furnace, check and clean your filters regularly to optimize your equipment’s performance. 

Replacing an inefficient heating system can also help you save on energy bills and improve the comfort of your home. PSE's rebates can make the purchase of an energy-efficient heating system easier on your wallet. Learn more at pse.com/heating.

Update outdoor lighting with LEDs.

Now is the time to check outdoor lights as extreme temperatures can shorten the lifespan of lightbulbs. If you can, replace traditional incandescent lighting with LED fixtures, which use 6 times less energy.

Download PSE’s mobile app before bad weather hits.

Find information on power outages, monitor your energy use and pay bills – all from your fingertips! The myPSE app is available for free in your app store now.

Whether you're buying a home, remodeling or just looking to spend less, you can use PSE’s rebates and offers to save on energy efficiency upgrades. The more efficient your home becomes, the lower your bills can get. Learn more at pse.com/lower.


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