Shoreline Winter Market Saturday December 16, 2023

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

The annual Shoreline Winter Market will take place on Saturday, December 16, 2023 from 10am - 2pm at the Shoreline Park & Ride at N 192nd and Aurora

Bundle up and join us for our last market of 2023! This holiday harvest market will offer food gifts, crafts, music, and warm drinks.


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St. Dunstan's hosts the touring company of Taproot Theater in their production of A Christmas Carol

St. Dunstan's hosts the touring company of Taproot Theater in their production of A Christmas Carol on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 7pm

Experience the timeless tale of Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the Ghosts of Christmas - in Mr. Dickens’ own words! 
With enduring relevance, this story of redemption continues to captivate audiences across generations. Watch as one incredible night thaws the icy heart of the world’s most infamous humbug. 
And may God bless us, every one.

Stay after to meet the players and share some Christmas treats with us. Childcare available

Suggested Donation: $5 student, $15 adult, $30 family. All proceeds go to support the St. Dunstan’s Feeding Program

December 15, 2023, 7:00pm at St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church 722 N 145th St Shoreline, WA 98133. Near the Aurora & 145th St. E Line Stop


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House fire in Shoreline Saturday, December 9, 2023

House fire Saturday in Shoreline
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Saturday December 9, 2023 at 1:37am, Shoreline fire crews were dispatched to reports of a residential structure fire at 600 block of N 178th St in Shoreline. Upon arrival, most of the second floor was fully involved. All residents and pets had safely evacuated.

Fire crews quickly knocked down a majority of the fire, while simultaneously, the ladder and aid crew went to the roof for vertical ventilation. Multiple crews cycled through the structure for overhaul. 

Snohomish County and Seattle units arrived on the scene but were not utilized. The fire scene was then turned over to the Shoreline Fire investigator.

This fire was minutes away from becoming defensive, but the quick and aggressive work of the crews saved the home.

There were no working smoke alarms. No injuries to residents or firefighters. Cause is under investigation, but appears to have started in a bedroom. Possible electrical fire.


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Ridgecrest Neighborhood Holiday Food Drive for Hopelink - Shoreline's Food Bank

Ridgecrest Neighborhood Holiday Food Drive for Hopelink - Shoreline's Food Bank. 

You can take items to Cafe Aroma or Drumlin or donate funds via the Ridgecrest website.

The Food Drive is going on now through the end of December. Please donate non-perishable food items and personal care items. The goal is to collect 1,300 lbs. 

Go to the website to make cash donations. The goal is to raise $1,300.

Food and personal care items can be dropped off at:
Welcome donations include:
  • Non-expired packaged or canned food
  • Personal Care items such as diapers, toilet paper, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, lotion, shaving cream, razors
  • And don't forget the pets; Pet Food products both canned and dry


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Lake Forest Park council meetings on Thursday will honor departing councilmember and mayor and take care of yearend business

The City Council of Lake Forest Park will hold a reception for Councilmember Phillippa Kassover and Mayor Jeff Johnson at a special meeting on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 5:30pm.

The regular council meeting at 7pm will confirm Tree Board and Planning Commission members, and appoint a Community Development Director. 

The council will consider issues of residential parking and street racing.

Instructions for attending the meeting virtually and/or making comments HERE  The in person session will be held in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 17425 Ballinger Way NE Lake Forest Park, WA 98155


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Advance notice: Shoreline to offer Citywise workshops in 2024

Have you ever wondered who maintains our parks? Or how the City creates a budget or plans for changing traffic volumes? 

In 2024 all this and more will be covered in a series of eight informational two hr sessions to be held on Tuesday evenings from February evening 28 through April 16, 2024. 

Applications will not be available until January 30, 2024. Then the deadline for submitting applications is February 16. 

CityWise is free of charge, and open to residents, employees, business owners, and students aged 16 and older in Shoreline.

Got to: shorelinewa.gov/citywise for information or Email cperenyi@shorelinewa.gov with questions.


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Volunteer with the Green Shoreline Partnership in Shoreline parks


Volunteer to help do ecological restoration with the Green Shoreline Partnership - Invest in our city's future urban forests! 

Volunteer at a city park near you. Work parties on various days of the week available at parks throughout the city. 

Register online at this link. Email stewardship@restorationad.com for more information.


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Gloria's Birds: Hey, Nadia, I didn't know you'd be here today!

Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

Wanna hang out over a cuppa joe after lunch?

(Red-breasted Nuthatches can be the friendliest sort...)

--Gloria Z. Nagler


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Jobs: WSDOT Air Quality, Acoustics, & Energy Tech Manager (TPS5)

WSDOT
Air Quality, Acoustics, & Energy Tech Manager (TPS5)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$86,158 - $115,920 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking an Air Quality, Acoustics and Energy Technical Manager (Transportation Planning Specialist 5 (TPS 5)) in Shoreline, WA. 

This position represents WSDOT as the statewide agency technical expert on air quality, acoustics, and energy technical studies, greenhouse gas emissions, hydroacoustics, and pavement noise measurement techniques. Responsible for statewide noise policy development, research, and implementation relating to the hydroacoustic program and land-based noise effects on species. 

Oversees a team of professional analysts who conduct air quality, acoustics, and energy studies for all WSDOT regions, modes (including ferries, rail, aviation), and outside organizations like Sound Transit. Oversees external agency air, noise and energy studies for transportation projects involving local agencies, transit, and developers statewide. Expanded responsibilities to oversee noise and air quality related compliance implementation for construction.

Job description and application


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Blue Christmas - A Service of Lament and Healing

Blue Christmas - A Service of Lament and Healing
Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at 7pm
St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church 722 N 145th St, Shoreline WA 98133 (map)

While some are dreaming of a white Christmas, others are feeling blue. Sometimes Christmas can be hard. 

Maybe you lost someone you loved, or you just can’t seem to muster the holiday spirit. 

This service will offer a time of lament, to offer our struggles and grief to God, and a time of healing. The service has times of silence, thoughtful readings, and some simple chanted music from Taizé. Come to find comfort, peace, and healing.


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Shoreline CC’s Professional Music Faculty teaching private lessons in Winter 2024

Shoreline Music Faculty are offering private, non-credit, music and voice lessons Winter quarter 2024. 

Learn to play the piano, saxophone, trumpet, percussion/drums, bass guitar, guitar, ukelele, or to sing for fun or professionally! 

Lessons are flexible, reasonably priced and non-credit. 

Check out the fantastic faculty professional biographies and private lessons options here: Individual Instrument Instruction (campusce.net). Classes are usually held on campus in the #800 Music building at mutually determined dates and times.

Shoreline Community College 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133 206-546-4538. Parking costs dependent on class scheduling.

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Seattle Police arrest two suspects involved in the distribution of narcotics in the North End

Drugs confiscated and dealers arrested
Photo courtesy Seattle PD

Seattle Police arrested two suspects involved in the distribution of narcotics in the University District, Ballard, Aurora corridor in Northgate, and Bitter Lake communities.

For three months, SPD’s Narcotics detectives and agents with Homeland Security conducted investigations and surveillance of two suspects known for distributing fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroine throughout the city of Seattle, Snohomish County, and Skagit County.

On Wednesday November 22, 2023 starting at 5:00am, SPD and HSI served warrants on the suspect’s residences, a storage locker, and vehicles associated with the suspects. The suspects were located at their respective residence and taken into custody.

After completion of all the search warrants, the law enforcement agencies recovered the following: 
  • 4,162 grams of fentanyl pills (approximately 41,000 fentanyl pills)
  • 2,261.9 grams of methamphetamine (5 pounds)
  • 82.7 grams of cocaine (over half pound)
  • 1,762.8 grams of powder fentanyl (3.9 pounds)
  • $42,441 in US currency
  • Rifle ammunition
  • 1 Vehicle
The 21-year-old male suspect was booked into Snohomish County Jail and the 26-year-old male suspect into King County Jail. Both were arrested for three counts of possession with intent to deliver cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl in powder and pill form.


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Holiday Farmers Market & Crafts Fair at Third Place Commons this Sunday December 17, 2023


This Sunday, December 17 is your last chance in 2023 to shop the bounty of the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market and the ever-popular Holiday Crafts Fair, presented by Third Place Commons.

The special December farmers market will feature many of your favorite regular season vendors and plenty of options for yummy, fresh, and locally grown produce, fish, baked goods, sweet treats, and more. You’re sure to leave with lots of delicious goodies for your upcoming holiday meals.

Still looking for that one big show-stopper gift? Need a few, final stocking stuffers to finish off your list? Look no further! Whatever you’re shopping for, the Holiday Crafts Fair will have it.

Over 30 Washington artists and crafters will offer a dizzying array of handcrafted jewelry, home décor, candles, soaps, and holiday novelties. From fine arts to fabric arts and wearables, the phrase “something for everyone” just might have been invented for this occasion!

Before you shop, or while you're on a shopping break, enjoy the Milner Family Fiddles onstage in the Commons from 10:30 to noon. Then downstairs, you'll be serenaded by the classical guitar of Mark Wilson from noon to 2pm.

Once again, the crafts fair will take place in the lower lobby of the Town Center while you’ll find the farmers market and some bonus crafts vendors outside in the regular market location. Both events take place from 10am to 2pm.

SNAP recipients can still spend your SNAP benefits at the LFP Farmers Market and get them matched up to $25! Just stop by the info table inside the Crafts Fair to get your tokens and SNAP Market Match before heading over to the market.

This is also your last chance to use those 2023 Market Bucks, so bring them to the market this weekend and use them this Sunday, December 17th from 10-2. See you at the market!

Third Place Commons is a community-supported 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, which has been fostering real community in real space for over twenty years through the farmers market and hundreds of free public events each year. Third Place Commons is located at 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park, Washington 98155. Learn more at ThirdPlaceCommons.org.


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Christmas lights in Lake Forest Park

Monday, December 11, 2023

Holiday lights are on 39th Ave NE, LFP
Photo by David Walton

Reindeer are on 37th Ave NE, LFP
Photo by David Walton

Dragon is on 32nd Ave NE, LFP
Photo by David Walton

As a wildlife photographer, it is interesting to see this dragon and these reindeer in the neighborhood.  Migration patterns are interesting, as they typically appear here in December only.🤪

The house with the lights is also quite the display.

--David Walton


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Off leash dog parks. Who wants them?

Dogs at the Richmond Beach Saltwater Park off-leash area
Photo by Nic Cross

By Pam Cross

Off leash dog parks. Who wants them?

You probably think the dogs want them. You might be wrong. What is wrong with them?

Ask a dog: do you like off leash parks?
  • Reply: Off leash parks are boring.
Granted, not every dog park can compete with Marymoor off-leash park (aka Disneyland for Dogs).
  • Reply: But most off leash parks are boring.
A lot of them are advertised as having views.
  • Reply: What’s a view? And there is nothing to dooo (whining). Nothing to sniff at. No trails to follow. Chase a ball? I don’t chase balls. And if I did, a bunch of other dogs would run after *my* ball and take it away.What happens anyway? You get the ball, bring it back, and they throw it again! In the same place.
So mostly I gang up with other dogs my size and pick on the new guys. Scare the timid dogs. Terrify the smaller dogs. Scrum City!

And my owner/best friend who brought me here? They are leaning against the fence looking at their phone. They didn’t even see me bring down that spotted dog that I didn’t like.

Ask a dog owner

Designing an off leash park doesn’t require adding special agility equipment. Most owners and dogs don’t know how to use it correctly and it largely just sits there unused. 

What even the smallest off leash park needs is a trail - even if it’s just gravel along the fence, where owners can walk with their dog while the dog runs a short distance away to sniff a bush or a large rock or a tree stump, and then comes back to tell its owner about it. 

Small bushes planted in groups in the park will break the line of sight between dogs. They provide a visual barrier to prevent confrontation as well as something of interest for the dogs to explore. Maybe there’s a discarded treat hidden in there. Or a squirrel!

If you look where people take their dogs to play, dogs who chase balls need to go to a plain park with few trees and bushes so they have room to run. The smaller and timid dogs tend to meander and are more interested in looking at different objects. They look at the other dogs to see if they recognize anybody.

Shoreline is buying property throughout the city for the future development of parks. This undeveloped land could easily be converted to temporary off-leash parks with the addition of fencing and a trash can for the doggy bags. 

The dogs will develop the trails as they walk around, and their owners will assist in keeping the foliage down while they walk with their dogs. The city can post a sign that states “This land is for the future development of a park.” 

And in 10 years when funding is available to develop the park, the off-leash use will be discontinued.


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46th Legislative District Rep. Darya Farivar to hold a coffee on Saturday December 16, 2023


Rep. Darya Farivar invites her 46th LD constituents to met her for coffee or tea on Saturday, December 16, 2023 from 11am – 1pm, at Zoka Coffee 2200 N. 56th St, Seattle, WA. 

With less than five weeks to go until the 2024 legislative session commences, this is a great opportunity to share your thoughts on the issues that matter most to you. I’ll also be sharing my legislative priorities thanks to the great feedback of our community. 

If you won’t be able to attend, please consider sharing your legislative priorities with me in this short survey. 


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What's wrong with this picture?

 
Photo by PDH

What's wrong with the photo?

This rhody has not bloomed for a decade. I forgot what color it was.

It always was the last of my rhodys to bloom but for a long time it either did not bloom at all or it produced a couple of blooms that quickly shriveled up, turned brown, and dropped.

This year, with our extended dry period, my lawn didn't grow (yea! no mowing!) but come October, this rhody started to bloom. It kept its blossoms until the weather changed on December 1, 2023.

The blossoms are still there and look good from a distance, but they have shriveled ever so slightly.

It's my youngest rhody, having the distinction of being the only thing we have deliberately planted that lived.

It has managed to maintain during a couple of rain storms so I hope it will keep going for a while.

--Diane Hettrick

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Modern Glaze Holiday Open House 2023

Modern Glaze Holiday Open House December 16-17

By Oliver Moffat

Modern Glaze, a Shoreline ceramics studio and gallery, will host a holiday open house and sale on Saturday and Sunday, December 16-17, 2023 from Noon to 5pm at their location 14800 Westminster Way N, Shoreline WA 98133

Laura Brodax ceramic wares

The open house will feature new and classic ceramic works by Kathryn Berd, Laura Brodax, Deborah Caplow, Janet Galore, and Ernest Hilsenberg as well as collage work by Sedora deBondt and more.

Pottery sale at Open House

Established in 2019 by ceramic artist Laura Brodax, Modern Glaze is a working ceramic studio and gallery showing contemporary ceramics by local and regional clay artists. 

Modern souvenir plates

Located in the Westminster triangle neighborhood of Shoreline, Modern Glaze is part of the movement to bolster the arts in the North King County region. The studio accepts commissions for residential, commercial, and public art tile murals as well as custom ceramic wares. 

More information available online at on their webpage


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Real Estate Market Snapshot for November 2023 - Reduced inventory motivates increased home prices in state

KIRKLAND, Washington – December 6, 2023 – Northwest Multiple Listing Services (NWMLS), the source for the most current, accurate market listing data in Washington state, today released its Market Snapshot for the month of November 2023.

Market Recap

A slight decrease in interest rates has raised cautious optimism – interest rates now sit at around 7.2%, in comparison to 7.8% in October 2023, and a continuation of that decrease would have a positive impact on the market in general. 

However, the decline in seasonal inventory continues to drive home prices upward, spurring an increase of 4.6% in prices from November 2022:

  • NWMLS brokers reported 4,367 closed sales in November 2023, which is a 16% drop from closed sales in November 2022 (5,194). 
    • However, this is a slight improvement from October’s year-over-year change in closed sales, which decreased 18% when compared to October 2022.
  • While most counties in the NWMLS report (19 of 26) saw a decrease in the number of homes sold, seven of the counties saw a year-over-year increase, including Grant, Okanogan, Kittitas, Walla Walla, San Juan, Adams and Ferry counties.
  • The median sales price increased year-over-year in 21 of the 26 total counties included in the statistical report. 
    • Overall, the median price for homes sold in November 2023 was $601,341, up 4.6% when compared to November 2022 ($575,000). 
    • The three counties with the highest median priced homes sold were San Juan ($975,000), King ($799,925) and Snohomish ($703,635). The three counties with the lowest median priced homes sold were Grant ($327,999), Ferry ($313,750) and Adams ($221,500).
  • When compared to the same month last year, November 2023 experienced a 17% decrease in the number of active property listings on the market. The total volume of homes for sale has continued to decline, with 19 out of 26 counties seeing a year-over-year decrease.

Although the number of sales transactions and housing inventory levels typically drop in the fall and winter months, the expected seasonal slow-down continues to be exacerbated by the high interest rate environment for buyers relying on mortgages.
“With the 30-year fixed mortgage rate currently just over 7.2%, the purchasing power of prospective buyers remains stunted relative to a few short years ago,” said Mason Virant, associate director of the Washington Center for Real Estate Research at The University of Washington. 
“Moreover, current owners with low-rate mortgages continue to be reluctant to sell. This has led to a continued decline in year-over-year transaction volume and the inventory levels in the market.”

Market Statistics
See the amount of active inventory, number of pending and sold listings and median price last month compared to the same month last year - by MLS coverage and by county - with interactive graphics. Reports are in PDF format by county.

Visual Data Reports
View data reports of the market including listings, sales and inventory over the last five years. Data can be filtered by county, year-over-year or year-to-date and property type.

Link to: 

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Executive Constantine announces 52 conservation investment projects

One year after King County voters approved Executive Dow Constantine’s initiative to accelerate land conservation, he announced $109 million for 52 projects that will increase climate resiliency and access to open space, and advance food sovereignty where there is the greatest need.

The conservation investments – approved by the King County Council – double the amount approved last year. Another reason for the sharp increase is that King County cut in half the amount of matching funds that partners are required to bring to the table. This unlocks additional conservation funding available from the voter approved King County Parks Levy and other funding sources.

“King County is fulfilling its bold vision to secure farmland and preserve open space for future generations. This $109 million in new projects prioritizes equitable access to green spaces, including creating opportunities for farmers from communities that historically have been locked out of land access,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine. 
“These projects accelerate our investment in saving the last, best open space resources that make our region livable and special.”

Working with willing landowners, projects that receive funding advance the Strategic Climate Action Plan, Land Conservation Initiative, Local Food Initiative, and Clean Water Healthy Habitat. It will protect a total of 3,000 acres.

The County Council on Tuesday approved the allocation plan developed by Executive Constantine, who based his proposal on recommendations from the Conservation Futures Advisory Committee.

Among the projects was the purchase of the last undeveloped piece of waterfront property on Echo Lake in Shoreline.



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Shorewood Girls wrestling place 12th at Valkyrie Invitational

SW girls (l-r) Aly Fellores, Libby Norton, Izzy Crave, Ellie Van Horn, Kiyomi Hakuno, Finley Houck. Photo by Brady Houck 

By Tricia Norton

The Shorewood girls took a small squad to Lake Stevens on Saturday December 9, 2023 to the Valkyrie Invitational.

Libby Norton 2nd Place & Finley Houck 3rd Place Winners.
Photo by Brady Houck

Several of the Stormray girls had other commitments during this busy holiday season, so with only five competitors in the varsity bracket, they nearly broke into the top 10.

Izzy Crave 2nd Place Winner.
Photo by Brady Houck
Juniors Libby Norton (115 lbs) and Izzy Crave (155 lbs) took 2nd place. Sophomore Finley Houck (115 lbs) brought home a 3rd place medal. Junior Aly Fellores (155lbs) shared a 5th place finish.

This week the Stormray boys travel to Mountlake Terrace for a dual on December 13, 2023 at 7:00pm. 

The girls are looking forward to redemption at Edmonds Woodway on December 14 at 7:00pm after losing in their second meeting last season. 

Shorewood JV boys will be wrestling at the Woodinville JV tournament on Saturday December 16.

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Introducing Shorecrest girls' wrestling Senior Captains

Sunday, December 10, 2023

Alexa Ruy-Aguilar
Introducing the 2023-2024 SCHS Girls Wrestling Senior Captains: Alexa Ruy-Aguilar and Becca Rhodes

Alexa Joined the SC squad last year and is “all-in” on team communications, team morale, fundraising efforts, and logistical support. 

She is also the foster daughter of Brent Busby - SC teacher and former Head Wrestling Coach of Shorecrest High School.


Becca Rhodes
Becca Rhodes started wrestling at age 6 with the Rhinos and continued through age 10. 

She took a brief detour into recreational soccer and dancing, then jumped back into wrestling her Freshman year. 

She is a two time regional qualifier, placing top 5 in districts both her sophomore and junior year.

Becca is also the younger sister of Thomas Rhodes (SC Wrestling Captain 2021-2022).

These two young women are honored and excited to lead the largest girls’ wrestling team (10 registered female wrestlers) in the history of Shorecrest HS.


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For the Birds: There’s Snow in the Valley -- Snow Geese that is…

Snow Geese landing. Note the black wingtips.
Photo by Ray Hamlyn
By Christine Southwick

Snow Geese have returned to Skagit Valley, one of their prime wintering grounds, near Fir Island and northward to Port Susan Bay Preserve. They spend their summer breeding on the Russian island of Wrangel, 3,000 miles away.

Snow Geese are a North American species, with both lesser (western), and Greater (eastern) subspecies, all of which breed in various parts of the Arctic Tundra. They start arriving in late September and usually leave in late March.

Snow Geese can be identified by their black tips on the underside of their wings. Snow Geese have a black edge along their bills - it almost looks like someone ran a black crayon between the upper and lower bills. 

Their legs and feet are rose-colored, but their legs and heads are often stained a rusty-brown from the minerals in the soil.

The rich farmland in Skagit County supports approximately 100,000 Snow Geese in their large wintering and migration flocks. It’s a treat to see these white geese with black under-wing tips land in nearby fields. 

They are very vocal and can be heard more than a mile away from where they are foraging.

Flock by the road. Photo by Doug Parrott

A Snow Goose usually forms a lifelong pair bond in its second year and starts raising its annual three to five goslings in its third year. The females return to their hatching grounds to breed their young. The babies leave the nest and start feeding themselves within hours of hatching but stay under their parents’ protection for the next two to three years.

Snow Geese forage by using their sharp beaks to pick up seeds and rip vegetation from the ground. Because of their increase in numbers they are starting to destroy some of their winter habitat.

Snow Geese may be hunted between October through January in Washington State, so be aware of your surroundings if you go viewing where hunting is permitted. Hunters that I have seen have obvious locations and are required to shoot upward.

The Skagit Valley is a major wintering site for Snow Geese, Trumpeter Swans, and Tundra Swans. It is well worth the trip to go see and hear the flocks. There is an annual Port Susan Snow Goose and Birding Festival in February at the Nature Conservancy’s Port Susan Bay Preserve.

Just remember to pull off the much-used rural roads, don't approach the flocks, and respect the property rights of the local landowners.

Previous For the Birds columns can be seen here


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King County Library System Foundation awarded $800,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation to develop Memory Labs in Makerspace Libraries

The King County Library System Foundation received an $800,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation, which supports communities through the power of the arts and humanities. 

The funding will be used to house two Memory Labs at the King County Library System (KCLS). 

One Memory Lab will be located in the Bellevue Library Makerspace and the other will be in the Federal Way Library Makerspace.

KCLS will work with community partners during the Memory Lab project to gather, amplify and preserve the stories of patrons who have been impacted by systemic inequities, and language and cultural barriers. 

The five-year project will focus on two key audiences: Asian Americans and their descendants in the Bellevue area who were displaced from their homes and farms during World War II, and immigrants and refugees who now call King County home.

Beginning in 2026, KCLS will record participants’ stories in the sound booths at both Makerspace locations. The collection of stories will be archived on the KCLS website and through StoryCorps, a national nonprofit dedicated to recording, preserving and sharing stories. 

In 2028, KCLS will host two events — one at each Makerspace — to showcase the Memory Lab stories.

“The Mellon Foundation has provided us with an incredible opportunity to honor patrons through storytelling,” stated KCLS Foundation Executive Director Lisa Yamasaki. “We’re excited to help shine a light on the moments and narratives that have shaped our communities.”

To learn more about the Memory Lab project and find out how to participate, contact KCLS-MemoryLab@kcls.org.

Founded in 1942, the King County Library System (KCLS) is one of the busiest public library systems in the country. Supporting the communities of King County (outside the city of Seattle), KCLS has 50 libraries and serves 1.6 million people. 

Locally, King County Libraries are in Richmond Beach, Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, and Bothell.

In 2022, residents checked out 7.9 million digital eBooks and audiobooks through OverDrive, making KCLS the second-highest digital circulating library system in the U.S. 

In 2011, KCLS was named Library of the Year by Gale/Library Journal.


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Olympic Ballet Theatre Presents The Nutcracker December 14-20, 2023

Alberto Gaspar and Taylor Lim
Nutcracker, Olympic Ballet Theatre

December 14-20, 2023 at the Edmonds Center for the Arts

Edmonds, WA – Olympic Ballet Theatre (OBT) presents the annual production of The Nutcracker, at the Edmonds Center for the Arts.

The Nutcracker is one of the most famous classical ballets and a holiday tradition for many, telling the story of a little girl named Clara, her mysterious godfather Herr Drosselmeyer, a very special nutcracker, and a magical night’s journey. 

This production of The Nutcracker features choreography by OBT artistic directors Mara Vinson and Oleg Gorboulev, sets designed by Jeannette Franz, Ruth Gilmore, and Phillip Lineau, and iconic music scored by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Frank Borg and Olympic Ballet Theatre students

OBT’s production of The Nutcracker features a cast of over 100 performers, including professional OBT company dancers in principal roles and select Olympic Ballet School students.

The Nutcracker performances are scheduled at the Edmonds Center for the Arts from December 14 through December 20. Tickets range from $27 to $55 and tickets are available here or at 425-774-7570.

In addition to the full-length performances, OBT offers morning matinee productions. Perfect for kids and adults of all ages, these abridged performances (1 hour and 15 minutes) are $10 per person for groups of 20 or more. 

This production includes an “Introduction to the Magic of Theatre” intermission segment, giving audience members a special behind-the-scenes demonstration of scenery, lighting, costumes, and props. Matinee performances are Thursday, December 14, and Friday, December 15 at the Edmonds Center for the Arts. 

For more information or group reservations, call 425-774-7570 or email dance@olympicballet.org

Olympic Ballet Theatre. The Nutcracker

2023 NUTCRACKER PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Edmonds Center for the Arts
  • Thursday, December 14, 10:30 am (abridged matinee)
  • Friday, December 15, 10:30 am (abridged matinee)
  • Friday, December 15, 7:00 pm
  • Saturday, December 16, 2:00 pm
  • Saturday, December 16, 7:00 pm
  • Sunday, December 17, 5:00 pm
  • Monday, December 18, 2:00 pm
  • Tuesday, December 19, 2:00 pm
  • Wednesday, December 20, 2:00 pm

Frank Borg and student

ABOUT OLYMPIC BALLET THEATRE

Olympic Ballet Theatre is a professional ballet company presenting four classical and contemporary ballet productions during each performance season. 

Founded 42 years ago and now under the leadership of co-artistic directors Mara Vinson and Oleg Gorboulev, OBT has become a mainstay of the north Puget Sound arts scene, regularly touring theaters in Everett and Edmonds. 

With the support of local patrons and organizations, OBT brings high-quality original and classical ballet productions featuring renowned and emerging choreographers. OBT offers audiences of all ages opportunities to experience the joy and the magic of ballet with affordable ticket pricing, intimate venues, and a diverse repertoire of performances.

OLYMPIC BALLET THEATRE
700 Main Street, Edmonds, WA 98020 | 425.774.7570 | OlympicBallet.org


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NE Perkins Way in Lake Forest Park shut down Friday after car hits power pole

After a single vehicle collision with a power pole on NE Perkins Way in Lake Forest Park on Friday, December 8, 2023, the road was shut down between 23rd and 35th Ave NE. 

City Light had to send crews to replace the pole and restore the lines.

There were no reported injuries.

No visual is available.      


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Shoreline Community College Foundation annual fundraising event raises over $100K for student support

The annual fundraiser for the Shoreline Community College Foundation
Photo courtesy Shoreline Community College

On Friday, November 3, 2023, the Shoreline Community College Foundation hosted its annual fundraising event in support of students and programs at SCC. With 225 guests, 20 volunteers, and 34 individual and corporate sponsors, $107,682 was raised.

During the event, College President, Dr. Jack Kahn, gave a brief overview of the economic impact of the college on our local community and as part of the State and National economies. 

Dr. Kahn's remarks showed the importance that access to an affordable high-quality education represents, not just for the economy, but also the fabric of the community. As he explained, "we can change lives here."

The keynote was given by Emily Portillo, Bridge to Finish Program Manager at the United Way of King County. The United Way of King County partners with Shoreline Community College to connect students with resources that help them stay in and thrive in school. 

Ms. Portillo explained that more than half of community college students live below the poverty line. She added that 48% of students end up leaving school due to cost-of-living expenses. 

Of those living below the poverty line, a disproportionate number are students of color. She ended her address by thanking the donors who help fund the programs and services that help students thrive.

After a short video where two SCC students shared their stories of how financial assistance from donors helped them succeed, Foundation Board Member and SCC Faculty Tony Doupé made an impassioned appeal for support.

The Shoreline Community College Foundation provides more than $600,000 annually in student scholarships and support and is governed by a volunteer board of dedicated community members. The purpose of the SCC Foundation is to raise funds in support of the students and programs at SCC.

Supporters were generous
Photo courtesy SCC
Wendy Coates, Executive Director of the Foundation, thanked the audience for their part in ensuring that Shoreline Community College students will have the resources and support they need to finish school. 

She also expressed thanks for “the dedicated faculty and staff at SCC for the kind and exceptional instruction and care they provide students every day.”

Ms. Coates ended the program by thanking the audience for coming and for giving so generously. 

She asked that as they left, to “think about this - what you did here today was life changing. What you did here today changed the world!”

To discover more about how the Shoreline Community College Foundation supports local students and learn about ways you can assist in that support, visit their webpage 

Follow this link for the video story of how donors impact students at Shoreline Community College.


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Home Tech Hacker: Top 5 Smart Devices for Aging in Place: Enhancing Independence and Safety

Smart home assistant
By Marlon Buchanan

Smart home devices offer invaluable support to ensure their safety and well-being as more seniors choose to age in place and maintain their independence. 

These smart devices promote convenience, comfort, and security. They have lots of benefits for seniors

Let’s explore the top 5 smart devices that empower seniors to age in place confidently.

1. Medical Alert Systems

Medical alert systems top the list of essential smart devices for seniors aging in place. These wearable devices come equipped with an emergency button that, when pressed, connects the senior to a monitoring center or pre-selected contacts. 

In case of a fall or medical emergency, help can be dispatched promptly, providing seniors with reassurance that assistance is always within reach. 

Some advanced models also offer fall detection capabilities, automatically alerting emergency services when a fall is detected and the user may not be able to call for help.

Smart lighting
2. Smart Lighting

Navigating through dimly lit areas can be a challenge for anyone. 

It can be especially problematic for seniors, increasing the risk of accidents and falls. 

Smart lighting solutions help by automatically illuminating spaces as seniors move around their homes. 

Motion-activated lights and smart bulbs can be installed in hallways, bathrooms, and other key areas to provide instant illumination. 

Voice-activated assistants, like Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant, can also be used to control lighting, allowing seniors to adjust brightness without having to reach for switches.

3. Smart Thermostats

Maintaining a comfortable indoor environment is crucial for seniors' well-being, especially considering temperature fluctuations may impact health. 

Smart thermostats enable easy temperature control and can be programmed to adjust heating and cooling schedules according to the senior's preferences and daily routines. 

With remote access via smartphones, seniors can conveniently regulate the temperature from anywhere in their homes, promoting comfort and energy efficiency.

Smoke detector
4. Smart Home Sensors

Smart home sensors play a crucial role in enhancing safety and preventing potential hazards. 

Water leak sensors, for example, can detect leaks and alert seniors to prevent flooding incidents. 

Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide sensors provide early warnings in case of fire or gas leaks, allowing seniors to respond promptly or evacuate if necessary. 

These smart sensors add an extra layer of security and peace of mind for both seniors and their caregivers.

5. Voice Assistants

Voice assistants are incredibly beneficial for seniors as they provide an intuitive and hands-free way to interact with technology. Seniors can use voice commands to set reminders, make phone calls, ask for the weather forecast, or access information. 

The simplicity of using voice assistants eliminates the need for complicated interfaces, making them particularly user-friendly for seniors who may not be familiar with the technology.

The top 5 smart devices for aging in place cater to the unique needs and challenges faced by seniors, empowering them to maintain their independence and security. 

With the help of advanced technology, seniors can confidently age in place, knowing that they have the support they need to navigate their daily lives with ease.

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

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


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Seattle Police seek witnesses to incidents where vehicles purposely targeted and struck pedestrians in North Seattle

Statement from Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz
In late November, police were made aware of two incidents where two separate vehicles purposely targeted and struck pedestrians in North Seattle. The victims have not been identified.

Detectives discovered surveillance footage and cell phone footage of one of the vehicular assaults. On November 26, 2023, at 1:50am the video shows a vehicle targeting a woman and purposely hitting her on North 107th St just west of Aurora Ave N. Multiple people can be seen helping the victim before a car stops, carries the woman to the passenger seat, and drives away.

The second assault happened in the 9600 block of Aurora Ave N. Officers have yet to determine exactly when it occurred, but believe it was around the same time on November 26th. Detectives have attained cell phone video of the assault. In the video, the suspects target a victim walking in the bus lane. The unsuspecting victim is struck from behind and flies over the hood of the car.

The suspect vehicle did not stop in either incident. Based on the speed of the impact, it is likely that the victims suffered serious injury.

Detectives reviewed 911 call records, hospital admissions, and canvassed the area for witnesses, but have not been able to locate the victims.

If anyone has information, please call the SPD Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.


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