Longest Night Service at Edmonds United Methodist Church

Friday, December 15, 2023


Although the Christmas season can be filled with joy and happiness, there are those who find themselves struggling this time of year. 

Often people are dealing with grief, illness, depression, loneliness, or a major life change. 

Others are seeking a more contemplative season, away from the commercialism all around us. 

Each year, Edmonds United Methodist Church at 828 Caspers Street welcomes congregants, friends, and guests from the community to our Longest Night Service. 

During the service, one can reflect and listen to beautiful, healing music. You may also choose to pray with our pastoral staff, light a candle, and find comfort in being anointed. 

Stephen Ministers, who are trained caregivers, will be available to listen and support you during this tender time. 

We hope you will join us Thursday, December 21, 2023 at 6pm in our main sanctuary. We also encourage those who may not be grieving to come and support others who are hurting. All are welcome to experience the comfort and peace this service can give.


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Night work will close on-ramp and lanes on I-5 in Shoreline Saturday

Night closure of northbound I-5 on-ramp, left lanes, and off-ramp

On Saturday, December 16, 2023 Sound Transit will close the northbound I-5 on-ramp at NE 175th Street, the northbound I-5 left lanes between NE 155th St and NE 195th St, and the northbound I-5 off-ramp to SR-104 for a striping refresh. This work is part of the Lynnwood Link Extension.

What: 
  • Closure of northbound I-5 on-ramp at NE 175th Street, the left lanes on northbound I-5 from NE155th Street to NE 195th Street, and the northbound I-5 off-ramp to SR-104. Detour routes are in place for drivers (see map).
  • Crews will work at night to minimize effects on traffic.
  • If the work is delayed, additional ramp closures will be scheduled and a new flyer will be provided to residents.
  • Some bus routes may be affected. Please check the King County Metro website for details.
Where:
  • Northbound I-5 on-ramp at NE 175th St.
  • Northbound I-5 left lanes between NE 155th St and NE 195th St.
  • Northbound I-5 off-ramp to SR-104.
  • See map for detour information.
When:
  • Northbound I-5 left lanes: Saturday, Dec. 16, from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.
  • Northbound I-5 on-ramp at NE 175th St and off-ramp to SR-104:Saturday, Dec. 16, from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.

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Shorewood Girls Wrestling with 6 Quick Pins at Edmonds Woodway Thursday

Team Photo: L-R Top: Tricia Norton, Abi Chishungu, Amelia LaClergue, Ellie Van Horn, Izzy Crave, Cora Morgan, Natalia Pittman, Brady Houck. Bottom Row: Sarah Norton, Aly Fellores, Libby Norton, Finley Houck, Kiyomi Hakuno. Photo by Maren Norton

By Tricia Norton

Thursday’s team score doesn’t tell the whole story of the dual meet at Edmonds Woodway. 

The box score shows a final score of EW 48 and SW 36. But, in matches wrestled, SW pinned 6 Edmonds Woodway opponents, while the Warriors managed only 4 wins. 

Forfeits can really swing the final score in a wrestling match. 

Juniors Libby Norton, Aly Fellores, and Izzy Crave all won in first round pins, as did freshman Abi Chishungu

Sophomores Ellie Van Horn and Finley Houck both pinned their opponents in the 2nd period. 

Several Stormray ladies had their first dual meet matches of the year, including Amelia LaClergue, Sarah Norton, and Natalia Pittman

The Stormray ladies will be adding another wrestler in the next week or so to help round out their lineup. Next week the ladies will face some tough opposition as they head to Lake Stevens for a double dual on Wednesday.

Finley Houck pins her opponent
Photo by Tricia Norton

Box Score:
12/14/23 Shorewood Girls @ Edmonds Woodway

Edmonds Woodway 48 Shorewood 36
Match started at 190

190: Stephanie Cesar (EW) pinned Natalia Pittman
235: Abi Chishungu (SW) pinned Mere Eldridge
100: Daniella Caparroso (EW) received FF
105: Ny Ny Pendleton (EW) received FF
110: Lena Kuebler (EW) received FF
115: Libby Norton (SW) pinned Isabella Caparroso
120: Finley Houck (SW) pinned Evan Wojciechowski
125: Hannah Baldock (EW) received FF
130: Ellie Van Horn (SW) pinned Corbynn Foster
135: Jennifer Reinoso (EW) pinned Amelia LaClergue
140: Aly Fellores (SW) pinned Emily Reed
145: Izzy Crave (SW) pinned Lily Frank
155: Grace Fitting (EW) pinned Cora Morgan
170: Lisa Gauthron (EW) pinned Sarah Norton


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DOH launches interactive tool to connect people to Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program

OLYMPIA – The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Nutrition Program of Washington released an online tool to help people find their closest WIC clinic and apply for benefits. 

The new WIC Clinic Locator map showcases the more than 200 WIC clinics across the state and provides clinic addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation. 

There’s also a new WIC Interest Form people can fill out online and submit to their clinic of choice, who will then contact applicants directly. Health care providers and community-based organizations can also use the form to refer people to the WIC program.

“The WIC Clinic Locator tool is another important step the state of Washington is taking to modernize the WIC Program, and improve equitable access,” said Michele Roberts, Assistant Secretary for Prevention and Community Health, DOH. 
“We know that in our state, as well as nationally, about 50% of people on Medicaid who are also eligible for WIC benefits are not currently enrolled in the program. Our goal with this tool is to spread awareness of WIC, and remove as many barriers as possible.”

WIC provides monthly food benefits with an emphasis on healthy grocery items like milk, fruits, and vegetables. The program also assists with health screenings and referrals, nutritional education, and breast/chest-feeding support. 

WIC is for people who are pregnant, recently delivered a baby, who are breast/chest-feeding, and infants and children under 5 years old. Dads, grandparents, foster parents, or other guardians may also apply for WIC for their children. 

In 2022, Washington’s WIC program served 195,655 people across the state.


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Clogging classes at the Senior Activity Center start off on the right foot

Join the Winter quarter clogging class at the Senior Activity Center
Photo by Maureen Pettit

Clogging (registration ends Dec. 22) for Winter Quarter

Clogging is great exercise for balance, coordination, strength, cardio, and just plain fun! Students progress at their own pace in easygoing classes. Students progress at their own pace in easygoing classes. All ages are welcome! Shoes/taps will be discussed at the first class.

Introduction to Clogging:
Day: Monday - Time: 11:00 am–11:45 am
Member $77
Non-member $99
REGISTER HERE BY DECEMBER 22

Easy Intermediate Clogging:
Day: Monday - Time: 10:00 am–11:00 am
Member $77
Non-member $99
REGISTER HERE BY DECEMBER 22

More information on these courses and the rest of our programs can be found online at ShorelineLFPseniorcenter.org/activities/classes

Registration is filling up for our January and February classes so please register as soon as possible.

The Senior Activity Center is located at 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline WA 98155, the southernmost building on the Shoreline Center campus.


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Start 2024 with a First Day Hikes adventure

Photo courtesy Washington State Parks

Join Washington State Parks on January 1, 2024 for our annual First Day Hikes events — an opportunity for everyone to get outside and enjoy a beautiful state park!

Choose a guided hike, snowshoe excursion, bike or trail ride, dog walk or paddle adventure to enjoy on New Year’s Day.

Hikes will range in difficulty from paved, flat ADA-accessible trails to moderate hill climbs. A few parks will host more than one hike with options tailored to different interests and abilities. 

Additionally, some hikes will include fun and educational talks with rangers, where you can learn about the history and natural features of the parks. 

All participants will receive a collectible Washington State Parks 2024 First Day Hikes pin!

Most First Day Hikes require advanced registration, and group sizes may be limited. Visit our website to view all activities and registration information.

New Year’s Day marks the first Discover Pass free day of 2024. Visitors will not need a Discover Pass to park on state recreation lands. 

If you plan to participate in a First Day Hike at a park that becomes a Sno-Park during the winter (Easton Reload Sno-Park, Fields Spring State Park, Lake Wenatchee State Park and Mount Spokane State Park), a Sno-Park permit is required.

Mark your calendars for our 2024 Discover Pass free days

  • Jan. 1 - First Day Hikes & New Year’s Day
  • Jan. 15 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day
  • March 9 - Billy Frank Jr.’s Birthday
  • March 19 - State Parks’ 111th Birthday
  • April 22 - Earth Day
  • June 8 - National Get Outdoors Day
  • June 9 - Free Fishing Day
  • June 19 - Juneteenth
  • Sept. 28 - National Public Lands Day
  • Oct. 10 - World Mental Health Day
  • Nov. 11 - Veterans Day
  • Nov. 29 - Autumn Day


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If you find an injured or dead animal - call Animal Control

This article is a reprint from 2017

By Paige Garberding

We recently learned through our neighborhood grapevine that a cat matching our missing cat’s description was found dead at the Berean Church, 185th and 1st NE. She had been missing for less than 12 hours.

The pastor found her Friday morning and called Animal Control. Before Animal Control could retrieve her, an unknown person removed her to an unknown location, probably the nearest garbage can, without making any apparent effort to locate her human(s).

Our cat didn't have a collar on but she was chipped and licensed. Had her body been left for Animal Control to pick up, they would have scanned her and notified us.

Had her body not been "disappeared" we could have seen her one last time and possibly determined what befell her. At the very least, we could have brought her home and buried her where she lived and was loved.

So if you find a dead animal with no collar, CALL ANIMAL CONTROL and secure the animal for safekeeping until they arrive. Don't assume it's a stray and don't treat it like garbage even if it does turn out to be a stray.

Consider the possibility that its human doesn't even know it's been killed and is looking for it. If it's injured and you can't find its human, CALL ANIMAL CONTROL* and secure the animal until they arrive. If you're like many of us, you'll take the animal to the closest vet who will scan it for a chip and notify its human(s).

Whatever you do, DON'T throw a dead animal in the garbage! Odds are, that's someone's beloved pet and they'll be heartbroken when they learn their furbaby has died - but even worse is having a beloved pet just disappear without knowing what happened.

This story is a reprint from 2017.

Animal Control Information:

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Shoreline PTA Mental Health Committee to hear from Rep. Lauren Davis


The Shoreline PTA Mental Health Committee is welcoming Representative Lauren Davis to their next meeting on Thursday, December 14, 2023 from 6:30 - 8pm. 

She will discuss how advocates can use their voices in the upcoming legislative session for more behavioral health funding for our schools.

Location: Shoreline Center, Room D-105 (18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155) enter through front doors near the flagpole.

Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.


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More Christmas Lights in Lake Forest Park

Thursday, December 14, 2023



Photo by David Walton

Photo by David Walton

These displays are at the intersection of Ballinger Way NE and NE Forest Park Drive.

P.S. You don't have to wait for David - send in your own photos to Editor@ShorelineAreaNews.com


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Sen. Derek Stanford 1st LD invites teens 14-16 to apply for Senate page positions

Senate pages. Photo courtesy State LSS

Do you know a young person who wants to learn more about what goes on in their state government?

The Washington State Senate has one of the best page programs in the country, and applications for 2024 are open! This exciting program allows young Washingtonians to get a closer look at the civic process and meet other students from all across the state.

Pages are students aged 14 through 16 who serve for one week during the legislative session. 

During that week, they spend time in Page School learning about the legislative process while also distributing materials throughout the Capitol campus, assisting legislators, working on the Senate floor, and presenting the colors at the opening of each day’s legislative session. 

Pages receive pay during their week in Olympia. Scholarships are also available for pages from families with financial need, and housing is available with host families in Olympia.

Learn more and get instructions for applying here.

Sen. Derek Stanford, State Senator, 1st Legislative District (LFP, Kenmore, Bothell, Woodinville)
Website SenateDemocrats.wa.gov/Stanford
Facebook Facebook.com/SenatorDerekStanford
Email Derek.Stanford@leg.wa.gov


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Jobs: WSDOT Asbestos Program Specialist (TPS3)

WSDOT
Asbestos Program Specialist (TPS3)
Shoreline, WA – Headquarters
$70,749 – $95,155 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a Transportation Planning Specialist 3 to serve as an Asbestos Program Specialist in Shoreline, WA. 

This position supports the agency’s commitment to safety and environmental stewardship by implementing the Maintenance Operations Asbestos Program. 

As a technical specialist and project team leader, this position works independently or on interdisciplinary teams formed to plan, implement, and evaluate a variety of complex projects and on-going program activities involving the management and control of asbestos-containing materials in WSDOT buildings, bridges, and other structures.

Job description and application


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Petitions filed for ‘parents’ bill of rights’ ballot measure in Washington



Brian Heywood is founder of Let’s Go Washington and chief funder of signature-gathering for the initiative filed Tuesday to create a parents’ bill of rights. Heywood is pictured above checking boxes of petitions filed last month for the group’s measure to repeal a state climate law.
(Jerry Cornfield/Washington State Standard)
 
Conservative groups are behind the initiative to embolden parents of public school students. Many of the provisions exist in current law, state education officials say.

By Jerry Cornfield

An alliance of conservative groups on Tuesday submitted nearly 425,000 signatures for an initiative to guarantee parents access to materials their children are taught in K-12 classrooms and information about medical services public schools provide.

The proposed ballot measure, Initiative 2081, would codify a “parents’ bill of rights” on matters ranging from reviewing textbooks and curriculum to obtaining medical records to being able to opt their child out of assignments involving questions about a child’s sexual experiences or their family’s religious beliefs.

Initiative supporters delivered boxes of petitions to the Secretary of State’s Office in Tumwater at 1:30pm. They said they were turning in 423,399 signatures.

“This initiative is nothing anyone would have believed was controversial even a few years ago,” said hedge fund manager Brian Heywood, founder of Let’s Go Washington and chief financier of the signature-gathering effort.

“Parents are the primary stakeholder in raising children,” he said in a statement. “The overwhelming number of signatures from across the political spectrum shows that everyone just wants to get back to normal.”

State Rep. Jim Walsh of Aberdeen, who also chairs the Washington State Republican Party, is the prime sponsor of this initiative and five others circulated this year by Let’s Go Washington, Restore Washington and other conservative political groups.

In November, they turned in 418,399 signatures for Initiative 2117 to repeal the Climate Commitment Act. Petitions for a third measure dealing with vehicle pursuits by police are scheduled for delivery Thursday, according to the Secretary of State’s Office.

Collectively these measures are part of a broad Republican-driven strategy to push back on significant social, fiscal and environmental policies approved by Democratic legislators and Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee over the objections of many GOP lawmakers.

Need or distraction?

Initiative 2081 focuses on public schools which have increasingly been a battleground in Washington and across the nation on issues of curricula related to sexual health and race and policies on COVID vaccinations and gender identity.

The measure would require parents to be able to review educational materials and receive copies of academic and medical records for free. It also says parents should “receive written notice and the option to opt their child out” of surveys, assignments, questionnaires, and other activities in which questions are asked about their child’s “sexual experiences or attractions” or their family religion or political affiliations.

Another provision calls for parents to be notified if their child receives any medications or medical care that could result in a financial impact.

Officials with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction are studying the measure to see how it aligns with current Washington law.

“Most of the provisions appear to be consistent with existing law,” said OSPI spokeswoman Katy Payne. “We are reviewing it in further detail to determine if the initiative conflicts with any existing civil rights protections or Human Rights Commission determinations.”

Mark Gardner, a high school teacher in the Camas School District, said the premise of ensuring parents have a voice isn’t problematic. The reality, he said, is most of what is sought exists now through state law or school district policies.

“To me this feels like a distraction from our greater needs,” he said. State lawmakers should look to boost funding for hiring support staff and paraeducators, for example, because these professionals “would really serve our kids,” he said.

To be certified, Initiative 2081 petitions must contain the signatures of at least 324,516 registered voters. State election officials recommend initiative sponsors submit at least 405,000 signatures to account for any found to be invalid.

The process of certifying valid signatures will begin after the December 29, 2023 deadline for filing initiatives to the Legislature.

Because it is an initiative to the Legislature, if it has the requisite number of signatures it will first be sent to lawmakers who can adopt it as written in the 2024 session. They also can reject or refuse to act on it, in which case it will go on the November 2024 ballot.

Lawmakers can approve an alternative measure to be placed on the ballot alongside the initiative if they want, as well.


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Middle school students - register now for Hang Time at Kellogg or Einstein Middle Schools


Registration for Winter Hang Time at both Kellogg and Einstein Middle School opens on December 19, 2023 at 8am for the January to March season.

Hang Time is run by City of Shoreline Recreation and includes a variety of afterschool clubs and activities every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday after school. Activity Buses leave at 5pm to take all participants home in Shoreline and Lake Forest Park.

Registration for this program is required and assures youth can attend Hang Time from January through March of 2024.

More information can be found on our website at shorelinewa.gov/teens under “Hang Time”

Register for Hang Time HERE


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Polar Star: G'Day from Australia

Sydney Australia harbor at night
Photo courtesy US Coast Guard

As the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star’s crew sailed into Sydney, they rendered honors to the H.M.A.S. Sydney Memorial Mast, commemorating the brave individuals who served in the Royal Australian Navy and remembering the ships and crews lost in service.

The Polar Star’s stop in Sydney is a part of their journey to Antarctica for Operation Deep Freeze, supporting the National Science Foundation (NSF) United States Antarctic Program through joint service and inter-agency collaboration.

While in port, the Polar Star’s crew looks forward to engaging with the local community and soaking in the vibrant culture and sights of Sydney!


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Christmas season in 2023 at Church of the Redeemer

Church of the Redeemer in Kenmore WA

Christmas season in 2023-24 at Church of the Redeemer

And it was always said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alive possessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of us, and all of us!
--Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol

So that you may keep the Christmas season well, here is the schedule for 2023 at Church of the Redeemer in Kenmore, Washington.

All are welcome at Redeemer.
  • All races
  • All religions
  • All countries of origin
  • All sexual orientations
  • All genders
Join us in celebrating this season. Church of the Redeemer is at 6210 NE 181st St in Kenmore WA. If you have any questions, contact Redeemer at +1 (425) 486-3777 or office@redeemer-kenmore.org

Sunday, December 24, 2023
4th Sunday of Advent, 10:00am

There will be only one service the morning of December 24, marking the 4th Sunday of Advent. It is at 10:00am and comes with music. Advent isn’t over ’till it’s over!

Following the 10:00am service, there will be a Greening of the Church, Part 2. We will change everything from Advent to Christmas for services beginning this evening.

Family Christmas Eve service, 5:00pm

This service is designed for families with children. It will last about 1 to 1.5 hours. There will be music.

We are planning a drop-in pageant for any child wanting to participate. We might even need a few adults.

Festive Christmas Eve service, 9:00pm

This is a traditional service for Christmas evening, and a bit more formal. Incense will be used. It will last about 1.5 hours. There will be music.

Monday, December 25, 2023
Christmas Day service, 10:00am

While this will be a simpler service, there will still be music. Enjoy Christmas, even if you cannot get out Christmas Eve. It will last about 1 to 1.5 hours.

There will not be a midweek Eucharist service on Wednesday, December 27, 2023.

Sunday, December 31, 2023
The First Sunday after Christmas

Church of the Redeemer will have both Sunday morning services, 8:00am (no music) and 10:30am (music). This is the 7th day of Christmas; the season isn’t over yet.

Saturday, January 6, 2024
Twelfth Night, 5:00pm

Redeemer is holding a Twelfth Night party for a community dinner. If you are reading this, then you are invited. Further details to be posted on our website.

Church of the Redeemer

Welcome to Church of the Redeemer: Worshiping God, living in community, and reaching out to the world. We are an Episcopal Church serving north King County and south Snohomish County, Washington. As you travel your road, go with friends walking the way of Jesus at Redeemer.

Church of the Redeemer is at 6210 NE 181st St in Kenmore WA. We are a short distance north of Bothell Way, near the Burke-Gilman Trail. The entrance looks like a gravel driveway. The campus is larger on the inside than it is on the outside. And we managed to hide a large building on the side of a hill that is not easily seen from the street.

The Episcopal Church welcomes you.


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Shorewood Boys wrestling with solid win over the Hawks of Mountlake Terrace

Top: Zach Matthews, Derek Norton, Varun Nair, Rock Harris, Oli Dalan, Ben Jenkins, Isaac Liljegren, Mak Kanzler, James Nottingham, Eli Jeppeson, Brady Houck,
Front: Leah Ellis-Rocha, Anders Alverez, Emi Olivera, Masa Taura, Sky Klein, An Tran, Nathaniel Hernadez, Front: Finn Greenleaf

Story and photos by Tricia Norton

The Stormray boys took on the Mountlake Terrace Hawks on Wednesday December 13, 2023. 

James Nottingham landed a pin
Freshman An Tran got his first Varsity match when Shorewood started at 132 lbs. He battled hard but lost in a second period pin. 

Shorewood then picked up steam with two pins, by junior Masa Taura and senior Rock Harris

Later in the match junior James Nottingham landed a pin as did seniors Mak Kanzler and Isaac Liljegren.


 SW Senior Isaac Liljegren scored a pin.
The Stormray score skyrocketed as they received 4 straight forfeits. 

Sophomore Eli Jeppesen capped off the night with another 2nd round pin.

The Stormray JV will be in action at the Woodinville JV tournament this Saturday.



 
SW Senior Mak Kanzler pinned Eli Swett of the Hawks

12/13/2023 Shorewood @ Mountlake Terrace
Shorewood 54 Mountlake Terrace 21

Match began at 132

132: Ekansh Verma (MT) pinned An Tran
138: Masa Taura (SW) pinned Moses March
144: Rock Harris (SW) pinned Abdul Najib
150: Isaac Williams (MT) pinned Sky Klein
157: James Nottingham (SW) pinned Titus Swett
165: Oscar Gonzalez (MT) dec. Oli Dalan
175: Owen Boswell (MT) pinned Nathaniel Hernandez
190: Mak Kanzler (SW) pinned Eli Swett
215: Isaac Liljegren (SW) pinned Ahmajdon Ibrohimov
285: Ben Jenkins (SW) received FF
106: Finn Greenleaf (SW) received FF
113: Emi Olivera (SW) received FF
120: Melyk Valencia (SW) received FF
126: Eli Jeppenson (SW) pinned Luke Swenson


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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: OOOPs



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Beginning in 2024, floating plastic foam used for overwater structures must be encased in durable shell

New regulations in 2024 for floating docks
Photo courtesy Department of Ecology

OLYMPIA – Beginning January 1, 2024, Washington waters will harbor less pollution from the plastic foam used to support floating docks and walkways. 

New requirements mean that the expanded polystyrene used to float most overwater structures must be fully encased in concrete, aluminum, steel, or plastic to prevent it from breaking up and dispersing when the material becomes waterlogged or damaged.

Dock owners are not required to immediately replace non-compliant, exposed foam floats but will need to upgrade when the time comes to replace or repair those existing structures. 

The new law reinforces standard practices in the dock-building industry as well as existing regulations administered by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. 

Small floating buoys are exempt from this law, but foam-free alternatives are encouraged for recreational crabbing and fishing.

“Boaters, anglers and others who enjoy Washington’s waters see first-hand the mess created when exposed white foam breaks down into tiny beads, polluting shorelines and endangering aquatic animals,” said Solid Waste Management Program Manager Peter Lyon. 
“This new requirement formalizes a modern practice of reputable dock builders who use fully encased foam.”
--Dept. of Ecology


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Shoreline Council approves $42 Million for 145th Project after hearing comments on tree removals

Wednesday, December 13, 2023

By Oliver Moffat

The Shoreline City Council voted to approve more than $42 million in funding for the 145th roadway improvement on Monday night December 11, 2023, paving the way to support increased car traffic on the border between Seattle and Shoreline. 


In another indication of the complex challenges Shoreline faces as our city grows, more than 60 residents provided public comments pleading for a halt to save trees that will be removed to make way for the expanded roadway.

A rendering from the city’s website showing the roundabouts, on-ramp improvements, and improved sidewalks and bike lanes that will be built as part of the 145th project.


A rendering from the city’s website shows the placement of the new 145th center turn-lane and widened sidewalk

It has been over twenty years since 145th last was repaved and restriped - the only improvements made to the busy motorway in decades. The project will widen the I-5 on-ramps and off-ramps and replace the traffic lights, currently plagued with traffic jams, with roundabouts

The project will widen the roadway to add a fifth, center turn lane to reduce traffic jams caused by drivers turning south. And the project will widen the sidewalk to create a multi-use path that is accessible to wheelchair users and bicyclists.

The action by the City Council on Monday night was little more than a procedural formality as the 145th Street Projects have been in planning for a decade, with multiple rounds of public open houses, and published reports. 

According to reports by city staff, the Council had to approve the funds or risk millions of dollars in cost overruns and with the 145th light rail station opening soon, upgrades to provide safe pedestrian pathways will become a life-or-death safety measure.

Despite the procedural nature of the Council action, dozens of public comments highlighted how rapid development and change is causing frustration for some residents. 

Public comments voiced disappointment and surprise that more than 300 trees will be removed to make way for the 145th project. 

Although most comments did not question the need for improving the roadway for drivers, many comments specifically questioned the need for a thirteen foot multi-use path that can accommodate bicyclists, suggesting that a narrower sidewalk would save trees while sending bicyclists into the roadway.

A screen shot from a city staff report shows areas where trees will be removed to make way for 145th improvements.

A screen shot from a city staff report shows the number of trees that will be planted to mitigate the impacts of the removal of more than 300 trees.

Deputy Mayor Betsy Robertson pointed out the dire consequences of not approving the funds,
“This is not a Shoreline project. This is a regional project… There are millions and millions of dollars that are threatened by us not proceeding tonight… 
We would be sacrificing the safety of commuters, bikers, walkers, all those things, if this were not to get done… the train has left the station.”

Councilmember Chris Roberts emphasized the complexities inherent in a massive project such as this, saying, 

“I think this project really illustrates the trade offs that are going to be necessary and that we have to think about as we move forward with these bigger projects… moving forward, we need to be clear about what our priorities are. 
"We need to be clear with these road infrastructure projects our priority must be safety, safety for all users.”
Mayor Keith Skully emphasized the broader environmental context of the project “

The point of this is environmental. The point of this is to save trees in areas other than Shoreline. We can build affordable, dense housing here, so we don’t have to build it somewhere that is currently forested or farmland.”

In retrospect, the Mayor promised more transparency going forward, 

“what we learned on other projects recently is folks telling us we didn’t know how many trees were coming down. And so what we’ve started doing is putting that front and center. That’s always been available but we haven’t necessarily been leading with that. That’s an improvement that we need to make.” 

Looking forward, he said, “I think council and I are ready to say let’s start prioritizing trees. Both preservation and adding them in.”


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Update on broken water main on 15th NE

Site of broken water main, 15th NE at NE 196th
Photo courtesy North City Water District

A water main broke in the area of NE 196th and 15th Ave NE late in the afternoon of Monday, December 11, 2023. Our crews mobilized and arrived onsite to begin the repair shortly after we realized what was happening. 

The Shoreline Fire Department did a great job blocking traffic in the intersection with the ladder truck. The Lake Forest Park Police Department did a great job of directing traffic away from the area. 

The City of Shoreline Public Works Department helped by donating their traffic cones and barricades, and road signs again to keep the public away while our crews dug down through asphalt to find the water main. 

The District’s vactor truck was used extensively to remove the moist soil in the area significantly quicker than it could have if it had to have been done by hand. Given that the water main was buried over 5 feet in this area, it would have taken a long time.

Approximately a dozen homes were without water for the evening until just before midnight, after a repair band was placed around the water main and the area backfilled. Crews cleaned up most of the area until shortly after 2:00am then returned first thing in the morning to finishing cleaning up the site.

We want to thank everyone for all their help, and especially the passerby who called in and reported the break. We wouldn’t have been able to make such a quick response to fix this break without their help.

--Diane Pottinger, District Manager, North City Water District


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Photo: Poem

Sunrise over the Olympics
Photo by Lee Lageschulte


Life

Looking back through my life I see a hallway,
A kind of byway with doors to rooms once opened up
Where I lived, worked, and enjoyed my skills.
Now as I pass by I remember
Those rooms I can no longer reenter
And long to relive the good times, the thrills.
But I am instead pulled along, can't stay,
Through the passageway of time day by day.

There are the rooms of loved ones who've passed on,
The room of taking my health for granted
The room of music I can no longer hear,
The room with my favorite pet
No longer purring in my ear.
A building remodeled, unrecognizable.
A home now bulldozed, a loss that was sizable.

But you can't revisit the rooms as before,
For time is not meant to repeat itself,
For what purpose, why?
Work with whatever you do have left,
Your health, your eyesight, and memories.
Show the fullness of a lifetime in prose.
Write a memoir, paint a picture, tell your stories.

Moving inevitably toward the open lighted doorway
At the end of the hall,
You still have goals, you have it all.
You've been forged in all kinds of weather
Whether sun, wind, rain or snow.
Now bring it all together. Call it afterglow?

The lighted doorway awaits your arrival.
A good life was your fate.
Now let others know
And step up to the plate.


Vicki Westberg December 7, 2023


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Shoreline Council bids farewell to Doris McConnell

Doris McConnell delivering parting remarks at her last City Council meeting.
Screenshot from council recording

The Shoreline City Council’s final regular meeting of 2023 on Monday night, December 11, 2023, had a fully packed agenda, but found time to honor one of the city’s longest serving elected officials. The Council bid farewell to longtime Councilmember Doris Fujioka McConnell.

Monday night’s short ceremony - juxtaposed against actions by the council to address regional challenges - was emblematic of the changes (and growing pains) our city faces in the coming decades.

Mayor Keith Scully presented Doris with a plaque.
Screenshot from council recording.

As a City Councilmember, she served on the King County Regional Water Quality Committee, the Domestic Violence Initiative Regional Task Force and Seashore Transportation Forum. For the National League of Cities, she served on the Asian Pacific American Municipal Officials (APAMO) board, and the Advisory Council on Transportation and Infrastructure Services Committee (TIS).

Before and during her time on the Council, McConnell played a key role in significant accomplishments for the City. In 2006, she helped pass the first parks bond and recently helped to pass a renewal of that bond. She worked to complete phases two and three of the Aurora Corridor Project, and worked with Sound Transit and many other partners on making light rail a reality for Shoreline.

Doris was active in Shoreline PTAs and the Richmond Beach Community Association.
In prepared remarks, Mayor Keith Scully said “It is fair to say that the Shoreline of today is a very different Shoreline then when she first joined the Council and she could and should take credit for many of those accomplishments.”
Doris Fujioka McConnell was elected to the City Council in 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2019 and served as Deputy Mayor in 2019. Photos courtesy City of Shoreline

A slide show was presented that included the highlights of CM McConnell’s 16 year career as a member of the Shoreline City Council. She was first elected in 2007 and served as Deputy Mayor in 2019.

Doris was well connected, available to the community, and was known to drive out to locations that were being heatedly discussed in council meetings.

She presented the voice of the community whose members may have been unable to attend council meetings.

In her parting remarks, she lavished praise and appreciation on the staff of the city, commenting that Shoreline is fortunate to have such capable people.

--Story by Oliver Moffat and Pam Cross


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Water main break on 15th NE in Shoreline

Water main break on 15th NE at NE 196th in Shoreline
Photo courtesy North City Water District

The North City Water District is experiencing a water main break in the area of NE 196th and 15th Ave NE. 

Shoreline Fire District and Lake Forest Park Police are assisting the District by helping to block traffic while other crew members are working to repair the break. 

At time of publication, the Water is back on in this area. The road is still blocked while the crews finish up with asphalt removal. They hope to be complete by 2:00am with the final clean up Tuesday morning during daylight hours. 

The District asks, "If possible, please avoid this area while we work on the repairs.


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Sound Transit CEO Julie Timm announces she is leaving the agency

Sound Transit CEO Julie Timm at a public meeting in Lake Forest Park.
Photo by Mike Remarcke

Sound Transit CEO Julie Timm announced Tuesday, December 12, 2023 that she will be leaving the agency in order to return to the East Coast to take care of family matters.

Since joining Sound Transit in September 2022, Timm has overseen a renewed emphasis on the rider experience as Sound Transit approaches the opening of several new extensions, starting with East Link next spring.

Her focus and leadership in centering current and future riders in the agency’s capital and operating programs will benefit the region for years to come.

Timm’s last day with Sound Transit will be January 12, 2024.

The board and staff leadership will form a transition team to navigate the agency through the leadership transition. The board is expected to appoint an interim CEO in the weeks ahead.


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The Local 104 Winter Market Saturday, December 16, 2023 and Movie Night on December 28


Come support our community's locally owned small businesses and independent creators at our annual Winter Market on December 16, 2023 from noon to 4pm. 

Expect handcrafted jewelry, one of a kind pottery, and so much more for sale outside.

Inside the restaurant we'll have fresh shucked Oysters and Cognac, a beer flight from Russian River, and a brand-new Happy Hour Menu. That should get us in the Holiday spirit!

Movie Night Double Feature

Our December Movie Night will be a Double Feature on Thursday December 28th. Come watch A Christmas Story at 5pm followed by Rare Exports at 6:30pm. 

As always there will be movie themed food and drink specials. Cheers



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Jobs: Center for Human Services Screener / Scheduler

Center for Human Services
Screener / Scheduler
$24.80 per hour

Want to join an innovative community-based organization? If you value social justice, are committed to providing quality services, and are not afraid of challenges, we want to talk with you. 

Center for Human Services (CHS) is currently seeking the right Screener/Scheduler to join our team. We offer our staff an EXCELLENT benefit package which includes fully paid (prorated if part-time) health, vision, dental, life, long-term disability insurance, and 403b with match, as well as generous leave package.

The screener position screens and schedules intake/assessment appointment for our behavioral health programs. This role is in charge of completing the demographic information and collecting insurance information from our prospective clients. This is a full-time, non-exempt position who reports to the BHI Associate Director. This position is located in Shoreline, WA with a starting salary of $24.80 per hour. 

To better serve our clients and participants, bilingual (Spanish/English) speaking candidates are highly encouraged to apply.

Job Requirements:
  • Bilingual in Spanish/English (Basic conversational Spanish as the site will serve Spanish speaking families)
  • AA degree or equivalent experience
  • Detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task
  • Excellent telephone skills and presentation
  • Previous billing experience preferred
  • Previous experience in the behavioral/medical field preferred
  • Practical written and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent organizational/administrative skills with good computer skills
  • Commitment to confronting racism, sexism, heterosexism, and other discriminatory practices
  • Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team
  • Ability to adapt to change
  • Sense of humor
CHS is a non-profit organization with a great work environment, including a passion for and dedication to the community. If you want to join an established organization at a time of growth and transformation, this is the place.

To apply, send resume and cover letter to jobopportunities@chs-nw.org 


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Jobs: Center for Human Services Executive Assistant

Center for Human Services
Executive Assistant
148th Shoreline Office
$27.56 per hour

Center for Human Services is excited to hire a new team member for our Admin team. We are a thriving community health agency that offers great work environment, including staff who are passionate about and dedicated to the community. 

CHS is a non-profit organization that has been serving the community for over 50 years! We offer our staff an EXCELLENT benefit package which includes fully paid (prorated if part-time) health, vision, dental, life, long-term disability insurance, and 403b with match, as well as generous leave package.

About the position:

We are looking to hire an Executive Assistant who will be performing administrative duties and special projects for the Administration Department. The Executive Assistant will report to the Human Resources Director. This is a full time, non-exempt position located in our 148th Shoreline office with a starting salary of $27.56 per hour.

What we require:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required with 2 years of administrative Support Specialist experience preferred
  • Assume the role as Lead for all agency administrative assistants; conducting trainings and hosting virtual meetings
  • Manage employee discretionary funds
  • Manage web-based donation campaigns such as GiveBig, Employee Community Fund, etc.
  • Update and maintain agency-wide documents, employee manual, agency distribution list, etc
  • Ability to work independently, self-starter
  • Attention to detail accompanied by good organizational skills
  • Critical thinking skills, persistence, and patience
  • Sense of humor
Full job description here

To apply, send resume and cover letter to jobopportunities@chs-nw.org


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Shoreline City Council passes tenant protections

Tuesday, December 12, 2023

On December 11, 2023, the Shoreline City Council approved Ordinance No. 966, which establishes additional protections for Shoreline tenants, above those already provided under the Washington State Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (RLTA, RCW, 59.18).

Below is a summary of the adopted protections. 
  • It adds additional notice requirements for base rent increases. For base rent increases greater than three percent but less than 10%, landlords are required to provide 120-day notice. For base rent increases of 10% or greater, landlords must give at least 180 days notice.
  • All move in fees and security deposits cannot exceed a combined one month’s rent. Tenants have the right to pay these fees in installments. The number of installments depends upon the length of the lease.
  • Late fees cannot exceed 1.5% of the tenant’s monthly rent.
  • A tenant may propose, in writing, that the landlord change the due date for rent in the rental agreement to a different day of the month if the tenant’s primary source of income is a regular, monthly source of government assistance.
  • A landlord may request, but can’t require, a prospective tenant to provide a social security number or other type of tax identification number for screening purposes.
  • Fees 
    • All fees must be listed in the rental agreement.
    • A landlord may not charge a fee for a tenant’s access to common areas and/or a prorate share of utilities for such areas or for the performance of any landlord duty required by the RLTA.
    • A landlord may not charge a fee associated with the issuance of a notice to a tenant, even if the notice is required by state law, including but not limited to a fee for preparing and delivering a notice regarding late payment of rent, a notice to pay or vacate, or a notice of noncompliance with a rental agreement.
  • Tenants have the right to sue their landlord for violation of the code.
Ordinance 996 will add a new chapter to the Shoreline Municipal Code (Chapter 9.35 – Residential Tenant Protections).


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