Travels with Charlie: A raft of coots

Sunday, February 18, 2024

Story and photos by Gordon Snyder

Valentine's Day looked like a typical grey cloudy dull-looking day when I took Charlie for a for a walk. Seemed like nothing going on. Boring. All this happened in five minutes.

Then a huge raft of Coots caught my attention. They were moving like a black blob just offshore of the North Lake Washington shore by the beach along the Burke Gilman Trail.

There must have been thousands as they swam and fluttered to get closer together.

What the heck?


Looking around for a minute or two, I spotted why…

A Bald Eagle was cruising above and making them crazy. (upper left above the raft)

Safety in Numbers!

As the eagle flew over them they formed a tighter line formation.

The Eagle landed in a tree and just watched them frantically move their raft away.

All of the Coots stayed tight and moved away even without a leader.

All they wanted was to get outa there.

The eagle finally just resumed the soaring flight…

No Coots were harmed in this story.


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Shoreline Council funds $393M for Bus, Bike and Sidewalk projects with new development fees

New TIF funds could pay for sidewalks and bike lanes on this high-traffic and pedestrian section of 10th Ave NE in North City. Photo by Oliver Moffat

By Oliver Moffat

Sidewalks are expensive.

Until recently the city wasn’t allowed to pay for sidewalk improvements using its top funding source for roads: Transportation Impact Fees (TIF). 

But, in 2023, Washington State passed legislation (SB 5452) allowing cities to spend impact fee revenue to fund bicycle and pedestrian improvements. And now, for the first time, Shoreline will be using TIF revenue to fund improvements for pedestrians, bicyclists and transit riders.

Project map

At the Monday, February 12, meeting the Shoreline city council unanimously voted to use TIF revenue to fund improvements specifically for pedestrians, bicyclists and transit riders for the first time. 

The city’s Transportation Impact Fee Rate Study identified nineteen potential projects that could get the green light with the new revenue. But it is difficult for the city to predict how much revenue will be generated by the new fees because the city collects TIF revenue when new development is permitted. 

As previously reported, high interest rates, inflation, worker shortages, and rising vacancy rates are making it hard for developers to secure financing. So although there has been a recent surge in new development, it is possible there could be a slowdown coming. Or not.
  
Amongst the proposed projects the city would spend the TIF revenue on include: 
  • Funding for the 148th non-motorized bridge crossing of Interstate 5
  • Fund the 175th corridor improvement project including sidewalks and bike lanes
  • Improve the Dayton & Carlyle Hall intersection near Shoreline College
  • Install a roundabout at 1st & 155th by Twin Ponds park and at 25th & 150th near Shorecrest
  • Build a shared use mobility hub at Aurora & 185th
  • And miles of bus, bike and sidewalk improvements on 200th, 185th, Richmond Beach Rd, 15th Ave NE, 10th Ave NE, Ashworth, Fremont and Linden Aves

Designated high activity areas in Shoreline

The new TIF rates provide a 15% discount to encourage new development in neighborhoods the city calls “High Activity Areas” (HAA). These HAA neighborhoods are expected to have more walking, biking and transit use with fewer people driving cars alone.

The HAA includes the 145th and 185th station subareas, the Aurora corridor and parts of the North City business district.

According to a map from the city, the HAA does not include high density, mixed use areas in the northeast Ballinger neighborhood or the southeast Briarcrest neighborhood. Also not included in the HAA is the high density, mixed use area along Richmond Beach Road know as the 4-Corners neighborhood.

The council received no comments from Shoreline residents. But developers had something to say.

A representative from the developers building an assisted living facility on Richmond Beach Road in the 4-Corners neighborhood provided written comments in support of lowering transportation impact fees for senior housing. 

According to written comments from Áegis Living, Assisted Living contributes very little to traffic because residents rarely own cars and therefore traffic impact fees should be calculated based on traffic from staff and visitors not the number of residents. 

In written comments, a representative from the developers building the 1,358-unit Shoreline Place said they support lowering fees for senior housing as long as the costs don’t increase fees for multifamily developments.

The council rejected an amendment from Councilmember John Ramsdell that would have exempted small Adult Family homes from transportation fees. 

Ramsdell noted there are 150 adult family homes in Shoreline that typically have fewer than six residents and he would like to see transportation impact fees waived when a single family home is converted to an Adult Family home. 

Ramsdell has proposed the exemption at previous council meetings and the council voted the amendment down then too. However, the council directed city staff to study the proposal and come back with a formal amendment for the council to review and vote on at a later time.

The city collects Transportation Impact Fees (TIF) when new development occurs and is the primary source of revenue for transportation projects. Rates are set based on the impact new development is expected to have. For example, a new 24-hour convenience store will have a higher transportation impact than a new Nursing Home and therefore will pay a higher TIF rate.

The new TIF rates will take effect March 15, 2024.

Correction: the original article named a specific amount of money expected from TIF. As stated in the revision, the city collects TIF revenue when new development is permitted. 


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Shoreline Police and K9 Quinn credited in two major drug busts

K9 Quinn and confiscated drugs and money

On Wednesday, February 7, 2024 King County Sheriff's Office Precinct 4 Special Emphasis Team (SET) wrapped up a narcotics operation aimed at an associate of the Sinaloa Cartel. 

This person was distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine in Index, Shoreline, and several other areas in north King County and Snohomish County.

The operation resulted in 36,900 M-3 Fentanyl pills, 9 pounds Fentanyl power, 6 pounds of methamphetamine, 1.8 pounds of heroin, 2060 MDMA pills, $8,960 cash seized and 1 car seized

One suspect was booked on charges of Investigation VUCSA-WI and VUCSA Conspiracy.

This operation covered a vast geographical area and required hours of surveillance and multiple search warrants. 

We couldn’t have done it without the assistance of multiple KCSO deputies around King County, Shoreline Police Department SET, SeaTac SET, our King County Sheriff's Office Communications Center, and Lake Stevens Police Department.

K9 Quinn poses with drugs and money confiscated in an operation completed in August 2023
Photo courtesy King County Police

Previously, in a successful operation reported by County Executive Dow Constantine on August 9, 2023, Shoreline Police and the King County Sheriff’s Office seized more than $1.2 million in drugs, including 290,000 fentanyl pills and over 9 pounds of fentanyl powder, cocaine, heroin, cash, and stolen firearms.

"Amidst significant staffing shortages and various hurdles, Shoreline Police Department has remained committed to keeping our investigative teams intact," said Shoreline Police Chief Kelly Park. 
"In this particular case, our dedicated detectives worked swiftly and efficiently to gather essential information. Their collaboration with KCSO's SW Precinct detectives proved invaluable, facilitating the prompt and secure retrieval of these deadly narcotics and firearms. 
The diligent efforts of our investigators seamlessly align with the City of Shoreline Council's goals to promote community safety and foster healthy neighborhoods."

One suspect was booked into King County Jail on a firearms violation and multiple counts of violating the Uniformed Controlled Substances Act – Possession with intent.


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Walking around the neighborhood: Cat Crossing

Photo by Lee Wolfe
I spotted this sign on a recent walk in the Richmond Beach neighborhood. I was not aware that there are enough cats in the area to warrant it. The human crossing is about 20 feet further. Apparently cats prefer to have their own crossing.

---Lee Wolfe


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Concert at St. Dunstan's: Reflection, Celebration and Rebirth

Concert at St. Dunstan's Sunday, March 3, 2024 at 3pm

Reflection, Celebration and Rebirth

Michelle Huang and Erin Wight, a Seattle-based piano and viola duo, will present a special concert for a time of transition, as we move out of Winter and into the promise of Spring.

Featuring a musical collaboration with organist Susanna Valleau, they will weave together perspectives and traditions from around the world, including works of Liszt, Gabriela Lena Frank, Adolphus Hailstork, and Ming-Hsiu Yen.

St. Dunstan’s Episcopal Church 722 N. 145th St. Shoreline, WA 98133.

Suggested donation $20 adults, $5 students. Ortloff pipe organ.

More information and RSVP at Concert Series – St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church (sdchp.org)


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HomeTechHacker: Unraveling the Differences in Internet Connection Types

Satellite dish on house
Unraveling the Differences in Internet Connection Types

The choice of an internet connection is pivotal. This article delves into the differences among popular internet connection types, shedding light on their distinct features, advantages, and considerations.

The most popular broadband internet connections
Broadband internet, synonymous with high-speed connectivity, reigns supreme in most households and businesses. Offering fast and consistent speeds, broadband is delivered through various technologies, each with its unique characteristics.

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line):
Digital Subscriber Line, commonly known as DSL, utilizes existing telephone lines to transmit internet data. With moderate speeds and widespread availability, DSL is an affordable option for many. However, its speed can diminish with distance from the provider's central hub.

Internet connection
Cable Internet:

Cable internet, delivered through the same coaxial cables used for cable TV, provides faster speeds than DSL. It is widely available in urban areas, but bandwidth is shared among users in a neighborhood, potentially leading to reduced speeds during peak hours.

Fiber Optic:
Fiber optic internet is the gold standard for speed and reliability. Transmitting data through thin glass fibers using light signals, fiber optic internet offers unparalleled speed and is less susceptible to interference. While not as widespread as DSL or cable, its availability is growing, especially in urban areas.

DSL vs. Cable vs. Fiber
When deciding between DSL, cable, and fiber optic internet, several factors come into play:

1. Speed:
- DSL: Moderate speeds, typically ranging from 1 to 100 Mbps.
- Cable: Faster than DSL, with speeds ranging from 20 to 1,000 Mbps.
- Fiber Optic: The fastest, with speeds reaching up to 10 Gbps.

2. Reliability:
- DSL: Can be affected by the distance from the provider's hub.
- Cable: Shared bandwidth might result in decreased speeds during peak usage.
- Fiber Optic: Highly reliable with consistent speeds and minimal interference.

3. Availability:
- DSL: Widely available, especially in rural areas.
- Cable: Common in urban and suburban areas.
- Fiber Optic: Limited availability but expanding, primarily in urban centers.

4. Price:
- DSL: Generally more affordable than cable and fiber.
- Cable: Offers a balance between speed and cost.
- Fiber Optic: Higher cost but delivers unmatched speed and reliability.

Most people focus on download speeds, and rightfully so. But if you are looking for higher upload speeds, Fiber tends to beat cable and DSL by a lot.

Installing fiber cable
Satellite: Bridging the Rural Divide


For those residing in remote or rural areas where traditional broadband options may be limited, satellite internet emerges as a viable alternative. 

Operating through communication satellites in Earth's orbit, satellite internet provides a connection virtually anywhere. 

While it offers more accessibility, satellite internet is known for higher latency and data usage restrictions.

Mobile Broadband

In the age of smartphones and tablets, mobile broadband has become integral to staying connected on the move. Utilizing cellular networks, mobile broadband offers convenience but may have limitations in terms of speed and data allowances.
These days cellular providers offer cellular routers and hotspots that can be used for home service without many of the data restrictions that some plans meant for phones have.

Choosing the Right Connection

Selecting the ideal internet connection involves considering factors such as speed requirements, budget constraints, and geographic location. While broadband options like DSL, cable, and fiber dominate urban landscapes, satellite, and mobile broadband bridge connectivity gaps in more remote areas. The choice ultimately boils down to individual needs and priorities.

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 X (Twitter).

Previous HomeTechHacker articles can be seen here


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Find your elusive ancestors with help from the Sno-Isle Genealogy Society

Saturday, February 17, 2024

Are you out of research ideas to find an elusive ancestor? 

Sno-Isle Genealogy Society is offering researchers another opportunity to get help with their "brick wall" problems on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at its Research Library, 19827 Poplar Way, Heritage Park, Lynnwood. 

To make a reservation call 425-775-6267 to leave a message in a clear voice. Your call will be returned later to confirm your appointment. 

Margaret Summitt is an experienced researcher who can direct your research efforts in the free 40 minute session. If the four sessions are filled, you will be placed on a waiting list for the next "brick wall" day.


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Final weekend of the Flower & Garden Festival

 
A sampling of the gardens. Photos by Lee Lageschulte

It's the final weekend of the Northwest Flower & Garden Festival!
The show runs through Sunday, February 18 at the Seattle Convention Center. 

There are 20 gardens this year. The event has come back with a flourish after the COVID years.


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February 22, 2024 Parks, Recreation, Cultural Services/Tree Board Regular Meeting


February 22, 2024 Parks, Recreation, Cultural Services/Tree Board Regular Meeting
Date: 02/22/2024 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: Shoreline City Hall Conference Room 303
17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline Washington 98133

Link to Meeting Agenda

Please be advised that the PRCS/Tree Board Regular Meeting on Thursday, February 22, 2024 will be held in the Conference Room 303 at Shoreline City Hall using a hybrid format where both in-person and online attendance is allowed. 

You may attend the meeting in person, join via Zoom webinar, or listen to the meeting over the telephone. 

The Board is providing opportunities for public comment in person, remotely, or by submitting written comment. In person public commenters must sign up in person prior to the start of the meeting, and remote public commenters must sign-up online by 6:30pm the night of the meeting. 
Remote meeting link:
Attend the Meeting via Zoom Webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/97515984680
Call into the Live Meeting: 253-215-8782 - Webinar ID: 975 1598 4680

PRCST Board Links:
About the PRCS/Tree Board
Meeting Video and Minutes Archive

Contact Us:
Lori Henrich, Administrative Assistant III
(206) 801-2602
lhenrich@shorelinewa.gov

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Night shift work on Lynnwood Link may be noisy for some residents

Photo courtesy Sound Transit
Night Work for Drill Shaft Operations along I-5 at NE 161st St and NE 174th St

As early as Tuesday, February 20, 2024 Sound Transit will close the northbound I-5 off-ramp and on-ramp to and from the King County Metro North Base for drill shaft operations at NE 161st St and NE 174th St. 

This work is part of the Lynnwood Link Extension.

Residents should expect noise from heavy equipment such as a Drill Rig, Light Plants, Air Compressors, Fork Lift, Excavator, Truck and Trailers, and various hand tools.

If there are work delays, we will schedule additional ramp closures and residents will receive a new flyer.

Some bus routes may be affected. Please check with King County Metro for details.

Where
Northbound I-5 off-ramp and on-ramp to and from King County Metro North Base.

When
  • NE 161st St Tuesday, Feb. 20, through Wednesday, Feb. 21, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. the following mornings.
  • NE 174th St Tuesday, Feb. 20, through Thursday, Feb. 22, from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. the following mornings

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Jobs with The City of Shoreline Youth and Teen Development Programs

The City of Shoreline Youth and Teen Development Programs is hiring!

Work with awesome teens and tweens in the community at the Teen Center, our afterschool Middle School Programs, and at our super fun summer camps!

All job openings can be found here

City of Shoreline Summer 2024 Resource Fair

Come and meet some of the staff and learn more about our programs at the City of Shoreline Summer 2024 Resource Fair happening February 28, 2024 at 6pm at Spartan Rec Center. 

More information here

Questions about the work? Email azollner@shorelinewa.gov


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Job Opportunities with the City of Kenmore

Job Opportunities with the City of Kenmore

Come and join the City of Kenmore team and make meaningful change in our community. The City is currently hiring for these positions:

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Teen Center starts monthly Career speaker series February 29, 2024

Something awesome is coming to the Shoreline Teen Center!

A Career Speaker Series!
 
We will have monthly visits from different professionals to talk to any interested middle and high school youth about their work!

What is the speaker series?

We will host monthly events at the Shoreline Teen Center where professionals from various careers will speak about their work and how they got there.

Exact dates and times will vary due to the availability of our guest speakers. We will release event details at least two weeks ahead of the upcoming speaker event. Each event will have at least one speaker as well as catered food. Follow us on Instagram and on Linktree to stay up to date with these events!

On the Horizon:
  • Feb 29, 2024 at 4pm come meet Professional tattoo Artist Josh
  • March 22nd at 3pm come meet Microbiologist Sylvia
  • April 19th, 4pm come meet Social Worker Kat
Questions about upcoming events send by email to mhale@shorelinewa.gov or lsheilds@shorelinewa.gov

Follow us on Instagram @ SHORELINETEENPROGRAMS to stay up to date on activities and events!


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Planting parties at North City Park this week

Forest Steward Judy MacCully installs native plants in North City Park alongside her daughter, Kristina. You can volunteer to help them and other Forest Stewards throughout the City!
Photo courtesy Green Shoreline Partnership

We are still planting at parks in the City of Shoreline! 

Come help us out at North City Park just north of the North City Elementary building.

 You can find more information about these specific work parties at these links:

Updated with location of North City Park.

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Office of Law Enforcement Oversight reissues recommendations related to Sheriff’s Office Use of Force policies

In a recent memo, the King County Office of Law Enforcement Oversight (OLEO) issued a series of recommendations to the King County Sheriff’s Office regarding updates to its use of force policies. 

The memo highlights both reissued and new recommendations based on OLEO's continuous review of the Sheriff's Office policies.

“It has been approximately a year since OLEO sent our preliminary recommendations to the Sheriff’s Office,” said Tamer Abouzeid, OLEO Director. 
“The Sheriff’s Office has already implemented some of our recommendations, and we are encouraging them to implement more, both in the interest of full compliance with the Attorney General’s Model Policies, as well as to better promote accountability and safety.”

Reissued recommendations include adopting the Attorney General’s model policy language on physical force to more accurately communicate the standards of necessity, reasonableness, and proportionality, and limiting discretionary uses of force in otherwise non-violent situations. 

New recommendations include clarifying definitions and bringing them in line with the AG’s model policies.

For more information, refer to the complete memo on the OLEO website.

Both Shoreline and Kenmore have police departments contracted from the King County Sheriff's Office.


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Last chance for Camp Fire candy - Sunday at Town & Country Market from 3-5pm

Photo courtesy Camp Fire
Camp Fire online candy sales end on Monday, February 19, 2024. 

You have one last chance to buy from a local group. 

Shoreline Camp Fire girls and their leaders will be at Town & Country Market on the upper level of Shoreline Place 15505 Westminster Way N, Shoreline, WA 98133.

Sunday, February 18, 2024 from 3-5pm.

Your support helps youth build skills like goal setting, public speaking, money management, and entrepreneurship while helping families cover the costs of activities, program supplies, emblems, vests, and camps. 


Additionally, each purchase helps Camp Fire Central Puget Sound provide curriculum, programs, group support, and financial assistance.


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32nd Town Hall RESCHEDULED to Tuesday, February 20th at 6:30pm


The 32nd Legislative District Town Hall with Sen. Jesse Salomon and Rep. Lauren Davis has been RESCHEDULED from Monday, February 19th at 7:30pm to Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at 6:30pm

We hope you will still be able to join us for this chance to hear what bills we’re working on, ask us questions, and share the issues that matter to you!

The 32nd district includes Shoreline, Woodway, Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, and Northwest Seattle.

WHO: Sen. Jesse Salomon and Rep. Lauren Davis

WHAT: 32nd District Virtual Town Hall

WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 20th @ 6:30 PM

WHERE: Watch on Facebook and YouTube

Constituents are encouraged to submit questions in advance here


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Snow in Shoreline Thursday

Friday, February 16, 2024

Created by students at Shoreline Community College
Photo courtesy SCC

As predicted by our WeatherWatcher Carl Dinse, our area got some snow on Thursday morning. How much depended on where you live.

West Shoreline seems to have gotten the most - at least enough to make the ...interesting... snow creature shown above courtesy Shoreline Community College students.

Photo by Ken Berkun in Lake Forest Park

Central Shoreline and Lake Forest Park got enough to sprinkle lawns and turn decks white. Surprisingly, it didn't melt off until noon.

We may have other chances this season. There's always April.

--Diane Hettrick


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Murder at Toadwurst School February 24, 2024 at the Shoreline Elks Lodge


There is a scent of murder and mayhem in the air at Toadwurst School. Evil is afoot and assistance is needed to find the devious, dastardly demon who could do such things! Help is needed! 

Join the actors and audience to discover ‘Who Dunnit?” in this production of Murder at Toadwurst School with a superb cast from the Juanita High School HOSA. 

The curtain is set to rise on Saturday evening, February 24, 2024, with dinner at 5:00pm and show at 7:00pm.

This production is a fundraiser for the high school’s Health Occupations Students of America Club (HOSA). Proceeds from the event will go toward funding training, leadership projects and educational activities for this student group dedicated to developing skills for those striving to go into a healthcare profession.

The event will be held at the Shoreline Elks Lodge, 14625 15th Ave NE, Shoreline WA 98155. Tickets cost $35 and include the play, a full dinner and who knows what else. 

For guaranteed seating, plan to purchase your tickets through the Elks Lodge by February 19. For more information, contact the Shoreline Lodge Office at 206-364-1800.


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Women encouraged to join Shoreline Fire for a free hands-on CPR and AED class February 25, 2024

 
Join Shoreline Fire for a women encouraged, hands only CPR class on Sunday February 25, 2024 from 12:00 – 3:00pm at Shoreline Community College

Registration - select February 25 from the drop-down menu


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Local students graduate from Montana State University

Montana State University in Bozeman MT

BOZEMAN — Montana State University awarded 813 undergraduate degrees and 164 graduate degrees during its 139th commencement ceremonies held December 15, 2023 at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse.

Students with two asterisks after their names (**) graduated with highest honors, having earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.7. Undergraduate students graduating with honors — a cumulative GPA between 3.25 and 3.69 — have a single asterisk (*) after their names. 

Kenmore
  • Olivia Pergament
Lake Forest Park
  • Matthew Willett
Seattle
  • Hedyieh Haider**
  • Ava Paul*
  • Liam Reid**
  • Logan Taylor
  • Lauren Williams*
  • Amy Zinsmeyer*
Montana State University in Bozeman MT is a top-tier research facility. MSU offers 250 undergraduate academic tracks and over 150 graduate programs.


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Washington's Presidential Primary

Voters' pamphlets for the Washington Presidential Primary are arriving in mailboxes around the state. 

Ballots will be mailed out by February 23, 2024 and should be delivered by February 26. The election deadline is March 12 - all ballots must be received by that date.

The purpose of the primary is for the two political parties - Republicans and Democrats - to pick their candidates. For that reason, voters must declare their party status in order to have their vote counted.

For this election only, you will need to check a political party declaration box and sign and date the declaration. Then your vote must be for a candidate in that party.

Because of the lead time needed to print and pamphlets and ballots, our information is already out of date.

On the Democrat side, Marianne Williamson dropped out at the beginning of February. A candidate named Dean Phillips is still in the race, along with President Biden.

On the Republican side, Chris Christie, Ron DeSantis, and Vivek Ramaswamy have dropped out, leaving Nikki Haley and Donald J. Trump.

The voters' pamphlet is online at the Secretary of State's website.

--Diane Hettrick


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Lithium-ion batteries likely cause of apartment fire in Everett

One variety of Lithium-ion battery
EVERETT, WA – The Everett Fire Department responded to an apartment fire at Housing Hope - New Century Apartments - 2507 Howard Avenue on Wednesday night, February 14, 2024 around 11:10pm. 

The apartment occupants reported hearing a loud pop, followed by the activation of the smoke alarm. The residents found a fire in the bedroom and attempted to extinguish it with a fire extinguisher before the sprinkler system activated. 

Firefighters arrived within minutes of the call and found the apartment’s sprinkler system had activated and extinguished the fire, preventing it from spreading. The fire was contained in the apartment bedroom, and the second and third floors suffered water damage.

The Everett Fire Marshal’s Office investigated and concluded that lithium-ion batteries in the home likely caused the fire. They have ruled the fire as accidental.

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used to power various devices such as smartphones, laptops, power banks, tablets, toys, e-cigarettes, smoke alarms, scooters, and vehicles. 

Since these batteries store a significant amount of energy, it is crucial to handle them with care. They can overheat, catch fire, or even explode if not treated properly. It is important to follow the recommended safety measures when using them.

Here are some safety tips when using lithium-ion batteries:
  1. Only purchase and use devices, batteries, and charging equipment that are listed by a nationally recognized testing lab and labeled accordingly.
  2. Use charging equipment that is only compatible with your device. To be safe, use only the charging equipment that is supplied with your device.
  3. Do not keep charging the device or device battery after it is fully charged.
  4. Do not put lithium-ion batteries in the trash. Recycling is always the best option. Take the batteries to a battery recycling location or contact your local waste department for disposal instructions.
  5. Stop using your device if the battery shows signs of damage, such as an unusual odor, excessive heat, popping sounds, swelling, or change in color.
  6. Only have device repairs performed by a qualified professional.
  7. Larger batteries and equipment such as power tools and electric scooters should be charged in the garage, shed or carport away from living spaces.
  8. Don't charge or store battery devices near exits or along egress paths where they might hinder or block your escape should they catch fire or become involved in one.

For more information on lithium battery safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA.org) website.

This incident serves as a good reminder to have working smoke alarms in your home. They are the first line of defense for early notification and evacuation should there be a fire.


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Shoreline Police Officer Newbauer awarded Meritorious Service Award

Officer Newbauer with Shoreline Police Chief Kelly Park
Photo courtesy Shoreline PD

Officer Matthew Newbauer has been awarded the prestigious Meritorious Service Award for his outstanding response to a welfare check call that uncovered a felony child abuse case. 

His exceptional analytic and investigative skills, as well as his persistence, were instrumental in protecting the child.

Throughout his 16-year career in law enforcement, Officer Newbauer has served as a detective in the Secret Service, the Crimes Against Children Taskforce, and the Domestic Violence Unit. Now, after a year in the Shoreline Police Department, he has been selected to be a detective in the King County Major Crimes Unit.

Shoreline is a contract department of the King County Sheriff's Department.


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Upcoming Chamber of Commerce events


The very active Shoreline Chamber of Commerce has a regular schedule of events each month, including a breakfast, luncheon, and after hours gatherings. In the events listed below, click the link in the title for registration and expanded information

February Good Morning Shoreline
Tuesday, February 27, 2024 7:30am
Cafe Dolce, 17547 15th Avenue NE

Good Morning Shoreline is a one hour breakfast meeting, held at a different eating establishment every month.

Economic Insights After Hours Event at Shoreline Community College
Monday, March 04, 2024 4:30pm
Shoreline Community College, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133 Pagoda Union Building (PUB), 9000, room 9208

The After Hours events feature guest speakers and are held at different locations each month.

For March: Shoreline Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce its upcoming Economic Insights After Hours Event on Monday, March 4, 2024 from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at Shoreline Community College.

Elliott Krivenko
The event will feature a Networking Happy Hour and in-depth economic analysis. It be hosted by Nathan Daum, Economic Development Manager for the City of Shoreline and will feature Elliott Krivenko, Director of Market Analytics at CoStar, which provides their clients with commercial real estate information, analytics and industry news.

Krivenko will provide insight into the current state of the local economy and its impact on commercial and multi-family real estate in the Seattle Metropolitan market. His data-driven analysis of our market, coupled with his nuanced understanding of the region, promise an engaging and informative session.

Learn more and register HERE.

March Luncheon featuring Dr Susana Reyes, Superintendent of Shoreline School District
Wednesday, March 13, 2024 11:30 AM
Shoreline Center - 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155 - 3rd Floor

Advance registration is needed for the luncheon events.

General information about the Chamber can be found here


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Orchids at the Flower & Garden Show

Thursday, February 15, 2024

Orchids at the Flower & Garden Show
Photos by Lee Lageschulte

Photographer Lee Lageschulte was delighted by the variety of orchids she found at the Northwest Flower & Garden show, now running at the Seattle Convention Center, 705 Pike St, Seattle WA on the corner of 7th and Pine.

February 15 - 18, 2024
  • Thursday - Saturday 9am - 8pm
  • Sunday - 9am - 6pm

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Office of Law Enforcement Oversight (OLEO) reacts to U.S. Department of Justice settlement with the King County Sheriff’s Office to improve language access


Last week, the U.S Department of Justice (DOJ) and the King County Sheriff’s Office announced a settlement to address deficiencies in the Sheriff’s Office language access policies and practices. 

The agreement—which stemmed from an allegation of discrimination against a community member with limited English proficiency (LEP) in November of 2021—outlines a two-year phased plan for the Sheriff’s Office to develop and implement training and policy directives to improve language access and communication between Sheriff’s Office deputies and LEP community members.

While OLEO applauds the Sheriff for entering into this agreement voluntarily, OLEO has previously expressed concerns about the Sheriff’s Office language access policies and interactions with LEP individuals. 

OLEO sent policy recommendations to the Sheriff’s Office to improve language access for hearing-impaired and LEP individuals in March 2023 with no response or action from the department to implement our recommendations.

OLEO’s 2023 recommendations and the new agreement from the DOJ share significant overlap including:
  1. developing policies and directives on the use of interpreters; guidance and training for bilingual deputies; 
  2. restricting reliance on the use of children, family members, and other bystanders for translation services; 
  3. protocols for identifying an individual’s primary language and appropriate language access services; and 
  4. data collection and reporting on interactions with LEP individuals. 

In addition to those urgently needed actions outlined in the DOJ settlement, OLEO encourages the Sheriff’s Office to incorporate best-practices for language access for ASL speakers and hearing-impaired individuals.

According to Census data, more than 1 in 10 residents of King County could be considered LEP and 2.8% have a hearing difficulty (ACS 2022). 

OLEO invites anyone in the community to share their ideas for improving language access. Reach out to us at OLEO@kingcounty.gov.

Shoreline Police and Kenmore Police are contract agencies from the King County Sheriff's Office.

Resources: Read more about Language Access in King County.


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Senator Murray hosts Nutrition Roundtable at North Helpline Food Bank

Sen. Patty Murray tours the North Helpline Food bank with Executive Director Kelly Brown

On Wednesday, February 14, 2024, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, hosted a roundtable with nutrition advocates, mothers, and local officials to hear more about WIC implementation in Seattle and the importance of fully funding WIC.

Murray is leading the charge in Congress to protect WIC funding, and as Senate Appropriations Chair, is also leading the negotiations to complete our Fiscal Year 2024 spending bills.

Late last year, USDA revised its initial estimates of funding needed for the WIC program upward; USDA now projects needing an additional $1 billion above the Fiscal Year 2023 spending level due to rising food prices and increased WIC participation.

Historically, no one who qualifies for WIC is turned away—but that could change if WIC programs are not funded to meet projected needs. During the roundtable, Murray reiterated her strong commitment to fully funding WIC even under the extremely difficult funding constraints imposed by the Fiscal Responsibility Act and supporting mothers and children across Washington state and the entire country.

Sen. Murray hosted the Nutrition Roundtable at North Helpline

Murray hosted the roundtable at North Helpline food bank and was joined by 
  • Monique Anair, a mom who’s relied on WIC before; 
  • Paul Throne, Director of the Office of Nutrition Services at Washington State Department of Health;
  • Lannesse Baker, Director of Research and Evaluation at the Urban Indian Health Institute; 
  •  Kelly Brown, Executive Director at North Helpline; and 
  • Chad Davis-Montgomery, Regional Director of the Supplemental Nutrition Division within the Western Region of the Food and Nutrition Service at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children—better known as the WIC program—serves to safeguard the health of low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk by providing nutritious foods to supplement diets, information on healthy eating including breastfeeding promotion and support, and referrals to health care. 

Nearly 40 percent of U.S. infants participate in WIC, including 131,139 mothers, children, and infants in Washington state.

“WIC keeps millions of moms and babies fed in America—when I became Senate Appropriations Chair I made a commitment to make sure the federal government puts kids and families first, so even under really tough fiscal constraints, that’s exactly what I’m fighting to do,” said Senator Murray. 


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Host an international exchange student in your home

Pan Atlantic Foundation, a non-profit organization, is bringing international exchange students to the United States, and they are on the lookout for host families.

By hosting one of our international students for the entire school year, you can create memories that will last a lifetime while promoting cultural understanding and gaining a fresh perspective on life. These students come from diverse backgrounds, adding a global touch to your home.

To become a host family, all you need is a spare bedroom with a comfy bed, the ability to provide three meals a day (they don't have to be cooked, just accessible), and clean background check. 

It's an incredible chance to open your heart and home to a student who is eager to learn, grow, and experience American culture.

If you're interested in hosting or know someone who would be a great fit, please feel free to text or call us for more information and applications at 206-518-2717.


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What's with all the dumped tires?

Tires dumped in the Bsche’tla Creek ravine
Photo by Brian Saunders
By Diane Hettrick

In The Untold Story of Bsche’tla Creek, Brian Saunders and Chip Dodd talked about climbing down into the ravine holding Lake Forest Park's largely unknown third stream.

At the base of the ravine, I was left speechless with the sheer volume of debris, garbage, and used tires that had been discarded there. At first glance it is not recognizable as a stream but more resembling an effluent ditch in an industrial zone. I counted 20 old tires within a 30-foot stretch of the creek!

Kim Josund reported that on January 31, 2024 80-100 tires had been dumped at the entrance to Grace Cole Park (Old tires dumped at Grace Cole Park - do you know anything about it?)

Kim pointed out the environmental damage caused by tires.
Old tires contain chemicals, including known carcinogens and salmon killing 6-PPD- quinone, and heavy metals that leach into the environment as the tires break down. 

Leaching affects the soil around the old tire, which at first may not seem like a big problem. But even after the tire is moved, the soil could still contain toxins. If toxins get into any water in the soil, the water can transport them to other locations, potentially harm to any animals that come in contact with the poisoned water.

Tires were dumped in front of the Cascade K-8 school just a few days after the Grace Cole dumping. Photo by Brian Holt

Brian Holt sent a photo a few days after Kim's story about a pile of tires dumped in the parking lot of the Cascade K-8 school 

Christie Becker found a tire in her back yard
Christie Becker, who lives in the vicinity of Grace Cole Park, found a tire deep in her back yard.
tire Christie

Michael Price reported that he "noticed around 4 tires on the side of the road on 25th Ave NE just north of Grace Cole on morning of Feb. 1. They were still there the morning of Feb. 2.

Today a reader reported another dump site: "Yesterday I noticed yet another load of illegally dumped tires along Bothell Way east of 5330 Bothell Way NE on the North side of Bothell Way in a small gully."

People who get away will illegal dumping tend to continue doing it.

If you have camera footage or leads, contact LFP Police 206-364-8216.


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