Rotary recycling event for lithium-ion batteries April 20, 2024

Sunday, April 7, 2024

Recycle devices with lithium-ion batteries on Saturday April 20, 2024 from 10am to 3pm at Town Center Lake Forest Park, intersection Bothell and Ballinger Way NE,

The Rotary District 5030 is holding events all over King county. Locally, Lake Forest Park Town Center, and the QFC in University Village 2746 NE 45th St, Seattle WA 98105

The largest lithium and cobalt mines in the Western Hemisphere are in our ​country’s junk drawers.  If we recover materials from old products, we ​significantly reduce society’s reliance on newly mined materials.

Since 2022, Rotary clubs across the United States are collaborating with ​Redwood Materials, the first U.S.-based battery recycling plant to host ​collection drives, yielding tens of thousands of pounds of cell phones, ​laptops, power drills, electric toothbrushes, and other rechargeable ​electronics.

The community is invited to this annual event.


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Ballyhoo Theatre Spring Student production: The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical

(L - R) Rylynn Davis as Annabeth, Hales Morris as Percy Jackson, Taylor Aguiar as Grover.
Photo by TJ Gose.

“The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical”

Ballyhoo Theatre is thrilled to announce our Spring Student Production: The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.

As the half-blood son of a Greek god, Percy Jackson has newly discovered powers he can’t control, monsters on his trail, and is on a quest to find Zeus’ lightning bolt to prevent a war between the gods.

Based on the bestselling novel by Rick Riordan and featuring a thrilling original rock score, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is an action-packed theatrical adventure that has been celebrated by audiences and critics alike. 

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical has a Drama Desk nominated book by Joe Tracz, with music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki.

The show, directed by Shileah Corey with choreography by Mackenzie Neusiok, stage management by TJ Gose, and musical direction by Max Chastain, will be held at the Black Box Theatre at Edmonds College, 

April 12-21, 2024. Friday - Saturday 7:30pm. Sunday 1pm

For tickets, a parent guide, and more information, go to ballyhootheatre.org.

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More about Ballyhoo Theatre:

We are a queer led organization (the vast majority of our Board and Youth Advisory Boards are made up of queer-identifying individuals), and the majority of the students in our educational program identify as LGBTQIA2+.

In addition to our Mainstage productions, our specialty is working with teens and young adults to tell either existing queer stories, or adapting traditional stories to become queer inclusive while still honoring the original intention of the work. 

Our positive impact on the community has been seen for over 15 years. Hundreds of current and former students have shared stories about their experiences feeling seen, heard, loved, embraced, celebrated and accepted for who they are – often for the first time. 

They are loved and supported even when they aren't at their best. We focus on accommodations for the mental health of students that allow them to be fully who they are without judgment, while still being able to fully participate. We are consistently seeing growth, maturity, and incredible kindness develop in Ballyhoo students. 

This is a one-of-a-kind program that we are incredibly proud of.


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Little League Day at Shorecrest Baseball field Saturday April 13, 2024 prior to game with Edmonds-Woodway

Saturday, April 6, 2024


The 2024 Shorecrest Varsity Baseball team is hosting Little League Day at the Shorecrest High School Baseball Field on Saturday April 13, 2024. 

This is a new, first time ever event, created and carried out by the team. They are hoping to pass along their love of baseball to the younger generation of Shoreline ball players. 

There will be an opportunity to meet the Shorecrest players, run the bases, check out the field and snack on some Cracker Jacks while you cheer on the Scots.
 
Edmonds Woodway is a formidable opponent, so it will be a great game to watch and root, root, root for the home team.

Shorecrest High School Baseball Field, 15343 25th Ave NE, Shoreline WA 98155. Activities begin 12:30pm and game begins at 1pm.


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Edmonds Floretum Garden Club’s annual plant sale Saturday, May 4, 2024

Photo courtesy Edmonds Floretum Garden Club

The much-anticipated Edmonds Floretum Garden Club’s annual plant sale is happening Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 9am to noon, at Edmonds United Methodist Church, 828 Caspers St, Edmonds. All are welcome.

Club members have been potting up a huge assortment of plants over the past many weeks. 

Examples include native plants such as juncus and evergreen huckleberry, perennials like hardy geranium, rodgersia, and peony, and the always popular succulents and veggie starts. 

Don’t miss the garden boutique chock full of donated items which could include tools, garden art, wire cloches, decorative pots, houseplants, books, crafted items, wheelbarrows and patio furniture.

Come early for the best selection. Proceeds go to horticulture scholarships.


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Washington state resident pleaded guilty to felony related to breach of U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021

Battle in the Tunnel on January 6, 2021
Photo courtesy Sedition Hunters

WASHINGTON – A Washington state man pleaded guilty today to a felony charge related to his conduct during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. His actions and those of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

Benjamin John Silva, 36, of Yacolt, Washington, pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia to a felony charge of civil disorder before U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras. Judge Contreras will sentence Silva on Sept. 17, 2024.

According to court documents, at approximately 2:56pm, on Jan. 6, 2021, Silva was identified near an entrance on the Lower West Terrace of the Capitol building, also referred to as the Tunnel. Some of the most violent attacks against law enforcement on January 6th occurred at the Tunnel. 

Inside the Tunnel, Silva made his way to the front of a crowd of rioters confronting an established police line.

Court documents say that at about 3:04pm, Silva joined with other rioters inside the Tunnel as they began to move back and forth, applying force against the police line ahead of them that was guarding the door entrance into the Capitol building. 

Silva participated in this effort, adding his force, body, and momentum in a coordinated “heave-ho” effort. Silva also leaned into the line of officers with his hand up on the riot shield of one officer.

Silva then spoke with a police officer while an individual behind him sprayed the line of officers with a chemical irritant. 

At one point, as he continued to push toward the police line, an officer put his hand on Silva's forearm/wrist area in an effort to push him back. 

Court documents say that even when other rioters were leaving the Tunnel, Silva fought to stay in and to press forward against the police line in a concerted effort with other rioters doing the same. Silva made his way out of the Tunnel at about 3:07 p.m.

The FBI arrested Silva on July 25, 2023, in Oregon.


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Shoreline real estate market report March 2024

In Shoreline, sales are down by 27.5% compared to last year, yet the median price has increased by almost 8% to $814,386. 

Homes that are well-presented and appropriately priced continue to attract significant interest, sometimes resulting in multiple offers. 

Notably, amidst the market fluctuations, the average ratio of sales price to list price stood at 104.5% in March, indicating strong demand despite the challenging market and high interest rates.

--Lella Norberg, Shoreline Windermere   




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Shoreline Short Short Film Festival - Saturday, April 13, 2024


Shoreline Short Short Film Festival - Saturday, April 13, 2024

Join us for a fun night at the Shoreline Community College Theater. Watch 12 short films ranging from 3 - 13 minutes in length and vote for your favorite. 

Purchase tickets online to save. Tickets On Sale Now


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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Your Cat

 




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College financial aid available to Washington students

Friday, April 5, 2024

It's messy and difficult but there's money to be had and help available

The only way for students to qualify for financial aid for college or career training is to complete the FAFSA, or in limited cases the WASFA.

Despite challenges with the new FAFSA form, students are advised to complete an application now because:
  • The form is shorter and easier: Applying is the only way for students to know how much money they can get.
  • More money is available: More people are eligible to receive federal Pell Grants, and the average grant is expected to be larger.
  • Washington aid is generous and flexible: The Washington College Grant (WA Grant) gives eligible people more money for more types of education like certificate programs, job training, apprenticeships, or college—and the FAFSA is the first step for that, too.

Advise students in your networks not to give up. Colleges know some people are running into issues with the FAFSA and many are being flexible.

There is help available to get the application done. 

Students and families in Washington can consult organizations like Futures Northwest and WSAC for information on the benefits of applying for financial aid, known challenges with the FAFSA/WASFA process, and links to resources that can help, such as local and virtual financial aid events and the OtterBot texting service. This Washington Student Achievement Council resource page is also available in Spanish.

It’s worth it to apply for financial aid, and there is still time!

Access FAFSA resources


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Daytime closure of HOV lane on ramp from NE 145th to I-5 next week for landscaping

As early as Monday, April 8, Sound Transit will close the right lane/HOV lane of the northbound I-5 on-ramp from NE 145th St for landscaping. 

This work is part of the Lynnwood Link Extension.

If there are work delays, additional closures will be scheduled. 

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

Monday, April 8, through Friday, April 12, from 9am to 2:30pm.


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Shorewood softball vs. Archbishop Murphy 4-5-2024

Photo by Heather Grutz

Shorewood vs. Archbishop Murphy 
at Meridian Park
4-5-2024
Shorewood 10 - Archbishop Murphy 0






Pitcher(s) and Catcher(s)

Murphy: 
  • A. Dixon, 
  • M. Ritchie (5), 
  • S. Lopez (6) and 
  • G. Silva (catcher)
Shorewood: 
  • Emma Kellum
  • Lillian Perrault (catcher)

Highlights

Murphy: 
  • A. Hernandez 2-2
  • A. Dixon 1-3
Shorewood: 
  • Lillian Perrault 1-2 (2B)
  • Ellie Van Horn 2-3
  • Emma Kellum 2-3 (2 2Bs)
  • Grace McLaughlin 2-3
Coach: Paul Jensen


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Death by Design - a fun evening of mischief and murder

The cast of Death by Design at The Phoenix Theatre

Death By Design runs through April 28, 2024 at The Phoenix Theatre in Firdale Village, 9673 Firdale Ave, Edmonds, WA 98020.

Doors open at 6:45pm for a 7:30pm show time on Friday and Saturday and Sunday at 2pm

Written by Rob Urbinati

Director Eric Lewis

Featuring: Melanie Calderwood, Amanda Marquis Petrowski, Michael Gene McFadden, Susan Connors, James Lynch, Ian Louis Wight, Ingrid Sanai Buron and Brandon Jepson

Get your tickets at TPTEdmonds.org or call 206-533-2000 to reserve your seats today.

One evening at an impromptu gathering at a country home filled with uninvited guests, there is a murder. 

Who did it? The mental institution escapee? The Bohemian artist? The unhappily married actress and her director husband? 

Bridget, the surly maid who enjoys gossip magazines and hates it when her employers show up to the country house where she works, claims the right to solve the murder.

Divining clues and motives worthy of Hercules Poirot, Death by Design is Agatha Christie meets Clue.

The cast of over the top characters include the unhappily married Sorel and Edward, who in the heat of a fight will trash an entire apartment. All the characters spend time insulting and belittling each other, much to the enjoyment of the audience.

In addition to the enjoyment of hearing the characters tear each other apart, the audience has the fun of trying to figure out who the murderer is when every character is a suspect, even Bridget.

The costumes, by Elizabeth Fleming, were period appropriate and beautifully tailored with sharp creases and flattering lines.

For a fun evening of mischief and murder with some surprising twists, this is your ticket.

--Kindle Carpp

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Monday, April 1, 2024 - Sasquatch sighting in Lake Forest Park

Photos by Tara S.

On Monday, April 1, 2024 Lake Forest Park resident Tara S. (she prefers to remain anonymous) was startled to see a strange creature in her forested back yard.

Quickly grabbing her phone, she was able to get two photos of the creature as it traveled across her property.

Lake Forest Park is known for the variety of its wildlife, but this is the first Sasquatch sighting. Residents are advised to be on the lookout. Sasquatch travel great distances and could be anywhere now.

--Diane Hettrick

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Shoreline council members question tree removals; city says an earthquake could cause 175th to “slip and slide” into Ronald Bog

By Oliver Moffat

At the April 1, 2024 meeting, some Shoreline city council members raised concerns about tree removals for the 175th Corridor Project. City staff told the council that 175th could “slip and slide” into Ronald Bog during an earthquake. To make the road safer, the city must rebuild the roadway which will require tree removals.

Councilmember Annette Ademasu asked staff for more details about tree removals planned for the 175th project especially at Ronald Bog Park

Councilmember Annette Ademasu raised a 175th corridor project agenda item up for discussion at this week’s council meeting. She questioned the proposed removal of 213 significant trees to make way for the road project. “At Ronald Bog there are three large conifers and a Japanese cherry. Is there anyway to save those at Ronald Bog?” she asked.

In response to questions, Public Works Director, Tricia Juhnke said, “In an earthquake, 175th would most likely slip and slide and fall into the bog. 175th is identified as one of our top emergency corridors for connection throughout the city.” 
Making the road safer requires regrading the roadway and building walls on each side to contain the new substrate. “It is also a reason we were able to get an $8 million grant from FEMA to improve the infrastructure,” Juhnke added.

Councilmember John Ramsdell raised concerns about transparency and asked why the 175th arborist report had not been published earlier

Councilmember John Ramsdell said, “I’m concerned about the lack of transparency and communication with the community. I was really hoping to see more transparency. What concerned me is that the arborist report wasn’t done until October.”

City staff reiterated a promise made in September of 2023 to provide more transparency on tree impacts and said the city is still “playing catch up” on projects that have been in the planning phase for many years.

Cross section of preferred concept from Meridian Avenue N to I-5 (facing east)

In recognizing that the 175th project has been in planning since before the city recently reprioritized in favor of increased tree preservation, Mayor Chris Roberts said, “as nimble as Shoreline is we are still a relatively large ship and we can’t turn on a dime”

On Monday April 15, the city council will hold a public hearing and discuss Shoreline’s Transportation Improvement Plan. The plan, which serves as a six-year roadmap for transportation projects in the city, is updated each year.


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KEEP BOTHELL ODD - Open house April 16, 2024

Bothell, WA: On Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 7:30pm, Bothell Lodge #124 of the International Order of Odd Fellows will host an open house, the second in a series of three. 

This evening’s presentation will be “The Odd (Fellows) History of Burying Bothell’s Pioneers”. 

The presentation in May will be on Bothell’s Civil War history given by Richard Heisler. Learn about Odd Fellowship, its mission to bury the dead, and the Bothell Pioneer Cemetery. Historical artifacts, a tour of the hall, musical entertainment, and light refreshments available.

Odd Fellows have been the social heart of communities across America for over 200 years. Bothell Lodge #124, chartered in 1892, played a significant role in the history of Bothell, and today is the longest continuously operating organization in Bothell. 

The first public cemetery in Bothell was created in 1889 on land donated by George Wilson so two children, whose family was visiting, could be buried. Since then, George Wilson himself and many other early Bothell settlers have been buried there. 

Bothell Odd Fellows, along with the Macabees, took ownership of the cemetery in 1909 and ran it until the 1990s when membership in the organizations dwindled and the city took ownership. Odd Fellowship remains unbroken in Bothell and the lodge is looking forward to sharing its history and its future with members of our community. 



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Free computer classes at Shoreline Library April 15 and 29, 2024

Shoreline Library: Free Computer Classes on April 15 and 29

Microsoft Word Level 1

Monday, April 15, 10:30am-12pm
Learn and practice word processing. Enter and format text, and work with files.
Must be able to use a mouse and keyboard.
Please register here

Microsoft Word Level 2

Monday, April 29, 10:30am-12pm
Enhance your text documents with document designs, layout and more.
Must have Microsoft Word Level 1 proficiency.
Please register here

Shoreline Library, 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline WA 98155


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How to Plant a Prune-less Garden April 9, 2024 at Lake Forest Park

Christina Pfeiffer will speak on April 9
April 9, 2024 with guest speaker Christina Pfeiffer at the Lake Forest Park Garden Club

How much and what kind of pruning a garden will need is often determined while shopping a nursery or at the design drawing board. 

As gardeners mature along with their gardens, the level of pruning may no longer match one's time or energy for the task. 

This talk will help identify how plant choices, placement and cultivation practices along with those famous last words. "I can always prune it to keep it smaller" contributing to a prune-a-lot garden. 

Whether you are starting a whole new landscape or making changes within an established garden, learn how to optimize plant selection and design elements to help set the stage for less pruning over the long term.

We meet at LFP Town Center located at Bothell and Ballinger Way NE. General meeting starts at 9:30am, then a short break for treats and the speaker starts at 10:30am to 11:30am.

We welcome new members and experienced gardeners. We meet from Sept to May for our regular meetings and then we also have A Christmas party, A Garden Party and a small tour of three or so members yards followed by a brown bag lunch.

Dues are $35.00 a year. You may attend two meeting for free to see if you like the club and then we ask that you join.

Thanks and hope to see you there.

Oh and on May 18th is our annual plant sale.


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Jobs: WSDOT Air Quality & Acoustics Specialist (TPS3)

WSDOT
Air Quality & Acoustics Specialist (TPS3)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$64,108 - $95,155 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a Transportation Planning Specialist 3 (In-Training) to serve as the Air Quality and Acoustics Specialist in Shoreline, WA. This unique statewide position is critical in fostering a respectful and healthy work environment with focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. 

As a diverse group of environmental specialists, we promote and facilitate an environmentally responsible transportation program. In order to achieve the goals of the mission statement, the Transportation Planning Specialist 3 shall perform the following functions: Independently and collaboratively as a team member conduct planning assignments involving multiple transportation modes and problem areas within the Air Quality and Acoustical disciplines related to transportation projects. 

Work assignments will include, but are not limited to, acoustics and air quality related environmental analysis, research, permitting, and community outreach throughout WSDOT statewide.

Job description and application


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40th Avenue NE road closure on April 8 for construction activity

The section to be closed is marked in red.

A day-long closure of a portion of 40th Avenue NE in Lake Forest Park is scheduled for Monday, April 8, 2024.

From 8:00am to approximately 3:30pm, the portion of 40th Avenue NE between Ballinger Way NE and NE 182nd Street will be closed for construction activity. No through traffic will be allowed during this time.

Local access will be provided from the NE 182nd Street side of the closure. The road will be reopened by approximately 3:30pm.

If there are to be additional closures on 40th Ave the following day, a new notification will be issued.


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Link 1 Line service to Lynnwood begins August 30, 2024

January 30, 2024, work was finishing on the Shoreline South / 148th Transit Station.
Drone photography by David Carlos

Sound Transit announced today that passenger service on the Link 1 Line will begin to Lynnwood on August 30, 2024. The 8.5-mile segment will add four new stations: Shoreline South/148th St., Shoreline North/185th St., Mountlake Terrace, and Lynnwood City Center. During peak hours, trains will run approximately every eight minutes.

Testing trains on February 27, 2024. Photo from NE 195th pedestrian bridge by Steven Treseler
Short video here

Community Transit and King County Metro have agreed to revise the date for bus service upgrades and improvements originally planned to take effect Aug. 31. Bus changes will instead take place Sept. 14, allowing a smooth launch of extended 1 Line service before bus routing changes occur.

“Opening the 1 Line to Lynnwood is a major milestone in the growth of light rail,” said King County Executive and Sound Transit Board Chair Dow Constantine. 
“For the first time, the light rail system is joining two counties, bringing voters’ vision for our region’s integrated transit system one step closer to reality. Thanks to the collaboration between our region’s transit agencies, we are ready for the start of service, with increased capacity for Link riders and a smooth service transition for other riders.”

Metro’s planned route changes were proposed by Executive Constantine and approved by the King County Council. Highlights for Metro riders region wide include five new bus routes, 15 revised routes, a new Metro Flex service and the launch of RapidRide G Line in Seattle.

Stacy & Witbeck/Kiewit/Hoffman JV and Skanska Constructors L300 JV are executing the civil construction on the extension. The $3.1 billion project budget includes up to $1.17 billion from a Full Funding Grant Agreement executed by the Federal Transit Administration. In addition, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Build America Bureau executed a $658 million low-interest loan supporting the project, including new light rail vehicles and support facilities.

Mountlake Terrace Transit Station, looking north. January 30, 2024
Drone photography by David Carlos

The Lynnwood extension will serve the following stations, all of them with multiple transit connections:
  • Shoreline South/148th Station. Located just northeast of I-5 at the NE 145th Street exit, the elevated Shoreline South/148th Station includes a parking garage with approximately 500 new spaces as part of the project.
  • Shoreline North/185th Station. Located on the east side of I-5, Shoreline North/185th Station serves Shoreline Stadium, the Shoreline Conference Center and the surrounding neighborhoods. Improved pedestrian pathways connect the station to the west side of I-5. A parking garage with approximately 500 new spaces is part of the project.
  • Mountlake Terrace Station. Located east of I-5 at the Mountlake Terrace Transit Center just north of 236th Street Southwest, west of Veterans Memorial Park, the elevated Mountlake Terrace Station straddles 236th Street Southwest and is a short walk from the Mountlake Terrace Library, new City Hall, and the future Gateway transit-oriented development neighborhood. There are 890 existing parking spaces at the station.
  • Lynnwood City Center. Located at the Lynnwood Transit Center, this elevated station serves one of the busiest transit centers in the region, with extensive connections to local and regional service. A new garage containing 1,670 parking stalls in a five-story structure opened last year.

Visit this page to learn more about the 1 Line to Lynnwood.

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Icebreaker Polar Star completes its Antarctic mission and returns to the U.S.

Polar Star sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco CA
U.S. Coast Guard photo by Seaman Autumn Riewestahl

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Polar Star and crew have returned to the United States after a monumental 138-day deployment to Antarctica in support of Operation Deep Freeze 2024!

This marks the Polar Star's 27th journey to Antarctica to support this crucial mission.

During their deployment, the crew traveled over 27,500 miles, navigating through various oceans and breaking through thick Antarctic ice to ensure the delivery of vital supplies, including nine million gallons of fuel and 80 million pounds of cargo, to resupply the United States Antarctic stations, in support of the National Science Foundation (NSF) – the lead agency for the United States Antarctic Program (USAP).

"The successful completion of this mission stands as a testament to the relentless commitment and selflessness exhibited by our crew," said Capt. Keith Ropella, Polar Star's commanding officer. 
"Despite adverse weather, difficult ice, and formidable mechanical challenges, the crew of Polar Star not only achieved their mission but did so with remarkable expertise and teamwork, proof of their devotion to duty and dedication to their shipmates."

During the patrol, the crew touched FOUR continents. (Do you have any guesses about which ones they visited?)

The Polar Star is now in Vallejo, California, where it will undergo phase four of its five-year Service Life Extension Project, ensuring the 48-year-old cutter remains a vital asset for years to come.

Read more about their journey here 

Polar Star is homeported in Seattle and is frequently seen sailing by Shoreline.


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LFP Elementary librarian honored with his own, student-created book

Frank Kleyn and LFP Elementary student 'authors'
Photo courtesy Shoreline Schools

Happy National Librarian Day

Students at LFP Elementary School put together a 'book' for their school librarian Frank Kleyn and presented it to him today. 
We value you so much and are grateful for all you do for our readers.
"My favorite part of the library"


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UW Med: Look up! But do it safely during April 8 eclipse

2017 was the last eclipse
Ron Sachs/CNP/ABACAPRESS.COM
Don't stare at the sun.

It seems like a simple warning that everyone surely got from a responsible adult in childhood. 

But each time the moon passes in front of the sun, creating an irresistible spectacle for millions around the world, UW ophthalmologist Dr. Russ Van Gelder treats patients with sometimes serious damage caused by witnessing the event without proper protective eyewear. 

He saw at least six such patients after the 2017 eclipse.

“You can get damage even in just a few seconds of direct sun gazing, and if you're over 20 to 30 seconds, there's a high likelihood that you're going to end up with some damage,” said Van Gelder, professor and chair of ophthalmology at the University of Washington School of Medicine. 
“Shorter durations can be reversible. Longer durations can be permanent, and you can end up with a blind spot right in the middle of your vision.”

Though the sun is 93 million miles away, its light particles, called photons, still pack quite a bit of energy following their eight-minute journey to the surface of our retinas.


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Sen. Murray negotiates major funding for child care and Head Start

Thursday, April 4, 2024

Across two major federal funding bills, Sen. Patty Murray has advocated for families and children.

Murray's local and national support includes important programs for children. 

Murray, a former Shoreline preschool teacher, negotiated a bill that provides a $1 billion increase for child care and early learning programs within Federal Health and Human Services (HHS).

  • This includes $8.75 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant program (CCDBG)—a $725 million or 9% increase over fiscal year 2023, when Murray secured a 30% boost for the program—and
  • $12.27 billion for Head Start, a $275 million increase over last year’s funding level.

Sustained annual increases of federal investments in child care and Head Start are critical in tackling the child care crisis and helping to ensure more families can find and afford the quality, affordable child care and early childhood education options they need.

“Parents, small businesses, and just about everyone says again and again that child care is unaffordable and too hard to find in every part of our state,” said Senator Murray. 
“I worked hard to secure a $1 billion boost for child care and early learning programs in this bill to help lower child care costs for more families in Washington state—we have a lot more that needs to get done, but I’ll keep pushing for progress every way I can.”

In addition, she accomplished the following:

Expanding Child Care Options for Military Families
  • In this year’s defense funding bill, Senator Murray secured $167 million to fully fund the Department of Defense’s (DOD) child care initiatives. This includes a $66.5 million increase in funding over fiscal year 2023 to support universal, full-day pre-K, which will double enrollment from 1,810 to 3,625 children of servicemembers. It also includes new resources to recruit, support, and retain staff at DOD’s child development centers—including $33 million to provide a 50% discount for the first child of center staff. It also invests an additional $20 million above the budget request in the renovation and repair of DOD’s child development centers.
  • Separately, Senator Murray secured $277 million in this year’s military construction funding bill to establish six new child development centers on installations to provide military families with more child care options—and she secured $59.5 million above the President’s budget request for the design of additional child development centers. Senator Murray authorized dedicated funding for the construction of child care facilities on military bases in 2019 through the NDAA and has delivered strong funding to support child care for servicemembers since then.
Protecting Child Care Options for Parents Pursuing a Higher Education
  • In this year’s LHHS bill, Senator Murray protected full funding for the Child Care Access Means Parents in School (CCAMPIS) program, which helps low-income parents pursue a higher education by supporting campus-based child care programs. The bill provides $75 million for the program—protecting existing funding and rejecting House Republicans’ proposal to eliminate the program altogether.
Eliminating Barriers for Veterans in Need of Child Care While Getting Care
  • In this year’s Veterans Affairs funding bill, Senator Murray secured $23 million to expand the successful Child Care Pilot Program she established in 2010, which helps eliminate barriers for veterans in need of child care while attending medical appointments.
Easing Child Care Barriers for Parents Working in Congress
  • In this year’s legislative branch funding bill, Senator Murray secured language authorizing Senate offices to—for the first time—use their existing budgets to provide child care subsidies to staff to better ensure working parents can serve their communities by working in Congress.

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Puget Sound resident sentenced to over seven years in prison for actions during Jan. 6 Capitol Breach

Taylor James Johnatakis, 40, of Kingston, WA
sentenced to over 7 years for actions January 6
WASHINGTON – A Washington state man was sentenced to over seven years in prison today after he was previously convicted of assaulting law enforcement and other felony and misdemeanor charges stemming from his conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. 

His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

Taylor James Johnatakis, 40, of Kingston, Washington, was sentenced to 87 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution by U.S. District Judge Royce C. Lamberth.

On Nov. 21, 2023, a federal jury in the District of Columbia found Johnatakis guilty of seven charges, including three felonies. Johnatakis was convicted of obstruction of an official proceeding, civil disorder, and assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers, all felony offenses. 

In addition to the felonies, Johnatakis was convicted of four misdemeanor charges, including entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds; and engaging in an act of physical violence in the grounds of any of the Capitol building.

According to court documents, prior to the events of Jan. 6, 2021, Johnatakis posted numerous messages to social media revealing his intent to obstruct the election certification. In one instance, on Jan. 5, 2021, Johnatakis posted: “…and that’s why I am going to DC, to CHANGE the course of HISTORY #stopthesteal.” That same day, he posted: “[B]urn the city down. What the British did to DC will be nothing…”

Johnatakis traveled from Washington state to Washington, D.C., and attended the “Stop the Steal” rally at the Ellipse on Jan. 6, 2021. After the rally, Johnatakis marched to the U.S. Capitol and posted a video to social media where he said, in part, “Anyways, we’re walking over to the Capitol right now, and I don’t know, maybe we’ll break down the doors.” 

He then made his way onto the restricted Capitol grounds that were closed to the public, carrying a megaphone. By approximately 2:30 p.m., he had made his way through the crowd on the West Front, where the Inaugural stage was under construction. By then, rioters had flooded the area and were actively overpowering the police line.

Johnatakis made his way to the front of the mob of rioters while yelling into his megaphone. As the crowd grew and tension rose, the police officers on the line were overwhelmed by the rioters and ultimately forced to retreat up the Southwest stairs under the scaffolding of the inaugural stage. 

Court documents say that Johnatakis led the charge under the scaffolding, up the stairs toward the retreating police officers and the Capitol building.

Police officers retreated and formed another police line to protect the Capitol building and the members of Congress inside at the top of the stairs. Johnatakis was among the first rioters to march up the Southwest stairs to confront them.

Johnatakis then organized and coordinated other rioters to assault the police line at the top of the staircase. Specifically, using his megaphone, Johnatakis directed rioters to move up to the police line and yelled at the rioters to “pack it in! pack it in!” 

Johnatakis then instructed the crowd through the megaphone that they were going to push the bike racks “one foot” at a time and counted, “one, two, three, GO!!” 

Johnatakis and his fellow rioters—including co-defendants Isaac Steve Sturgeon and Craig Michael Bingert—grabbed the bike racks in front of them and pushed them forcibly into the line of police officers. Numerous police officers ran to reinforce the line as the rioters pushed the metal bike racks into the officers. As a result of this attack, at least one police officer was injured.

The FBI arrested Johnatakis on Feb. 11, 2021, in Washington state. Sturgeon and Bingert were both previously sentenced for their roles in the January 6th Capitol breach.

This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington.

This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Seattle and Washington Field Offices, which identified Johnatakis as BOLO (Be on the Lookout) #103 on its seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

In the 38 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,358 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 486 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.


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Death By Design opens on FRIDAY at the Phoenix Theatre

Featuring Ingrid Sanai Buron as Sorel
and Michael G McFadden as Edward
Edward Bennett, a playwright, and his wife, Sorel Bennett, an actress, flee London and head to Cookham after a disastrous opening night. 

But various guests arrive unexpectedly – a conservative politician, a fiery socialist, a nearsighted ingénue, a zany modern dancer – each with a long-held secret. 

When one of the guests is murdered, it’s left to Bridgit, the feisty Irish maid with a macabre interest in homicide, to solve the crime.

This Murder-Comedy is a side-splitter for the ages!

Written by Rob Urbinati directed by Eric Lewis. Running April 5th through April 28th Fri and Sat at 7:30pm Sundays at 2:00pm, at The Phoenix Theatre, 9673 Firdale Ave, Edmonds, WA 98020 in the back building in Firdale Village.



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Crashes reported to Shoreline police up 65%; serious injury and fatal crashes up 94%; police vacancies and street racers blamed

A map from the WSDOT crash data portal shows ten years of fatal and serious injury crashes in Shoreline

By Oliver Moffat

Shoreline’s annual police report released this week shows a 65% increase in crashes reported to police. Crashes that kill or leave people with life altering injuries have increased in Shoreline by 94%. Police traffic citations have fallen since 2018. The police blame staffing shortages and street racers.

A grim statistic appeared in Shoreline’s 45-page annual Police Service Report presented to the Shoreline city council at this week’s meeting.

A graph from the city’s 2023 Police Service Report shows the number of reported traffic collisions in Shoreline has increased by 65%

Between 2018 and 2022 the city averaged 394 car crashes reported to police each year. But in 2023, the police responded to 651 crashes - an increase of 65%.

In comments to the city council, Chief of Police Kelly Park said, “the reported driving for folks out there is just highly aggressive and we have a lot more poor driving going on.” She added that street racing has been a significant contributing factor.

The reported crash numbers exclude suspected hit-and-runs and DUIs. DUI citations have also increased to 43 after hitting a low of 20 in 2021.

A graph from the Shoreline police report shows the number of traffic citations issued by Shoreline police dropped from 5,263 in 2018 to 312 in 2022.

A graph from the same police report shows the number of traffic citations issued by Shoreline police dropped from 5,263 in 2018 to 312 in 2022.

Because of staffing shortages, Shoreline has re-assigned its traffic unit to cover 911 calls.

Chief of Police Kelly Park (left) and Captain Tim Meyer present the annual police service report to the Shoreline city council

The police report cited a “… staffing crisis caused by the loss of over 50 commissioned officers with King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO), who Shoreline contracts with for police services, due to the vaccine mandate in 2021.”

Chief Park said her department has a goal to rebuild the city’s traffic unit this year.

Fifteen years of data compiled from WSDOT and the city’s traffic reports show fatal and serious injury crashes in Shoreline have increased from an average of 10 to an average of 19 per year

According to data collected from WSDOT and Shoreline’s annual traffic report, for the ten years from 2008 through 2018, the city averaged 10 fatal and serious injury crashes per year.

But that rate jumped starting in 2019. For the five years from 2019 through 2023, the city averaged 19 series injury and deadly crashes per year - a 94% increase.

On Monday April 15, 2024 the city council will hold a public hearing and discuss Shoreline’s Transportation Improvement Plan. The plan, which serves as a six-year roadmap for transportation projects in the city, is updated each year.

According to last year’s plan, the city has identified $365 million dollars worth of traffic improvements. However (spoiler alert) $95 million worth of projects are unfunded and $110 million are only partially funded.


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Burgers and Basketball Friday at the Shoreline Teen Center

Artwork on Flyer by Rheyene V. (SWHS)
This Friday! All Middle and High Schoolers are welcome! 3v3 Basketball tournament(s) at the Shoreline Teen Center!

Burgers and Basketball!

Come play some basketball or cheer on your friends and enjoy a burger from Dicks Drive In!

Its all happening at the Teen Center this Friday starting at 4 PM

16554 Fremont Avenue N, Shoreline, WA 98133

Our Youth Outreach Leader Events are fun activities with a cause! Come learn about the resources youth have access to in our area and have a great time too! These activities are hosted monthly and are based on youth input and need! Let us know what you want!

To learn about this month's activity, check out our events calendar or our Instagram @shorelineteenprograms


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Poetry Writing Workshop: Say It Loud! online April 14, 2024 from 4 - 5:30pm

Presenter Ching-In Chen, photo by Cassie Mira
Poetry Writing Workshop: Say It Loud!
Sunday, April 14, 4-5:30pm

Free - but register here

For National Poetry Month, hone the power of our own poetic voices through writing exercises.

Explore these questions: 
  • What are your origin stories? 
  • What are the textures of your world? 
  • Whose voices do you carry? 
  • What futures are you reaching for?
Presenter Ching-In Chen is the author of “The Heart's Traffic” (Arktoi/Red Hen Press, 2009) and “recombinant” (Kelsey Street Press, 2017). 

Born of Chinese immigrants, they are a Kundiman, Lambda, Callaloo and Watering Hole Fellow and a member of the Macondo and Voices of Our Nations Arts Foundations writing communities.

This is the sixth and final workshop in the online writing series.


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Ridgecrest Books to hold author event with children's author at the Drumlin April 14, 2024


Ridgecrest Books is excited to announce their first author event: Karen DeWitz, author of kids nonfiction books, “Look at That Bird” and “Let’s Explore the Beach” will be at the Drumlin on April 14, 2024 at 2pm! 

Bring your families for an interactive presentation followed by a craft for the kids.

Drumlin, 522 NE 165th St, Shoreline, WA 98155


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Shoreline Police: How to travel a roundabout


Look LEFT, TURN RIGHT…..

Shoreline has new roundabouts and more to come!

Here is a refresher on how to safely drive around a traffic circle.
  1. Traffic always moves in a counterclockwise direction around the center island
  2. Always yield to pedestrians
  3. Slow down as you approach the traffic circle and yield to traffic already in there.
  4. Once in the circle, it is highly suggested to activate your right turn signal indicator before your desired exit. Keep your indicator on until you have completely exited the circle.
Don’t forget, LOOK LEFT…..TURN RIGHT!

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