The Garden Guy chooses new plants for 2024

Monday, April 22, 2024

By Bruce Bennett

As a home gardener, one of the satisfying rituals of spring is finding new garden treasures; those plants that are making their debut in the retail marketplaces. They are generally sports or hybrids of plants that have been on the market for years, with the new ones having a different sense of style and usage to them. Or, they can be new hybrids. 


Whether larger or smaller in size; darker, lighter or variegated leaves or larger flowers; etc., all have the ability to add something ‘extra’ to the humble part of your landscape that cries out to be noticed. A little dramatic? Perhaps. But, you get the gist of what I’m saying. 

 No part of a landscape needs to be boring. It is worth too much in the way of underutilized garden space, monetary value and in satisfying your aesthetic senses to be just ‘Okay.’ A new vignette may be just the thing to enliven the space and create a smile on your face on your face when gazing at the site.

This year, growers and hybridizers seem to have outdone themselves and have brought a bumper crop of hundreds of new (and, of course, improved) plants to garden center shelves and tables. Although I have not actually viewed all of the new candidates, what I have seen at the Northwest Flower & Garden Show, area plant trials and wholesale growers’ beds, have provided me with several contenders for your attention. 

My prime considerations for Western Washington new plants-of-note include drought and heat tolerance (after root systems are established), disease resistance, low maintenance and, of course, presence in the garden. This year, my candidates for your horticultural scrutiny include perennials, grasses, shrubs and trees (sorry folks, I don’t do annuals). Seek them out, do your own research and evaluate their worthiness for that needy spot in your own yard…….

Artemisia x ‘Silver Lining”
(White Sagebrush/Wormwood)
Artemisia x ‘Silver Lining” White Sagebrush/Wormwood

My top perennial choice doesn’t have much in the way of flowers, but, the foliage is a solid winner. A hybrid of two North American natives (the clumping Alaskan artemisia and the Western US artemisia) uses the best of its parentage to create a spectacular, durable foliage perennial. 

The broadly dissected silver leaves are showy from spring to fall. The mounded, low-wide habit maintains excellent form all season and resists opening up, like ‘Silver Mound’. 

Use this new perennial as a filler, color transition divider or backdrop in a landscape of flashy colors and or as spiller in mixed containers. Its yellow flowers are held on tall scapes and I would cut them off.

In addition to its durability and excellent summer heat and drought tolerance, this artemisia will not rambunctiously spread through the garden as does its cousin, ‘Valerie Finnis.’ 'Silver Lining' forms a non-stoloniferous 15" tall x 36” wide, winter deciduous groundcover with cutleaf silver foliage. Best results will be in average to dry soils, either sandy or clay. If those resilience attributes weren’t enough, this plant is also both deer and rabbit resistant.

Perennial runners-up include Agapanthus africanus ‘Bridal Veil’ (Lily-of-the-Nile), Brunnera macrophylla ‘Frostbite’ (Siberian Bugloss),Heliopsis helianthoides 'Bit of Honey' (Ox-eye Sunflower), Heuchera x ‘Forever Midnight’ (Coral Bells), and Teucrium fruticans ‘Harlequin’s Silver’ (Creeping Germander).

Panicum virgatum 'Niagara Falls'
(Switch Grass)
Panicum virgatum 'Niagara Falls' (Switch Grass)

This native from the Great Plains is an excellent grass in just about any landscape. With its late season seedheads and arching habit, ‘Niagara Falls’ is a good replacement for Miscanthus senesis. 

The powder blue leaf blades arch gracefully in the landscape, creating a soft cascading look. In early autumn, seed head plumes rise above the foliage creating a cream-colored cloud that gives the area texture and interest which will last through winter. 

Because of its foliage interest, this four-foot-tall grass is a multi-purpose plant that can be used in borders, containers, as specimen or in mass plantings. It is versatile and great looking, just what a plant should be!

It is an easy ornamental grass to grow in full sun to part shade and it will do well in just about any soil type in our part of the State. Remember to water it and cut it back in spring before the new growth appears and you have covered all of your maintenance bases. 

That’s right, save yourself some work and leave the buff-colored stalks to over-winter. In early fall, the seed head plumes that rise above the foliage will create a cream-colored cloud above the plant and will provide visual interest and bird habitat that will last through the winter doldrums.

Grass runners-up in this category include Amsonia hubrichtii ‘String Theory’ (Bluestar), Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Lemon Squeeze’ (Fountain Grass) and Schizachyrium scoparium 'Brush Strokes' (Little Bluestem).

Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Eclipse’ 
Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Eclipse’ (Big Leaf Hydrangea) is a shrub that has been receiving rave reviews from garden centers this spring. 

Probably because the shrub retains its dark foliage, rather than fading back to green, during the summer heat. The combination of the intense dark foliage and stand-out cranberry-red and white blooms makes for an excellent color counterpoint in just about any yard and, hopefully, a great dried-flower arrangement in a vase.

‘Eclipse’ is purported to have great disease resistance and low maintenance requirements. At three to five feet tall and wide, ‘Eclipse’ is size-appropriate for just about all smaller urban gardens. For its first three to five years, this hydrangea is a prime candidate for a porch or balcony container. After that, it will need annual pruning to keep it within bounds. 

As with most hydrangeas, this plant does best in morning sun and some afternoon shade. However, it can thrive in more sun in Western Washington if additional moisture is provided. ‘Eclipse’ is cold hardy down to Zone 5a and can take both our summer heat and winter cold snaps. If you are purchasing only one new plant this year, definitely consider the multi-faceted ‘Eclipse’ (and let me know how it does for you).

Shrub runners-up include Abelia x grandiflora ‘Angel’s Blush’ (Glossy Abelia), Calycanthus floridus, ‘Simply Sensational’ (EasternSweetshrub), Hydrangea paniculata ‘Little Hottie’ (Panicle Hydrangea), Ilex x meserveae ‘Little One’ (Blue Holly), Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Midnight Cascade’ (Hanging) Blueberry and Vitex agnus-castus ‘Queen Bee’ (Chastetree).

Cercis canadensis ‘Garden Gems
Amethyst’ (Redbud)
Cercis canadensis ‘Garden Gems Amethyst’ (Redbud) is a new dwarf tree which also features dark leaves and is compact enough to grow in a pot. It’s a slow grower that can reach eight to ten feet tall and wide, which is about half the size of a standard redbud. 

It flowers in early spring, sparkling with pink blooms before the foliage appears. In summer, the leaves will hold their amethyst color through our heat domes.

‘Amethyst’ is one of those plants I’d call a ‘nativar’ (a cultivar of a native plant, a Redbud in this case) that is pollinator-friendly, making it increasingly popular with the bee-lovers of our area. 

This new hybrid attracts pollinators and creates the perfect conversation piece in a small landscape or on a condo patio in full sun to part shade.

If you don’t happen to care for the look of dark foliage, a sister (cousin?) Redbud will be coming out that has leaves which emerge red and then turn green. It’s called ‘Garden Gems Emerald.’

Tree runners-up include Heptacodium miconioides ‘Temple of Bloom’ (Seven-son Flower), Hesperocyparis arizonica ‘Crystal Frost’ (Arizona Cypress) and Thuja standishii × plicata ‘Leprechaun’(Leprechaun Arborvitae).

Readers should remember that this list is totally subjective. It is based on the plants I have seen and liked for their hardiness, versatility and’ WOW’ appeal that the neighbors don’t have. Use this list to kick-off your own horticultural sleuthing of those new additions at your favorite garden center. 

The downside of new-plant shopping is to remember the qualities of patience and perseverance. As new introductions, these little treasures may not appear in your area for a while. Do ask the garden center staff if the plant in question can be ordered or your name added to a Waitlist. That tactic has worked for me many times over. Best of luck with this annual rite of Springtime and the newfound joy in your little patch of heaven. Happy gardening all!

Contributing columnist, Bruce Bennett, is a WSU Master Gardener, lecturer and garden designer. If you have questions concerning this article, have a gardening question to ask concerning your own landscape or want to suggest a topic for a future column, contact Bruce at gardenguy4u@gmail.com.

See previous columns by Bruce Bennett here


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Bridge to Edmonds and other bike projects considered by Shoreline city council

By Oliver Moffat

The Shoreline city council heard public comments on the city’s proposed Transportation Improvement Plan at a public hearing on April 15, 2024.

This is the third article of four covering comments from the council about this year’s proposed plan for the next six-years of transportation projects.


An aerial map prepared by advocates from interurbangap.org shows possible locations of a bike bridge connecting the Interurban Trail between Shoreline and Edmonds

The council heard comments from bicycle advocates in support of a bike bridge over NE 205th St (SR 104) connecting the Interurban Trail from Shoreline to Edmonds.

Council member John Ramsdell spoke in favor of adding the bike bridge project to the city’s transportation plan and said, “I’m a cyclist myself, crossing SR 104 is scary as a cyclist”.

A screenshot shows council member John Ramsdell expressing support for adding a bike bridge to Edmonds to the city’s list of transportation projects 

According to data received from WSDOT, the intersection where the Interurban Trail crosses SR 104 has been the site of two recent serious injury collisions involving bicyclists.

If the council chooses to include the Edmonds bike bridge to the Transportation Improvement Plan, it would be added to a long list of other bike and pedestrian projects already on the plan.

In comments about the plan, councilmember Keith Scully said, “I want to say how delighted I am that we have a list of projects and not a single one of them is solely motor vehicle…”, he said.

Ten of the nineteen projects listed in the Transportation Improvement Plan will primarily benefit vehicle traffic - such as the Road Surface Maintenance Program (#4), the roundabouts on 145th (#7), and the 145th (#6) and 175th (#11) corridor projects.

Voters approved a sales tax in 2018 to pay for new sidewalks (#2) which will pay for nine new sidewalks across the city.

The sidewalk rehabilitation program (#1) is paid for with vehicle license fees and will improve existing sidewalks.

A map of projects included in the Transportation Improvement Plan shows locations of additional pedestrian and bicycle projects that might be included

New sidewalks are planned on Ballinger Way (#15) and 200th (#14) and new bike lanes are planned on Meridian between 175th and 200th (#13).

Two projects funded by Sound Transit will likely be included in future versions of the Transportation Improvement Plan.

Sound Transit will pay for a new sidewalk on 30th Ave NE between NE 145th St to NE 147th St.

Sound Transit also will pay for a project the city is calling the “28th Ave NE Bikeway” to paint sharrows on 28th between 145th and 150th.

The city is calling a network of sharrows on streets running parallel to 145th the “Westside Street Off-Corridor Bike Network” which will connect to the 148th Street Non-Motorized Bridge (#8).

An Eastside Off-Corridor Bike Network (#12) is in early stages of planning.

Studies on the safety of sharrows have been inconclusive with some studies finding them to be ineffective at improving safety for bicyclists.

The city envisions a Trail Along the Rail (#9), a shared-use path running parallel to the light rail line, but has not allocated funding to purchase property to fill gaps.

Some gaps north of the 148th bike bridge could be filled by the 3rd Ave NE Connectors project (#19) but other gaps will be send bicyclists and pedestrians onto nearby streets.

The council will vote on whether to adopt the Transportation Improvement Plan on May 13.


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Reception Thursday to honor retiring LFP officer Rhonda Lehman

Lieutenant Rhonda Lehman
The Lake Forest Park Police Department proudly honors Rhonda Lehman for her outstanding dedication and service to our organization. 

We extend our deepest gratitude to Rhonda for her thirty years of unwavering commitment to both our Department and our City!

Rhonda's journey with Lake Forest Park began in 1994 when she joined as a police reserve officer. 

In 1996, she transitioned to a full-time dispatcher role. At that time, our Department comprised only a few full-time patrol officers alongside several reserve officers. 

The city was smaller, and emergency calls were less frequent. Rhonda's responsibilities included answering 911 calls, dispatching officers, and handling necessary paperwork.

In 1998, Rhonda embarked on a new chapter, transitioning to a full-time police officer role within the city. Over the years, she served with distinction as a police detective, sergeant, and eventually rose to the esteemed position of division commander as a Lieutenant.

Rhonda at a public event in Lake Forest Park
Throughout her tenure, Rhonda has touched the lives of countless individuals within the city staff, among officers, and throughout the community. 

While she cherishes her years in law enforcement, Rhonda acknowledges that what she will miss most are the people she has had the privilege to serve alongside.

Rhonda Lehman's legacy of service and dedication will forever be remembered and cherished by the Lake Forest Park Police Department and the community at large. 

At the Christmas gift giveaway

We cordially invite you to join us in honoring Lt. Lehman at the upcoming City Council meeting next Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 7pm at City Hall. 

Prior to the meeting, from 5:30pm to 7:00pm, there will be a reception where you can drop by to bid her farewell and thank her for her service to the city.


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Lakeshore Garden Club Plant Sale

Lakeshore Garden Club Plant Sale
Saturday, April 27, 2024
10am to 3pm
Lake Forest Park Presbyterian Church
Lake Forest Park WA 98155
See our website at www.lakeshoregardenclub.com

The Lakeshore Garden Club Plant Sale will be held on Saturday, April 27, 2024 in the parking lot of the Lake Forest Park Presbyterian Church from 10am to 3pm.

We've got great prices on sun, part-sun, and shade perennials, ground covers, grasses, bulbs and rhizomes, natives, shrubs, trees, edible plants, and more!


A large variety of perennials to add color to your garden as well as annuals, ground covers, grasses, bulbs and rhizomes, shrubs, trees and native plants. 

Proceeds support our programming, community projects, charitable donations and a horticulture scholarship for the Horticulture Program at Edmonds Community College.


Lakeshore Garden Club is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. For more than 20 years we have held this annual plant sale to support our programming, community projects, charitable donations, and a scholarship for the Horticulture Program at Edmonds College.


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Free comic book day at Shoreline Library May 4, 2024


Hundreds of comics for all ages from publishers like Marvel, DC, Image, TOKYOPOP and others at Free Comic Book Day at the Shoreline Library, 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline WA 98155.

Saturday May 4, 2024 "Star Wars Day" with members of the 501st and a droid visiting that day as well.

We start at 11am and will go until we run out of comics! It should be fun!

Sponsored by Friends of the Shoreline Library.

Note that restrooms are closed for renovation but portable restrooms available in parking lot.

Registration not required.

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Shorecrest girls varsity tennis vs Edmonds-Woodway 4-19-2024

Sunday, April 21, 2024

Sophie Schmitz photo by Zoe Greenzweig

Girls varsity tennis
4/19/24
At Kellogg M.S.
Shorecrest 4 - Edmonds-Woodway 3

Singles
  1. Makenna Cook (E) def. Lily Haessler 6-3, 6-1
  2. Zoe Greenzweig (S) def. Joyce Ho 6-2, 6-0
  3. Megan McMullen (S) def. Lily Distelhorst 6-1, 6-1
  4. Ally Miner (S) def. Daniella Caparroso 6-4, 6-1

Doubles
  1. Sophie Russel-Hoff-Natalie Yockey (E) def. Haneen Faraj-Brittany Morales 6-1, 6-2
  2. Lauren Kajimura-Sophie Schmitz (S) def Sidney Bates-Darcy Brennan 7-5, 6-3
  3. Meron Amha/Emily Riggle (E) def. Mia Halset-Thayer Katahara-Stewart 6-1, 6-3
Coach: Rob Mann


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"To Be Among The Trees - An Arboreal Poetry Workshop" at Dunn Gardens

Photo courtesy Dunn Gardens

"To Be Among The Trees-An Arboreal Poetry Workshop"
Saturday, May 11, 2024 @3pm
Cost: Members- $10 | Not-Yet-Members- $15

Come write, inspired by trees in spring glory on the beautiful grounds of Dunn Gardens. We will turn our attention to our green companions through listening to arboreal poems and engaging in practices to open our perception. 

Time will be given to contemplate and write in response to a tree of your choice, with simple poetic forms to write into. We will end by celebrating together in honoring, through our words, the sensuous details and beauty of the trees that surround us.
 
To Be Among Trees, for seasoned or beginning writers alike, will take place in Dunn Gardens, a beautiful oasis in North Seattle with over 70 Heritage trees. We will meet outside (with access to bathrooms) and spend time writing in the gardens. A canopy will be provided in case of rain. A small break is included. Please bring a snack and drink for yourself.
 
Mary Oak is passionate about using writing as a way to honor our embeddedness within the living Earth. For over 20 years she has enjoyed leading students in awakening perception, sensuous engagement, and heart awareness in relation to the plant kingdom in Waldorf teacher training, through her home studio and in her Sacred Botany: Revisioning the Plant Kingdom classes at Antioch University. 

For more about Mary and her writing and teaching please look here.


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Growth of the Miyawaki Forest at the Shoreline Historical Museum

A Miyawaki Forest was born on Saturday 9 December 2023 in a 3000 square foot space on a vacant lot next to the Shoreline Historical Museum at 18501 Linden Ave North. Over 300 volunteers and others helped place into the cold, wet ground 1,200 plants, representing 43 different native species.


Volunteers at February work party

Since that rainy December day, community involvement has continued in the frost, drizzle, rain and sun of winter into spring. Work parties are weeding and mulching, using arborist chips. The first Forest sprouts are growing.

Lupine has poked through the mulch, camas flower shoots and huckleberry leaves have emerged and saplings are starting to leaf out. Passersby can’t resist a look-in. Most recent was a group of kids from eastern Washington in Shoreline for band practice who joined in the mulch toss.

A 3000-gallon cistern installed in February is capturing rainwater from the roof of the Historical Museum’s archive building. Drip irrigation hoses will draw water from the cistern during the dry summer months. Three years from now the forest will be vigorous enough to survive on its own.

Roger Fernandes with volunteers February 2024
Photo by Martha Sholen

The Forest has been welcoming more than flora. Indigenous storyteller and artist Roger Fernandes spent an afternoon in February with Forest volunteers on interactive story creation for spiritual support of the forest. In March volunteers spent the day on the first steps of fashioning clay signs in English and Lushootseed to be placed in the Forest in May.

Writing the bilingual signs
Photo by Martha Sholten

The first of three focal events, Language of the Forest
, will be held at the Forest on Saturday, May 4, 2024 10 am - 12 pm, Professor Dana Campbell will pose the question: Do trees communicate with other trees? Among the activities for all ages will be placing the bilingual signs where they belong in the Forest. There will be refreshments.

Other upcoming events:

Summer Forest Celebration, Saturday, June 29th, 5:30 pm - 8 pm. Bring a picnic to the Forest and listen to drumming from various cultures.

Fall Life of the Forest, Saturday, Sept. 28th, 10 am - 12 pm. Roger Fernandes, Native artist, storyteller and educator, shares stories of the local Coast Salish tribes.

For more information click ­here.


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Shoreline Community College announces first-ever Bachelor’s Degree in Dental Hygiene

Photo courtesy SCC
Shoreline Community College (Shoreline) is proud to announce the launch of its Bachelor of Applied Science in Dental Hygiene (BASDH) program, the first bachelor's degree offering at the College. 

This innovative program aims to tackle the pressing need for qualified dental hygienists in Washington State, particularly in rural areas where access to dental care is limited.

“This program is directly at the heart of our mission,” shared Dr. Lucas Rucks, Acting Vice President of Instruction at Shoreline. 
“We are using data to inform decisions, leveraging employer feedback, and putting out high-quality graduates to serve our communities exactly where they are needed most.”

With data indicating a national shortage of dental hygienists and an increasing demand for their services, Shoreline Community College is stepping up to bridge this gap by expanding its dental hygiene program. 

Photo courtesy SCC

The BASDH program builds upon the existing curriculum, making it both easy and convenient for students while ensuring they receive high-quality education to meet the demands of the profession.

“Washington state has had an urgent need for dental care and dental care professionals for quite some time. We are thrilled with our partnership with the University of Washington for the location of this program and the launch of this new bachelor’s degree program in dental hygiene will be a huge boon to the state. 
"Shoreline is known for a stellar dental hygiene program and this expansion will help us have a broader impact on the region,” said Dr. Jack Kahn, President of Shoreline Community College about the new program.

Photo courtesy SCC

The BASDH program is a culmination of years of dedication and perseverance, overcoming significant obstacles to reach fruition. This degree maintains the rigorous standards of the existing dental hygiene program, with students completing 119 dental hygiene credits over the 8-quarter program. 

The addition of the bachelor's program aligns with Shoreline Community College's commitment to workforce development and addressing critical needs in the healthcare sector.

Starting summer quarter 2024, the BASDH program will accept its first cohort of 20 students, who will graduate in June 2026. 

“We are excited to offer this opportunity to our students, as it will open up new possibilities for continuing education and work in the community, “said Dr. Nikki Honey and Lori Simicich- Co-Directors of Shoreline’s Dental Hygiene Program.
Learn more here


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Does your feline furball have STAR power? Show the world in the SAFe Tenth Anniversary RePURRsentative (STAR) Photo Contest

Saturday, April 20, 2024


Seattle Area Feline Rescue (SAFe Rescue), a no-kill, nonprofit rescue organization in Shoreline's Ballinger Village, is celebrating ten years of taking in, caring for and finding families for homeless cats of all ages and needs. 

To commemorate this milestone, SAFe invites all friends of felines to submit a photo of the special kitty in their life to SAFe’s Tenth Anniversary RePURRsentative (STAR) Photo Contest

Submissions and voting take place online via this link: www.gogophotocontest.com/saferescue

The winning cat photo will be rendered into an original, hand-drawn pet portrait by local artist Sadie-Pie Designs. A digital version of this image will then be used in SAFe’s promotional tenth anniversary-themed merchandise and apparel.

Not only does this contest offer a fantastic way for cat parents to show off; all participation fees go directly to helping cats in need. Entries cost $10, with each vote costing $1. As of this writing, the contest has raised over half of its target goal of $25,000.

“It’s been so much fun seeing everyone submitting their cats to support the Rescue kitties,” says Kelsi Eldredge, SAFe Rescue’s Development and Communications Manager. “It’s a great way to get the whole community involved!”

Both submission and voting will close at 11:59 PM on April 30, 2024.

To find out more, please contact Kelsi Eldredge at 206-582-2615.


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Shorewood girls' tennis team smashing all competition

Shorewood girls powerhouse tennis team 2024

The Shorewood girls' tennis team defeated cross town rivals, Shorecrest on April 5, 2024 7-0, then went on to defeat Stanwood 5-2, Meadowdale 7-0, Lynnwood 7-0, Mountlake Terrace 7-0, Edmonds Woodway 7-0 and Archbishop Murphy 7-0.
 
Shorewood is 7-0 in conference and 12-0 overall.

Shorewood has defeated eight teams 7-0 and two powerhouse teams, KingCo 4A North Creek and WesCo 4A Jackson 6-1.
 
Only Stanwood was able to win two individual matches. With the Archbishop Murphy win, the team has 80 individual match wins to only 4 losses. 

Shorewood is on a record pace to break 90 individual wins in a season, with two matches left, Arlington on May 29th and they will host Wesco North League champions Snohomish on May 1st.
 
Junior Rylie Gettmann 2023 4th in state 3A, and senior Emily Lin 2023 7th in state 3A, have gone undefeated in singles. WesCo South 2023 doubles champions, Alex Mignogna and Mari Brittle are undefeated in doubles. 

The strength of the Shorewood girls' tennis team is the depth in the lineup of strong players that many teams cannot match up with. Shorewood currently has a three-year winning streak of 48-0, with two matches left.

Coach Arnie Moreno is proud of their accomplishments and their commitment to not only play their best, have good sportsmanship and also have fun.

Shorewood 7, Archbishop Murphy 0
At Shorewood H.S.


Singles: 
  1. Rylie Gettmann (SW) def. Meiweya Amazona 6-0, 6-0. 
  2. Alex Mignogna (SW) def. Shan Camarillo 6-4, 6-1. 
  3. Rachel Li (SW) def. Jackie Fairbanks 6-0, 6-0. 
  4. Marieka Staheli (SW) def. Afomia Theodros 6-0, 6-0. 
Doubles: 
  1. Emma Nelson-Reese Johnson (SW) def. Fernanda Lopez-Posey Kilby 6-0, 6-0. 
  2. Emilia Garibay Romero-Emma Okamura (SW) def. Jules Rioja-Kamdyn Latta 6-0, 6-0. 
  3. Amelia Uran-Lilah Becker (SW) def. Alexia Acuna Avila-Olivia Leslie 6-4, 6-1.

Shorewood 7, Edmonds-Woodway 0
At Shorewood H.S.


Singles: 
  1. Rylie Gettmann (SW) def. Makenna Cook 6-1, 6-0. 
  2. Emily Lin (SW) def. Joyce Ho 6-0, 6-0. 
  3. Alex Mignogna (SW) def. Lily Distelhorst 6-1, 6-1. 
  4. Mari Brittle (SW) def. Daniella Caparoso 6-1, 6-2. 
Doubles: 
  1. Emma Okamura-Emilia Garibay Romero (SW) def. Natalie Yockey-Sophie Russell-Hoff 6-0, 6-2. 
  2. Emma Nelson-Reese Johnson (SW) def. Sydney Bates-Darcy Brenan 6-3, 6-1. 
  3. Amelia Uran-Cally Webb (SW) def. Michelle Garzorig-Emily Riggle 6-4, 6-4

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Bike Shack opens at the Shoreline Tool Library on May 1, 2024

Future bike shack in the Shoreline Tool Library
Photo courtesy Shoreline Tool Library

Starting May 1, 2024 there will be a Bike Shack at the Shoreline Tool Library, which is located just off the Interurban Trail at 16610 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133.

This is for members, regardless of prior bike repair experience, to work on their bikes with a friendly volunteer bike mechanic. It will be equipped with bike repair tools, a repair work stand, and parts available for purchase for what you can afford.

Bike Shack coming to Shoreline Tool Library
Photo courtesy Shoreline Tool Library

You will be able to work on your bike during the Bike Shack's open hours on a first-come, first-served basis. If you need any assistance, don't hesitate to fill out their Assistance Form. They have a suggested donation for using the Bike Shack at $20 per hour, but no one is turned away for lack of funds and they do not require proof of income.

The Shoreline Bike Shack will be available for members of the Shoreline or NE Seattle Tool Library. You can learn more about becoming a member on their website, and if you sign up before their Membership Drive ends at the end of April, you can get a 15% off coupon at their Materials Reuse Store, which is also located at the Shoreline Tool Library.

They are also looking for volunteers and bike tools to help run the Shoreline Bike Shack. Please contact them at bikeshack@seattlereconomy.org if you are interested in being involved or if you have bike tools you'd like to donate to the new space. They look forward to serving the Shoreline biking community!


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150 women applied for the ‘Future Women in EMS and Fire’ workshop in Kenmore on April 20 and 21, 2024

38 participants in full gear
Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire
King County and Shoreline Fire Department hosted a workshop this weekend to recruit women to join the EMS and firefighting work force. It was held at Station 51 in Kenmore.

Over 150 applicants applied for 38 spaces. This event always has a waitlist for participants and instructors.

Workshop leaders Jen Blackwood and Jenny Shin
Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire
A main reason this workshop (done twice a year) is so successful is because of Jenny Shin, King County EMS Program Manager, and Jen Blackwood’s commitment to expanding the interest for the communities we serve to be served by people like them!

The agenda for Saturday morning included a live fire demonstration, hands on for ladders, ropes, forcible entry and more!

The King County Fire Chiefs Association and King County Emergency Medical Services are committed to improving diversity in fire departments and EMS and are actively recruiting women to join the workforce. 

The goal of this two-day workshop, which was designed by women for women, is to educate, clarify expectations, and provide support for women in the hiring process.

Workshop participants spend a weekend exploring the world of fire and EMS, learning CPR and firefighting tasks, watching demonstrations and participating in hands-on training. Participants hear from women from various agencies around the county during discussion panels.


Workshops are held biannually at designated locations throughout King County. Over 225 women from the region have participated in past workshops, some of whom are now working full-time in this career. Interest in the workshop was high with registration filling quickly.

Shoreline is hosting this spring workshop. Women firefighters and paramedics from across King County are working the event including Bothell FD, Eastside F&R, KC Dist. 20, KC Medic One, Kirkland FD, Port of Seattle, Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority, Redmond FD/ NEKC Medic One, Renton RFA, Seattle FD, Shoreline FD, South King F&R, and Valley Regional Fire Authority.


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Salmonberry in Paramount Park Open Space

Photo by Janet Way


Salmonberry growing wild in the Paramount Park Open Space. Paramount Open Space is a long narrow park oriented along Little’s Creek which runs south and joins Thornton Creek in Seattle.

The southern end of the park includes a wetland that was restored in the 1990s. A number of short trails meander through the park and most radiate out from a small grassy opening adjacent to the public parking lot at the end of 147th street to the three street entrances.

From Friends of Paramount Park

More information here

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Shoreline Park Bond update and schedule of closures

Hillwood Park: Pipes and Puddles

Park Bond Update

Notice of Public Meeting on Proposed Improvements to Hillwood Park

You are invited to participate in our virtual presentation of proposed improvements to Hillwood Park (19001 3rd Ave NW, Shoreline WA 98177) on May 1, 2024, at 6:00pm. 

During this presentation we will talk about specific details of the project and ask for your feedback on the proposal so we can address potential impacts and problem solve together as neighbors.

We will host a virtual meeting on May 1, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. to answer questions and respond to neighborhood comments and suggestions. Please join us on Zoom.

Project Phases

Bundle 1:
  • Ridgecrest Park - Closed during construction, reopening June 2024
  • Kruckeberg Botanic Garden - Open during construction
  • Shoreview Park - Permitting
Bundle 2: Permit review with a target start date of spring-summer 2024.
  • Richmond Highlands Park
  • James Keough Park
  • Brugger's Bog Parks Park
Bundle 3: Construction scheduled to begin late summer 2024.
  • Hillwood Park
  • Briarcrest Park
These dates are subject to change.

Please visit the Parks update page to see the new schematic designs and current project updates.

Temporary Park Closures and Impacts

Construction Closures
  • Ridgecrest Park is closed during construction and is scheduled to reopen at the end of June.
Fircrest construction will change parking for Dog Park

Dog Park parking: 

The entrance to the Dog Park Parking will be moved from the east of the park to the south of the park. The Department of Health Lab is doing an expansion project to the Fircrest location, that will impact of access to the site during construction. 

The area towards the south of the dog park has been laid down with gravel and is suitable for parking. 

Construction is planned to start August/September 2024.

Planned Facility Closures
  • Spartan Recreation Facility closure August 24- September 8, 2024
  • Richmond Highland Recreation Center closure August 16-26, 2024

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After a 15 year break - Shorecrest students create a new Lip-Dub video

Screenshot from 2024 Shorecrest Lip Dub video

15 years after students at Shorecrest High School created a lip-dub video featuring hundreds of students and teams, the 2024 class has created a current lip dub video.



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175th tests Shoreline’s commitment to bike lanes and tree preservation

By Oliver Moffat

This is the second article of four covering comments from the city council about Shoreline’s proposed Transportation Improvement Plan that was reviewed on April 15.


A map from the WSDOT crash data portal shows ten years
of fatal and serious injury collisions along 175th 

According to data from WSDOT, in the past ten years, there have been eleven serious injury crashes and one fatal crash along 175th street, making it one of Shoreline’s most dangerous roads.

The transportation improvement plan lists two very different projects for 175th street - one on the east side of I-5 and one on the west.

The proposed safety changes on the east side would put 175th between 5th and 15th on a road diet - narrowing the four-lane road to three while adding bike lanes without widening the road (or removing trees). The east side project is unfunded and could cost an estimated $2.3 million.

The west side projects would widen the road to add more capacity for vehicles, mitigate earthquake risks and make room for shared use paths for pedestrians and bicyclists. The west side portion is partially funded, has a projected cost of over $88 million and will require the removal of 274 trees.

A screen shot shows Council member Annette Ademasu saying, “I would like to see options where we can see reduced width sidewalks”

Councilmember Annette Ademasu told city engineers to provide options with narrower sidewalks. “I would like to see options where we can see reduced width sidewalks and have less impervious surfaces and be able to save more trees and go around trees,“ she said.

Ademasu also indicated she prefers continuing to keep 175th bike-free. “I really like how you’re doing the bike corridors on the slower paced roads because that will help with bike safety,” she said.

Bike lanes on 175th have been part of Shoreline’s Bike Plan since at least 2011 and the new Transportation Element of Shoreline’s Comprehensive Plan envisions protected biked lanes that would be safe enough for children to ride on.

A screen shot shows Council member Keith Scully saying, “what compromises can we make in order to save trees? And the test for me is 175th.”

Councilmember Keith Scully told city staff, “so instead of saying: ‘how wide do we need it to move pedestrians most efficiently? How protected does the bike lane need to be for maximum safety?’… Let’s start by saying what sacrifices can we make, what compromises can we make in order to save trees. And the test for me is 175th.“
An aerial view shows the 175th and Meridian intersection, the location of phase-one of the 175th corridor project and the site where a collapse could be caused by an earthquake 

The 175th project will be completed in phases starting with phase one which includes seismic mitigations and improvements to the intersection of 175th and Meridian Ave.

The city says an earthquake could cause portions of 175th street adjacent to Ronald Bog to collapse and has applied for grants to pay for the mitigations.

Scully and Ademasu worked together to bring the 175th street project back for discussion again at the June 3rd city council meeting.


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Shoreline Track & Field meet April 18, 2024

Shorewood boys took 1st and 2nd place in the long jump.
SW girls took 1st in the 4x200
Photos by Todd Linton

Track and Field Meet
4-18-2024 @Shoreline Stadium
Shorewood - Monroe - Archbishop Murphy

Team scores



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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Oh Oh



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Jobs: City of Lake Forest Park Court Clerk

City of Lake Forest Park
Court Clerk
Part-time 32 hr/wk
Salary: $25.01 -$34.68 hourly

Under the direction of the Court Administrator, performs a variety of technical, clerical, and administrative duties to assist the court in the adjudication of criminal and civil matters. 

The Court Clerk is responsible for providing assistance to the public, supporting court operational and reporting requirements, performing accounting functions, and maintaining accurate data entry in all court software. 

Duties require the ability to manage a high-volume caseload and be extremely organized to meet deadlines with minimal supervision. Responsibilities have a significant impact on the department's operations and customer satisfaction.


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Chemical spill at Shorewood HS causes brief evacuation Friday

Shorewood High School

Shoreline Fire was dispatched for a chemical spill at Shorewood High School on Friday, April 19, 2024.

The school was evacuated while Fire checked inside with their air monitor but found no unsafe levels.

Outside, Fire crews checked on individuals for any symptoms and it was determined there were no complaints.

After it was determined that the school was safe to reopen, the school day resumed with lunch service, a final period of study hall, and dismissal approximately 15 minutes earlier than the typical release.


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Ramps to close overnight Sunday near Aurora Village for pavement repair

Crews sealed cracks and made pavement repairs along the northbound I-405 off-ramp to Totem Lake Boulevard Wednesday, April 17, in Kirkland. This week, they'll work on two ramps in Edmonds. Photo courtesy WSDOT

WSDOT will close two ramps between Aurora (SR 99) and N 205th/SW244/SR104 next week to seal cracks and repair pavement. The location is just north of Aurora Village.

Contractor crews will close:
  • The eastbound SR 104 ramp to southbound SR 99 from 9pm Sunday, April 21, to 5am Monday, April 22. A signed detour will guide people around the closure using eastbound SR 104 to westbound 244th Street Southwest.
  • The southbound SR 99 ramp to eastbound SR 104 from 10pm Monday, April 22, to 5am Tuesday, April 23. A signed detour will guide people around the closure using southbound SR 99 to eastbound 244th Street Southwest.
All work is weather-dependent and may be rescheduled. The pavement repairs will create a smoother ride and extend the lifespan of the pavement.


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Dates changed for closure on 145th from 3rd to 8th


The waterline work scheduled for 145th from 3rd to 8th NE has been pushed out a week.

The new date for this work is Sunday, April 28 through Thursday, May 2, 2024.

The work will be done at night from 9pm to 5am the following morning. 
 
The street will be restricted just east of 5th Ave NE on NE 145th St. 
 
Drivers should expect delays and uniformed police officers flagging the intersection of 5th Ave NE and NE 145th St. 

It will be noisy and may disrupt bus routes. Check the King County Metro website for details. 

Contact Outreach specialist: c-jaybee.ragudo@soundtransit.org or 206-701-1469 

Other area projects:

The City of Shoreline is working on Phase 1 of the 145th Street Corridor Project. This work is a seven-month closure of NE 145th Street between the southbound I-5 ramps and 1st Avenue NE.
For more information, visit: engage.shorelinewa.gov/145corridor



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