For the Birds: Yellow Birds - Oh So Pretty!

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Orange-crowned Warbler
Phoro by Dan Streiffert

By Christine Southwick

How many local insect-eating yellow birds can you identify?

Townsend's Warbler
Photo by Craig Kerns
Townsend's Warbler can be found here all year. They prefer evergreen forests, but in winter will use deciduous forests as well. Birdbaths and suet will draw them into your yard.

Yellow-Rumped Warbler can be found all year long, though less common here in the summer since they go north to breed. They love to eat bugs in flowering trees.

Orange-crowned Warbler—olive yellowish green above with yellow below, with a small erectable orange crown on males. Found here from late March thru usually September.

Wilson’s Warbler usually arrive here about April and leave September-ish. They prefer willow and alder stands in dense moist areas. Fountains and bird baths will likely lure them into your yard.

Wilson's Warbler
Photo by Elaine Chuang
Western Tanager
fly through our area during migration in late April-May. The breeding males have bright red heads, and brilliant yellow with back wings. 

They usually perch in trees with yellow tints (like willows) during migration which makes them hard to see. 

They can be found locally in high forested areas of Washington, especially in Ponderosa-pine and Douglas-fir forests (like Roslyn). 

The sound of fountains often attracts them to yards while migrating.

American Goldfinch are mainly in our area from May through Oct, with some wintering flocks staying and searching for local food. Basically seed-eaters, these finches prefer open areas, and will not come to feeders under branches. They use thistle down to line their nests so nest later than all our other local birds,

Yellow Warbler, male,
Photo by Tony Varela
Yellow Warbler
arrive here in May and are usually gone by September. They are most often found in deciduous habitat near streams. Running water could attract them to your yard.

Pine Siskin intermittently can be here all year long, often in numbers. They are finches with narrow bills, and yellow streaks on flanks and tails.

Evening Grosbeak can be seen intermittently all year. They arrive at feeders in numbers, with the males being a bright yellow and black, the females being brownish gray with a dark head and yellow underwing coloring. They love spruce budworm. Their large bills are indeed gross beaks.

Golden-crowned Kinglet a small yellow-tinged, fluttering insect-eating bird frequently near human habitat. Usually high in the canopies during the summer they come down lower during the winter when they may join mixed flocks.

Common Yellowthroat can be heard (witchity, witchity), and maybe seen, in wet marshy areas from early April through September.

Save birds by saving insects!

Previous columns by Christine Southwick can be viewed here.



Read more...

Former Boy Scout volunteer sentenced to 22 years in prison for hiding cameras in camp bathrooms

ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Rodney W. Sippel on Thursday sentenced a former Boy Scout volunteer from Redmond, WA to 22 years in prison for hiding cameras in bathrooms at a St. Francois County, Missouri scout camp.

Judge Sippel also ordered David Lee Nelson to pay $55,000 in special assessments that will go to a fund for victims and prevention programs and $6,810 to pay for counseling for his victims. 

After he gets out of prison, Nelson will be on supervised release for life, with special conditions that include a prohibition against any contact with minors without permission.

Nelson hid two cameras in bathrooms at the S Bar F Scout Ranch in St. Francois County in July of 2021 while working there as a volunteer. Nelson hid the cameras in paper towel dispensers, positioning them so they would capture a shower stall and other portions of the bathroom.

One camera was discovered when a scout leader and scouts were cleaning out one of the restroom stalls. A search uncovered another camera, and leaders then called the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department. 

When questioned later by a sheriff’s deputy after being spotted near the bathrooms, Nelson lied and said he was looking for a cell phone charger that he’d left in the stall.

During Thursday’s hearing, victims and their parents said Nelson was supposed to be protecting the scouts and was supposed to be someone children could trust. Nelson’s crimes, they said, have now left them unable to trust others. The victims also said they now experience fear and discomfort every time they try to use a public bathroom.

Nelson, 41, of Redmond, Washington, pleaded guilty in January to two counts of production of child pornography and two counts of attempted production of child pornography.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. 

Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. 


Read more...

Free event celebrates Mexican culture through music and dance - May 16, 2024 at the Moore Theatre in Seattle

Seattle Theatre Group Presents
México en el Corazón
May 16, 2024

This event takes place in Seattle, sponsored by several local Shoreline businesses. This is a free event celebrating the Mexican culture through music and dance at the Moore Theater on May 16, 2024 at 7:00pm. 

Tickets must be secured in advance through the STG website. GET TICKETS

Thursday, May 16, 2024
Doors at 6:00pm
Show at 7:00pm

All General Admission
All Ages, Bar w/ Valid ID
Todas las edades / Bar con identificación válida

Evento gratuito con boletos. Boletos disponible miércoles 30 de abril a las 12:00
Free ticketed event. Tickets available Tuesday, April 30 at 12:00pm

*Por favor llegue temprano ya que no se garantizan asientos después de las 6:30pm
*Please arrive early, as seating is not guaranteed after 6:30pm

Vive la vibrante cultura de México a través de una cautivadora noche de música y danza. "México en el Corazón" celebra las ricas tradiciones y folklore de este hermoso país con la música, la danza y los colores de los estados de Nuevo León, Michoacán, Baja California y Jalisco. Con la participación del aclamado Ballet Folclórico Guadalajara, el Mariachi Juvenil Colotlán y el grupo norteño Pepe y sus Pepillos, quienes viajan desde México.

Este evento es gratuito para la comunidad gracias a nuestros patrocinadores locales: The Jalisco Club, Consejo de Federaciones Jaliscienses of Washington State, Seattle Theatre Group, North American Institute for Mexican Advancement (NAIMA), Mazatlan Mexican Restaurants, La Palmera Mexican Restaurant, Agave Cocina and Cantina, Toreros Mexican Restaurant, Softec Services, Chempros, y El Dorado Tortilla

Experience the vibrant culture of Mexico through a captivating evening of music and dance. México en el Corazón celebrates the rich traditions and folklore of this beautiful country with the music, dance and colors of the states of Nuevo León, Michoacán, Baja California and Jalisco. Featuring Ballet Folclórico Guadalajara, Mariachi Juvenil Colotlán and norteño group Pepe y sus Pepillos.

This event is free for the community thanks to our local sponsors: The Jalisco Club, Consejo de Federaciones Jaliscienses of Washington State, Seattle Theatre Group, North American Institute for Mexican Advancement (NAIMA), Mazatlan Mexican Restaurants, La Palmera Mexican Restaurant, Agave Cocina and Cantina, Toreros Mexican Restaurant, Softec Services, Chempros, and El Dorado Tortilla

Read more...

LFP Garden Club to hear about Successful Shade Gardens May 14, 2024

Trevor Cameron
“Successful Shade Gardens”  May 14, 2024 with Trevor Cameron
 
We'll discuss different types of shade locations, with an emphasis on dry shade under trees. Discover how shade gardens can be just as beautiful as sun gardens with bold vibrant colors, textures, & more! 

Learn all about plants that do well in cool, moist and shady places. Trevor will also share his favorite shade plants and his tips & tricks to have a spectacular shade garden.
 
We meet on the second Tuesday of the month at the LFP Town Center from 9:30am to do club business.  A break for treats and then our speaker at 10:30am.

Location: Town Center, Ballinger and Bothell Way NE, Upper level at the stage area.

All are welcome to visit two times for free and then we ask that you join the club for $35.00 yr.  We meet Sept to May. In June and July we have a potluck Picnic and a Garden Party.  We also visit three or so gardens of club members.

All levels of gardeners from beginners to expert are welcome.  We have great speakers and have a fun time with the members interactions.

 

Read more...

Quinn is a Very Very Good Boy sniffing out $3.25 million worth of street drugs

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

K9 Quinn
The King County Sheriff's Office and Shoreline Police Department have seized more than 250,000 M-30 fentanyl pills, 64 pounds of fentanyl powder and 2 pounds of fentanyl laced cocaine in two recent narcotics operations.

The city of Shoreline Police's Special Emphasis Team (SET) conducted a lengthy investigation that recently led to the successful execution of two narcotics operations in south King County.

They targeted a drug trafficking organization involved in the transportation of illegal narcotics from Mexico to King County, including the city of Shoreline.

Just 2mg of fentanyl is lethal to the average person. 

The amount of fentanyl powder seized alone is enough to harm millions. 

The street value of narcotics from both operations is approximately $3.25 million and included:
  • 64.3 pounds of Fentanyl Powder
  • 253,704 M30 Fentanyl Pills
  • 3.1 pounds of Heroin
  • 1.7 pounds of Cocaine
  • 1.7 pounds of fentanyl laced cocaine.
  • 2.4 pounds of Methamphetamine
  • $32,836 in cash
  • 2 firearms
  • 1 vehicle
Three men were booked into the King County Jail where they remain on bail, in addition to two suspects that are pending charges. 

Shoreline Police stated,
"We are incredibly proud of our detectives, their skills and the tireless work that went into uncovering these illegal activities. None of this would be possible without the help of detectives from Precinct-4 (SW King County) and K9 Quinn. We also thank the assistance of our partner agencies and patrol units."

Read more...

WeatherWatcher: Finally some warm weather and sunshine

Sunny Day photo by Carl Dinse

So the sunny sunshine started Tuesday, after a morning of alternating rain and sun. (If you don't like the weather, wait 15 minutes). 

We are expecting a long overdue 5 day period of sunny skies, starting on Wednesday when temperatures are expected to climb into the low to mid 60’s. (Probably ok to plant your tomatoes now)

Thursday through Saturday we will have highs in the mid 70s, with Saturday getting to either side of 80°F. 

Then we go back down to the upper 60s and low 70s Sunday through Tuesday. 

Currently no rain in sight. (Don't forget to water your tomatoes)


Read more...

The Lake Forest Park Farmers Market opens this Sunday, May 12, 2024

As always, the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market opens on Mother’s Day this year, which means that this Sunday, May 12, 2024 from 10am to 2pm marks the return of the market for another fantastic season!

Since it’s Mother’s Day, be sure to peruse the flowers from Long Farm, Yang Lee Yao Garden, and Yeng Garden for a magnificent array of colorful bouquets. You know the market will be overflowing with spectacular flowers perfect for every mom in your life.

You’ll see many familiar faces among the popular returning farmers like Alvarez Organics, Bautista Farm, Garden Treasures, Martin Family Orchards, Sidhu Farm, and Well Fed Farm. Others like Guerrero, Gypsy Rows, and Hayton Farms will join later as their crops come into season.

There will be no shortage of popular producers at the market with many returning favorites including Greenwood Cider, Honest Mocha, La Pasta, Lopez Island Vineyards, and Tiny Kitchen. If you’re on the hunt for sweet treats, be sure to check out Browned & Toasted, Cake & More, Flutterby Sweets & Treats, JonBoy Caramels, and Pete’s Perfect Toffee. Or if you prefer your snacks savory, head to Cascade Valley Farm (formerly Rainier Salsa), Holmquist Hazelnuts, or The Mediterranean.

If you’re feeling peckish at the market, you’ll be able to grab a bite from Kettle & Pop Popcorn, Ola Mae BBQ, Patty Pan, Seattle Pops, or Wrapped & Roll Lumpia this season. And don’t forget to pick up the catch of the day from the good folks at Wilson Fish.

You’ll also want to welcome market newcomers like Beelicious Honey, Farm Fresh NW, and Hierphant Meadery. And that’s still not the whole list! The market will also be joined by a number of artists and artisans over the course of the season.

From row crops to eggs and meat, hot foods to baked goods, adult beverages to tasty treats, the market will have all this and more. Read the full vendor list here.

Don’t miss opening day and your chance to catch up with your favorite vendors while saying hello to some new ones.

And if you love the market, or any of the hundreds of other free events hosted by Third Place Commons each year, don’t forget to GiveBIG for Third Place Commons & the LFP Farmers Market this week.

GiveBIG is an annual two-day giving event that provides vital operating funds for nonprofit organizations like Third Place Commons that help our community thrive and grow.

The LFP Farmers Market is a program of Third Place Commons, which has been fostering real community in real space for over twenty years through the farmers market, a safe, welcoming gathering space, and hundreds of free public events each year. 

The market takes place in the parking lot of the Town Center at Lake Forest Park, located at 17171 Bothell Way NE at the corner of Bothell Way NE and Ballinger Way NE. See you at the market!


Read more...

Ukulele For Everyone! at the Richmond Beach Library May 11, 2024


Ukulele For Everyone! at the Richmond Beach Library

Saturday, May 11, 2024, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
For ages 10 and older

Learn and play songs together on the ukulele! At the beginning music instructor Josh Hollingsworth will demonstrate basics for people new to the instrument, then participants will play songs the remainder of the session. 

Sheet music provided. We will have several ukuleles available to borrow for the program, or bring your own! No registration required.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Richmond Beach Library


Read more...

Lake Forest Park Garden Club annual Plant Sale May 18, 2024

Lake Forest Park Garden Club annual Plant Sale
Saturday May 18, 2024
Hours: 9am to 2pm (or until we run out of plants)

We have a wide variety of plants all grown by our club members. Plants for sun/shade-veggies-bulbs-Ferns-Grasses-Shrubs-Trees-Hanging Baskets, etc. etc.. 

In addition we have a large collection of 'Tchotchkes' (fun yard art and beautiful pots) with a good selection of Bonsai pots from small to much larger. These are great for succulents as they have very shallow roots. 

As a extra, Cedar Schemes donated a beautiful new raised Cedar planter with metal legs. For help with yard work we will have one push lawn mower and a gas powered edger.

We will have a raffle for a basket filled with tons of goodies, things for the gardener and things to eat and drink-tickets are $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00.

Club members will be wearing green aprons with a LFPGC pin attached to help with questions you may have. We will also have a Master Gardener there.


Read more...

Shoreline Slam high school tennis tournament open for registration

 
“Hosting a tennis tournament for junior players has been a dream of ours for nearly a decade,” says Rob Mann, tennis coach for Shorecrest High School. “I’m beyond excited that this is the year we’re making it happen.”

Shorewood and Shorecrest High School tennis programs have teamed up to host the first annual Shoreline Slam from Thursday, July 25 to Sunday, July 28, 2024. 

The event is open to all high school players in the Pacific Northwest -- those who are entering grades 9-12 in the fall, or who are a 2024 high school graduate.

Players may register for singles, doubles, and mixed doubles play. Divisions include gold, silver and bronze for both singles and doubles. The mixed doubles divisions are gold and silver. Matches will be played at Shorewood High School and Kellogg Middle School courts in Shoreline.

“It’s great for local youth tennis players to have a chance to play competitive tennis in the summer,” says Arnie Moreno, tennis coach for Shorewood High School. “We’re grateful to our sponsors at Tennis Center at Sand Point for supporting the event.”

Deadline for entry is July 19, 2024, at 9:00pm Pacific. Draws will be posted on Monday, July 22. 

Registration is open on the Shoreline Slam website.


Read more...

Arrest made in 1984 cold case homicide in Everett WA

Judy Weaver was murdered in 1984.
Her killer was just arrested
Photos courtesy Everett Police
EVERETT, WA – An arrest was made in the June 2, 1984, homicide of Judith “Judy” Weaver, a 42-year-old woman from Everett, WA. Mitchell Gaff has been booked in the Snohomish County Jail and is charged with Murder in the 1st degree. Everett Police located Mitchell Gaff in Olympia, WA after new DNA evidence identified him as the suspect.

Judy Weaver was found murdered in her residence on Rucker Ave after the Everett Fire Department was called there to a report of a fire. She co-owned a business on Hewitt Ave and had walked home that night alone after work. Judy was a mother, grandmother, sister, and daughter.

Judy Weaver's family provided the following statement May 6, 2024:

"We want to thank the Everett Police Department, Detective Susan Logoghetti, Prosecutor Craig Matheson, and the Forensic Scientists who have worked so diligently over the years to compile the DNA evidence that ultimately led to an arrest. 
"Throughout the years our family has never given up hope. We are very happy there will finally be justice for our mom, Judy."

Everett Police Chief John DeRousse said “Our investigators have worked tirelessly to get justice for Judy Weaver’s family,” “We are incredibly proud of Det. Susan Logothetti for her effort and persistence which ultimately led to the identification and arrest of this suspect.”

Charges were filed against Mitchell Gaff in Snohomish County Superior Court.


Read more...

Small Space Gardening: Growing Vegetables in Raised Beds and Containers Thursday May 9, 2024

Lisa Taylor
The Senior Activity Center is collaborating with the Shoreline Library to host author and garden educator Lisa Taylor for a one-time class called small-space gardening.

Small Space Gardening: Growing Vegetables in Raised Beds and Containers

Thursday, May 9, 2024, 
from 10:30 - 11:30am
Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center

Registration Required Register here

Join Lisa Taylor, author and garden educator, in a discussion about growing fruits and vegetables in raised beds and containers. Learn how to identify varieties that are best suited for our Northwest climate.

Participants will plant vegetable and flower seeds to take home.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Shoreline Library.


Read more...

Jobs: Gift shop in LFP has opening for part-time sales clerk

The Shop by DBD in LFP
The Shop by DBD
Retail sales position part-time
Salary $19 / hour

The Shop by DBD is a gift shop located in the Lake Forest Park Town Center carrying over 30 local vendors, mostly artists and makers and a few vintage sellers. 

We are looking to fill a new retail sales position. 

Duties include: opening and closing the shop, keeping it tidy, interacting with customers, running the POS, re-merchandise when needed, etc.

The Shop by DBD in Lake Forest Park Town Center

Hours are Friday and Saturday 12-6, Sundays 10-3, hours subject to change with the season and possible opportunity to add more. Pay is $19/hr. 

Must be someone out going and independent. Ideally also interested in art / vintage / local makers. 

Please email sylvia@designbydiscovery.com with your resume and why you think you would be a good fit.


Read more...

Jobs: City of Lake Forest Park - Senior Project Manager


City of Lake Forest Park
Senior Project Manager
Full time / hybrid remote work schedule
Salary $47.38 - $62.48 hourly
First review for applications received by Tuesday, May 21, 2024.

Under the direction of the Project Works Director, the Senior Project Manager performs the more complex, advanced, and senior level coordination, maintenance, management, and oversight of the delivery of assigned projects.

The purpose of the position is to monitor the progress and assist in the execution of public works capital projects including planning, scheduling, coordinating, tracking, and administration; administer project from inception to completion including design, review, public input and meetings, bidding, contract management and project completion; NPDES II compliance coordinator and administration of the capital improvement plan (CIP). This position supervises the Project Manager.

This is a full-time, benefit eligible, non-exempt position eligible for overtime.
Job description and application


Read more...

Jobs: City of Mountlake Terrace Head Lifeguard/Swim Instructor - 3/4 time

City of Mountlake Terrace
Head Lifeguard/Swim Instructor - 3/4 time
Hourly wage range: $20.95 - $25.75
Published Apr 26, 2024, 08:00 AM
Open until filled

Leadership position responsible for supervising, planning, deck supervision of a lifeguard team and swim instructors.

Position involves responding to any level of incident around the entire facility, reacting efficiently and tactfully with the public and the capability of enforcing regulations firmly and impartially.

Must be patient and enthusiastic while teaching productive swimming lessons to children and adults.

Position also includes opening/closing the facility, lifeguarding assigned areas of an indoor swimming pool facility as well as teaching swim lessons, setting up and cleaning up lesson areas, maintaining communication and relationships with students and parents of their students, and other tasks assigned.

Daytime, evening and/or weekend availability required.

Work hours are subject to change based on program needs; shifts will typically be weekends --Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Job description and Apply through Form Center


Read more...

Jobs: City of Mountlake Terrace Clerk I - Recreation Pavilion - 1/2 time

City of Mountlake Terrace
Clerk I - Recreation Pavilion - 1/2 time
Salary Hourly wage range: $17.62 - $21.66
Listed: Apr 30, 2024, 09:00 AM
Open until filled

This half-time position performs a variety of customer service functions in support of the Recreation and Parks Department at the Recreation Pavilion. 

These functions include answering customer inquiries by telephone and/or person, registering participants for classes/programs, collecting admissions fees, financial deposits, filing, copying, maintaining program information, scheduling facilities for private and public use, and providing food and beverage service at the espresso cart.

Daytime, evening and/or weekend availability required. Work hours are subject to change, daytime, evening and/or weekend availability required.

Job description and Apply through Form Center


Read more...

Rainbow Bingo at the Senior Activity Center Friday May 10, 2024

Monday, May 6, 2024


RAINBOW BINGO

Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center
holds our monthly fundraiser RAINBOW BINGO
with hostess Sylvia O’Stayformore!

Friday, May 10, 2024

Games start 7pm, doors open at 6:30pm
southernmost building on the Shoreline Center campus
Free parking

Participants can expect ten (10) rousing rounds of bingo, complete with prizes and a few musical numbers!

Cost: $20 Admission and $10 at the door for your bingo cards.

The $20 Admission reserves your seats and includes the evening’s entertainment and loaded nachos.


$10 Bingo cards must be purchased at the door by cash or check as required by the Washington State Gambling Commission. Bingo is a 21 and over event.

Cash bar will serve beer, wine and Jell-O shots.


Read more...

Shorewood softball vs Edmonds Woodway 5-3-2024

Photo by Chris Stuvek

Varsity fastpitch softball
Shorewood vs. Edmonds-Woodway 
at Meridian Park 5-3-2024
Shorewood 14 - Edmonds Woodway 4

Scores






Pitcher(s) and Catcher(s)

Edmonds-Woodway: 
  • N. Cheeney, 
  • Z. Glaros (4) and 
  • C. Ingalls (catcher)
Shorewood: 
  • Emma Kellum (8 K's) and 
  • Lillian Perrault (catcher)

Highlights

Edmonds-Woodway: 
  • C. Ingalls 1-3 (2B)
  • F. Marsh 2-3 (2B)
  • N. Gillespie 1-3 (HR)
Shorewood: 
  • Lillian Perrault 4-5 (HR, 2B)
  • Avery Grutz 2-3 (2B)
  • Ellie Van Horn 3-4
  • Emma Kellum 1-3 (HR)
  • Rose Gallagher 2-2 (3B)
  • Paige Petschl 2-2 (2 2Bs)
Coach: Paul Jensen


Read more...

Attention fishermen: Green Lake has been stocked with rainbow trout

Green Lake is a large freshwater lake located in King County, Washington. 

At an elevation of 164 ft. and 250 acres, it's home to several species of fish, including rock bass, brown trout, common carp, rainbow trout, brown bullhead, channel catfish, largemouth bass and pumpkinseed sunfish. 

Green Lake provides good shoreline access and fishing pier.

Stocked Fish: Rainbow
Lake Size: 250 acres
Elevation: 164 ft.
Boat Launch: None
Shoreline Access: Good
Fishing Piers: Yes

Green Lake Stocking Reports
Green Lake has been historically stocked with rainbow. The largest rainbow ever stocked is 2.63 lbs. This year so far, there have been two stockings of rainbow at an average of 0.41 lbs. 

In the past, Green Lake stocked tens of thousands of rainbow averaging 0.61 lbs.

Date - Quantity -Fish
  • April 30, 2024        4800         Rainbow @ 0.42lbs
  • March 18, 2024     5700    Rainbow @ 0.4lbs

Read more...

Truck snags electrical wires on Aurora, pulling down poles and lines

The red and green truck snagged a power line.
Photo by Bruce Miller

Traffic was at a total standstill on Aurora Sunday evening May 5, 2024, starting about 4:00pm when a truck with high load snagged lines while southbound on Aurora Ave N at about 141st St in North Seattle.

Photo by Bruce Miller

The lines pulled down four or five poles, both metal and wood. 

Aurora was shut down for hours.
Photo by Bruce Miller

The road was closed in both directions.

The truck that caught the wires
Photo by Bruce Miller

Amazingly, no one was injured but traffic was at a standstill for hours.

Just one of the poles that came down
Photo by Bruce Miller

It was quite a mess. Along three blocks of Aurora, poles were leaning, broken, touching the street, with wires blocking businesses and draped along the road


Seattle City Light was on scene at 10:30pm, replacing poles. The road was reopened at 1:50am, almost four hours later.

updated 5-7-2024



Read more...

Travels with Charlie: Exploring the first spring at No Fence Wetlands 330 miles away

By Gordon Snyder

We’ve been in Idaho (east of Moscow) for the last several days monitoring the status of the No Fence Wetlands' first spring after restoration.

The project is to restore cattle corrals / hayfields from the 1910s to the ancient wetlands conditions from before civilization…

8/5/2011 after haying. Photo from Google Earth

You can see historic water flow and wetlands remnants even after all the agricultural years.

Earth moving work on pond restoration was completed on 9/1/2023. After that, last fall we planted over 170,000 nursery grown wetlands plants. Plus, broadcast seeding of grasses and sedges.

9/7/2023 after haying and reconstruction. Photo from Google Earth

We lucked out when Google Earth satellite photographed the wetlands project just a week after reconstruction. The nursery plantings and seeding had begun when they were flying.

This spring we are seeing the ponds filling and wetlands plants sprouting and beginning to grow… Fantastic changes taking place.

Photo by Gordon Snyder

I am here photo and video documenting the progress and status of this first spring for the No Fence Wetlands.

Charlie is having a wonderful time
Photo by Gordon Snyder

Of course, my Buddy Charlie is with me out here. He is delightedly romping and sniffing while I’m doing my wetlands things. (Charlie changes from a “Dude” urban dog to a “Scout” country dog when we’re here.)

Photo by Gordon Snyder

Charlie helps by checking out the newly planted area.

Photo by Gordon Snyder

Charlie is mesmerized by honking from our new resident Canadian Geese on the shoreline of Bigfoot Pond….

Photo by Gordon Snyder

Meanwhile… I’m looking at water levels and success of bank plants and seed germination.

Photo by Gordon Snyder

We had less than 70% normal precipitation, but enough to get wetlands started.

Photo by Gordon Snyder

The plants need daily rain from those clouds to compete with existing hayfield grasses.

For more on this wetland project, check out No Fence Wetlands

Cheers,
Gordon Snyder


Read more...

Sun slice

Sunday, May 5, 2024

Photo by Judie Menz

Photo taken Friday, April 26, 2024 at 7pm from the Edmonds beach, next to the ferry, looking towards Kingston.

The sun appears to be slicing through our cloud cover, taking advantage of a brief opportunity to prove that it is still up there.


 

Read more...

Meridian Park parents want traffic safety on 175th; “Every child should be able to walk and bike to school without fear”

Meridian Park students and parents cross 175th street
Photo by Mike Remarcke

By Oliver Moffat

On school days, Everton Drakes walks with his daughters to Meridian Park elementary - his older daughter rides a scooter while his little one rides along in a push car.

The ride to school requires crossing both Meridian Ave and 175th street, an intersection littered with car crash debris and plagued by traffic jams and speeders.

Drakes and a cohort of parents from the Meridian Park PTSA want the city to pay more attention to safety near Shoreline schools and are trying to build support for automated traffic enforcement cameras near the school.

“Every child should be able to walk and bike to school without fear of the intersection near their school. These are children. It’s not fair to them,” said Drakes.

A screenshot from photoenforced.com shows the location of traffic cameras
in cities neighboring Shoreline

While neighboring cities including Lynnwood, Lake Forest Park, and Seattle have long embraced the use of traffic cameras, the Shoreline city council has opposed their adoption.

Recent changes to state law expanded where cities can deploy cameras and allows city employees to review tickets where previously a police officers needed to review each ticket.

The law requires cities complete an equity analysis to prove traffic cameras will not disproportionately target historically over-policed neighborhoods.

To discourage cities from using traffic cameras as a long term source of revenue, after three years, the city has to share revenue with the state.

The city is actively working on improvements to the 175th street starting with the intersection of 175th and Meridian Ave.

The city wants to widen 175th on the west side of I-5 to make room for pedestrians and bicyclists which could cost over $88 million and require chopping down 274 trees.

Meanwhile, on the other side of town, a road diet on the east side of I-5 would shrink 175th from four lanes to three while adding bike lanes and could cost an estimated $2.3 million (without removing trees).

The city council will discuss the 175th street project again at the June 3rd city council meeting.

The city council will discuss traffic enforcement cameras at the June 10th meeting.


Read more...

Edmonds Police investigating felony hit and run at county line

Photo courtesy Edmonds Police

Edmonds Police Officers are investigating a Felony hit and run, eluding, and firearm violation that took place around 10pm on Saturday, May 4, 2024 on the Snohomish / King border 244th SW and 76th (N 205th / Meridian)

Suspect is a Black male, 5'11", 150 lbs, wearing a green camouflage jacket/sweatshirt, blue jeans. Possibly armed. Call 911 if seen.

Suspect vehicle struck 2 victim vehicles.
  • 1 injured patient, 63 yo female, transported to Swedish with minor injuries.
  • Another patient, 62 yo male, declined aid. 
  • Reports that a bicyclist was struck are incorrect.

Read more...

Join the fun: Paine Field Community Day, May 18, 2024

Join us for a day of fun and discovery into aviation’s limitless possibilities. This youth-focused event will feature aviation education, aircraft on display, military aircraft, and food vendors.

Saturday, May 18, 2024, 9am - 5pm.
Paine Field Airport, 3509 109th St SW, Everett WA 98204

(FREE PARKING NEARBY)


Read more...

More about our zebra

Shug being held outside of King county, awaiting transfer to Montana
Photo courtesy RASKC

A wayward zebra that captured the hearts of people all over Washington and the world will soon be on her way to her intended home of Montana after being successfully captured on Friday evening.

"Sugar," also known as "Shug," was rescued in the Riverbend area southeast of the city of North Bend, Washington just after 7pm Friday. She had been on the run for nearly six days in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains after escaping from a trailer on Sunday. 

Shug and three other zebras were being transported to their new home when an apparent problem with the trailer they were being hauled in forced the owner to pull off Interstate 90 at North Bend. When the owner checked the trailer, the zebras bolted. Three of the zebras were quickly rounded up and continued on their way to Montana, but Shug evaded rescuers until Friday.

"We'd like to thank everyone who assisted us in this successful effort by calling in sightings and sharing information on the zebra's location," said Capt. Tim Anderson, operations manager for Regional Animal Services of King County (RASKC). "Our community in King County really came together to help Shug, and we wouldn't have been able to do our work without their support."

"The four wayward zebras were embraced by our community the moment they jumped off the trailer at exit 32. I am honored to have had the opportunity to witness Sugar's safe recovery this weekend," said Mary Miller, mayor of North Bend. 

"Watching the coordinated effort to corral and secure the last remaining zebra was a quiet, calm, and very slow process. I am thrilled to be able to say firsthand that it was absolutely successful."

"It was a privilege to be part of the successful rescue of this now-famous zebra," said RASKC Animal Control Sgt. Samantha Moore, who was on scene Friday night as Shug was corralled. "Seeing her safely loaded into a trailer and on her way home is the best outcome we could have hoped for, and exactly what I wanted to see as an animal control officer."

It took about three hours for rescuers to round up the zebra and get it loaded into a trailer for transport. Sgt. Moore was able to do a quick examination before the zebra was hauled off the property in unincorporated King County where she was captured. Shug appeared to be in reasonably good health after her nearly week-long wander through the woods. It is not known whether the zebra's owner has arranged for a full veterinary examination.

RASKC is still in the initial phase of its investigation into the escape and capture of the four zebras. It may be several weeks before that investigation is finished. Citations or fines could be levied on the owner, but those decisions will have to wait until the investigation is complete.

The owner has been in contact with RASKC from her home in Montana during the course of the search for the zebra. She is now working with people in Washington state to house the animal until it can be taken to its intended destination. Out of concern for privacy and the zebra's well-being, RASKC is not releasing the exact location where the zebra is being held, but it is not in King County.


Read more...

Campus blood drive May 8, 2024


Want to be a lifesaver? Join us at the Shoreline Campus Blood Drive on May 8, 2024, from 11am to 5pm in PUB 9208. 

Roll up your sleeves, make a difference, and help us save lives. Book your spot now by calling 1-800-398-7888 or booking online here (scroll down on the page). 

The campus is located at 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133. Drive takes place in PUB 9208


Read more...

Gloria's Birds: Oh, no...where's my beak?!

Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

(Chestnut-backed Chickadee loads up for her nest...)

--Gloria Z. Nagler


Read more...

Washington College Grant helps make college and career training a reality

From the Washington Partnership for Learning

The Washington College Grant (WA Grant) is one of the most generous state financial aid programs in the country. 

During the 2022-23 academic year, the state gave out more than $436 million in total to nearly 92,000 students via the grant. 

Award amounts vary based on income, family size, and the school or program attended. 

The maximum award amount will cover full tuition at any in-state public college or university, including community and technical colleges.

At least 70% of job openings in our state will be filled by people who have completed a credential after high school, such as a degree, apprenticeship, or industry-aligned certificate or license; and Washingtonians can use the WA Grant to make their career goals a reality.

The Washington Partnership for Learning published an article about Rikki Weaver, a nursing student at Peninsula College, who is using the grant to complete her credentials. 

Learn more about Rikki’s story and how the WA Grant makes post-high school training and education possible in this article published in The Seattle Times.


Read more...
ShorelineAreaNews.com
Facebook: Shoreline Area News
Twitter: @ShorelineArea
Daily Email edition (don't forget to respond to the Follow.it email)

  © Blogger template The Professional Template II by Ourblogtemplates.com 2009

Back to TOP