The Almost Antiques Guild meets Thursday, July 11, 2024 at a new time and location

Friday, July 5, 2024

The Almost Antiques Guild meets Thursday, July 11, 2024 at 1:30pm in a new location.

Broadview Branch of Seattle Public Library 12755 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle WA 98133 from 1:30pm-3pm (a new time)

Join Hal Schlegel to learn about the Minser Tackle Company.

If you like collecting and collectibles, this is the group for you!

Bring something to show and tell, and hear about what others are collecting.


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Bothell council considering donating land for affordable housing downtown

Lot P South is a vacant lot in downtown Bothell the city is considering donating for affordable housing. Photo by Sara Lorimer

By Oliver Moffat

Between the library and the Pop Keeney Stadium in downtown Bothell is a vacant lot the city purchased from the North Shore School District for $1.9 million in 2010 known as “Lot P-South”.

The city spent roughly $2 million settling a lawsuit and cleaning up petroleum contamination at the 1.67 acre lot and in 2022, the parcel was appraised at $6 million dollars.

But instead of selling Lot P South at a profit, as the city has for other nearby lots, Bothell is now seeking to donate the site to Bothell United Methodist Church to be developed into affordable housing.

At the June 25, 2024 meeting, the Bothell City Council discussed transferring the property to Bothell United Methodist Church which has a plan to build affordable apartments at the site.

A map from the Bothell city website shows the location of Lot P-South

The building would provide 200 rental units affordable to people making 50-60% of the median income and include community space and office space for human services. A cafe retail space offering training for hard to employ residents would also be included.

Councilmember Jeanne Zornes raised concerns about the donation, “would the city of Bothell do better financially selling that for $6 million and buying a piece of property and putting it somewhere else”, she said, “we're not flush with cash and we're not flush with surplus property.”

 Mayor Mason Thompson pushed back against criticism that the city should sell the property for maximum profit, “The property acquisition didn't happen in a vacuum. It happened along with a lot of other properties and to my knowledge the other properties that we've sold […] were all sold to pretty much the highest bidder,” he said.

“I don't view this as gifting them the property. I view this as an investment in 200 affordable housing units and community amenities. And if we want affordable housing, this is what it takes,” said Mayor Thompson.

Earlier this year, the Kenmore city council backed out of a plan to donate a parcel of land to build 100 units of affordable homes for disabled seniors facing homelessness after emotionally charged backlash from some residents. The city of Redmond swooped in to save that project (and snagged the tens of millions of dollars already raised for the project).

In November of 2023, Shoreline opened St. Margaret’s Place to provide 100 units for tenants experiencing homelessness. The city of Shoreline donated the land at N 198th Street and Aurora Avenue.

According to the King County Regional Homeless Authority’s 2024 point in time count, the number of people experiencing homelessness in the region increased to 16,385 (a 23% rise) from the 2022 estimate.

Updated 7-5-2024

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4th of July in Edmonds

Thursday, July 4, 2024

Grand Marshal Teresa Wippel
Photo by Glen Nelson
From MyEdmondsNews.com and MLTNews.com

Thousands of spectators lined downtown streets Thursday for the annual Edmonds Chamber of Commerce Fourth of July parade — a small-town tradition that has been around since 1907. 

Veterans proudly marched, horses deftly pranced and school musicians kept the beat, much to the delight of an enthusiastic crowd of onlookers.

Teresa Wippel, publisher of My Neighborhood New Network, was named as Grand Marshal

In 2009, Wippel founded My Edmonds News, which now part of the My Neighborhood News Network — a vital community news organization that also includes MLTnews and Lynnwood Today. 

These three news organizations give businesses, organizations and residents the opportunity to communicate important news, events and updates, offering South County residents quality journalism and community stories.



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Dragonfly with fashion sense

Photo by Mary Lynn Potter

He sat on the lavender in our backyard as if he were posing for us, while we took several pictures of him.

--Mary Lynn Potter

Wikipedia:

There are about 3,000 extant species of dragonflies. Most are tropical, with fewer species in temperate regions. Loss of wetland habitat threatens dragonfly populations around the world.

Swarming dragonflies could be responding to a high mosquito populations, but they also eat several fly species. It’s best to let dragonflies be; they’ll eat up pests, and they’re fun to watch while they do it.

Scientific name: Anisoptera

Lifespan: 7 - 56 days (Adult). 


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Join Shoreline Rotary for dinner and a game at the Everett Aquasox on July 31, 2024

Funko Field - home of the Aquasox

Everett Aquasox - July 31, 2024
Shoreline Rotarians and Friends
3900 Broadway, Everett WA 98201

The July evening "meeting" for Shoreline Rotary will be on July 31, 2024 at Funko Field to see the Everett Aquasox (the Mariners Single-A Minor League affiliate) host the Eugene Emeralds.

We will have use of the Picnic Pavilion from 6 to 7:30 pm. We will be provided with a buffet of hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad, chips and cookies, and canned soda and water.

The game starts at 7:05pm. The cost is $30.00 per person, which includes a ticket to the game as well as the food.

If you've never been to an Aquasox game, it's very cool! Need not be a Rotarian to attend!

If you will be attending, please contact Robert Brouillard robert@Brouillardlaw.com as soon as possible so he can reserve tickets.


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Shakespeare in the Park July 10, 2024 at 6:30pm


Shakespeare returns to Richmond Beach Community (Library) Park in Shoreline on Wednesday, July 10 at 6:30pm (previous notices said 7pm).  2201 NW 197th, Shoreline WA 98177

Seattle Shakespeare Company presents The Two Gentlemen of Verona. 

Status, friendship, and true hearts collide in this comedy of impulsive love. 

Don't forget to pre-order your picnic box meal from Vault 177 and pick it up in the park before the show. 

Bring a low-backed chair or a picnic blanket to enjoy the show. Shakespeare in the Park is brought to you by ShoreLake Arts as part of the Concerts in the Park series.


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King County Assessor: Residential values rise, while values of large office buildings fall in a mixed real estate market

Assessor John Wilson
The King County Assessor’s office has begun the annual process of mailing property valuation notices to taxpayers. Notices will be arriving soon. 

 Preliminary indications show most residential areas will increase a little over 10% on average. Commercial properties are more mixed depending on property type.

“After dramatic fluctuations in the residential market during the COVID years, values have returned to a steady level of increase,” said King County Assessor John Wilson. 
“The volatility now is in the commercial sector and among condominiums.”

Each year, County Assessors set values on every commercial and residential property value in the state. 

These values – set effective as of January 1 by state law – are then applied to the next year’s tax bill. Property values are being set as of January 1, 2024, for taxes due in 2025.

Data indicates that most residential market areas will see value increases this year. Those increases will range from the single digits in Seattle, to roughly 20% in some east King County areas. In 2022, some Eastside communities saw values soar 50% in year over year.

Residential condominiums saw fewer sales in 2023 and all across King County will experience a value decline, mostly in the single digits. Downtown Seattle condominiums will experience the largest drop in value.

Most commercial values will remain flat, with some exceptions. Industrial properties will see increases of up to 10% and larger offices will decrease between 30% and 35%, as long-term leases have expired, renewals are for shorter-terms and for far less space, and the vacancy rate increased. 

Eastside offices will see an average decrease of 30%, though the I-90 area will experience a 35% drop. 

Downtown Seattle, Pioneer Square, and Lake Union will experience 35% to 40% drops in value.

“Finally, it is always important to remember that voter approved special levies usually have more impact on property tax increases than do increases in home values,” added Wilson.

Each year as required by law, County Assessors appraise every commercial and residential parcel across the state of Washington. These values – set effective as of January 1 of the assessment year – are what is being used to calculate property taxes due next year, in this case, 2025. 

Notices of the new valuations will be arriving in King County neighborhoods on a rolling basis for the next several months and will reflect the value of properties as of January 1, 2024.

By state law, King County adjusts property values annually to reflect market sales. All 720,000-plus King County residential and commercial property owners receive an annual value update. 

Because of that volume, the Department of Assessments (DOA) releases value notices in stages, starting in the spring, continuing through the summer and generally wrapping up around Labor Day.

Receipt of the value notice triggers a 60-day window during which time a property owner can appeal their new value, but not specifically the taxes. It’s important to note that increased values don’t directly relate to potential tax increases. 

Property tax collection amounts are set yearly by taxing districts around the county; not the King County Department of Assessments.

To learn more about how property values and taxes are determined, the appeal process, the senior exemption or to use the taxpayer transparency tool, please visit here.


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70% of drowning deaths in King county involved drugs or alcohol

Open water safety

After five consecutive years of preventable drowning deaths staying at historically high levels, King County officials are urging the public to be cautious at rivers, lakes, and Puget Sound in advance of the Fourth of July.

A preliminary analysis by Public Health – Seattle & King County indicates there were 30 preventable drowning deaths in King County in 2023. That annual estimate has been steady since 2019 when the number of preventable drownings nearly doubled from the previous year.

River safety

Experts say the trend is the result of multiple factors: 
  • warmer air temperatures in spring and early summer when open water remains dangerously cold, 
  • a nationwide shortage of lifeguards, and 
  • inequitable access to pools and swimming lessons. 
  • They also noted that in the past five years, 70% of King County preventable drowning deaths involved drugs or alcohol.

“Experts from several of our King County departments have identified actions each of us can take to reverse the alarming rise in drownings in recent years,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine. “We need the public’s help to save lives this summer. It starts by being aware that rivers and lakes in our region are much colder and more dangerous than they appear."


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Briarcrest Neighborhood work party in South Woods Saturday July 6, 2024

The February work party volunteers cleared a large area of large concrete slabs as well as invasive plants. Photo by Steven H. Robinson

This Saturday, July 6, 2024 South Woods Work Party!

Which is actually pretty fun and not all work.

10am- 2pm. Come when you can. Park in the Shorecrest High School Parking Lot. Enter from 25th Ave NE and NE 153rd Street.

Bring whatever tools you may have, such as a shovel, lopper, hand clippers, tarp, gloves and water.


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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Happy Fourth



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Aging in Place Specialists, Irons Brothers Construction honored with two prestigious awards

 
Melissa and Joseph Irons at the BIAW Excellence in Remodeling awards banquet

“We are making homes livable for all” said Joseph Irons, President of Irons Brothers Construction, when accepting one of two Awards for their Aging-in-Place nominated project on June 24th at the Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW) Excellence in Remodeling Awards.

His company was recognized by the state building association, BIAW for their outstanding 2024 remodel of a primary suite in Edmonds, WA.

This family acquired a new home in Edmonds, planning to remodel it for the family Matriarch, who was receiving full-time care and confined to a wheelchair. 

Working side-by-side with the husband and daughter, Irons Brothers Construction designed and built a barrier-free, primary suite from the home’s existing rec room, that is eye-pleasing and also contains the necessities for her care.

The award-winning project description stated:

“When a loved one is unexpectedly disabled, it changes the lives of every family member in profound ways – and not everyone has the means to cope with those changes. 
"Fortunately, for this project, the family was able to purchase a new home to gain an accessible living space, and we worked with them to create a barrier-free suite that met all of their medical and caregiver-related needs without feeling like a cold and sterile hospital room.”

Irons Brothers Construction, Inc., based in Shoreline, WA offers design/build residential and light commercial remodeling. 

They work with homeowners to determine their needs and wants and construct their vision into reality. 

This is all done right the first time by their experienced staff of Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS). They are detail oriented and complete the work using a hands-on project management model. This ensures that each step and detail is taken into consideration to create a project that is a fit for the client’s long-term goals.

The highest compliment a company can receive is to be recognized by its peers. This year, Irons Brothers Construction received two outstanding awards for their work on this home: first from the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBA) in May of this year and then again last week from the Building Industry Association of Washington (BIAW). 

Judging panels, consisting of local and national remodelers, media personnel, architects, designers, and industry professionals - voted to award Irons Brothers Construction for their remodeling excellence. This new barrier-free suite will meet this family’s current and future needs for many years to come.

Barrier free bedroom

Additional details in this barrier-free suite include storage for medical equipment and supplies along with personal belongings, and an open layout that leaves room for caregivers to maneuver the large reclining power wheelchair. A ceiling-mounted Hoyer lift was installed to transfer our client in and out of bed. 

Luxury vinyl plank flooring combines the warm look of wood with durability and easy maintenance, while a low threshold sliding glass door provides access to the back yard.

Curbless shower in barrier free bathroom

The existing powder bathroom was expanded into the adjacent rec room, creating space for a large curbless shower. A floating sink/counter accommodates her wheelchair, while a side-mounted faucet allows our client to reach and operate the faucet on her own. A tall pull out cabinet next to the sink puts toiletries within easy reach.

Careful, yet practical, consideration is given to every project Irons Brothers Construction completes and have earned the company many awards and accolades for their outstanding work.

A detailed description of Irons Brothers Construction’s services and its commitment to clients can be seen at Irons Brothers. Keep up to date with their work and upcoming education & events on their social channels @ironsbc (Instagram & Facebook).


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Shorewood’s Isaak Abraham named HeraldNet 2024 Boys Soccer Player of the Year

2023 photo when he was named
Athlete of the Week
Taras McCurdie
 wrote a great article in HeraldNet about Isaak Abraham being named the HeraldNet 2024 Boys Soccer Player of the year.

Abraham and coach Shaun Warner helped lead Shorewood atop the Wesco 3A/2A standings while also earning back-to-back Class 3A District 1 trophies and being a Class 3A state contender.

Warner said,
“The way he went into the playoff games, it wasn’t like just all of a sudden we needed him because he’s so much better. Everyone played better (when he was on the pitch). Everyone played with more excitement. Everyone was pumped up,” Warner continued. 
“I always say my definition of a great soccer player is someone that makes the people around them better. And without a doubt Isaak is that player.”

Read the article here.


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Help Ready WA recruit the next cohort of Student Storytellers

Ready WA is recruiting for the next cohort of Student Storytellers! 

Do you know any students with compelling stories to share? 

We are looking for narratives on themes such as preparation for education after high school, impactful classes or activities, and desired support. 

Ready WA will collaborate with each student to highlight their unique experiences, and students will be compensated for their writing and time. 

We seek diverse students from across the state with various interests. The flyer and application can be found here. The deadline to apply is July 15, 2024.

Application


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Flowers

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Photo by Lee Lageschulte
 
Beautiful flowers from Lee and Roger's walks


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LFP Passport Services expands hours

Thinking about traveling overseas this fall or winter – be sure to get your passport in order.

The City of Lake Forest Park has expanded the hours passport services are offered! 

Appointments are available:
  • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday - 9:00am – 4:00pm
  • Thursday, Friday - 12:00pm – 4:00pm
  • Saturday - 10:00am – 3:00pm
Schedule an appointment today!


City passport agents are able to process the DS-11, Application for a U.S. Passport form. 

You will need to submit the DS-11 form if you are applying for the first time, applying for a minor, or are otherwise not eligible for the DS-82 renewal form. 

If you have questions about which form to complete, call City Hall at 206-368-5440 to speak with an agent. A reminder that the City can also take your passport photo at your appointment for an additional fee.

If you are an adult renewing a recently expired passport (or soon expiring) with the DS-82, Application for Renewal for Eligible Individuals, city staff is happy to answer any questions or review an application for completeness any time during City business hours.

More information here


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Beat Brackett 5k Run/Walk will close some roads in Woodway on July 4, 2024

Click here for a map of the race route
Beat Brackett 5k Run/Walk - July 4, 2024 from 6-11am

The Edmonds July 4th – Beat Brackett 5K Run/Walk will again route through Woodway. 

Same as last year, roads will be closed to through traffic from 7:45am to 10:00am. Woodway residents will be allowed through, but are encouraged to avoid the area if possible.

On July 4, set-up begins around 6:30am. Volunteers will be stationed at several points along the race route to help guide traffic and runners. 

The race begins at 8:00am; all participants are anticipated to finish by 10:00am. Many runners will be wearing the “Beat Brackett” race shirts for easy visibility.

Online registrations have closed for 2024, and there will be no day-of race registrations available this year. 


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What’s Happening this Week in Shoreline - July 3- July 9

By Kate Ledbetter, Destination Shoreline

What’s Happening this Week in Shoreline?
July 3- July 9


Looking for fun and engaging events in Shoreline? 

On Wednesday, July 3rd, head to Shoreline Library for the "Animals Got Talent Puppet Show," where you'll enjoy hilarious puppet acts and get to vote for your favorites! 

Celebrate Independence Day with the Highland Terrace 4th of July Kids Parade on Thursday, July 4th. On Saturday, July 6th, visit the Shoreline Farmers Market for farm-fresh produce, live music, and activities for kids, then join the Richmond Beach & Kruckeberg Garden Walk to explore one of Shoreline's oldest neighborhoods. 

The following week, enjoy story times, concerts, video games, and more at the Shoreline Library and local parks. Don't miss these exciting community events! Visit www.DestinationShoreline.com for more information about upcoming events in Shoreline.

Animals Got Talent Puppet Show
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
6:30 PM - 7:15 PM
Shoreline Library
You are sure to sing, dance and belly laugh as each act tells you about their characteristics through silly antics and talents. Help pick your favorite acts in Animals Got Talent! Presented by Penny Walter of Penny's Puppet Productions. Sponsored by the Friends of the Shoreline Library. All ages welcome with adult. Registration not required.
Source

Highland Terrace 4th of July Kids Parade
Thursday, July 4, 2024
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Highland Terrace Neighborhood, 2nd NW & 159th
The Highland Terrace Kids Parade is on for the 4th of July. It is a small, old fashioned hometown event. Here is what is needed: Juice and lots of cookies + come early to help set up. If you are willing to make Cappuccino at the booth, please let us know. If you can purchase saltwater taffy at Town & Country, please let us know. I am passing the lead on this over the Paul Van Hollebeke and would like him to get as much assist as possible, so he continues to be the energy to initiate it. This is a 100% neighborhood sponsored and paid for event. If you do not have small children, come and lend a hand, throw candy, decorate the canopy and enjoy your neighbors.

Shoreline Farmers Market
Saturday, July 6, 2024
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
BikeLink Park & Ride
Shoreline's community hub for farm fresh & local foods, flowers, baked goods, local honey, live music, food trucks, kids programming, and so much more. Join us every Saturday through October 5th, located at the BikeLink Park & Ride (corner of 192nd & Aurora, across from Sky Nursery).
Source

Richmond Beach & Kruckeberg Garden Walk
Saturday, July 6, 2024
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Richmond Beach Community Park
Walk around Richmond Beach, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Shoreline. Visit the lovely Triangle Garden and Kruckeberg Botanical Garden. Walk is approximately 3 miles. Rated moderate for some hilly streets. Meet at Richmond Beach Community Park, 21st Ave NW and NW 197th St. Parking is on the street only. Do not park at the library, as that is reserved for library patrons.
Walk is approximately: 3 miles / 1.5 hours
Walk Rating: Moderate (some hills)
Meet at: Richmond Beach Community Park, 2201 NW 197th St. (Park along street)
Walk Leader: Dan
Source

Baby Story Time
Monday, July 8, 2024
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Shoreline Library
Share bouncy rhymes, familiar songs and a book for babies, newborn to 24 months with adult. Stay for a short play and social time for children and caregivers afterward. Registration not required.
Source

Family Story Time
Monday, July 8, 2024
11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Shoreline Library
Enjoy stories, music, movement and rhymes that develop your child’s early literacy skills. Ages 2 to 5 with adult. Registration not required.
Source

Lunch Bunch Stories
Monday, July 8, 2024
1:15 PM - 1:45 PM
Shoreline Library
Come for the Free Summer Meals program and listen to stories while you munch! Share songs and do activities! All ages welcome. Registration not required.
Source

Lunchtime Concert Series
Tuesday, July 9, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Richmond Beach Saltwater Park
Johnny Bregar Music – Original Kids Songs. Bring family and friends of all ages to one of Shoreline’s beautiful parks for a free concert at lunchtime during the summer. Free Lunchtime Concerts for All Ages!
Source

Game On!
Tuesday, July 9, 2024
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Shoreline Library
Play video games on Nintendo Switch! We've got Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mario Kart 8 and more. Snacks provided by Friends of Shoreline Library. Don't miss out! Grades 6-12. Registration not required.
Source

Karaoke in the Park
Tuesday, July 9, 2024
5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Cromwell Park
Karaoke is free and open to everyone. This is a family friendly event.
Source: Source

-----
For more information and more upcoming events, visit the Shoreline events calendar on DestinationShoreline.com/Calendar

To have your event included please email DestinationShoreline@gmail.com.


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Letter to the Editor: Don't feed the raccoons

To the Editor:

Our dog was attacked by two raccoons as we left our condo last night. We spent till 2:00am at the pet emergency center.

For anyone out there who thinks that feeding raccoons helps anything, please stop. Every single expert says do not feed wild raccoons.

Our neighbor has been consistently feeding the raccoons all around our unit. The population exploded to 9 with 5 cubs, and the neighbor refused to believe that it could become a problem, in spite of what everyone with knowledge says about it.

This family of nine raccoons came to consider our property a part of their den, apparently. They became extremely territorial and aggressive towards us.

If you want to keep a healthy environment for pets, people, and raccoons: NEVER FEED WILD RACCOONS

It will lead to a raft of painful problems.

Our dog has 4 - 5 puncture wounds and a laceration that needed to be stitched. He's doing okay. It could have been much worse. 

Luckily I was following close behind my partner as she left with the dog, and I followed up, kicking the raccoons as hard as I could to get them to leave. It was a wild attack, probably lasted 45 seconds, but it seemed like an hour. I could see that my partner and the dog were losing their battle with the two raccoons. Thank God I was there to kick them.

Name withheld (but known to Editor)
Shoreline


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Educational resources available to help reduce the loss of crab pots

12,000 crab pots are lost in Puget Sound each year.
They continue to trap crabs,who simply die in the traps
Photo by Cas Holmes on unsplash.com

July 1 was opening day for recreational crabbing in Puget Sound. 

Each year an estimated 12,000 crab pots are lost in Puget Sound, resulting in the capture of an estimated 180,000 Dungeness crab a year with no one to harvest them. 

The Snohomish County Marine Resources Committee (MRC) and the Northwest Straits Foundation continue to partner to educate crabbers about the problem.

Luckily there are several ways crabbers can prevent losing their pots:
  • Avoid marine transit and ferry lanes.
  • Check tides and currents. Avoid crabbing during strong tidal changes and currents.
  • Make buoys more visible. Add a second buoy or stick and flag.
  • Use a weighted line to sink below the surface and avoid being cut by passing boats.
  • Weight your pot so they do not move in high currents or tidal changes.
  • Use longer line. Use one-third more line than the water depth to allow for tide changes.
  • Secure lid and escape panels with biodegradable cotton escape cord. This allows crabs to escape from lost pots after the cord degrades.
  • Stay with your pot. A watched pot will bring home more crab.

This handy checklist and additional information can be found here. You will find instructional videos, helpful apps and other resources to help catch more crab and avoid having your crab pots become one of the 12,000 lost each year.

MRC members will be at the 10th Street Boat Launch in Everett, at 607 10th St, Everett WA 98201 on the mornings of July 6 and 7, 2024 from 6:00 to 10:00am providing educational materials including free rot cord, bait hooks, and gauges for measuring your catch. 

Come with any questions you may have on how to correctly set up your crab pot so you can catch more crab. The goal is more crab for you, less lost pots for Puget Sound.


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A Hummingbird is a Pretty Bird

Photo by Jan Hansen

A hummingbird is a pretty bird.

A hummingbird is bright.

It gathers nectar all day long,

And rests in a torpor night.


--Nursery rhyme rewritten (Jan Hansen)



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Attack websites seep into WA election battles

SaveOurYachts.com

By Jerry Cornfield in the Washington State Standard

Bob Ferguson, Semi Bird, Jim Henderson and Brian Heywood have something in common this election season in Washington.

Their political opponents have built websites to spread unflattering information – and in some cases misinformation – about them.

There’s “BobforBob” looking into Ferguson’s political history and “bird-docs.com” digging into Bird’s past personal tribulations. “Save Our Yachts” jabs the wealthy Heywood for pushing an initiative to repeal the capital gains tax and “realjimhenderson” is an attack by Republicans on a first-time GOP candidate for legislative office.

These creations aren’t expected to go viral or significantly alter the trajectory of any of the ballot battles but are viewed by their creators as a tool to educate, and maybe sway, a few voters.

“They are very much fodder for people looking to use negatives to put a partisan in their place,” said Cathy Allen, owner of The Connections Group and veteran Democrat campaign consultant.

Take BobforBob.com. It delves into a select few pieces of the political record of Ferguson, the three-term Democrat attorney general running for governor. Links to and excerpts from news accounts fill the site. It is not flashy and is laid out a bit like a research paper.

But make no mistake, it’s packed with jabs.

“Previously, Ferguson worked as Attorney General of Washington suing small-business owners, withholding evidence, waging lawfare, and extorting corporations for campaign donations,” is the opening line.

Peter Graves of Axiom Strategies, the Republican consulting firm behind BobforBob.com, said ideally it will be one of the first websites to show up when someone searches for background on Ferguson.

“The goal here is to obviously get out information about Bob Ferguson and for the research to be used to help others make decisions,” he said.

Bayley Burgess, Ferguson’s campaign manager, blasted the website as “a fever dream of baseless rants, and not worthy of additional comment.”

“What voters care about is the direction of our state and country,” she said in an email.

Such undertakings tend to change few minds and can incite a backlash, especially in communities where negative campaigning is not the norm, said Bill Phillips of Sound Strategies, a Democratic consulting firm.

“It feels good for supporters. It feels like you’re making a difference. It feels like you’re getting your message out,” said Phillips, a former leader of the Snohomish County Democratic Party. “In the entire history of the internet, I have never met one Democrat who has said I was going to vote one way and then I saw this website.”

Family feud, take 1

Steve Gordon, a Pierce County Republican, shelled out a few hundred dollars to launch the ominous-looking bird-docs.com in April.

“Is Semi Bird the best choice for governor of Washington state? We won’t tell you how to vote. You be the judge” is a headline atop the site promising “facts” about the GOP gubernatorial candidate.

Scroll down and one finds links to videos and public records concerning Bird’s legal wranglings, military service and recall from the Richland School Board.

Gordon said he sought to get information to Republicans ahead of the state party convention in Spokane in April where Bird and Dave Reichert were to compete for the party’s endorsement.

The effort didn’t prevent Bird from securing the endorsement by an overwhelming margin. But he’s struggled since the convention to gain momentum.

At the convention, Bird acknowledged his past troubles. “If you want me to apologize for making mistakes, I will apologize. I will not live in shame for the rest of my life,” he said.

Since then he has assailed some fellow Republicans as “vile individuals” working to undercut his campaign.

Gordon also cut a $25,000 check to the political action committee funding the site targeting Ferguson. “I don’t know if people will cover some of Bob’s record as they should,” he said.

Fun on the water

Fuse Washington, the state’s largest progressive organization, got lighter and snarkier with SaveOurYachts.com. It is part of its opposition campaign to Initiative 2109, a measure on the November ballot to repeal the state’s capital gains tax.

It is one of three measures that qualified for the ballot through the efforts of Let’s Go Washington, a conservative political action committee largely funded by Heywood, a millionaire hedge fund manager.

It pokes fun at the extremely wealthy whose capital gains tax payments go to early learning and child care programs.

“We have a new hero in Brian Heywood,” begins one section. “He understands that many of us are upgrading our yachts for the summer, and now is NOT the time for us to keep paying taxes on our Wall Street profits.”

Aaron Ostrom, executive director of Fuse, said it is intended to motivate and engage their base. It had received 33,153 total visits as of June 25, which Ostrom said exceeded his expectations.

“It’s not like this is how we’re going to win the election,” he said. “We want to give our folks some laughs.”

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Shorewood's TSA Club (Technology Student Association) performs well at National TSA Conference

Back: Reagan Dunphy 12th, Milo Clark 11th, Sam HIcks 11th, Andrew Mitchell 12th, Eli Cady 11th. Front: Kat Siteras 12th, Maddy Costello 12th, Grace Abernathy 12th, Rachel Li 12th,Yeva Gomilko 9th. Advisors: Angie Nouwens and Shannon McMaster

Shorewood's TSA Club (Technology Student Association) participated as a team for the first time this year at the National TSA Conference of over 9000 students from across the nation and several international teams.

3rd place trophy winner, Yeva Gomilko for Photographic Technology

Shorewood competed in Audio Podcasting, Board Game Design, Forensics, On Demand Video, Photographic Technology, Structural Design & Engineering, Tech Bowl, Tech Problem Solving, and Webmaster.

Our team made semi-finals in two events: 
  • Photographic Technology (Top 12) and 
  • Structural Design (Top 20). 
In final competition, Yeva Golmilko won the 3rd place trophy for her Photographic Technology event. Over 9000 students competed from every state and several international teams over the 5 day conference.


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UWMed: Harborview readies for annual wave of fireworks injuries

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Dr. Morris says: Don't play with fireworks, don't hold them in your hand, and don't use them around children. Photo courtesy UW Med

Every year around the Fourth of July, Harborview Medical Center, the region’s only Level I trauma and burn center, treats about 55 patients for fireworks-related injuries. The hospital's Emergency Department will be staffed to care for the influx of injuries expected this week.

“We see a lot of fireworks-related injuries,” said Dr. Stephen Morris in emergency medicine at UW Medicine in Seattle. “The most devastating injuries that we see are those to the hands and eyes.”

“Fireworks and alcohol certainly don’t mix,” he added. “That’s a big portion of the injuries we see related to people who are intoxicated and just don’t have the wherewithal to use them properly.”

Morris encourages people to attend a public fireworks display run by professionals to celebrate Independence Day.


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Upcoming restoration work party events with the Green Shoreline Partnership

Upcoming restoration work party events with the Green Shoreline Partnership!

On Wednesday, 7/3 we will be in Hamlin Park near the meadow on the north end

On Saturday, 7/6 we will be atShoreview ParkPick a park and join a restoration work party to celebrate summer! No experience necessary. Just bring your enthusiasm!

Contact Joy Wood at stewardship@restorationad.com with any inquiries about the Green Shoreline Partnership.


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Fireworks outside of authorized shows are illegal here

They never look this good in person but thanks to Snohomish county for the pretty picture

By Diane Hettrick

...but you knew that, didn't you? 

All our local cities are issuing statements about fireworks being illegal in their jurisdictions. Shoreline, Woodway, Kenmore, Bothell, Mountlake Terrace, and Lake Forest Park has also posted notices at every "Welcome to Lake Forest Park" entrance to the city.

Snohomish county finally closed their loophole in South County by banning fireworks in Esperance, the only unincorporated area in SW Sno county (west of Ranch 99).

They still have fireworks stands in the area because they were a little slow in changing that regulation.

The authorized shows are in Kenmore and the 3rd of July in Mountlake Terrace. 

The 3rd of July Family Celebration in Mountlake Terrace
Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Ballinger Park, 23000 Lakeview Drive
Details here

This year’s festivities will begin at 6:00pm. The fun will include pie eating contests, field games, a DJ and food trucks. A fantastic fireworks display over beautiful Lake Ballinger will be the highlight of the event when darkness falls at approximately 10:00pm.

Across the Sound, the small town of Kingston always has a huge 4th of July party and fireworks. If you can find a vantage point in west Shoreline or Edmonds, you can watch the show, which starts after 10pm.

If someone near you is setting off fireworks, do not call 911 - call the non-emergency number for your police department - unless of course they set something on fire.

I have fond memories of going to a fireworks show in Edmonds and watching the people next to the stadium catch their roof on fire with errant fireworks. It was a better show than the main event.

Remember to keep your dogs where they can't run away.


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Classifieds: Special joint Shoreline / Northshore Board of Commissioners Planning Committee meeting


SPECIAL JOINT SHORELINE/NORTHSHORE
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RFA
PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING NOTICE

As required by RCW 42.30, the Open Public Meetings Act, you are hereby notified that the Planning Committee Board of Commissioners of the Shoreline Fire Department will hold a Special Joint Regional Fire Authority (RFA) Planning Committee Meeting on July 15, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.with the Planning Committee Board Commissioners of the Northshore Fire Department.

The purpose of the special meeting is to continue discussions of establishing an RFA between Shoreline and Northshore Fire Departments.

DATE: July 15, 2024

TIME: 5:00 p.m.

LOCATION: Northshore Fire Department - Station 51

7220 NE. 181st Street Kenmore, WA 98028

To attend the meeting online, please use the below information. The agenda will be posted separately on the Department’s website.

To attend the meeting online, please use the below information:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85044713997?pwd=dW1uWDFpNldPZ1dSSU1ZYy9LSXVQQT09

Meeting ID: 850 4471 3997
Passcode: 743608
Dial by your location: #1-253-205-0468

Notice posted by: Beatriz Goldsmith
Executive Assistant
July 1, 2024


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Noodle's Pet Remembrance Campaign

July 5th is Pet Remembrance Day, and Seattle Area Feline Rescue (SAFe Rescue) invites animal lovers to join them for a month-long tribute to furred, finned, and feathered family members who have passed on.

Inspired by her beloved tabby named Noodle, an anonymous community member will match every donation to SAFe Rescue made via this link, up to $17,000. 

In addition to having their donation to kitties in need matched, dollar for dollar, supporters will also be able to share photos and memories of dearly departed pets on an online memorial page.

Noodle

“Noodle brought a lifetime of love to us,” said Noodle’s human. “Every day was better with him. He is my soul cat and I know that I’m not the only one who has been blessed with a soulmate in animal form, so I wanted to create this match fund in loving memory of the seventeen wonderful years we had together and also give others the chance to honor their beloved pets.”

The online memorial, named after Noodle, provides a space for the community to celebrate the pets who have walked, played, and cuddled through their lives. Anyone who makes a donation is encouraged to contribute stories and images of the animals they wish to remember.


Noodle’s Pet Remembrance Campaign will accept submissions through July 31, 2024.

Learn more about SAFe Rescue and its life-saving programs for felines and the people that love them at this link.



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Veterans booth at Shoreline Farmers Market displayed engraved bricks honoring veterans at the Recognition Plaza

Veteerans bricks at the Shoreline Farmers Market

Story and photos by Doug Cerretti

The Shoreline Veterans Association (SVA) sponsored a booth at the Shoreline Farmer Market this past Saturday, June 29 to display engraved bricks that are installed at the Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza to honor veterans. 


For a donation of $100 (tax deductible) an engraved brick will be placed in the Plaza to honor a past, present or future veteran.

It is a joy meeting people at the Market and telling them about the Plaza and how they can honor a veteran. What I am amazed at is how many people have visited Shoreline City Hall but have not seen the Plaza???

Veterans RecognitionPlaza at City Hall
This was hard to fathom but it may be that people have not seen the Plaza because you enter City Hall from the east and west.

The Plaza is on the northside of City Hall at the base of the flag pole flying the American Flag. 

I would suggest the next time you visit City Hall or if you are in the vicinity, visit the Plaza. 

There are five benches where you can sit, relax and contemplate the names engraved on the bricks. 

To paraphrase, “If only the Bricks could talk.” 

There is a brick honoring WWII veteran Dwight Stevens, who piloted a B-17 for 33 combat missions at the ripe old age of 20. 

Dwight honored 14 family members with engraved bricks at the Plaza including J Dwight Stevens, Union Army, 1862 to 1863. Think of the stories these bricks tell. 

Three bricks honor veterans who paid the ultimate price in WWII. 

Starr Sutherland, Jr., namesake of The American Legion Post 227 in Shoreline, 

Alfred Turgeon whose remains were identified 78 years after his death, and Ralph Henry Keil who perished 12 minutes after WWII came to the United States December 7, 1941.

Think of the stories. 

On rare occasions the SVA will honor non-veterans who served veterans. Mother and daughter, Barbara Alvarez and Bessie Bellecourt served in the USO and Avis Schwab served as a Donut Dolly in Vietnam

Please visit the Plaza and think about the stories behind the engraved bricks and consider having a brick installed at the Plaza to honor a veteran past, present or future in your family so that the Plaza can tell new stories. 

The SVA will again be at Shoreline Farmers Market July 20 and August 17. Come visit us.

The Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza is on the north-side of Shoreline City Hall located at Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave N, Shoreline 98133.

Engraved Bricks can be purchased here. You can order engraved bricks online or an order form can be printed, fill out and mailed with a check or credit card number. Questions: call 206-546-9603 and leave a message.

Shoreline Farmers Market is held from 10am to 2pm Saturdays: June 1 - Oct 5, Harvest Oct 26 + Dec 14 at Shoreline Park & Ride, 18821 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline WA (192nd St N & Aurora Ave N).


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