Ching Garden volunteers push deeper into the garden

Tuesday, July 16, 2024

7/13/24 Volunteers: Christine, Posey, Zandra, Amy, Archie, Shirlee, and Misha

All it takes is a small discovery to renew the enthusiasm of volunteers who turn out weekly to plow through the thickets of blackberries!

The old greenhouse is finally emerging from a tangle of blackberries and wisteria.

A couple of weeks ago, the crews arrived to find a small rose blooming triumphantly in a cleared area -- no doubt benefiting from an accidental pruning from blackberry clearing back in April, a heavy rain, and sun exposure. 

This weekend, we discovered 5 more roses in the same area!

A narrow path has been now forged to the back fence, where large deliberately spaced clumps of black bamboo still thrive. 

Perhaps this was the place where Joe Ching once grew black bamboo for Sky Nursery.

Saturday morning work parties have expanded to 3 hours, from 9:00am to Noon, giving volunteers a little more flexibility with their start and finish times. 

7/12/24 Volunteers: Staff members from King County

There is capacity for up to 15 people. Private weekday work parties and tours are also being booked now. Special requests should be made via email to info@digginshoreline.org.

Sign up for a work party here. Parking is available in the nearby Shoreline Community College visitor lot at the south end of the campus.

Not able to volunteer? Donating to the garden is a great way to participate. Donate to Ching Community Gardens here

Londa Jacques
on behalf of Diggin' Shoreline
email: info@digginshoreline.org
Website: www.digginshoreline.org
Text messages: 206-437-9118


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James Alan Salon & Spa Art Walk Friday to benefit Justice and Soul Foundation - July 19, 2024


Please join us for an Art Walk silent auction benefiting the Justice and Soul Foundation

Friday, July 19, 2024 from 6:30 - 9:30pm.


Download the Givi App and search "James Alan Art Walk" to register for the event and begin bidding! All retail purchases at the event are 20% off! Drinks and dessert will be provided.


Beautiful art from local artists, food, drinks, merch, and 20% off all salon retail products.

All proceeds go directly to vocational programming.



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CORRECTION: Crafts Day at the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market Sunday July 21, 2024

The highly anticipated annual Crafts Day at the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market is happening this Sunday, July 21, 2024 from 10am to 2pm.

This special event is one of the best shopping days of the year, showcasing a truly impressive array of creative and high-quality items from local artists, artisans, and crafters – all handmade right here in Washington state!

Whether you're seeking beautiful jewelry, luxurious skincare products, enchanting candles and diffusers, stylish home décor, trendy clothing and textiles, or stunning handbags, you'll find it all here. Each piece is a testament to the creativity and skill of our local artisans, and there's something for every age and style. 

You’ll even find unique and gorgeous artwork in nearly every medium and handmade greeting cards for every occasion! And for our furry friends, shop for original pet beds, dog carriers, catnip toys, and adorable pet accessories like bow ties and bandanas.

This year's lineup features many of your favorite vendors along with some fresh new faces, bringing you an even broader selection of high-quality, hand-crafted goods. It's the perfect opportunity to discover new treasures and support local talent.

Don't miss out on this vibrant celebration of craftsmanship! Mark your calendar now and get ready for the best shopping experience of the summer.

CORRECTION: The original headline had the wrong date


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North Seattle student completes degree at Wichita State University

WICHITA, Kan. (July 15, 2024) - More than 2,380 students completed a total of 2,645 degrees and certificates at Wichita State University in spring 2024.

HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME, DEGREE, MAJOR, HONORS (if listed)

Seattle, WA

Tanisha L Alexander, Bachelor of General Studies, General Studies Social Work

Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.

Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.


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Invasive plant removal at Richmond Beach Community Park on July 24, 2024


Join us again as we continue to clear away invasive plants from Richmond Beach Community Park (adjacent to the Richmond Beach Library) on Wednesday, July 24th from 10am to 12pm.

This work party will be our last until fall - so please join us if you can! It shouldn’t get too hot, as the area we will be working in is shady. Please bring a water bottle, and work gloves. All other tools will be provided.

This is our fourth work party at Richmond Beach Community Park, coordinated through the City of Shoreline Forest Steward Program. Since April, we have gained a solid foothold on the slope alongside the staircase. Thank you volunteers!

Please RSVP through the Green Shoreline Partnership webpage or you can contact Rachel with questions by emailing rachelmiller811@gmail.com


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Volunteer in Shoreline parks


Upcoming restoration work party events with the Green Shoreline Partnership!

On Wednesday, 7/17 we will be in Hamlin Park near the meadow.
and
On Saturday, 7/20 we will be at
Contact Joy Wood at stewardship@restorationad.com with any inquiries about the Green Shoreline Partnership.


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Learn folk dances from around the world

Monday, July 15, 2024

Sno-King International Folk Dance Club

Time to kick up your heels and join us in doing folk dances from around the world! Every Wednesday from 7:00 to 9:00pm we throw ourselves into a flurry of couple, set, and line dances of all kinds. 

You don’t need to bring a partner. First is a half hour of requests, then a short lesson, and a program of dances. We do a lot of requests throughout the evening.

July 17 and 24th we teach a French and an Israeli dance. August 7 will be a Bulgarian dance. August 10 is our Second Saturday Party , also 7:00- 9:00; finger food snacks to share are welcome. August 14 is set dance lesson night, starting at 6:45, featuring a Scottish set. August 21 and 28th we will learn dances from Romania and Belgium.

Cedar Valley Grange, 20526 52nd Ave. W., Lynnwood. Donation $8.00; members $6.00. First time free! Info: 425-610-9393 (leave a message), www.sno-king.org , or dancesnoking@gmail.com



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From the Museum: The Naming of North City

1940s View from North City SHM-1279

The Naming of North City

The business association, started by Tracy Owen and Russ Wacker et al, held a contest in about 1946 or ’47 to name the business district and surrounding community. People submitted names and the person who won was a waitress at the Dog House. 

The grand prize was a radio, and the prize-winning name that she submitted was “North City,” as in a little city north of Seattle. Tracy Owen and Russ Wacker loved this - they realized that they could build a whole theme around this name.

These early organizers gave North City an identity and a flavor. It was little bit bawdy and a lot of fun and hard work - community members had to stick together and fight for what they wanted. 

They got a Seafair parade going, a Seafair Princess, and a huge North City Sourdough Days carnival with a rodeo at the stables where St. Marks is today. They had fireman contests, 4H contests, dog show, and other activities that everyone could enjoy.

--Courtesy the Shoreline Historical Museum


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Local students make the Spring 2024 Dean's List at St. Olaf College


NORTHFIELD, Minn. (July 3, 2024) - The following local students made the Spring 2024 Dean's List at St. Olaf College. The Dean's List is a scholarly award for students who demonstrate academic excellence, have earned a GPA of 3.75 or above, and completed at least three credits for that semester.

HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME, MAJORS (if listed), PARENTS (if listed)

Seattle, WA
  • Ani Krabill, Social Work, Ronald Krabill & Nancy Chupp
Shoreline, WA
  • Joy Brandenstein, Kinesiology, Dale Brandenstein & Laura McMillan

Located on 300 acres in Northfield, Minn., St. Olaf College is a residential liberal arts institution with an enrollment of more than 3,000 students offering over 85 undergraduate majors, concentrations, and pre-professional tracks. 98 percent of recent graduates are employed, in graduate school, or engaged in full-time service work. St. Olaf is committed to meeting the demonstrated financial needs of every student with 98 percent of students receiving scholarships or grants.

St. Olaf is an Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ECLA)-affiliated college. The college's mission is to challenge students to excel in the liberal arts, examine faith and values, and explore meaningful vocation in an inclusive, globally engaged community nourished by Lutheran tradition. St. Olaf students and faculty come from a wide range of religious traditions, including those who do not claim any faith tradition.

Visit stolaf.edu.


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8th Ave Sidewalk Open House July 23, 2024

Tuesday, July 23, 6:30 pm


First Lutheran Church of Richmond Beach
Upper Room (elevator accessible)
18354 8th Avenue NW
Shoreline, Washington 98177

Project design open house: We are designing a new sidewalk coming to 8th Avenue NW from NW 180th Street to Richmond Beach Road NW. Join the City of Shoreline and your neighbors to learn more about the project and give us your thoughts on the early design.

Project Details
  • New sidewalk with curbs and gutters on the east side of the street
  • Bicycle lanes
  • Curb ramps
  • Drainage improvements
  • Project Timeline
  • Preliminary Design: Summer 2024
  • Final Design: Winter 2024/2025
  • Construction: Spring/Summer 2025
More information Project webpage

Project Manager Zahid Khan, PE
zkhan@shorelinewa.gov, 206-801-2486


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Storytime at the Museum Saturday July 20, 2024 for ages 1 - 8

Storytime at the Museum

SATURDAY July 20, 2024


Shoreline Historical Museum Exhibits Building, 18501 Linden Ave, Shoreline WA 98133 from 10am - 11am

Orchards to Markets


We’ll be reading books about food that has been grown in this area, appreciating current produce in the area, and making our own fruit craft.

Join us as we explore our history and environment through stories, music, movement, and creating art.

For ages 1-8 with adult



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Shoreline resident indicted for drug and gun crimes

Seattle – A 48-year-old Seattle area man is in federal custody after being indicted by a grand jury for two counts of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. 

Simon Offord is allegedly linked to drug dealing in multiple Seattle neighborhoods and in various homeless encampments. 

Searches of his vehicles and a Shoreline hotel room resulted in seizures of significant quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and Alprazolam.

Offord was arraigned on the indictment on July 8, 2024, and detained on July 11, 2024.

According to police reports and other records filed in the case, Offord came to the attention of Seattle Police patrol officers in December 2023 when he drove the wrong way down a street in Seattle. Before police could contact him, he abandoned the car he was driving in a parking lot. 

Inside the car officers saw what appeared to be drugs. After getting a warrant to search the vehicle they found drugs packaged to for delivery, scales, and other indications of drug dealing as well as a ‘ghost gun’- one made without a serial number.

Over a number of months, Seattle Police looked for Offord and ultimately tracked him to a Shoreline hotel, just off of Aurora Avenue. 
On May 30, 2024, Offord was arrested at one of his dealing locations along Aurora in North Seattle. A search of his hotel room and vehicle yielded nine pounds of fentanyl powder, approximately 2900 fentanyl pills, and more than a pound of methamphetamine, crack cocaine, heroin, and other drugs. 
Police also seized another firearm. Offord was booked into the King County Jail but later was released on bail.

Due to the large amount of drugs involved in these seizures, the crimes are punishable by a mandatory minimum ten years in prison and up to life in prison. Possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime adds an additional five years in prison to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed.

The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The case is being investigated by the Seattle Police Department.


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North Seattle student named to Dean's Honor Roll at Wichita State University

WICHITA, Kan. (July 8, 2024) - Wichita State University has announced the names of 3,430 students who were on the WSU Dean's Honor Roll for spring 2024.

To be included on the dean's honor roll, a student must be enrolled full time (at least 12 credit hours) and earn at least a 3.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME

Seattle, WA

Tanisha L Alexander


Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.

Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.


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Free computer classes at Shoreline Library

These classes are free at the Shoreline Library but you need to register

Microsoft Word Level 1
Monday, July 22, 10:30am-12pm
Learn and practice word processing. Enter and format text, and work with files.
Must be able to use a mouse and keyboard.
Please register.

Microsoft Word Level 2
Monday, July 29, 10:30am-12pm
Enhance your text documents with document designs, layout and more.
Must have Microsoft Word Level 1 proficiency.
Please register.

The library is located at 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline WA 98155


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Jobs: WSDOT Appraiser (PAS4)

WSDOT
Appraiser (PAS4)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$67,608 - $90,854 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is eager to hire a real estate professional to serve as our next Appraiser supporting our Northwest Region (NWR), comprised of King, Snohomish, Skagit, Island, and Whatcom counties. 

This position will complete all types of property valuation assignments for WSDOT in compliance with Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and WSDOT rules and regulations. This position applies independent judgement and advanced technical knowledge to appraise/co-appraise complex/non-complex properties for surpluses, leases, and acquisitions as well as prepare Project Funding Estimates and Appraisal Waivers. 

The successful candidate appointed to this unique position will serve a vital role in support of WSDOT’s mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options to improve communities and economic vitality.

Job description and application


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Jobs WSDOT Work Zone Traffic Engineer (TE3)

WSDOT
Work Zone Traffic Engineer (TE3)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$78,460 – $105,550 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a Work Zone Traffic Engineer (Transportation Engineer 3) to play a crucial role in ensuring safe and efficient transportation options in Washington State. 

This position prioritizes fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment while supporting WSDOT's mission. As the NWR Work Zone Traffic Engineer, the selected candidate will oversee traffic control design and strategies for WSDOT projects, adhering to national and state standards. 

Their expertise will contribute to reduced congestion and improved safety within work zones, enhancing corridor operations during closures. Join us in making impactful contributions to community safety and economic vitality through innovative transportation solutions.

Job description and application


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Fire Safety for people with disabilities

Photo by Raychan on Unsplash
Olympia- National Disability Independence Day is celebrated every year on July 26. 

According to the Center for Disease Control, up to one in four people in the United States (U.S.) lives with a disability. 

The U.S. Fire Administration indicates 30 percent of the fire deaths that occurred between 2017 to 2019 involved a person with a disability. 

Of the 67 fire deaths that occurred in Washington State in 2023, 22 percent were reported as individuals having a disability.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) wants to reduce the risk of fire in every community across the state. 

Preparation and prevention can help your family stay safe and unharmed from fire incidents. 

Having a familiar and regularly tested evacuation plan that works for all household members is critical.

Here are some suggestions to increase fire preparedness:
  • Have an interconnected smoke alarm system.
  • Test smoke alarms monthly and conduct regular maintenance in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
  • If you are hearing impaired, install smoke alarms that notify you of danger with flashing lights or vibrating alarms.
  • When possible, sleep on the ground floor.
  • Sleep with bedroom doors closed.
  • Have an escape plan with at least two exit options.
  • Make sure to involve all household members in your escape plan and practice regularly.
  • If you have a service animal, make sure to practice with them as well.
  • Talk to your local fire department about your evacuation plan.

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Skyler Manelski of Shoreline graduates from Quinnipiac University


Hamden, Conn. (July 12, 2024) - Skyler Manelski of Shoreline, WA received a Master of Science in Business Analytics from Quinnipiac University during a commencement ceremony held in May.

Quinnipiac is a private, coeducational, institution located 90 minutes north of New York City and two hours from Boston. The university enrolls 9,000 students in 110 degree programs through its Schools of Business, Communications, Education, Computing and Engineering, Health Sciences, Law, Medicine, Nursing and the College of Arts and Sciences. 

For more information, please visit qu.edu. Connect with Quinnipiac on Facebook and follow Quinnipiac on X @QuinnipiacU.


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Take the ferry to Kingston

Sunday, July 14, 2024

Photographers Lee Lageschulte and her husband Roger recently took the ferry from Edmonds to Kingston. And of course Lee had her camera with her.

Kingston is a charming, small town, with a traffic jam to the ferry dock right down the middle

That ferry looks way too big for the Kingston run but the ferry system has had to move boats around to accommodate maintenance and staffing schedules. It looks gorgeous, through.

Lee said that Mt Rainier has been in the haze this summer but it's still pretty cool to see it from the ferry.

It's a two-volcano view from the ferry

If you pick the right time of day, you can cap your trip with a sunset.



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Shakespeare in the Park in Lynnwood offers ASL interpretation


LYNNWOOD, WA  - For possibly the first time in Puget Sound’s history of hosting summer Shakespeare in the Park, the City of Lynnwood will offer ASL-interpreted performances at Lynndale Amphitheatre.

The live performances in this summer's 2024 lineup that will be ASL interpreted include:
  • Thursday, July 18 (Two Gentlemen of Verona) 
  • Thursday, July 25 (Henry VI Parts 2 & 3)
  • Thursday, August 1 (Twelfth Night)
Performance interpreters Malcolm Reed and Jahmeca Osborne are currently undertaking the linguistic challenge of translating the Bard’s scripts alongside a Deaf Director of Artistic Sign Language (DASL).

Lynnwood is proud to partner with GreenStage, Seattle’s oldest outdoor Shakespeare Company, as well as Wooden O, Seattle Shakespeare Company’s summer program, in a collaborative effort to offer a more accessible outdoor theatre experience for Puget Sound’s Deaf and hard of hearing community members. The 2024 Lynnwood Shakespeare in the Park program is sponsored by Alderwood Terrace Rotary.

Sarah Olson, PRCA Deputy Director, has been collaborating with community members to provide better access to the City's outdoor programming for several summers. Sarah believes, “free, outdoor Shakespeare was designed to be accessible to all ages, all abilities, all incomes, in all zip codes. Through collaboration with our city’s deaf residents, this is a key step towards making sure it’s truly accessible for our region’s Deaf and hard of hearing audiences, too.”

This summer, nearly 90 productions of Shakespeare in the Park are scheduled to perform throughout Puget Sound. This includes Wooden O and GreenStage’s touring troupes performing outdoor plays and a weekend-long Seattle Outdoor Theatre Festival.

Providing interpreted shows is a milestone in Lynnwood’s 45-year tradition of hosting community events, cultural arts, and live performances at the Lynndale Amphitheatre, which is nested within the woods of the city’s largest (and second-oldest) park. 

The Lynndale Amphitheatre was renovated in 2014 to provide additional seating and remove barriers to become an ADA accessible program area.

Program information

Lynndale Park: 18927 72nd Ave W, Lynnwood

TICKETS: No registration needed. This event is free for all audiences!
Access Information

SEATING SECTIONS
  • General Seating: first-come, first-served
  • Reserved Seating: A section of Access seating is available for individuals utilizing ASL interpretation, needing low-vision close seating, or have other access needs.
  • ADA seating for mobility access is located on the upper platform and is limited. To ensure seating availability, you may submit a request by email, phone, or in-person to the Healthy Communities Program.
ACCOMODATION REQUESTS

Members of the public have a right to request accommodations, translation or interpreter services to participate in City services, programs, and activities. You may submit your request for accommodations by email, phone, or in person to the Healthy Communities Program who will respond to the request within 10 calendar days. 

Please make your request for accommodations for a meeting or event at least 10 calendar days prior to the event. 

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Secretary Hobbs named Treasurer of National Association of Secretaries of State

Steve Hobbs, Washington
Secretary of State
OLYMPIA — Secretary of State Steve Hobbs has been elected the Treasurer of the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS), the nation’s oldest nonpartisan professional organization for elected officials.

Secretary Steve Hobbs was sworn in Friday, July 12, at the NASS 2024 Summer Conference in Puerto Rico.

Founded in 1904, NASS includes secretaries of state, lieutenant governors, and chief state election officials from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories.
“I am honored to have been selected by my fellow secretaries of state to a national leadership role,” Secretary Hobbs said. 

“NASS is a vital partnership for states to share important innovations regarding elections, cybersecurity, international relations, business support, and the many other critical services secretaries of state provide. 

"I look forward to this opportunity to continue working alongside these esteemed state leaders to help our organization serve Washington and every state.”

Secretary Hobbs previously served on the NASS Executive Board as the Western Region Vice President and was co-chair of the State Heritage Committee. He is a member of the NASS Elections, Cybersecurity, State Records and Archives, International Relations, and Business Services committees. He will serve as the Treasurer for a one-year term.


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Learn about a career in law enforcement in virtual presentation August 13, 2024

Are you curious about a career in law enforcement? 

Not sure where to start? Want to learn more about how to prepare for the hiring process? 

Join Lake Forest Park Police Department virtually on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 at 6pm to learn valuable insights about becoming a police officer.

Zoom link to presentation


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Walk Back in Time - historical event at Edmonds Pioneer Cemetery July 18, 2024

In 2012 John Hartquist portrayed Edmonds
founder George Brackett. The program is
different every year.
Republished from My Edmonds News

Members of the public are invited to the Edmonds Memorial Cemetery’s annual Walk Back in Time event, scheduled for 1-2pm Thursday, July 18, 2024 at 820 15th St SW, Edmonds.

This year’s theme focuses on those who physically shaped Edmonds as we know it today through their determination and grit, the City of Edmonds said in news release announcing the event.

Portrayed by members of the cemetery board and local historian and My Edmonds News writer Byron Wilkes, the Walk Back in Time will focus on the following people:

  • George Astell, a logger who was instrumental in helping to establish the Yost Lumber Company, the Spring Water Company and the Yost Auto Garage
  • Charles Breed, an early settler who owned 160 acres surrounding Edmonds
  • Adrienne Caspers, a teacher in the Edmonds School District for more than 40 years — and a member of the family that Caspers Street is named after.
  • Eathel Engel Thayer, the daughter of L.C. Engel, who built the buildings that are now home to the Edmonds Bookshop, Engel’s Pub and the residence adjacent to the Edmonds Opera House
  • Mathew E. & Clara A. Hyner, arguably Edmonds’ original power couple. Mathew Hyner served as the town’s first postmaster and Mathew and Clara were founders of the Congregational Church in Edmonds.
There is no registration or fee for this event. Please bring water and consider a chair if you are unable to stand for long periods of time.

For more information, email cara.brown@edmondswa.gov or visit the cemetery website.


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Two Irish nationals stole more than $400,000 from Shoreline homeowner whom they misled about roof and foundation repairs

The man at your door says you have a hole in your roof - but do you?

Seattle – Two individuals from Ireland are charged in U.S. District Court in Seattle with conspiracy to commit wire fraud for their theft of more than $400,000 from a Shoreline homeowner.

Patrick McDonagh and Matthew McDonagh were arrested by U.S. Customs and Border Protection in mid-June and have been held at the immigration detention center. They have been transferred to the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac and will make their first appearance on the criminal charge today at 2:00 PM.

According to the criminal complaint, the pair was part of a group that traveled the country allegedly scamming homeowners – especially the elderly – by falsely representing the home needed an urgent repair. 

One older homeowner in Shoreline lost about $435,000 to the scheme.

“This type of fraud on our elderly neighbors is heartbreaking,” said U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. “To pose as someone trying to help them, while all the while the goal is to steal as much as they can from the victim’s hard-earned retirement funds. It is a special kind of cruelty to engage in such conduct.”

The men first approached the victim in January 2024, claimed they were working in the neighborhood and had noticed that the victim had a hole in his roof. The men offered to fix the hole and remove the moss from the roof. 

Over the course of a few days, they pressured the victim to write them checks for their “services” of $15,000, $20,000, and $26,000. They also claimed that the victim’s foundation was cracked, and they said they would repair that with a “titanium tie rod system.”

The roof had no hole, and the foundation was not failing. However, the men dug trenches and poured some concrete to make it appear work was done, and each day they pressured the victim to write more checks. They even demanded an extra $20,000 for “taxes.” 

Ultimately, they demanded the victim wire $200,000 to a third party for building supplies – again far in excess of any work they claimed to have done. In all the brothers stole $435,000 from the victim.

The FBI investigation connected the brothers to contractor fraud complaints in Washington County, Oregon and Spokane, Washington totaling about $50,000. In those cases, they used fake photos of holes in the homeowner’s roof or alleged problems with the house’s foundation or posed as local-reputable businesses.

“Sadly, seniors are often an attractive target for fraudsters attempting to steal a lifetime of savings, and scammers are skilled at deceiving people, said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. 
“We encourage consumers to stay vigilant and avoid making quick decisions before doing research or getting to know someone. If you think you or someone you know could be a fraud victim, call your financial institution immediately and report suspected fraud to the FBI at tips.fbi.gov.”

Red flags for contractor fraud:
  • The contractor knocks on your door looking for business because they are “in the area” and uses aggressive sales tactics.
  • The contractor pressures you for an immediate hiring decision.
  • The contractor accepts only cash as payment and demands full payment before starting any work.
  • In the sales pitch, the contractor claims to have materials left over from a previous job.
Tips to avoid contractor fraud:
  • Always get multiple estimates for any work you want done.
  • Ensure contractors are licensed and insured. Look them up at Washington State’s Department of Labor & Industries website 
  • Check with consumer protection agencies such as the Better Business Bureau and Federal Trade Commission to search for complaints against a contractor.
Conspiracy to commit Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.


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LFP city crews removing invasive vegetation from Horizon View Park

Horizon View Park
Photo courtesy City of Lake Forest Park

Beginning Tuesday, July 9, 2024 crews began removing invasive vegetation from Horizon View Park.

For the next 6 weeks, the City’s contractor will be removing invasive plants – primarily blackberry canes, crowns and roots – using light machinery and a lot of manual labor. The removal of the invasive plants will provide a healthier and more vibrant space for park users.

The removal of the invasive plants is a council requested and approved project that the City is undertaking to manage the park’s operations and functionality.


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King County, City of Seattle and community leaders unite for 100 Days of Action against gun violence


On July 10, 2024 County Executive Dow Constantine joined Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and community leaders to launch 100 Days of Action against gun violence. This initiative, which comes as the U.S. surgeon general declared gun violence a national public health crisis, will expand community resources and promote safe gun storage.

King County is investing $1.6 million over the next 100 days, including $1 million to expand community-led violence intervention programs and $250,000 to support victims and families impacted by gun violence through the Harborview Medical Center hospital-based intervention program.

“Gun violence is a public health crisis that demands urgent action,” said Executive Dow Constantine. “This 100-day, intensive initiative to confront gun violence will expand vital community resources and intervention programs to pave the way for lasting change."

Today’s launch is bolstered by Mayor Harrell’s recently announced investments in youth mental health and safety. This includes $10 million in funding for a coordinated approach to youth mental health and safety resources for students and families, of which $2.4 million will be allocated to expand access to telehealth services and $2 million for violence prevention, intervention and interruption services.

“There have been too many instances of gun violence in and around our schools and throughout our city. Keeping our young people, families and community members safe requires regional alignment and bold action from everyone. The city cannot solve this issue alone, but we are committed to convening partnerships and leveraging our resources to make sustainable progress,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell. 
“Together, with the County and our community partners, our 100 days of action will help us deliver on calls for action from our students, educators, parents and community members, not just for the summer, but this upcoming school year and beyond.”

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Tour de Terrace July 19-20-21, 2024 - parade, rides, music


Tour de Terrace is a Seafair sanctioned summer festival for Mountlake Terrace & neighboring communities, attracting tens of thousands of visitors to Mountlake Terrace each July.

Presented by a small group of dedicated volunteers, this festival was created in 1993 to generate community spirit and pride. We invite families, businesses, and visitors to celebrate in this family-oriented, fun-filled festival.

The Tour de Terrace festival is located at the Evergreen Playfield Complex at 22205 56th Avenue W. The parade route runs along 56th Avenue W beginning at the staging area at 234th Street SW and concludes at the park. Parade Friday night.

Hours:
  • Friday: 2pm – 11pm
    • Parade 6:45pm -  
  • Saturday: noon – 11pm 
    • Pancake breakfast 8am - 12pm $10 adult
    • Car show 9am - 3pm
  • Sunday: noon – 6pm
    • Pancake breakfast 8am - 12pm $10 adult
Beer garden, live music, craft booths, food booths, rides and midway games,

No fireworks show this year.


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Gloria's Birds: Hey, photog, do corvids get to wish on a star, too?

Saturday, July 13, 2024

 
Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

(Of course! I'll bet non-humans even get priority:)

--Gloria Z. Nagler


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Lake Forest Park councilmembers oppose rapid transit improvements on Bothell Way

An aerial view from the Sound Transit plan shows the proposed northeast-bound bus lane some Lake Forest Park council members oppose (in blue)
By Oliver Moffat

At their June 27, 2024 meeting, the Lake Forest Park city council debated a proposed letter to Sound Transit opposing a rapid transit bus lane on Bothell Way.

The letter, sponsored by Deputy Mayor Lorri Bodi, called the highway a “green residential corridor and city gateway”, and called on Sound Transit to preserve trees and shrubs between 153rd and 165th by removing a proposed northeast-bound bus lane and shrinking a bus station at 165th street. “No other city will face such inequitable impacts,” the letter argued.

Councilmember Semra Riddle declined to sign the letter because it lacked specifics. “We're not Traffic Engineers and so some of these elements I think are overreaching what we are able to say,” she said. Riddle also disagreed the city has suffered unfairly compared to the impact neighboring cities have experienced from mass transit projects. “Yes, we do have disproportionate impacts right now but that's because those impacts have already been made to our neighboring cities.”

The proposed letter asks Sound Transit to remove a northeast-bound Business Access and Transit (BAT) lane between 153rd and 165th Streets - forcing busses to merge into regular traffic. The city and Sound Transit disagree about how much delay this change would cause for bus riders. Sound Transit says the BAT lane will save commuters 2.3 minutes at rush hour while estimates in the Lake Forest Park letter said removal of the BAT lane will delay commuters by 1.5 minutes.

The Sound Transit S3 line will connect Bothell, Kenmore, and Lake Forest Park to the Shoreline South light rail station with a fleet of all-electric busses running in dedicated bus lanes

The Stride S3 Line is part of a ballot measure approved by voters in 2016 to add Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) along Bothell Way and 145th Street. Once completed, an all-electric bus fleet will feature station stops with off-board payment and multi-door boarding. - connecting Bothell, Kenmore and Lake Forest Park to the 145th Street Light Rail Station in Shoreline.

Bothell celebrated completion of its BRT improvements in June 2022 but the project has fallen behind schedule and has yet to start in Lake Forest Park. Some Lake Forest Park residents have fought the project and said it would “deforest” the state highway. Last year, the Lake Forest Park city council asked Sound Transit to pause the project and passed regulations requiring retaining walls to have architectural finishes and aesthetic vegetation.


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Southbound I-5 lane closures in Shoreline and north Seattle for maintenance overnight Saturday, July 13, 2024


The two left lanes on southbound Interstate 5 between NE 155th Street and NE 130th Street in Shoreline / north Seattle will close from 11pm Saturday, July 13, 2024 until 4am Sunday, July 14 for sign maintenance.

Washington State Department of Transportation crews will perform repairs on an express lane sign. People traveling in the area should plan for delays during this lane closure.

People can receive real-time travel information via the WSDOT mobile app and the real-time travel map.


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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Thor



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Interurban Trail in Ballinger Commons was closed for maintenance work

 
Photo by Johanna Pollit

The Interurban Trail running through the Ballinger Commons apartment community has been closed intermittently for maintenance work as per our previous article.

The work was scheduled to be done by Friday, July 12, 2024.

Bicyclists were able to use Meridian Avenue N as a detour route while pedestrians were able to use the sidewalk on the west side of Meridian Avenue.


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Brighter colors, new reflectors signify WSDOT work zones and vehicles

WSDOT's new green flashing lights are more visible in foggy conditions.

You may notice unusual flashes of brilliant green light along state highways at some point. A burst of emerald light, far in the distance, through dense fog or the dark of night, may catch you off-guard. 

They come in peace – these flashes are not extraterrestrial; they’re just state Department of Transportation work trucks.

WSDOT is debuting new safety equipment, including higher-visibility flashers and new reflective warning stripes on attenuator vehicles.

Last year, the department even experimented with orange-colored road striping on I-5 to call attention to work zones. There are more than 1,200 work zone crashes in Washington state every year, and WSDOT workers are far too often endangered by reckless drivers. The department is expressing some creativity in protecting road crews.

Our crews work sometimes just inches from active traffic while repairing or improving our roads or responding to crashes. Despite warning signs, orange cones and other signals, too many people hit our vehicles or even strike our crews. We also have many near misses that don't injure anyone but are still terrifying.

Green light seems to cut through fog better than amber lights, allowing drivers to spot snowplows and salt trucks from further away in foggy or wintery conditions. 

And attenuator trucks, weighted trucks parked near work zones to absorb the impact of a wayward car, are switching out their black-and-yellow striping for white-and-red reflective striping.

These small changes may help WSDOT crews and vehicles be more visible. But Washington drivers should do their part by driving with greater care in work zones. Reckless, distracted, or impaired drivers hurt people. Slow down, pay attention, and ‘give workers a brake.’



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Spin Alley Bowling burglarized - $10,000 in damage to steal $2,000

$10,000 worth of damage to Spin Alley in burglary

Spin Alley Bowling at 1430 NW Richmond Beach Rd, Shoreline WA 98177 in the Richmond Beach neighborhood was burglarized Thursday morning, July 11, 2024 around 5am. 

The burglars smashed the front door, then pried a quarter machine and safe off the wall, and were out in around 5 minutes. 

The police told us it happened as they were responding to another burglary at Rite Aid a few blocks away. They think it may be the same pair on a spree. 
It is evident that they had cased the facility beforehand as the perp went straight to the safe like he knew where it was.

Burglar image captured on surveillance camera at Spin Alley

"Please look at the pictures and help capture these suspects before they can damage more businesses in our neighborhoods. Share the post."

Spin Alley burglar caught on surveillance camera after breaking the glass door

They did over $10,000 in damage to steal around $2,000 in cash! Shoreline police case number is C24023325 and Officer Galvin is working on the situation.

Burglars with safe stolen from Spin Alley

"Big thank you to Officer Galvin and the other Shoreline Police who arrived within 7 minutes of the call. We appreciate your support!" 

Burglars' vehicle at Spin Alley
"The best way for people to support us during this difficult time is to share this message so that the criminals can be caught and charged for their crimes as well as patronizing our businesses." 
"We love this community and we aren't going anywhere."

Photos from Spin Alley Bowling surveillance cameras, provided by owners.


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