Shoreline Area News

Culvert replacement underway at 35th Ave NE & Ballinger Way (SR104)

Friday, August 8, 2025

Photo from 185th Street: the former Ballinger Automotive building has now been demolished. Piping and fencing are in place as the site is readied for the temporary stream de-watering and new culvert placement.

From the Lake Forest Park Stewardship Foundation

Anyone who has driven along Ballinger Way recently is well aware of the project to replace the Lyon Creek culvert beneath the roadway. Construction is happening up to seven days a week, with traffic control primarily occurring between 9pm and 5am.

Crews will perform site work and utility upgrades before installing the new culvert beneath SR 104, which will require extended road closures.

The following closures are planned during different stages of the project:

Overnight, single-lane closures on SR 104, 35th Avenue Northeast and Northeast 185th Street with flaggers alternating traffic in each direction.
A five-day closure along Northeast 185th Street.
At least one overnight closure along 35th Avenue Northeast near SR 104.
A 35-day closure along SR 104/Ballinger Way.

Yes -- that's a lot of human interruption in the short-term -- but well worth it to repair decades of blocked habitat for salmon and other aquatic species.

More details and an updated schedule for this project here

Most fish passage barriers are metal or concrete pipes, known as culverts. Culverts carry streams underneath roads, trails, and railroads. In King County, many culverts are decades old. Older culverts are often too small, too steep, or have a waterfall coming out of them.

Many culverts resemble firehoses, pushing water through at a high speed. This can make the culvert impossible for salmon to swim through. Over time, flows from the culvert can erode a deep hole in the streambed downstream. This prevents fish from being able to jump high enough to enter the culvert. The resulting waterfall out of the culvert creates a fish passage barrier.

Modern culverts look more like arches than pipes. They are big enough to allow the stream in the culvert to simulate natural stream conditions. This means that it's easy for fish and other aquatic life to move upstream or downstream through them.

See the graphic below from King County Department of Natural Resources:

Reminder to be patient, and drive slowly through the construction area!

Free 5 week Community Police Academy in LFP

The Lake Forest Park Police Department is offering a free, 5-week Community Police Academy (CPA) this September. Classes will be held every Wednesday evening from 6:00 PM to 8:30pm, beginning September 3, 2025.

This engaging program is designed to educate community members about how the Lake Forest Park Police Department operates and to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the public.

While not intended as a path toward a law enforcement career, the academy provides insight into key areas of policing, including patrol operations, K-9, investigations, criminal law, and more.

Participants will experience a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on activities, led by officers, detectives, and police leadership. The program also encourages open dialogue and feedback, helping to build trust and transparency between the department and the community.

Space is limited but we still have a few spots available! Participants must be 18 years old and live or work in Lake Forest Park.

To register or learn more, please contact Commander Diego Zanella at: dzanella@cityoflfp.gov.

Preserve the Beauty of Nature: Join “Garden Exploration” with Kathy Anderson

Saturday, August 9, 2025

from 10:00am – 12:30pm

Fee: $55

Shoreline Community College, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Bldg 2900, Room 2905

Looking for a peaceful, creative way to spend a Saturday morning?

Join the Garden Exploration Sessions with local gardening expert, landscape designer, and water ecologist Kathy Anderson, a one-day class designed for anyone who loves plants, art, or hands-on crafting!

In this session, Kathy will teach you how to press leaves and flowers to create stunning dried arrangements and handmade cards.

You’ll learn techniques for preserving blooms from your yard, neighborhood walks, or even vacations. Turning ordinary petals into beautiful, lasting keepsakes.

What’s Included:

Step-by-step instruction in pressing flowers and leaves
A fun, hands-on card-making activity using dried flowers
A take-home dried flower pack for your future projects
All supplies included!

Whether you’re a gardener, a DIY enthusiast, or simply looking for a new relaxing hobby, this class welcomes all levels of experience. It's a perfect way to connect with nature and creativity while learning from a pro!

Register now to save your spot!

King County Citizens’ Elections Oversight Committee Seeking New Members

The King County Council is now accepting applications for open positions on the King County Citizens’ Elections Oversight Committee (CEOC), a volunteer body tasked with monitoring and reporting on elections operations in King County.

The CEOC is composed of 16 members with a demonstrated interest or expertise in elections. The committee provides independent oversight, evaluates election-related policies and procedures, and submits an annual report of findings and recommendations to the King County Council. Members meet approximately five times per year.

CEOC is currently recruiting for the following positions:

Representative from the Spanish-speaking community - three-year term ending July 2028.
Representative of registered King County voters – three-year term ending September 2028.
Representative from the Vietnamese-speaking community - remainder of current term ending December 2026, with the possibility of reappointment to a full three-year term.

Interested individuals are encouraged to apply by August 13, 2025. For more information or to submit an application, please visit:www.ki ngcounty.gov/ceoc

Shoreline residents - get a free tree - apply by August 31, 2025

Sign up for a FREE tree through August 31, 2025!

Shoreline residents can receive a free tree through Communi-trees, the City’s community tree giveaway and planting program.

When you sign up for a free tree, we will help you:

Pick the right tree for your space

Plant it (if needed and subject to volunteer availability)

Learn how to keep your tree healthy

Remember to water and care for your tree

Visit ShorelineWA.gov/Communitrees for more details and to sign up for your free tree!

LFP's Yard Sale Day September 13, 2025

LFP's Yard Sale Day

Saturday, September 13, 2025

Looking for a reason to finally clean out the garage (or the house)?

Want to buy used instead of new?

Love a good bargain or just want to explore the neighborhood? Join your neighbors for the Lake Forest Park Yard Sale Day on Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 9am to 3pm!

Volunteers of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board are organizing Lake Forest Park’s city-wide yard sale.

Want to host a sale and be included on the official map?
📍 Submit your address HERE

Yard sale maps will be available during the week leading up to the event.
Facebook Event Page

Not all jazz sounds alike - check out the musicians of Jazz Walk

North City Jazz Walk

Tuesday August 12, 2025 from 6-10:30pm

What do you think of when you hear the word "Jazz"?

It's a generic term that covers a wide variety of musical styles. Take a listen to this year's musicians by clicking the link with each group.

Music at the 2025 North City Jazz Walk

Seven bands this year playing three 45-minute sets and one 30 minute set at the end.

Outdoor Music sets, open to the public for free, start times are 6:30, 7:30, 8:30, 9:30. Street closes at 11pm.

Two FREE open to the public venues (no wristband required) start at 6:30pm

Hook Me Up - free at Franks Delivery

Hook Me Up at Franks Delivery

This superb Tacoma-based quartet of top jazz musicians includes Grammy Award winning trumpeter Tracey Hooker; James Cochran on keyboard; Osama Afifi playing electric and acoustic bass; and Aaron Hennings on drums.

From the 1920s "Great Gatsby" sound, to the smooth sounds of The Girl From Ipanema, or the melodies of Herb Alpert, Chuck Mangione, and Louis Armstrong, Hook Me Up has something for everyone.
Sample their music here

Stacy Jones - free at Frank's Bargain Barn
Stacy Jones Band at Frank’s Bargain Barn

Winner of over a dozen awards and backed by an award-winning line-up of musicians, The Stacy Jones Band is returning to North City Jazz walk for a second year of outstanding music.

From headlining festivals including the Chicago Blues Festival and SXSW, to juke joints in Mississippi, riverboats in California, and European tours, Stacy and her band have shared stages with ZZ Top, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Coco Montoya, Elvin Bishop, Charlie Musselwhite, Lee Oskar, and many other legends. Listen to her music here

Wristbands are required for the 5 indoor venues and are on sale in local businesses
Wristbands are $25.00 each Until day of event and can be purchased at:

Chicken Sodam - located at 17551 15th Ave NE
North City Lounge - located at 17554 15th Ave NE
North City Bistro - located at 1520 NE 177th
North City Water District - located at 1519 NE 177th
Sky Nursery – located at 18528 Aurora Ave N,

Indoor venues (requiring a wristband for entrance) start at 7pm.
They will play 4 sets at 7, 8, 9, and 10pm.

Elnah Jordan at Bethel Lutheran Church
Elnah Jordan Experience at Bethel Lutheran Church

Some voices sing—Elnah Jordan tells stories. With a career spanning jazz, blues, R&B, and gospel, North City Jazz Walk is honored to introduce you to the soulful power of Elnah Jordan, paired with the versatile pianist Eric Verlinde.

From her gospel roots in the choir stands of Kentucky, to the streets of San Francisco, from night clubs across the country to award winning Off Broadway productions, her voice carries a lifetime of musical journeys filled with passion, depth, and timeless music.

Elnah Jordan's music can be heard here

Birch Pereira plays at Sodam Chicken
Birch Pereira and the Gin Joints at Sodam Chicken

Born out of a love of the early years of rock 'n 'roll, Americana and swing, Birch Pereira & the Gin Joints is a band whose sound transports you to the time of speakeasies, honky-tonks and roadhouses.

With upright bassist and vocalist Birch Pereira at its center, the band features many of Seattle's most skilled and versatile musicians who share the love of the American song traditions and a desire to offer a fresh angle on them.

Click to hear a sample of his music

Entremundos Quarteto at North City Bistro
Entremundos Quarteto at North City Bistro

Adriana Giordano's deep Brazilian roots are the backbone behind the sounds of EntreMundos Quarteto.

The band's name means “between worlds," which is an apt description for their musical blend of funk, jazz and soul woven into the classic sounds of samba and bossa nova.

Hear them at this link

Greta Matassa at North City Water District
Greta Matassa at North City Water District

Returning Jazz Walk favorite Greta Matassa is one of the most talented, well-known, and beloved singers working in jazz today.

Not only has she been voted "Northwest Vocalist of the Year" by Earshot Jazz 7 times in 15 years, and honored with a lifetime achievement award, she was inducted into the Earshot Jazz Hall of Fame in 2014.

Listen to Greta here

Michelle D'Amour at the North City Lounge
Michelle D’Amour and the Love Dealers at the North City Lounge

Michele D’Amour is a storyteller and award-winning songwriter who penned her first song at the age of six and became a published poet in her early twenties. Her lyrics treat difficult topics with a sense of soulful whimsy and wry humor.

Michele sang in her church choir, wrote songs, and sang lead for some local bands before honing her craft at several of the jams in the Seattle area. Upon the advice of friends, she formed Michele D’Amour and the Love Dealers in 2011.

Sample Michelle's music here

For more information visit northcityjazzwalk.org and see our previous article Everything you need to know about Jazz Walk

Lake Forest Park Elementary Third Graders learn "We Are Part of a Larger Story"

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Each expert group studied and reported on one native plant:
salal, pacific yew and evergreen huckleberry, bracken fern

This past spring, third grade students in teacher Lisa Collins' class at Lake Forest Park Elementary studied the Salish Sea region as part of their Social Studies curriculum. Working with Mrs. Collins and classroom volunteers, the students extended their learning into the community.

This expert group on red elderberry
is planting native plants at Blue Heron Park
alongside a parent volunteer.

They learned about the indigenous history of Lake Forest Park, they learned that the Duwamish and other indigenous people are still here, they studied native plants and their uses, and they shared their learning in artwork, writing, posters, presentations, and discussions of the complexity and responsibility of studying history and caring for the environment.

In addition to all they accomplished at school, on June 6 the students walked from their school to Blue Heron Park, where they planted the native plants they had studied, with help from Cory Mattson, who works in the Community Development Department at the City of Lake Forest Park.

Sky Nursery donated a gift card to help the students purchase plants.

The full class alongside McAleer Creek in Blue Heron Park. Cory Mattson is in the back row toward the left, The author is midway in the back row, teacher Lisa Collins is on the right.

After planting at Blue Heron Park, the students walked to the LFP Civic Club, which provided space for the students, classroom volunteers, and members of the Shoreline Historical Museum to gather.

With David Buerge backing them, the groups
presented what they had learned.

Here, the students presented their learning about native plants.

They learned more about Duwamish history and myth and also the present of the Duwamish people from David Buerge, who has been a historian of the Duwamish for 50 years.

They learned that the place they gathered, where Lyon Creek enters Lake Washington, was the site of a Duwamish winter village until 1903, and they learned many Lushootseed words for the plants they studied, for the place they gathered, and other other places west to the mountains.

Students marked the migration of their own family on the world map

As the students learned about the history and present of the people and environment in Lake Forest Park, they also shared the history of their own families, and places they had lived in the last four generations to arrive here in Lake Forest Park.

They added their family migration map to their classroom timeline from "time immemorial" to the present, and created a book of their research, art, writing, and community learning, Their book is called "We Are Part of a Larger Story."

-Elizabeth Simmons-O'Neill

Gloria Nagler: Busting out

Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

It ain't just June that's bustin' out all over!

--Gloria Z. Nagler

Changing Climate: Drought and the risks in Lake Forest Park

Dry landscape in LFP

Climate change presents specific risks to Lake Forest Park. One of the risks identified in the draft climate element of the Comprehensive Plan is drought.

Dry weather is an inconvenience, when gardens must be watered, new insects are attracted to distressed plants. There is more dust in the air which can exacerbate asthma and lung disease.

Dust can cause nasal dryness and congestion. More dust means the need to change air filters more often and cars and outside spaces are dustier.

Right now, drought is stressing the trees and plants. Stressed trees drop their leaves earlier than usual. It is called “weather related leaf drop.” If the impact on trees is only one year, it probably won’t hurt the tree.

However prolonged and frequent drought conditions result in stress that can mean new pests invading stressed tree. Long term drought can stress trees and damage the canopy.

Drought also increases the risk of wildfires. Dry brush and huge forest fires with thick smoke coming from more remote locations can have impact.

Smoke can be a mixture of pollutants, from ash to plastics. The effects can be eye strain, pink eye, people with asthma may experience an increase in their symptoms. Breathing smoke can also impact heart and lung conditions. Recent science has found that there are long term impacts of smoke that shows up years later.

Weather related leaf drop

What is the role of a city in preparing the community for drought?

The city has a role in guiding residents, businesses and government through the transitions and prepare residents and businesses for a drier future. The city needs to protect its assets and prepare for new and upgraded infrastructure—roads, bridges, culverts, cement and asphalt mixes that perform well in stressed conditions.

The city has an educational role of bringing attention on the transitions that are happening right now, and the transitions that are anticipated. Climate change is stressful. Assisting the process of building resiliency, responding to changing climate and the impacts is a municipal responsibility.

What do communities need to do to continue to thrive when drier conditions become the usual condition?

Preparation requires community outreach, coordinating with other municipalities, providing up to date science-based information online and in person. Planning for the future and helping to ensure that communities can thrive in the face a climate change is the job of the climate manager.

--Story and photos Sarah Phillips

Navigating Aging Into Vision Loss - presentation August 20, 2025 at Senior Activity Center

When vision loss makes your daily life difficult, the Department of Services for the Blind is here to help.

Their Independent Living Program is designed to empower people to live independently in their home and community.

During this presentation, Alice Klein, one of the Independent Living Service Providers, will share information about the program through an interactive and hands-on presentation.

DATE – Wednesday, August 20, 2025
TIME – 1:00 – 2:00pm
COST - FREE
LOCATION - Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center 18560 1st Ave NE Bldg. G
REGISTRATION - Call or visit the Senior Activity Center 206-365-1536

Local students are named 2025 graduates from St. Olaf College

NORTHFIELD, Minn. (August 6, 2025) - The following local students are named Class of 2025 graduates from St. Olaf College.

To graduate, students must have completed the equivalent of 35 credits through a combination of full-credit and fractional-credit courses.

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

Seattle, WA

Graham Barwick, B.A., Biology

Shoreline, WA

Megan Peery, B.A., Social Work

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. St. Olaf is committed to meeting the demonstrated financial needs of every student with 99 percent of students receiving scholarships or grants.

Grounded in a 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.

North City History Walk Saturday August 9, 2025

Leena's Cafe during the 2023 North City Jazz Walk
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Saturday, August 9, 2025 – 10:00am

North City History Walk - FREE

We will check out the 185th Street transit center, then head up to the 15th Ave business district to see the many changes there. There will be a lot of stops along 15th Avenue to learn about the history of the area.

Will return by way of St. Marks. There may be an optional extension to this walk for those wanting more walking.

No pre-registration necessary, just show up and walk with us. More information here

Walk is approximately 3.1 miles / 2 hours
Walk Rating: Moderate
Meet at: North City Elementary School (Learning Center) Parking Lot, 816 NE 190th St, Shoreline, WA 98155
Walk Leader: Donna

Annual 2025 Master Gardener Plant Sale in Bellevue September 14, 2025

The WSU Extension King County Master Gardeners present "Cool Plants, Hot Topics," the annual 2025 Master Gardener Plant Sale in partnership with the Bellevue Botanical Garden.

This year's theme is "Become a Pollinator Protector," offering gardeners an opportunity to learn about the importance of pollinators while stocking up on plants for autumn and beyond and enjoying the beauty of the botanical garden.

The sale is Sunday, September 14, 2025 from 9:30am to 3pm at Bellevue Botanical Garden, 12001 Main Street, Bellevue.

The Plant Sale will feature local vendors offering a variety of plants. Confirmed vendors include Celestial Dream Gardens, Lee Farms, Fancy Fronds, Botanica, and Earth Grown Creations. The Washington Native Plant Society and the Eastside Fuchsia Society will also be there.

Our cut-flower bouquet table will return, with bouquets of colorful blooms for that spontaneous purchase. There will also be a table for seed sharing.

Join us for the grand opening of the new Habitat at Home exhibit, hosted by a panel of Extension Master Gardeners.

Three local experts will offer talks about native plants, pollinators, and their place in PNW gardens.

Daniel Mount will present "From Far and Near: Native Plants for Northwest Gardens," explaining what makes a plant native or not, sharing which native species perform best in a garden situation, and telling you why you should – or shouldn’t – plant them. Daniel is a retired professional gardener and designer and past board member of the Northwest Horticultural Society.
Sue Melgaard is passionate about pollinators. She will talk about our amazing pollinator insects & birds and how we can create essential habitat for them. Sue is a WSU Extension King County Master Gardener.
Molly van der Burch will explore how natives, cultivars, and perennials vary in attracting pollinators, adding biodiversity, and demonstrating climate readiness for a drier PNW region. Molly is a WSU Extension King County Master Gardener.

The Bellevue Botanical Garden and the Plant Sale are free and open to all.

The three talks will require registration and a small fee. The Master Gardener Foundation of King County uses the funds raised from the sale of plants, bouquets, and talks to support the activities of the King County Master Gardeners.

Please check back frequently, as more information will be available soon on the website Join us on September 14!

Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Flying

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter here

The A, B, Cs of Garden Centers and Nurseries with Bruce Bennett at the Kenmore Library Saturday afternoon August 9, 2025

Garden Guy
Bruce Bennett

Former Garden Guy columnist Bruce Bennett will speak at the Kenmore Library on Saturday, August 9, 2025 from 2-3pm on The A, B, Cs of Garden Centers and Nurseries

Do the nomenclature, numbers and gardening products confuse you?

Need to know which plant spray or bagged soil is best for you?

Then, this program is for you!. Kenmore Library, 6531 NE 181st St, Kenmore, WA 98028, August 9, 2:00 – 3:00pm.

And then at the Richmond Beach Library on August 13, 2025:

Tips For New and Experienced Gardeners

Practical ways to save time in the yard and produce better crops of veggies, flowers and perennials.

Richmond Beach Library, 19601 21st Ave NW, Shoreline, WA 98177, August 13, 6:00 – 7:00pm

What’s Happening This Week in Shoreline? – August 6 - 12

What’s Happening This Week in Shoreline? – August 6 - 12

From Talking Heads tributes and coffee with the mayor to jazz in the streets, veteran stories, and a community bike ride, Shoreline is buzzing with ways to connect, learn, and have fun this week!

Explore our weekly guide to upcoming local events. For all the upcoming Shoreline events this week visit: DestinationShoreline.com/Calendar

Destination Shoreline Featured Events of the Week:

Concerts in the Park - Coool Babies Premier Talking Heads Tribute Act
Wednesday, August 6
6:30 PM
Cromwell Park

Presented by Shorelake Arts. Concerts are free and family-friendly. Bring a low-backed chair, picnic blanket, dinner, and enjoy the show.

Coffee Hour with the Mayor of Shoreline
Friday, August 8
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Shoreline/LFP Senior Activity Center
Stop by the Shoreline/LFP Senior Activity Center for coffee with Shoreline Mayor Chris Roberts!

Tour De Bike Rack
Saturday, August 9
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
The Local 104

This summer, Urbanist Shoreline has been busy installing bike racks around town. Now that we have a bunch of them in the ground, it's a great excuse for a bike ride! We'll be riding approximately 10 miles, and we'll make several stops at awesome Shoreline and Lake Forest Park businesses. RSVP and we'll send you the ride details. Tell your friends!

Heroes Café-Shoreline
Tuesday, August 12
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Seattle Scottish Rite Center

Join us for Heroes Café–Shoreline. Coffee and pastries will be available at 9:00 AM, with lunch provided by Laurel Cove at 11:15 AM. A Veteran program begins at 10:00 AM with a formal opening, flag salute, POW/MIA flag placement, and recognition of August birthdays. This month’s featured speaker is Capt. David Schindele, USAF, ICBM Command and Launch Control Officer, who will discuss “It Never Happened,” a presentation on the USAF UFO cover-up. David will also be available to sign his book, It Never Happened, Volume 1: U.S. Air Force UFO Cover-up Revealed. Veterans, families, friends, and the community are all welcome. Heroes Café–Shoreline is the largest monthly Veterans gathering in King County, and there’s nothing to join—you just show up!

North City Jazz Walk 2025
Tuesday, August 12
6:30 PM
North City Neighborhood

North City's favorite annual jazz festival is back for our 17th year with five blocks closed to traffic for an outstanding lineup of live jazz at outdoor and indoor venues, complete with outdoor beer gardens, food trucks, and fun for the whole family.

For more information about life in Shoreline, WA and upcoming events visit: www.DestinationShoreline.com

Destination Shoreline is brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, Real Estate Broker with Windermere Real Estate/Shoreline. Whether you’re planning to sell, buy, or simply explore your options, Kate Ledbetter is ready to provide expert guidance tailored to your unique real estate needs. Visit www.KateLHomes.com for more information.

Toby still can't read...

Photo by Seattle Poppy

but he was still interested in the litter by his leg.

--Seattle Poppy

AG: Judge grants injunction against Trump’s cuts to disaster funding

SEATTLE — A federal judge today barred the Trump administration from spending disaster mitigation funds tied to a program the president illegally shut down as the court considers a lawsuit brought by Washington Attorney General Nick Brown and 19 other states.

The states sued in July after the administration shut down the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s bipartisan program to protect communities from natural disasters before they strike, known as Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC). The states requested and the judge granted an order barring the government from spending those funds for non-BRIC purposes until the court can issue a final judgment.

The coalition of attorneys general argues FEMA’s decision to abruptly terminate the BRIC program is in direct violation of Congress’s decision to fund it. States are still fighting to have the program resume.

“FEMA’s termination of this bipartisan program defies both law and logic,” Brown said. “Congress created this fund because America’s towns are already struggling with mounting challenges from climate change.”

Over the past four years, FEMA has selected nearly 2,000 projects to receive roughly $4.5 billion in BRIC funding nationwide.

In Washington state, there are 27 open BRIC projects that total $182 million and nearly three quarters of that funding goes to small towns and rural communities.

This money funds projects like constructing levees and floodwalls in Aberdeen and Hoquiam and generating electricity in Klickitat County for hospitals and school districts if the power goes out during wildfires and severe weather.

A copy of the injunction can be found here.

Letter to the Editor: It's a terrible idea for King County to become people's landlord

To the Editor:

It's a terrible idea for King County to become people's landlord, as it did when it recently bought a 23-unit multifamily apartment community in Shoreline for $4.29 million. (See article)

The county takes on tremendous liability risk with every property added to KCHA's portfolio. State and local governments are paying gargantuan sums to settle civil suits for all kinds of torts. It's a nightmare for the state budget. The government is not forcing lawsuits with poor quality facts to go to court where plaintiffs have to face their own risk of appearing before a judge. This has led to the proliferation of a predatory legal industry with ambulance-chasing lawyers financing their lavish lifestyles at your and my expense. What about slips and falls at this now county-owned building? Will a county worker be out there immediately when it's icy to put down rock salt? I doubt it. When a potential defendant has unlimited funds as a government does, and doesn't vigorously fight frivolous suits, expect even more six or seven figure losses.

If KCHA owning apartment buildings is such a good idea, maybe we should have a vote about it. After all, we're constantly told that there won't be money for schools, parks, police, fire, ambulances, and life flights if those tax measures fail at the ballot box, but somehow there's always millions available to buy property, whether KCHA is doing it for its own portfolio, or the County itself is buying hotels to turn into low-barrier shelters. It's a great way to fleece taxpayers, continuously increase the share of the local economy under government control, and further increase everyone else's cost of living to fund the whole apparatus.

Dan Adams

Shoreline

Tour de Bike Racks with Urbanist Shoreline Saturday August 9, 2025

Photo courtesy The Local 104

This Saturday, August 9, 2025 Urbanist Shoreline will be leading a fun, casual, SLOW bike crawl across Shoreline to visit the businesses where we installed new bike racks this summer.

That’s right, it’s a TOUR DE BIKE RACKS!!!

The start time for the ride is 11am. We’ll make several stops including a lunch stop at the Shoreline Farmers Market, and will end with OPTIONAL beer and bowling at Spin Alley!

Seriously, this is going to be so, so fun.

Meet at the Local 104 at 18498 Ballinger Way NE, Lake Forest Park WA 98155 at 11am, or later along the route.

RSVP here to be sent the route and any updates.

Intoxicated person assaults Kenmore police officers

Photo courtesy Kenmore Police

Kenmore Police Officers responded to a business along Bothell Way where an intoxicated customer assaulted staff.

Officers arrived and found the subject in the parking lot inside of a vehicle.

After a prolonged standoff, the Officers attempted to arrest the suspect, who proceeded to assault two Officers, injuring both of them.

The subject was booked in the King County Jail for felony assault. Both Officers received medical treatment, one at the scene and the other at a local hospital.

Officers routinely encounter impaired persons, and despite extensive efforts to de-escalate, violence directed at Officers sometimes occurs.

Courier scams target older residents across the state including 46 in King county

King County prosecutors are sounding the alarm over a surge in so-called “courier scams” that primarily target older residents across the state.

Since the beginning of 2024, Patrick Hinds, Chief Deputy of Economic and Wage Theft Division of the King County Prosecutor’s Office, stated that 46 victims have come forward, reporting they have lost a combined $7 million to scammers.

Hinds said the scam involves bad actors texting, emailing, or calling potential victims to try to trick them into withdrawing large sums of cash from retirement funds or savings and checking accounts, and handing it over to a courier who will transport the money to a safe place.

King County election results - Tuesday August 5, 2025

By Diane Hettrick

Today, Tuesday August 5, 2025 was voting day and ballots were due by 8pm. King county elections has been counting as the ballots came in and reported the first results.

They have counted 272,000 votes, which is 19% of registered voters. King County is expecting a turnout of 35%, which seems high to me.

The King County Prop. 1 Parks Levy is passing with an approval rating of 70%. It is a renewal, extending an existing tax for six years. It supports county, city, park district, and town parks, open space, and trails; recreation; public pools; and educational and civic venues.

The Shoreline Schools levy is passing with 73% of the vote. This is a one-year supplemental levy for collection in 2026 to support and help maintain educational programs and services not fully funded by state or federal sources.

The people on the ballot are in races which drew three or more candidates. The purpose is to narrow the field to two, who will face off in the general election.

King County Executive: The beleaguered John Wilson dropped out of the race but still received 23,000 votes. But in spite of eight names on the ballot, it was always about Claudia Balducci and Girmay Zahilay - both current councilmembers. Girmay leads Balducci 103.471 to 77,590. They will face off in November.

Kenmore City Council Position 2: Tracy Banaszynski and incumbent Joe Marshall are separated by 23 votes. Candidates like to be in a primary because it gives them an idea of where they stand and how hard they need to campaign / raise money for the general election.

Lake Forest Park City Council: LFP has a robust political scene this year, with four out of five positions drawing opponents. (See previous article) The only one on the primary ballot is incumbent Selma Riddle, whose main challenger Bryce James is currently 21 votes ahead.

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell will be facing challenger Katie Wilson, who currently is 13,000 votes in the lead, in a primary field of eight.

Seattle City Attorney: Incumbent Ann Davison drew three challengers, one of whom, Erika Evans, is outpolling her by 13,000 votes.

King county will release updated results each weekday until the election is certified in September.

It's all in the sign

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Photo by Seattle Poppy

Note the sign on the chain link fence.

Celebrate with the City and Shoreline Chamber of Commerce at the 2025 Shoreline Community and Business Champion Awards

We invite you to join us to celebrate the community and business leaders who make Shoreline a thriving, vibrant, and welcoming place for all.

Presented in partnership with the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce, the City of Shoreline Community Champion Awards will be presented alongside the Chamber’s Chamber Award and Community Partner Award. A reception will follow in the City Hall lobby and plaza.

Date: Friday August 15, 2025
Time: 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Location: Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale Avenue N
Register: Shoreline Chamber of Commerce event webpage (please register to ensure a correct count for the event)

This free event will bring residents, businesses, elected officials, and other community leaders together to celebrate successes, acknowledge contributions, and strengthen community bonds. It will also be an opportunity to honor all the people who volunteer for different City programs and projects.

The City of Shoreline Community Champion Awards acknowledge and celebrate a leaders whose contributions to the community make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who live, learn, work, and play in Shoreline.

This year’s nominees are:

Heather Stipulkosky
Alan Charnley
Pax and Dorrena Ortega
Dede Chang
Bill Bear
Laura James
Zaldy Rogero
Malorie Larson
Patty Hale
Logan Throndsen
Diane Hettrick
Guru Dorje
Daxton Robertson (youth nominee)
Aly Fellores (youth nominee)
Angelina Vaughn (youth nominee)

The Shoreline Chamber of Commerce Chamber Award honors a member who leads by example, takes initiative, serves the Shoreline area through action and participation, inspires others to get involved, and promotes respectful, supportive communication.

Congratulations to this year’s outstanding nominees:

Kate Ledbetter
Lara Grauer
Kim Stege
Rose Werelus

These leaders represent the heart of the Chamber and the spirit of our community.

The Community Partner award honors a community organization whose collaboration with the Chamber strengthens local businesses through impactful programs, shared values, and meaningful support that improves opportunities for business success in the Shoreline area.

Award-winning singer-songwriter Fae Wiedenhoeft will provide music.

Celebrate Shoreline at Cromwell Park on Saturday August 16, 2025

Photo by Claudia Meadows

Celebrate Shoreline!

The City of Shoreline is celebrating its 30th birthday by hosting their annual Celebrate Shoreline Festival.

Celebrate Shoreline will feature:

Culture Share Performances
Beer, Wine & Cider Garden
Food Trucks
Live Performances on Two Stages

Family Area including Inflatables, Pony Rides, Petting Zoo, Hands-on Activities, Children’s Theater

Cromwell Park 18030 Meridian Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133

July 2025 Market Overview: Slower Pace, Softer Pricing, and Growing Buyer Leverage

July 2025 Market Overview

By Lella Norberg, Shoreline Windermere

Sales Volume

July 2025 saw a steep drop in activity, with just 31 homes sold, down from 45 in June and a 36.7% decrease year-over-year compared to 49 sales in July 2024.

Year-to-date, total sales stand at 235, a 14.5% decline from 275 sales during the same period in 2024. This slowdown in buyer activity is influenced by a combination of affordability concerns, elevated interest rates, and an uncertain economic outlook, all of which have caused many buyers to proceed more cautiously or delay purchasing decisions.

Median Price

The median sale price in July dropped to $830,000, down from $880,000 in June, and 1.2% below July 2024’s $840,000.

Still, the year-to-date median price holds steady at $850,000, nearly matching $849,850 in 2024, indicating that overall home values have remained resilient despite month-to-month fluctuations.

Price per Square Foot

The average price per square foot rose to $542 in July, up from $505 in June, but still down 4.7% from $569 in July 2024.

Year-to-date, price per square foot is $536, an improvement over $524 in 2024, suggesting that buyers are still willing to pay for quality and location, even as broader affordability pressures weigh on the market.

Days on Market

Homes took an average of 21 days to sell in July, up slightly from 18 in June and just above 20 in July 2024.

Year-to-date, homes are taking an average of 25 days to sell, compared to 26 days in 2024, showing a consistent pace overall, though the longer July timeline reflects slightly slower buyer decision-making.

List-to-Sale Price Ratio

Buyers are gaining more negotiating power.

In July 2025, homes sold at 100.69% of list price, compared to 101.01% in July 2024.
Year-to-date, the ratio is 102.45%, down slightly from 103.06% in 2024.

While sellers are still generally achieving full asking price, bidding wars are less frequent, and buyers are negotiating with more confidence.

Summary

The Shoreline market cooled in July, with sales volume down significantly, prices softening, and buyer urgency slowing. While year-to-date pricing remains stable, the shift in sales activity and list-to-sale ratios reflects growing buyer caution.

A combination of high interest rates, affordability challenges, and broader economic uncertainty is dampening demand. At the same time, limited inventory — with just 36 active listings at the end of July — continues to constrain the market.

As we head into late summer, sellers should focus on accurate pricing and strong presentation, while buyers may find more negotiating room in a market that is clearly tilting toward balance.

Busy weekend of protests - "Say Their Names" called attention to victims of racism & "Social Justice Sundays" sign-waving continues

By Pamela Mieth

The first weekend in August was a busy one for local protestors with events scheduled both Saturday and Sunday at the Shoreline-Edmonds line.

First on Saturday at the intersection of Aurora Ave N and N 205th St was a special "Say their Names" silent vigil where participants held signs bearing the names of U.S. victims killed in race-related incidents, often at the hands of police or civilian vigilantes.

The names included Abner Louima, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery, among too many others.

"Say Their Names" grew from #SayHerName, a phrase coined by civil rights activist Kimberle Crenshaw in 2014 to bring focus to the neglected stories of black women subject to police violence and systemic oppression, according to the ABHM (America's Black Holocaust Museum) in Wisconsin.

The phrase gained national attention following the 2015 death of Sandra Bland, who had been arrested following a traffic stop on her way from a successful job interview and later died in her cell, a suicide according to Texas officials but disputed by her family.

Photo by Pamela Mieth
Next up on Sunday was the first of five "Social Justice Sundays" Sign-waving events in August at the same intersection, also organized by Shoreline-based Everyday Activists.

Just more than 40 area residents were drawn to protest authoritarian behavior by President Trump, decry tactics used by ICE agents, call out the war in Gaza, and oppose cuts to essential social programs, to name only a few of the reasons displayed on placards and flags.

They urged passing motorists (and bicyclists) to join them in challenging the status quo of President Trump ruling by edict, and standing up for the Constitution, Rule of Law, and well-being of one another.

The next Sunday sign-waving is scheduled for August 10, 2025. Donations of food and Toiletries will be collected on behalf of local organizations assisting those in need at all these Sunday sign-waving events.

For the Birds: Bug Killer With a Jaunty Tail

Bewick's Wren with bug
Photo by Craig Kerns

By Christine Southwick

Want to have bugs under control in a way good for the environment? Invite a Bewick’s Wren!

In a welcoming yard Bewick’s Wrens can be seen wending through native plants such as dogwoods, elderberries, snowberries, salmonberries, blackberries, ocean spray, and rhododendrons to list a few.

They love willows, cherry trees, Indian Plum, serviceberries, viburnums and trees where they can easily find their insect meals and the males can watch their territory.

These mainly insect-eaters forage in shrubs, trees and the ground, and especially like brush piles and leaf-covered ground where they uncover their insect and spider meals. They readily come to water in sheltered areas.

Bewick's Wren singing
Photo by Elaine Chuang

You may already have small boisterous balls of feathers flitting through your shrubs, stopping every so often to belt out lovely warbles, whistles, and trills. You could have a couple of resident Bewick’s Wrens.

If it repeatedly flicks its tail over its back, has a distinctive white eyebrow, and scolds you if you get too close, you definitely have a Bewick’s Wren!

The males have the guard duty, and take it quite seriously, loudly protecting their territory with up to 22 different songs in their repertoire (females also sing, but less).

Bewick's Wren feeding nestling
Photo by Craig Kerns

Males often make three or four starter nest-sites, with the female finishing the nest she selects.

The nests start with a lot of twigs which the female tops with moss, feathers and hairs to make a soft and warm cup for her 3-6 eggs.

Nests are placed in cavities, ledges, and other hidden places. They don’t like high-traffic areas, and don’t make nests out in the open.

Bewick’s Wrens are smaller than song sparrows, are acrobatic and can forage upside down when necessary.

Bewick's Wren with spider
Photo by Craig Kerns

They like to eat suet and mealworms, but they usually won’t come to your seed feeders.

They readily use nest boxes but will also nest in the most unusual places - hose bibs, behind a piece of wood, hidden in a piece of clothing on a garage shelf .

Since these birds eat the bugs in your garden, don’t poison them by using pesticides. Wrens and other birds will rid your yard of most bugs, and you can feel good knowing you are helping birds survive.

Read previous For the Birds columns here.

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