Shoreline Schools were closed today

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

Photo by Curtis Campbell
To no one's surprise, Shoreline Schools were closed on Wednesday November 20, 2024 in the aftermath of Tuesday's winds which brought power outages and downed trees.

In addition to the day's school closure, all afternoon and evening events at our schools were also canceled for Wednesday.

They are waiting to make a decision about holding school on Thursday.


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What a mess

By Diane Hettrick

My power went out just before 7pm on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, along with a lot of other people.

At the worst, Seattle City Light had over 100k customers without power. Many are still out but they had whittled it down to only 60k by noon Wednesday.

This was Shoreline at 12:30am. The dark red circles are 2000 or more. The white areas either have power or never had significant power - cemeteries, parks, etc. Orange is from 1 to several hundred and red circles are in the middle. The red colored areas are details of the outage area.

Someday I'll find out the exact numbers for the circles but this is not a good time to ask questions.

Almost all of the Echo Lake and Meridian Park neighborhoods were restored at 1am. As far as I can tell they all came back online at once, so it was either something easy and/or the crews were in the area.

Or perhaps the Universe was compensating for turning off the power ten minutes before the ELNA Zoom meeting was going to start. (It has been rescheduled for next Tuesday November 26).

The northwest corner of Shoreline and most of Lake Forest Park were hit the worst.

An area near Hamlin Park lost power early but also regained power first. I assume they got a restoration crew before everything started going dark.

All the utility companies prioritize to restore power in this order:
  1. Life Safety - Crews are dispatched immediately to fix downed powerlines that pose any immediate safety threats to the vicinity.
  2. Emergency Services - Crews are dispatched to emergency services and facilities critical to public health and safety, such as hospitals, police, and fire.
  3. Customers and Residents - Crews repair areas that will restore power to the largest number of customers and continue working until all customers are back in service.

The outages affected a large portion of western Washington, all the way to Bellingham.

Snohomish county PUD

PUD Snohomish County Service Area Update
11/20/24 10:54 AM - Outage update: PUD crews continue to work on restoration efforts across our service area. We have made good progress, restoring power to more than 80,000 customers. Efforts are currently focused on critical infrastructure like hospitals and schools.

Heavily impacted areas: Damage is extensive throughout our service area, including trees down blocking multiple roads creating challenges for crews making repairs. Lake Stevens and Snohomish were the most heavily impacted areas.

We have a total of 35 crews in the field, including line, service and tree crews. Currently, 11 mutual aid crews have offered to help in restoration efforts.

PSE outage area, plus Cameno and other isolated areas

PSE Update
The windstorm caused extensive damage to our system late afternoon yesterday and into last night. As of 11:55am, we have 382k customers out of power.

Our focus today is on critical infrastructure and public safety, as PSE has been fielding many 911 calls for safety/emergency needs. With daylight approaching, crews will continue assessing more of the overall damage to the region and provide restoration updates as information becomes available.

We anticipate a multiple day outage and encourage customers with critical needs to make alternate plans as we work to assess the situation and restore power.

PSE with customers covering most of western Washington reported over 400k customers without power and warned that it might be days before restoration.


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Power outages in Lake Forest Park and east Shoreline

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

11-19-2024 6:30pm

Several areas in Lake Forest Park and one near Hamlin Park have lost power. 

157 in LFP - estimated restoration 9pm

119 from 12th to 15th NE from 155th to 165th - estimated restoration 9pm






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Bolted into concrete but didn't stop the wind

Photo by  Zoe Alice-Nordstrand Maconnell

Zoe Alice-Nordstrand Maconnell sent this photo of her garden. She said this was bolted into concrete but it wasn't strong enough to withstand the wind gust.

WeatherWatcher Carl Dinse has been driving around Shoreline and reports that the wind gusts are different everywhere - some places it's negligible and some it is very strong.



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Wind already blowing in Shoreline - trees down by Westminster Way

Power outages in the north end 5:51pm

We are already seeing power outages. Here's the link to the City Light outage map. My lights are flickering, which usually means that someone south of me has lost power.

There's a whole cluster of outages near I-5 around 120th - I counted nine, with one to seven customers each, which usually means a branch on a local power line.

But the evening is young and this is supposed to go all night.


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WeatherWatcher Bulletin: Wind advisory but no "bomb cyclone" locally

Wind and water November 13, 2023
Photo by Jo Simmons

Winds are expected to peak around 7-9pm gusting to around 45mph from the southeast. 

There is a wind advisory in effect until tomorrow morning. 

Another peak of winds could happen between 1-4am. 

The bomb cyclone is staying offshore and will not directly impact us in the Puget Sound area unless you go east of Bellevue.



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Local weather in one photo

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

Really - this is our whole weather forecast in one photo. Take your pick - gray clouds heavy with rain, white fluffy clouds, a mixture of the two. Then glimpses of blue sky in varying shades of blue - and wait! there's even a tiny glimmer of (dare I say?) sun! 

Stand in one spot for 15 minutes and you can have it all.

--Diane Hettrick





 

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After three years, historic Federal Infrastructure Law delivers nearly $10B for Washington state roads, bridges, ports & airports

Nationwide, $288B in BIL funds remain to be allocated by the federal government in FY25 or later

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This Friday, Nov. 15, will mark the three-year anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), a once-in-a-generation investment in America’s infrastructure. Since 2021, the investments included in the law have delivered $9,889,700,277 to transportation infrastructure projects across Washington state.

An interactive map detailing the highway, road, port, airport, rail, ferry, and culvert projects across the state that have received BIL funds over the last three years can be found HERE. The map can additionally be broken down by county, Congressional district, and/or project type.

"Washingtonians are seeing many benefits from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, from a new passenger terminal at Spokane International Airport, to helping replace the outdated I-5 bridge, to billions in new energy grid upgrades, to restoring salmon habitat, to major new port investments that will boost exports and local jobs. 
"All these historic infrastructure investments are making our economy stronger and more resilient, and should be continued regardless of the change in Administration,” said U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA).

Senator Maria Cantwell
As chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Sen. Cantwell authored many of the provisions in the law to meet the needs of Washington state. Additionally, much of the funding has gone out under grant programs authorized by the Commerce Committee.

This year, major projects funded through the BIL included:

  • $2.1 billion for the Interstate 5 Bridge Replacement Program: In December 2023, the Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) Program received a $600 million grant from the National Infrastructure Project Assistance program, or Mega program. Sen. Cantwell authored the Mega program in order to dedicate federal funds for projects that are critical for the U.S. economy, but too large or complex for existing funding programs. The Mega program was enacted in BIL and appropriated $5 billion to award over five years. Then, in June, IBR received an additional $1.499 billion from the BIL-funded Bridge Investment Program – making the I-5 bridge replacement the recipient of the largest-ever federal investment in a Washington state transportation project.
  • $200 million to replace the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge: In January, the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge received $200 million for a replacement project that will prevent the 100-year-old bridge from closing to trucks by 2030 and all traffic by 2040. The funds came from the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) Grant Program, which Sen. Cantwell authored in 2015 and secured a 78% funding increase for in the BIL.
  • $51 million to repair the Hood Canal Bridge: In October, the Washington State Department of Transportationreceived $51,125,917 in federal funds to repair the Hood Canal Bridge, which allows more than 30,000 daily commuters and freight vehicles avoid a 100-mile detour around Puget Sound. The grant came from the INFRA program.
  • $115 million worth of investments in rail systems across Washington state: In October, the Federal Railroad Administration announced nine major investments in the state’s rail infrastructure totaling $115,577,598, helping move our freight and agricultural products to market more quickly and safely. Funding came from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which had its annual funding tripled by Sen. Cantwell as part of BIL negotiations.
  • $65.5 million to upgrade our state’s airports: In the first six months of 2024 alone, airports across Washington state received a total of $40.9 million in Airport Improvement Grants (AIG) and Airport Terminal Program (ATP) grants, both established by the BIL. In October, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Tri-Cities Airport, Spokane International Airport, and Yakima Air Terminal received a total of $24.5 million in additional ATP funds.
  • $44.5 million to modernize our state’s port infrastructure: Just today, ports in Tacoma, Bellingham, Port Angeles, Anacortes, and Neah Bay received a total of $44.5 million for infrastructure upgrades to reduce costs and carbon emissions. The funding came from the Port Infrastructure Improvement Program, which was established in 2019 and received $2.25 billion in BIL funding.

Sen. Cantwell authored several of the programs used to disburse BIL grants over the past three years. In addition to INFRA, Mega, and PIDP, she also helped create and fund:

  • National Culvert Removal, Replacement, and Restoration: Helps remove or redesign culverts and weirs that create barriers to salmon migration. Sen. Cantwell authored the program and helped secure its inclusion in the BIL with $1 billion in funding.
  • Air Traffic Control Facility Funds: In addition to the AIG and ATP grant programs, Sen. Cantwell also secured $5 billion in the BIL to upgrade Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) air traffic control facilities nationwide.
  • Railroad Crossings Elimination: At-grade railroad crossings are safety hazards and a major cause of traffic congestion. This grant program helps local communities fund costly separation projects such as bridges or overpasses. The BIL provided $3 billion over 5 years for this program.
  • Safe Streets For All Program: Safe Streets For All grants help local governments carry out Vision Zero plans and other improvements to reduce crashes and fatalities, including for cyclists and pedestrians. Sen. Cantwell created the program, steered its authorization of the program through the Commerce Committee, and ensured that the program was among the transportation investments included in the BIL.
  • PacNW Transmission Upgrades: Utilizing a $10 billion increase borrowing authority included in the BIL, the Bonneville Power Administration has announced $5 billion in electricity grid improvement projects that will significantly increase the capacity and reliability of the Pacific Northwest grid and its ability to integrate new energy sources.
  • Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP): The Department of Energy’s GRIP program, aimed at making our nation’s electricity grid more resilient, is a $10.5 billion dollar program authored in part by Sen. Cantwell in 2007 and subsequently expanded and funded in the BIL. In October, the Department of Energy announced three federal grants totaling $208.4 million to help Puget Sound Energy, Avista Utilities, and E Source modernize their electricity grids and ensure homes and businesses in Washington state can count on affordable and reliable electricity service, particularly during natural disasters.

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Chamber of Commerce shares member concerns with Shoreline City Council

In an ongoing effort to represent the business concerns raised by Chamber of Commerce membership and the broader Shoreline business community, the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce Board met with the Shoreline City Council on Monday, October 21, 2024.

The discussion was informed by the work of our Economic Development and Governmental Affairs Committee, which has been actively engaging with local businesses throughout the year. 

This committee has worked diligently to gather feedback, host governmental representatives, and develop proposals on a range of civic issues impacting businesses, including crime, parking, and permitting processes.

These efforts are part of the Chamber’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of our local businesses are heard and that their needs are addressed. 

A special thank you to the Shoreline City Council for their willingness to engage with us and listen to the feedback and proposals we have made.

As we continue to advocate for solutions, we encourage our members to stay involved and share their concerns. Our monthly Poll, sent to all members, is a great way for you to share your view of how the Chamber and the City of Shoreline can help improve the business environment. Together, we can make Shoreline an even better place to do business.

--Chamber of Commerce


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Lynnwood Link project wins two awards

Shoreline North station at 185th
Photo by Pat Deagan

The Northwest Construction Consumer Council (NWCCC) has awarded Sound Transit’s Lynnwood Link Extension project two awards in recognition of the project’s achievements. 

The awards, the Best Public Project over $10 Million and the award for Innovation & Achievement in Sustainability, exemplify excellence in project delivery in the Pacific Northwest. NWCCC’s Distinguished Project Awards program recognizes excellence in the engineering, design and construction of projects completed or nearing completion by NWCCC members during the prior two years.

“We’re honored to have the Lynnwood project and its sustainability accomplishments recognized by leaders in the construction field,” said Terri Mestas, Sound Transit’s Deputy CEO for Capital Delivery. “The outstanding work on this project is a testament to the strong collaboration between the construction teams and Sound Transit staff who labored for years to make this project a reality.”

The Lynnwood Link Extension, which opened on August 30, 2024 added 8.5 miles to the existing 1 Line. The $3.1 billion project includes four stations, one at Lynnwood City Center, one at Mountlake Terrace, and two in Shoreline, as well as three new parking structures. The extension connected the light rail system, which had previously only served King County, with Snohomish County.

The Lynnwood Link Extension project includes a variety of sustainable features. Lynnwood City Center Station and its garage achieved LEEDv4 Gold certification for green building design. 

Key initiatives included low-impact development for stormwater management to upgrade and relocate part of Scriber Creek Trail, drought-tolerant landscaping, salvaged plants and vegetated walls to improve access, reduce flooding and improve site hydrology. 

In addition to the energy and water-efficient designs at Lynnwood City Center Station, the agency also worked with Skanska to pilot the use of low-carbon concrete for the parking garage structure. This effort reduced the carbon content of the most carbon intensive material used by the agency—concrete—by 20% compared to regional averages.

Thanks to the foresight of cities that rezoned near the transit centers, there are currently more than 10,000 units of transit-oriented development adjacent to Lynnwood Link Extension stations.

The Lynnwood Link Extension is the latest example of Sound Transit’s broader sustainability strategy, where all new stations will be certified (at a minimum) to LEED for Transit at the gold level, and the entire alignment will be certified to the Envision green infrastructure certification at the platinum level. 

Additionally, we continue our commitment to clean energy by powering the entire 1 Line, including the Lynnwood extension, with 100% carbon-free electricity.

Stacy & Witbeck/Kiewit/Hoffman L200 JV and Skanska Constructors L300 JV executed the civil construction on the extension. Mass Electric completed the systems work, which included the overhead catenary, traction power, signaling and communications. HNTB-Jacobs, JV did the civil design, and Hatch did the systems design. PGH Wong was responsible for civil construction management and Northwest Transit Systems Partners for systems construction management.

The project budget included up to $1.17 billion from a Full Funding Grant Agreement executed by the Federal Transit Administration. In addition, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Build America Bureau executed a $658 million low-interest loan supporting the project, including new light rail vehicles and support facilities.


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Storybooks & Swordfights: A library event series at Shoreline Community College begins with Zombie Orientals ate my brain!


Sponsored by a generous grant from the Washington State Library, the library at Shoreline Community College presents Eric Hamako discussing anti-Muslim and anti-Asian themes in zombie film & fiction.

Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at 6:00pm Register here In person and on Zoom


This is a lecture style event where those interested in fantasy, science fiction, or genre fiction can learn about how racism is expressed through novels, movies, and other media which can influence our attitude and perception of others.


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Native American Heritage Month in Shoreline Schools: Sadrina Dorn

This Native American Heritage Month, the Shoreline School District is featuring leaders within our school district who are of Native ancestry. 


Far too many of us were taught about indigenous peoples only as a part of history, not members of our current society who live and work among us and contribute greatly to our communities.

A familiar name to many is Mrs. Sadrina Dorn, Dean of Students at Briarcrest Elementary School. 

Here are Mrs. Dorn's reflections on Native American Heritage Month and the importance of her own Native heritage.
-----
Mrs. Sadrina Dorn
Briarcrest Elementary
Dagot'ee

My name is Sadrina Dorn, and I have been part of the Shoreline community since early childhood. 

I am delighted to be the Education Advisor for our Tide to Traditions Native Education Program for Shoreline Public Schools. 

I also derive great pleasure from being the Dean of Students at Briarcrest Elementary School.
 
Growing up in Shoreline, being Native meant occasional journeys with my mom or dad to attend local events like Powwows or Tribal celebrations. 

Although most of my family was not Native, my parents sought out Tribal activities for me, creating memorable experiences that allowed me to connect with my heritage. 

I loved Powwows as a child—the drumbeats, the singing, and, most of all, the freedom of dance. 

These gatherings created some of my happiest memories and gave me a sense of belonging to a community with deep family connections spanning generations. 

I hope the Native American children in Shoreline Schools can experience the same joy of being Native while gaining a strong sense of culture and identity.
 
Native Heritage Month holds special meaning for me.

It not only honors the resilience of Native people but also celebrates the many Native leaders shaping our culture and country today, such as poet Suzan Shown Harjo, Secretary Deb Haaland, and Washington's Indigenous leaders like Rep. Debra Lekanoff, Rep. Chris Stearns, and Sen. Claudia Kauffman.

I believe that Native American heritage should be celebrated year-round. Still, this month offers a compelling opportunity to influence and educate others about the history and culture of the Native people in our region. 

I hope our community will listen to the stories of the Native people here, recognize our presence, and learn about our local tribes. Native Heritage Month is a time to reconnect with my heritage and explore traditions. 

It’s a time to celebrate our people today and encourage others to learn about the lands they live on and the original stewards of these lands in Shoreline.



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No Porch Light Parade this year

Sorry - no Porch Light
parade in 2024
For the past four years, the cities of Shoreline, Bothell, Kenmore, and Lake Forest Park have cooperated to sponsor the annual Porch Light Parade.

Residents of those cities could register to have their homes listed on a map to share their holiday lights and decorations. 

But this year, the lights are out. Shoreline said it was "suspended due to staffing issues" and that applies to all four cities.

They hope to return in 2025.

In the meantime, feel free to send photos of your outdoor holiday decorations to us! Editor@ShorelineAreaNews.com


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Nightly lane restrictions on NE 145th from 3rd to 8th Sunday - Tuesday morning

Starting Sunday, November 24, 2024 Sound Transit will restrict the eastbound and westbound lanes of NE 145th St (WA-523) from 3rd Ave NE to 8th Ave NE just east of 5th Ave NE on NE 145th St for nighttime waterline work.
 
Uniformed police officers will be flagging the intersection of 5th Ave NE and NE 145th St.

Lane restrictions will occur during their work hours and re-open during non-work hours.

Residents can expect construction noise from equipment being operated, like a vacuum truck, excavator, CCTV truck, light plant, and various hand tools.

Sunday, November 24, through Tuesday, November 26, from 9pm to 5am the following mornings.

NE 145th St between 3rd Ave NE and 8th Ave NE.


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Hillwood Neighborhood dedicates Salmon art piece at Einstein Middle School

Monday, November 18, 2024

A newly restored salmon at Einstein Middle School
Photo by Hannah Connaughton

The dedication of the newly restored Einstein Salmon was an unqualified success!

November 8, 2024 was a cool and sunny fall day, perfect to show off the beautifully painted salmon with its new distinctive designs.

Einstein students came out for the dedication
Photo by Hannah Connaughton

There were members of the community in attendance, and the Einstein student body streamed out of the school and past the Salmon. The Principal, Dorian Manza, was there welcoming the students and encouraging them to look at the restored salmon. Manza was very supportive and ultimately co-sponsored the restoration.

The Einstein pep band performed
Photo by Hannah Connaughton

Students cheered the enthusiastic performance by the All School Pep Band while smiling at the community members, and enjoying a pleasant break to their day to view the restored salmon.

Some attendees had planned to be there, but others just out on a walk were drawn by the band and the crowd of students and neighbors.

The salmon had suffered from exposure to the heat, cold and rain over the past few years and were looking pretty sad up close.

(L-R) Paul Lewing, HNA Board Member,
Jocelyn Curry Asher, Chair HNA,
Dorian Manza, Principal Einstein MS
Photo by Hannah 
Connaughton
Hillwood Neighborhood Association (HNA) decided it was time to restore them to their former glory.

Neighborhood volunteers spent months in the process of coordinating with Einstein Middle School, applying and securing a grant, obtaining designs, and ultimately removing the heavy salmon off to be prepared and repainted by HNA members.

Salmon creatively designed replaced the more realistic original paint. 

If you haven’t seen them, please stop by the corner of 3rd Ave NW and NW 195th St and see what story the salmon have to tell.
 
--Pam Cross


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Olympic Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker in Edmonds December 19-23, 2024


Join Olympic Ballet Theatre for this favorite holiday tradition featuring dazzling snowflakes, a dramatic battle, waltzing flowers, Tchaikovsky’s timeless score, and much more!

Choreographed by OBT artistic directors Oleg Gorboulev and Mara Vinson, this classic production of The Nutcracker features sets designed by Jeanne Franz, Phillip Lineau, and Ruth Gilmore.

Estimated Performance Length:
  • Regular Performance: 2 hours (Including one 15 minute intermission)
  • Abridged Morning Matinee: 1 hour, 15 minutes (Including one 15 minute intermission)
EDMONDS CENTER FOR THE ARTS
  • Thursday, December 19, 10:30 am — abridged matinee
  • Friday, December 20, 10:30 am — abridged matinee
  • Friday, December 20, 7 pm
  • Saturday, December 21, 2 pm
  • Saturday, December 21, 7 pm
  • Sunday, December 22, 5 pm
  • Monday, December 23, 1 pm
  • Monday, December 23, 5 pm
Ticket Price: $29–$60
(varies by performance time, age, and seating location)

EVERETT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
  • Friday, December 13, 10:30 am – abridged matinee
  • Saturday, December 14, 2 pm
  • Saturday, December 14, 7 pm
  • Sunday, December 15, 1 pm
  • Sunday, December 15, 5 pm
Ticket Price: $27–$47
(varies by performance time, age, and seating location)



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Price reductions on ORCA cards during fare promotion


ORCA is running a fare promotion on the ORCA Regional Day Pass, offering a $2.00 price reduction to the Adult, ORCA LIFT, RRFP Senior, and Disabled pass prices. Riders can travel seamlessly around Puget Sound for up to six months for less on most transit services!

It’s easy, no matter if you ride the bus, train, ferry, or all the above*. Add either a $6.00 Day Pass for Adult riders, or $2.00 day pass for RRFP (LIFT, Senior, Disabled) riders and enjoy unlimited rides and transfers on select services* all day.

Key details of the Promotional ORCA Regional Day Pass:
  • Adult Day Pass: Reduced from $8.00 to $6.00
  • Reduced Fare Day Pass (Senior, Disabled and ORCA LIFT): Reduced from $4.00 to $2.00
Promotion Duration: August 30, 2024 – February 28, 2025

*Unlimited Travel: Ride and transfer between all ORCA agencies all day, excluding Washington State Ferries and Kitsap Fast Ferries. Some additional E-purse funds may be required to cover trips on the King County Water Taxi and Sound Transit Sounder trains. 15 day passes can be stored on an ORCA card at any given time.

* Not valid on Washington State Ferries or Kitsap Fast Ferries. Only covers partial fare on Water Taxi or Sounder.

How to Purchase the Promotional ORCA Day Pass on Your ORCA Card
Riders can purchase an ORCA day pass in person at an ORCA Ticket Vending machine, at an ORCA customer service location, or by contacting us at 888-988-6722 / TTY: 711.

Purchase Online:
  • Visit myORCA.com or download/open the myORCA app
  • If you have a myORCA account, log into your account.
    • On the myORCA app, log in, select the card you wish to add the pass to, click “add money”, then “add a pass”, and then select “All Day Puget Pass”. Choose your quantity and add it to your shopping cart to check out.
    • On myORCA.com, log in, click “manage this card”, select “passes” and choose “Regional” under pass type. Next, select “Daily $3.50” or “Daily $1.75” if you are a reduced fare customer, and adjust your quantity under “frequency”. Tap “add to cart” to checkout.
If you don’t have a myORCA account, you can still add the pass to your ORCA card here: https://www.myorca.com/reload-my-card/

If you have a digital ORCA card on Google Wallet, you can add the pass to your ORCA card via the Google Wallet app.


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Vision House work truck stolen

Work truck stolen from nonprofit Vision House

Vision House, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families experiencing homelessness, suffered a setback this week when its work truck was stolen from its premises in Renton.

The stolen truck, Vision House’s primary maintenance vehicle, is an important part of the organization’s daily operations.

This work truck is used to support all of Vision House, however it mainly is used in Renton. On occasion the truck is used to transport supplies between campuses.

We care for families in the Shoreline area at our Shoreline housing complex and through our Shoreline Diversion Center. The loss of this truck will require us to spend money on a replacement when every penny is desperately needed to help families in need across all of our campuses.

This past fall, Vision House has seen record numbers of families requesting help. In October, they cared for 114 families through their diversion centers, 60% higher than last year at this same time.

“We are heartbroken by this incident,” said Derek Sciba, Vision House Executive Director. “This loss of this truck will prevent critical funds from being used to support families in need.”

The stolen vehicle is described as a White Ford F250 with the Vision House logo on the side. Vision House urges anyone with information about the theft to contact the Renton Police Department.

Vision House is accepting donations to help replace the stolen vehicle and cover the immediate needs created by this loss. Contributions can be made online at visionhouse.org or by calling 425-228-6356

Vision House remains committed to its mission and is grateful for the outpouring of community support during this difficult time.

Founded in 1990, Vision House empowers families experiencing homelessness through supportive services and transitional housing, helping families with children break the homelessness cycle. As a Christian agency, we provide opportunities for life change to overcome trauma, generational poverty and situational homelessness. 

Vision House serves clients from Washington State, with facilities in Renton, Shoreline, and Burien. Regardless of race, religion, national origin, gender or sexual preference, every person deserves a healthy home.


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N 145th between 1st Ave NE and I-5 to remain closed into early 2025

Sunday, November 17, 2024

N 145th St between 1st Ave NE and I-5 will remain closed into early 2025.

The City of Shoreline says that 145th is a complex project involving multiple agencies. These include several utilities, the City of Seattle, King County, WSDOT, and the City of Shoreline.

They are all working together to complete this project. If one part is delayed, it can have a cascading effect on the rest of the project timeline.

What has caused some of the biggest delays to date have been the utility relocations. Each utility is in charge of relocating their utility and as one runs up against constraints or has an issue, it delays another utility from starting or completing work.

Another issue is permitting. It is important to remember Shoreline doesn't own any of the roadway, so has to get permits from other jurisdictions. In some cases this has taken longer than expected.

On the positive side, the completed project will provide a safe and more accessible route for all forms of transportation.

The new roundabouts, updated lanes, pedestrian crossing and bike lanes will reduce congestion, enhance safety and create a more connected community.


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Shoreline girls' soccer: Agony & Ecstasy

Michelangelo! (to paraphrase Irving
Stone, whither Lin-Manuel Miranda)

It is said that facing adversity builds character. If so, you can certainly see it in the lines on my face and the fifty shades of grey in my hair.

Last night’s match perfectly illustrated how a simple game of soccer can have such a profound effect.

From one extreme of abject despair and tears of sadness, to euphoric ecstasy and tears of joy. It was the embodiment of the purity of sports, the exuberance of youth, and the ideal of amateur athletic endeavor.

It is why neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night shall stay my vigil on the sidelines, watching with bated breath. It would require the artistry of a Michelangelo to capture drama that would make angels weep.

Last Friday night, in the hinterlands of the Olympic peninsula, #9 Shorewood faced off against #8 Mt. Spokane in a rematch of last year’s eighth-final game. The Stormrays were looking for redemption, and it started off with #13 striking first, giving Shorewood a 1-0 lead.

But the Wildcats came charging back, equalizing, then taking the lead, 1-2, which they would not relinquish. 

#12 Shorecrest faced #5 Seattle Prep, but they could not conjure any Cinderella magic this year, and were defeated, 2-3. The margin between Victory (thrill of) and Defeat (agony of) is small indeed. 

There is no joy in Shoreville tonight, as the Pride of Shoreline have struck out. Alas, the dream is over for yet another year, the circus has moved on without the Stormrays and the Scots. In the immortal words of the defiant fan, “Wait till next year!”

EPILOGUE: For those of you die-hard fanatics still reading, the State quarter-finals have concluded, and these are the teams that have moved on to the semi-finals: #2 Bellevue, #3 Roosevelt, #5 Seattle Prep, #8 Mt. Spokane. 

#1 Gig Harbor was unexpectedly knocked out in a massive upset. Who will get to claim the title of Class 3A Soccer State Champion, and grasp the prized chalice? You’ll hafta go to Sparks Stadium in Puyallup next weekend to find out!

Michelangelo! (to paraphrase Irving Stone, whither Lin-Manuel Miranda)

--TCA


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Scandia Dance in December

Learn the Springleik dance on December 20
at Skandia Third Friday Dance
Friday, December 6, 2024 7:30–10:30pm

SKANDIA FIRST FRIDAY DANCE, 7:30–10:30pm, Cedar Valley Grange, 20526 52nd Ave W, Lynnwood, WA. $15; $10 for Skandia members.

Note that the music starts at 8pm, and there is no dance teaching. There will be a social half-hour before the dance starts.

Come early and head downstairs for some snacks and conversation.

Nordic Exposure will travel over the river (well, the Sound, actually) and through the woods to play for the First Friday Dance in December.

They bring a unique combination of instruments to fill the hall with music and provide bookends for the Annual Meeting.

Friday, December 20, 2024 7:30–10:30pm

SKANDIA THIRD FRIDAY DANCE, 7:30–10:30pm, Cedar Valley Grange, 20526 52nd Ave W, Lynnwood, WA. $15; $10 for Skandia members. Judy and Jerry will teach Springleik from Vågå. This is a lovely and mesmerizing dance from the Gudbrandsdalen region of Norway. It is a relaxed and flowing dance with fun partner interaction. See a video of Springleik from Vågå.

Just in time for the holidays, we will be graced with the thrilling music of Hale Bill & the Bopps. Listen for their exquisite harmonies and maybe even some singing. It’s a great way to enjoy dancing in the wintertime weather.


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Seattle homicide detectives are investigating a shooting in University District that left one male deceased

Photo courtesy Seattle Police
Saturday night, November 16, 2024 shortly after 10:00pm, 911 Dispatch received reports of a shooting in the 4500 block of Brooklyn Avenue NE. 

Police arrived and found a 31-year-old man suffering from gunshot wounds to the chest. Seattle Fire Department arrived and provided aid. 

Despite lifesaving efforts, the male succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

A 40-year-old man was located and taken into custody at the scene. 

The male was transported to Seattle Police Headquarters where he was interviewed by homicide detectives. This remains an active and ongoing investigation.

Homicide Unit detectives are working to determine the circumstances that led up to the shooting. 

If anyone has information about this incident, please call SPD Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.

Incident 2024-325081/North Precinct

 

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Garden Guy: The Grasses of Autumn

Grasses at site of Custer's Last Stand by sah-archipedia.org

By Bruce Bennett

One of my main enjoyments in the months of September - November is the sight of ripening grasses in various landscapes. Hence, the reason for this month’s column which begins more like the old elementary school ‘What I did On My Vacation’ assignment. 

You know the kind; we all wrote them in the fifth grade or thereabouts. However, my retelling of the tale does not take place in 1959, but, rather, in 2009. The event was part of a cross-country and back road trip. 

The part of the journey which comes to mind most often took place in southeastern Montana, near the little town of Hardin. The area is now known as the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument (AKA, Custer’s Last Stand). 

The area is austere in its beauty, with big blue Montana skies, the wind and the ever-moving autumn sea of grass with its own particular susurrations in the air. They were truly awe-inspiring views and a balm for this city-surrounded soul. 

Very few of us will ever have the monument’s 780 acres of undulating grasses to sooth our frayed nerves, but, we can create an eco-friendly part of our landscapes which will echo nature’s prairie glory while providing us with new garden features which require less fertilizer, less water and, hopefully, more enjoyment.

Tall Grasses. Image by pixabay.com

Grasses are adaptable. They tolerate most soil types and are easy to grow additions for a home landscape. From tall and wispy varieties that sway beautifully in the breeze to low-growing grasses which are great for ground covers and turf replacements, your fall and winter landscape can also look more appealing with the added texture and color that ornamental grasses provide (just give them three-years to reach maturity). 

With the minimal maintenance they need, what could be better? And, yes, containers can be used to add even more visual interest. Grow grasses in colorful pots to create seasonal decorations that can be continually reconfigured.

Carex. Image by unquadratodigiardino.it

Low growing ornamental grasses are great for edging, ground covers or container gardens. Sedge is one type of low growing ornamental grass. Blue Sedge ‘Elijah Blue’ (Festuca glauca), for example, is a semi-evergreen example with beautiful, bluish-colored foliage that is also deer resistant. It gets 6 to 12 inches high.

If the look is appealing, but something larger is desired, Blue Oat Grass (Helictotrichon sempervirens) is another popular and larger version. The blue-grey foliage reaches about 3 feet tall with the autumn seed heads topping the plant at some four feet. 

A dwarf fountain grass, 'Hamelin’, (Pennisetum alopecuroides) is another appealing choice of small stature. While standard fountain grasses reach 4 to 5 feet, dwarf varieties only reach 2 to 3 feet. It is gorgeous all year round and makes a real impact on the landscape. 

If a spot of color is also needed in any sunny area, take a look at some non-grass options such as Orange New Zealand Sedge (Carex testacea). It is bright green and gradually turns orange by winter. Fox Red Curly Sedge (Carex buchananii) offers a red-bronze foliage that fades to a golden color at the tips. 

Whether in the ground or in a container, I think my favorite Japanese Sedge (Carex morrowii) for sun or shade is C. ‘Aureo-variegata’ (see above) which I have had in my own yard for 20-years. All offer deer resistance and unique evergreen color and texture, which are added bonuses to suburban and rural dwellers.


Taller ornamental grasses make beautiful, interesting hedges and accent points in the yard. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is a main species from the American prairies and comes in many varieties that turn to reds and oranges in the autumn. 

‘Adagio’ Maiden Grass (Miscanthus sinensis) is another showy choice. Feathery pink-bronze plumes add texture, and the foliage adds lots of autumn and winter colors ranging from golds to oranges to wines. 

Feather Reed Grass such as ‘Karl Foerster’ (Calamagrostis x acutiflora), creates excellent area punctuation points in outdoor vignettes and work well as additions to cut flower arrangements indoors. Outdoors, their summer flowers and feathery stalks that turn to shades of beige and gold in the fall make a brilliant display. 

A favorite tall one for me is Miscanthus sinensis (Maiden Grass) ‘Morning Light’ which has creamy white margins that can lighten darker corners of the garden or form a shimmery five-foot hedge.

Many of these taller deciduous grasses offer four seasons of visual interest. The returning spring will bring with it fresh green upright or cascading foliage. Summer and autumn see increased height with inflorescences that develop into attractive seed heads (great food sources for the birds) and accompany the ever-changing foliage to add more interest in the yard.


To keep the herbaceous ones attractive in the autumn and winter months, wait until early spring to cut them back to 6”, just as the new growth begins to show. If you have an evergreen grass, there is nothing to do. Simple pruners (and a pair of gloves) work well for cutting task. 

If the grasses grow too large for the space allotted to them or start looking bare in the center, it may be time to divide them into three or four pieces. Most fellow gardeners will advise using a shovel to dig and divide the clumps. 

As a lazy gardener, let me suggest using a reciprocating saw (AKA, Sawzall) to divide large clumps of the tall grasses. The process is infinitely quicker and easier on aging backs. Make sure each section of the clump has roots, is replanted in a sunny spot and is well-watered for the next two years.

The other bonuses of ornamental grasses is they rarely have pests with which to contend and they rarely need fertilizer. Most varieties are deer resistant as well. With so much to offer for so little effort, gardeners may have a hard time stopping at one or two varieties. Have fun and experiment with different kinds to see what you like best. Happy Gardening all!

Garden Guy Bruce Bennett
Contributing garden columnist, Bruce Bennett, is a Washington State University Certified Master Gardener, lecturer and Seattle-area garden designer. 

If you have questions concerning this article, have a question about your own landscape or want to suggest a topic for a future column, contact Bruce at gardenguy4u@gmail.com.



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Beaver Moon

Photo by Jan Hansen

Have you been able to see the dramatic full moon the past few days? When I first saw it, it was huge, low in the sky over the top of Kenmore, looking like it would crush the treetops.

Later in the evening it was in its proper place high in the sky, although in my view it was not as pretty as in the photo by Barbara Twaddell.

Photo by Barbara Twaddell

Barbara Twaddell checked the Farmer's Almanac and found this explanation of the name.

"Why the “Beaver” Moon? This is the time of year when beavers begin to take shelter in their lodges, having laid up sufficient food stores for the long winter ahead. During the fur trade in North America, it was also the season to trap beavers for their thick, winter-ready pelts."

--Diane Hettrick


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Live & Local: The Dumas, Luquette, & Knapp Trio at Copperworks Kenmore November 25, 2024

The Dumas, Luquette, & Knapp Trio

Copperworks Kenmore, a cocktail bar and tasting room located directly on the Burke Gilman bike trail, will welcome on Monday, November 25, 2024 The Dumas, Luquette, & Knapp Trio - a group of three talented pickers who all originally hail from the Pacific Northwest.

They perform a unique style of high-energy traditional bluegrass with a contemporary twist.

Chris Luquette, now living in New York City, Nick Dumas, now living in Sturgeon Bay, WI, and Andrew Knapp, from Seattle, promise to bring magic to every stage they play.

WHEN
  • Monday, November 25, 2024
  • Show starts at 7:00 pm / Doors open at 6:00 pm
WHERE
COST
  • $12 advance purchase
  • $15 at the door
IMPORTANT NOTE: Admission will be under the purchaser’s name. If someone other than the purchaser is attending, please forward your confirmation email to them and have them show it at the door. The show is at Copperworks Kenmore.

PURCHASE HERE

Tour details here


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‘Tis the Season: The Season of Small Business and Small Business Saturday

Beto Yarce, PNW Regional
Administrator, U.S. Small
Business Administration
By Beto Yarce
Pacific Northwest Regional Administrator, U.S. Small Business Administration

Did you know that, according to various surveys, more than 80% of Americans trust small businesses and believe it’s important to support them? This approval rating is higher than virtually every other American institution.

Americans understand that small businesses contribute to the vibrancy of their communities, support local nonprofits, employ more than half of our workforce and are a significant economic engine both locally and nationally. 

Additionally, about 80% of small businesses say that the end of the year is important for their bottom line.

Those are just some of the reasons why we encourage people who love their communities to actively participate in Small Business Saturday and the Season of Small Business. In addition to all the sparkle the season brings, this is when many small businesses shine!

The Saturday after Thanksgiving and the entire holiday season is the perfect time to drop by unique retail shops, scrumptious eateries and businesses offering memorable experiences.

Small Business Saturday was launched by American Express in 2010 with the U.S. Small Business Administration joining as a co-sponsor in 2011. Since then, the popularity of Small Business Saturday has grown exponentially. 

In fact, according to the National Retail Foundation, 2023’s Small Business Saturday was an incredibly popular shopping day, second only to Black Friday. To build on this holiday tradition, the SBA launched the Season of Small Business last year to encourage local spending throughout this festive time of year.

Wherever you live, small businesses are eager to meet your needs this holiday season.

Here are some ideas to celebrate Small Business Saturday and the Season of Small Business:
  • Make supporting small businesses a full day of fun! Begin your day by inviting a friend to enjoy a warm beverage and treat, take in some small business shopping, try out a new eatery for lunch, visit a hands-on craft shop for an activity then top off the day with a relaxing dinner at a favorite local restaurant.
  • Go to an in-town activity like a tree-lighting, community theater show or choir performance, visiting a local restaurant before or after. It’s also a terrific way to interact with others who love your community, too.
  • Take pics when you’re shopping, eating or experiencing a small business. Check-in at the business, post to social media and tag the business. Let others know about your memorable experience. Use hashtags for even more exposure: #ShopSmall, #ShopSmallSaturday and #SeasonofSmallBiz
  • Set aside a portion of your holiday budget specifically for small business products and services. In fact, you can do this with your annual budget, too.
If you’re a small business owner, you may want to consider adding some additional marketing and outreach ideas to your plans:
Follow the SBA’s Pacific Northwest Region’s LinkedIn and X accounts for links to more tips, marketing materials and the latest updates on Small Business Saturday and the Season of Small Business.

It’s easy for anyone to make a positive impact on their own communities by shopping at local businesses on Small Business Saturday and throughout the Season of Small Business, and have a great time while doing so. You’ll be glad you did!

For more information on how the SBA can assist your small business start, grow, expand or recover, please visit www.sba.gov. Para Español visita www.sba.gov/es

Beto Yarce was appointed by President Joe Biden to oversee the SBA’s programs and services as the agency’s Regional Administrator for the Pacific Northwest serving Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.


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