Travels with Charlie: Beautiful day for walking around the Sound

Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Photo by Gordon Snyder

Charlie and I headed to Edmonds area. Beautiful day for walking and sniffing around the Sound.

Southerly view from Sunset Ave. is Edmonds Ferry with Olympics in the background and Roses in the foreground.

Photo by Gordon Snyder

Later, we headed along Olympic View Dr and stopped at the bench at Stamm Overlook Park. A couple of boats and hummingbirds added to the view.

Charlie inquires "What's the delay?"
Photo by Gordon Snyder

We continued on Olympic View Dr until the Southwest County Park pullout.
This is a nice spot for a forested hiking trail that is nestled along the road.

As usual, Charlie is wondering what’s the delay? Let’s explore more...

Cheers,
Gordon Snyder


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Update on Shoreline Parks and Park Bond at ELNA meeting Tuesday, October 15, 2024


ELNA meeting Tuesday October 15, 2024, 7-9pm on Zoom.

Nickolas Borer Shoreline Parks, Fleet, and Facilities Manager will discuss the current status of Shoreline Parks and the parks on the current parks bond.

Mallory Van Abbema, Shoreline's Community Opportunities Coordinator (neighborhood contact) will say hello and talk about her new job working with Shoreline's neighborhoods.

The meeting is virtual, on Zoom. Email ELNABoard@gmail.com for the link to attend the meeting.

The meeting will be recorded and posted to ELNA's YouTube channel.


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ShoreLake Arts watercolor class at the Senior Activity Center

ShoreLake Arts and the Senior Activity Center are partnering for an upcoming watercolor series.

Information about the class:

Class title: Beginners' Watercolor

Join our watercolor classes and explore your creativity. 4 one-hour sessions to practice your skills and have some fun! No Experience Necessary! This class is a collaboration between Shorelake Arts and the Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center.

Please call 206-365-1536 or visit the Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center to register for this class by October 28, 2024.

Dates: Monday 11/4 11/18 12/2 12/9
Time: 2-3pm
Cost: Members - $50 Nonmembers - $60
Location: 18560 1st Ave NE. Bldg. G Shoreline, WA 98155



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Flagger Certification with Shoreline CC

Get trained as a Certified Flagger with Continuing Education at Shoreline Community College

Two different Dates: 10/26 and 11/16
Times: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Days: Sa
Location: 16101 Greenwood Ave N, 1500 Building, Room 1515, Shoreline WA 98133
Instructor: Claire Pruitt
Fee: $99
Registration link

Shoreline CC's Continuing Education program is offering two different dates this fall to get your Flagger Certification Training. By completing the course, you'll gain the essential knowledge to direct traffic safely and efficiently, while also obtaining certifications that make you eligible for jobs across the country.

What You’ll Receive Upon Course Completion
  • Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Flagger Certification
    • After successfully completing the course, you'll receive a WSDOT-approved Flagger certification card. This card is valid for three (3) years and allows you to work as a certified Flagger in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana.
    • American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) Flagger Certification. In addition to the WSDOT card, you’ll also earn a national ATSSA Flagger certification. This card is valid for four (4) years and allows you to work in 48 other states (all except Washington and Oregon).
Flexible Training Options for Businesses

If you are a local business or organization looking to certify multiple employees, we offer both on-site classes and offsite accommodations for large groups. This flexibility ensures that your team gets the training they need, wherever it’s most convenient for you.

Requirements to Enroll
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must possess a valid state-approved ID
This course is not only an investment in safety but also an opportunity to open doors to a range of new job prospects.

Take the first step toward becoming a certified Flagger and join a course today!


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Shoreline Teen Center's Career Speaker Series begins October 23, 2024 with Librarian

Do you want to learn more about different career paths?

Are you in middle or high school?

Come to the Career Speaker Series at the Shoreline Teen Center!

We will have monthly visits from different professionals to talk to any interested middle and high school youth about their work!

What is the speaker series?

We will host monthly events at the Shoreline Teen Center where professionals from various careers will speak about their work and how they got there.

Exact dates and times will vary due to the availability of our guest speakers. We will release event details at least two weeks ahead of the upcoming speaker event. Each event will have at least one speaker as well as catered food. Follow us on Instagram and on Linktree to stay up to date with these events!

On the Horizon:

  • Wednesday October 23rd at 2:30pm talk with King County Library System’s Leslie and team!
  • Friday Nov 8th, 4pm meet and learn from award winning author Tae Keller!
  • Thursday Dec 5th, 4pm, learn about the life of an artists and meet Miyuki!

Curious about upcoming events? Email to mhale@shorelinewa.gov

Follow us on Instagram @SHORELINETEENPROGRAMS to stay up to date on activities and events!

Location: Richmond Highlands Recreation Center 16554 Fremont Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133


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Op-Ed: Honoring Indigenous Peoples’ Day: A Celebration of Culture, History, and Resilience

Graphic courtesy King County Council
By Alan Charnley

Today, we gather to honor and celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day. This day is an opportunity to reflect on the rich cultures, profound histories, and invaluable contributions of Indigenous communities, who have been the original caretakers of these lands for thousands of years. Here in the Seattle area, we have the privilege of being on the traditional lands of the Coast Salish peoples, including the Duwamish, Suquamish, Muckleshoot, and Snoqualmie Tribes. Let us take a moment to acknowledge and express our gratitude to these tribes, whose deep connection to this land has endured across millennia.

For far too long, the stories and voices of Indigenous peoples have been marginalized, their contributions and wisdom often overlooked. But today, we choose to listen, to learn, and to uplift these voices. Indigenous Peoples’ Day represents a significant shift—a move away from narratives that glorify colonization and towards a deeper recognition of the truth, resilience, and ongoing presence of Indigenous communities. It is a day to honor the strength and perseverance of Indigenous peoples, who, despite enduring centuries of hardship, continue to thrive, enrich our society, and teach us the importance of community, respect, and sustainability.

The Deep Roots of Indigenous Culture in Seattle

In Seattle, the influence of Indigenous culture is deeply embedded in the region. The Coast Salish peoples, including the Duwamish, Suquamish, Muckleshoot, and Snoqualmie, have lived here for thousands of years. They were, and continue to be, the stewards of the waterways, forests, and mountains that make this area so vibrant and unique. Their names echo in the names of our rivers, mountains, and cities—reminders of their enduring presence.

Each of these tribes has a rich cultural heritage marked by unique languages, traditions, and customs. The Duwamish Tribe, for instance, has a long history of resilience. Despite the lack of federal recognition, the Duwamish people have maintained their cultural practices and continue to fight for their rights and acknowledgment. The Suquamish, known for their deep connection to Puget Sound, have shared a legacy of storytelling, canoe building, and salmon fishing. The Muckleshoot Tribe, whose ancestral lands stretch across the region, has been central to efforts to restore and protect salmon habitats, recognizing the importance of these fish not just as a resource, but as a part of their cultural identity. The Snoqualmie Tribe, too, is known for their stewardship of Snoqualmie Falls, a sacred site that remains a vital part of their spiritual and cultural life.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Despite the vibrant cultures of these tribes, the history of Indigenous peoples in Seattle, as elsewhere, is also marked by hardship. Colonization brought forced displacement, cultural suppression, and systemic discrimination. For generations, Indigenous communities were denied their rights, their lands taken from them, and their children sent to boarding schools where they were forbidden to speak their languages or practice their traditions. Yet, through all of this, they have shown remarkable strength and resilience. Today, these communities continue to advocate for their rights, seek recognition, and revitalize their languages and traditions.

The Duwamish, Suquamish, Muckleshoot, and Snoqualmie are not relics of the past—they are vibrant, living communities. Their cultures are not confined to museums or history books but are part of the living, breathing fabric of this place. We see it in the artwork, the traditional songs, the canoe journeys across Puget Sound, and the festivals that bring people together. These are reminders that Indigenous culture is very much alive, and it is something we must continue to honor and protect.

How Can We Honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day?

So, how can we honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day, not just today, but every day?

First, we must educate ourselves. Learning about Indigenous history is essential. This means going beyond the history taught in schools to seek out the stories of resilience and survival from Indigenous authors, scholars, and community leaders. Understanding the culture, history, and ongoing struggles of Indigenous communities is a vital step toward building empathy, respect, and a more inclusive society. Seek out books, documentaries, and podcasts that highlight Indigenous perspectives, especially those that focus on the tribes of this region.

Second, we can support Indigenous businesses and creators. Purchasing goods from Indigenous-owned businesses is more than a transaction; it’s an investment in the community. Whether it’s handcrafted jewelry, traditional foods, clothing, or artwork, every purchase supports the continuation of traditions and crafts passed down through generations. By supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, we also support economic independence and cultural preservation.

We can also attend cultural events and engage with the traditions of local tribes. Whether it’s visiting the Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center, attending a Suquamish event at the House of Awakened Culture, or participating in a Muckleshoot or Snoqualmie celebration, these experiences offer a chance to learn directly from those who hold these traditions dear. Participating in workshops, storytelling sessions, and performances allows us to immerse ourselves in the richness of Indigenous cultures, and helps to ensure these practices are passed on to future generations.

Moreover, let us donate to Indigenous causes. Many organizations, both locally and nationally, work tirelessly to promote the rights, welfare, and cultural preservation of Indigenous communities. Your support can make a meaningful difference, whether it’s funding legal battles for land rights, supporting language revitalization programs, or contributing to health and educational initiatives.

Finally, I encourage all of us to acknowledge the land we live on. Take a moment to reflect on the history of this land and the Indigenous peoples who have called it home long before us. Here in Seattle, that means remembering that we are on the ancestral lands of the Duwamish, Suquamish, Muckleshoot, and Snoqualmie. This simple act of acknowledgment is a step toward recognizing the rightful place of Indigenous communities and their stories. It is a reminder that we must respect and care for this land, just as they have done for generations.

A Call to Action

Indigenous Peoples’ Day is not just a holiday; it is a call to action. It is a reminder that honoring these cultures is not limited to a single day but is a continuous journey of respect, learning, and solidarity. Let us commit to standing with Indigenous communities, advocating for their rights, supporting their endeavors, and celebrating their achievements. Let us walk that path together, hand in hand, as we celebrate the strength, beauty, and wisdom of Indigenous peoples.


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Concrete pour closed a section of Aurora on Monday October 14, 2024

Graphic courtesy City of Shoreline

On Monday morning, there was a concrete pour in the center median of Aurora Avenue from 185th Street extending north for approximately 300 feet.  

The work included closure of the southbound turn lane approaching 185th, as well as the inside, or left hand, northbound through lane during the course of the work which was expected to be completed by afternoon.


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Korean War Veteran, American Legion Member and Teacher Percy Gerald “Gerry” Shogren honored at Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza

Flag presented to Gerry’s wife Kim, sons Alex and Andrew, daughter Dae and a host of  grandchildren. Photo by Doug Cerretti.

By Doug Cerretti

Gerry Shogren of Shoreline, WA passed away August 21, 2024 at 91-years of age. 

On September 27, 2024 TSgt. Gerry Shogren was honored with a memorial service at Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza under the direction of MG Raymond Coffey, LAC USV-JSC (Legislative Affairs Command U. S. Volunteers-Joint Services Command).

MG Raymond Coffey, LAC USV-JSC (third from left) directing the ceremony.
Photo by Ron Jones

Gerry was honored for his service to his country, enlisting during the Korean war, and his service to the community. We recognize that service to our Country and her causes does not end with termination of Military Service. Like many of our comrades, Gerry continued to serve his Community, State and Nation in various endeavors.

Born June 23, 1933, in Bridgeport, Kansas, Gerry enlisted in the US Army after graduating from Lindsborg High School in 1951. After his honorable discharge in 1955, Gerry pursued a career in teaching through the GI Bill by earning his Bachelor's degree from Emporia State Teachers College and a Master’s degree in Teaching from Northern Illinois University.

Photo by Ron Jones
In 1960, Gerry was inspired by President Kennedy's speech, which encouraged students to "contribute part of your life to this country" by serving people worldwide, leading to the creation of the Peace Corps. 

Moved by this challenge, Gerry joined the Peace Corps in 1961 and underwent training before being sent to Thailand in 1962. There, he served as a Teacher of Industrial Arts at the Technical Institute in Chiang Mai. During his time there, he met and married the love of his life, Khumnoan “Kim” Suriyamon.

After returning from the Peace Corps, Gerry became a public-school teacher in Andover, KS. In the summer of 1966, Gerry returned to Northern Illinois University as a training instructor for the Peace Corps. Afterwords, Gerry and family moved to Seattle where he continued with the Peace Corps training program at the University of Washington.

The flag presented to Gerry's widow
was folded 13 times in the traditional
military pattern. Photo by Ron Jones
In the spring of 1968, Gerry began his career with Seattle Public Schools, where he would work for the next 25 years. During his tenure, he was honored with the Golden Acorn Award, a prestigious recognition given by the PTA to outstanding volunteers for their service to the PTA and dedication to enhancing students' educational and social-emotional well-being and their commitment to volunteerism

Gerry was a charter member of the Starr Sutherland, Jr., Post 227 of The American Legion when it re-incorporated in 1962. He served in a variety of roles including Commander, Sergeant of Arms and Treasurer to name a few.

Groundbreaking for Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza on Monday, July 6, 2015. (l-r) Louis Grasmick, Russ Greaby, Sonny Alvarez, Bob Grasmick, Phyllis Moll (widow of Frank Moll), Dwight Stevens, Marcia Sanders and Gerry Shogren. Photo by Jerry Picard

Gerry was integral to the creation of the Shoreline Veterans Association which was tasked in 2010 with building the Shoreline Veterans Recognition Plaza. The Plaza, located at Shoreline City Hall, was dedicated in 2016.

King County Councilman Rod Dembowski chats with Gerry Shogren, Commander Starr Sutherland, Jr. Post 227 of The American Legion on May 26, 2014. Photo by Jerry Picard.

Additionally, he was a member of The Forty and Eight, Girl’s State, Boy’s State, and was active with the local Democratic Party. He also was integral to the eventual creation of Wat Atammayatarama in Woodinville, WA, working with the monks and congregation to create a community when they were meeting at The American Legion Post 227.

Gerry's dedication to service, community, and fostering connections left a lasting impact on the lives of those around him. His tireless efforts in various organizations have created a legacy of compassion, camaraderie and fellowship. He was a devoted, loving husband and father.


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Lynnwood woman walked into traffic on northbound I-5 near N 130th

Location of incident on I-5

A 28 year old woman from Lynnwood walked into traffic on northbound I-5 at N 130th at 10pm on Sunday, October 13, 2024, into the path of a car driven by a 63 year old Lynnwood man.  

He tried to move into the next lane to avoid her, into the path of a csr driven by a Shoreline woman. He hit the pedestrian and the Shoreline vehicle.

The Shoreline woman pulled to the right shoulder and called for help.

The pedestrian was injured and transported to Harborview.

The Lynnwood man was driving alone, the Shoreline woman had two passengers. All four were wearing seatbelts and none of them were injured.

The roadway was blocked for three hours during the investigation.


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Last Farmers Market in LFP this Sunday - and Art Walk at LFP Town Center


This Sunday, October 20, 2024 is the LAST day of the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market season. 

Celebrate with us - and all of the businesses at the LFP Town Center - by stocking up on your fall fresh produce, sweets, savory snacks and more - and then checking out the Art Walk hosted by Red Sky Gallery, @The Shop By DBD, Needles & Hooks and Two Trading Tigers

Support local farmers AND local artists and crafters!


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LFP Lakefront Park Community Workshop 3 Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Monday, October 14, 2024


Third Community Workshop for the Lakefront Improvements Project is Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at 5:30pm to 7:30pm at City Hall!

In this workshop, the design team will share illustrations of the design concept, which was developed from community and other input received in the first phase of the project. Community members will be invited to share input that will help shape the park's identity.

The in-person meeting will take place Wednesday, October 16 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at City Hall. The workshop will be available both in-person and virtually on the project website. The meeting content will be posted to the website just before the workshop date. You can access the website here 


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Halloween at the Monster Zoo

Photos by Patricia Hale

The Monster Zoo is located at 16255 8th Ave NE in the Ridgecrest neighborhood. The resident takes monster drawings submitted by neighborhood children and creates large versions which he displays in his front yard.

Halloween is a special time at the Monster Zoo. The monsters are charming by day, but a little creepy at night!


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Pramila Jayapal spoke to a large crowd and answered questions at Town Hall event in Lake Forest Park

Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal at Town Hall in LFP
Photo by Mike Remarcke

By Mike Remarcke

This week Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal stopped by the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park area of her district, Washington’s 7th Congressional District, for a town hall meeting. There were approximately 125 folks in attendance eager to meet the Congresswoman who is chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus and serves on both the Judiciary Committee and the Budget Committee.

Although Jayapal is running again for Congress, this was not a campaign stop but a true town hall open forum gathering. Congresswoman Jayapal started the program with a 15 minute overview of the progressive actions in Washington DC under President Biden. 

She was delighted to talk about the various progressive acts that Biden, along with a Democratic Senate and a House, passed to uplift the lives of Americans. 

The Child Tax credit reduced childhood hunger, the aid to folks during the pandemic helped many get by during that difficult time, the Chips & Science Act brought high tech jobs and chip manufacturing back to America, and investments in our infrastructure are making our roads, bridges and water supply safer. 

Jayapal applauded the many actions of a Congress controlled by Democrats, working with Republicans, to enhance lives throughout America. She was less optimistic about the current Congress where Republicans vote against most actions. Jayapal noted that of the 35 bills passed through the House, many were about changing the names of Post Office Buildings.

An animated congresswoman answered questions from the audience
Photo by Mike Remarcke

Congresswoman Jayapal spoke about the amount of federal dollars that are flowing into Washington State, nearly $10 billion so far, to enhance the well-being of Washington citizens. Further, an influx of $20 million into the 7th District is currently being used for a variety of projects in housing, food bank funding and emergency family shelters.

One story she told stood out. The Congresswoman was recently hailed in Europe as the “radical progressive of America.” She explained that she was simply for free health care, free college education and parental leave. How radical is that? It is the norm in Europe!

For the last two thirds of the meeting, the mic was open to the public and people lined up to ask their questions:

On Health Care: Pramila replied that they are striving to grow Obama Care and have been successful in reducing the price of several prescriptions, with more reductions to come. Insulin is now more affordable.

On Student Loans: She responded by saying they are doing the best they can. One tenth of student loans have been reduced, but it is a struggle. The goal now is to reduce the interest rates on these loans so folks can focus on the actual debt and not the staggering interest costs. The federal government makes a profit on student loan interest rates!

On The National Debt: Jayapal was at her best on this question. As a former Wall Street analyst and current member of the Budget Committee, she is well versed in Econ 101. The major issue is the tax breaks given to corporate America and the ultra-wealthy by President Trump. She said we need more revenue but we also need to reduce spending. The Congresswoman is appalled by our defense budget and the fact that a fiscal audit on our country’s largest single budget item has never passed. Regarding inflation, just like at home, it affects national spending. Jayapal stressed that we need to get control of this mess.

On Citizens United: Jayapal wants to reduce the impact of wealthy corporations and individuals who can easily buy and sell politicians. She wants to have some control over SCOTUS and would support adding judges to the Supreme Court. She spoke of her sister running for office in Oregon who was leading in the polls for weeks before the election until out-of-state corporate money poured in to support her opponent and led to her defeat.

On Palestine: On this issue, Jayapal is heartbroken about the deaths and carnage of Gaza and the citizens of Gaza. She defended Israel’s right to protect itself, but feels that this war is too overreaching and killing too many civilians. She is against the US giving any offensive weapons to Israel.

The afternoon ended with a standing ovation for Congresswoman Jayapal; she seemed to align closely to those attending this town hall. Attendees greatly appreciated her time and effort to reach out and listen to their concerns. Support for Jayapal in her District runs around 80+%. She represents her District very well.


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Annual Haunted Halloween Party at Spin Alley

Halloween isn’t just for kids! 
Get your SPOOKY on at our annual
Haunted Halloween Party
Friday October 25, 2024 from 8-11pm!

We had so much fun last year at our annual Halloween Bash we decided to invite our friends from local band Please Use Other Door to play again this year and this time they’re bringing friends! 

Costume Contest with prizes at 10pm! 

We’re keeping the secret in the vault but there will be more than one band performing. 

There will be spooky cocktails, LIVE MUSIC and bowling specials! This ALL ages show will have a suggested cover with all proceeds going to the bands. 

(NOTAFLOF: No One Turned Away for Lack of Funds) Support our local music scene and have a ghoulish time with your friends!

1430 NW Richmond Beach Rd, Shoreline, WA 98177


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Voter Education Workshop at Shoreline Library October 23, 2024

Photo by Alan Charnley


Voter Education Workshop

Wednesday, October 23, 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Registration not required.
Learn how to register to vote and how voting works in King County. 

King County Elections staff will provide an overview of the many ways people can make sure their vote counts. Bring your questions!


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Gloria Nagler: Two Cooper's Hawks visited our yard the other day,

Juvenile Cooper's Hawk on left, adult on right
Photos copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

probably a a parent and a juvenile. On the left, juvenile with yellow eyes; on the right, adult with red/orange eyes. And photogenic, if predatory, stares:)

--Gloria Z. Nagler


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Cameras may fund traffic safety in Lake Forest Park despite $3 million deficit

A driver speeds toward the automated traffic safety cameras on 178th street where there are no sidewalks - photo by Oliver Moffat

By Oliver Moffatt

LFP expects a $3 million deficit for the 2025-2026 biennium but millions from traffic cameras could pay for sidewalks and traffic safety.

In his budget for the 2025-2026 biennium, Mayor Tom French said Lake Forest Park will have a $1.5 million deficit each year over the next two years. But revenue from traffic cameras could build sidewalks across the city. City staff said the deficit was “largely due to the state’s 1% cap on property taxes and 3% inflation on average.” Compared to neighboring cities, Lake Forest Park has lower property taxes and collects less revenue from real estate construction.

Lake Forest Park’s budget deficit predates recent high inflation rates: the 2019-2020 budget had a deficit of $877,000, then a deficit of $1.25 million in the 2021-2022 biennial budget, and a $1.9 million deficit in the 2023-2024 budget. But now with rising expenses for police compensation, public defenders, jail services, and 911 dispatch the city expects a $3 million deficit for the 2025-2026 budget.

Lake Forest Park voters have repeatedly rejected past city property tax increases by wide margins. A levy to pay for parks and sidewalks on the 2021 ballot was rejected by over 65% of Lake Forest Park voters and a 2010 property tax levy was rejected by 77.97%. Although a fire levy lift in August this year was approved by 67.38% of Lake Forest Park voters preventing what Fire Chief Cowan called a “critical” budget imbalance.

Lake Forest Park expects to collect $7,161,227 in property taxes over the next two years. In 2024, Lake Forest Park collected about $0.80 for every $1000 of a home’s assessed value (AV). The median-priced-home in Lake Forest Park was assessed at $790,000 which means a median-priced-homeowner paid roughly $635.39 in property taxes to the city. In contrast, a median-priced-homeowner in Shoreline paid a little over $1200 and Kenmore charged a little over $821 in 2024.

At the Thursday October 10 meeting the Lake Forest Park city council discussed hiring an outside consultant to help the city prepare a possible levy lid lift to put on the ballot next year. In a job post for the external consultant, the city said it is facing a “structural financial deficit” and was considering placing a levy on the 2025 ballot. 

The city collects less revenue from real estate taxes and construction fees compared to neighboring cities and Lake Forest Park’s draft comprehensive plan says its strict zoning laws are a barrier to affordable housing development. Lake Forest Park expects only $650,000 from Real Estate Excise Taxes (REET) during the next biennium while Kenmore expects $3.5 million from REET over the next two years and Shoreline collected $3.49 million in REET over the last two years despite a cooling real estate market. 

Shoreline last month reported stronger than planned revenues driven in part from taxes and fees from multifamily housing construction near the new light rail stations. Kenmore has $10.4 million in its general fund reserves (well above the $3.3 million required) which staff attributed in part to taxes and fees received from real estate developments such as the new condominiums downtown. 

A graph from the Lake Forest Park budget shows Public Safety is the city’s largest single expenditure at 33% of the budget 

Public Safety is Lake Forest Park’s largest spending category at 33% of the 2025-2026 budget (costing $15,257,380). Most of that will go to the Lake Forest Park police department. Police salaries have increased by 13.6%, 911 dispatch services have increased by 41.5%, and the city is expecting to pay more than twice as much to jail its prisoners. Municipal court costs are up 7.5% and the city will pay 13.6% more for its public defenders. Those costs could increase even more if the Washington Supreme Court approves a proposal from the Washington State Bar Association to reduce public defender caseloads to address a “crisis of attrition”.

The city expects to collect $12 million in traffic safety camera fines over the next biennium thanks to a new state law that allowed the city to increase fines and leave the cameras on all-day throughout the year after designating 178th near Brookside elementary a “school walk zone.” The old red-light cameras along Bothell Way and the speed cameras near Lake Forest Park elementary will bring $4,381,800 and the city expects its “New Traffic Safety Fund” to earn $8,040,000 from the cameras on 178th near Brookside elementary.

Traffic camera operating costs have increased from $765,000 last biennium to $2,326,440 in part because the city will hire an additional police officer, a support officer, and two court clerks to keep up with the work of processing tickets. In August, Municipal Court Judge Jennifer Grant cautioned the city about the workload caused by more than 23,000 traffic camera tickets last year. “Each and every one of those tickets does amount to a significant amount of work,” said Judge Grant. 

The city is keeping revenue from the old cameras and the new cameras separate because the new state law requires the city to now spend funds on traffic safety improvements after paying operating costs (the city was previously allowed to deposit the revenue into the general fund). The budget does not specify which traffic safety projects would be funded with the millions expected each year. The levy for parks and sidewalks that voters rejected in 2021 would have collected about $2 million annually to pay for a network of sidewalks across the city - especially near schools. 

So maybe pedestrians in Lake Forest Park will get sidewalks after all.



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Collections Corner at the Shoreline Historical Museum: Squeaky Clean Ironstone Ware

Top down view of the Ironstone Soap Dish. SHM Permanent Collections Object: 1980-030-042.

Nothing beats a nice moment to relax in the bath after a long day, and folks all through history were no different! In addition to the lavish perfumes of the Victorian (1837-1901) and Edwardian (1901-1919) eras, personal hygiene was a sign of respectability and high social standing.

A core aspect of bathing was the trusty bar of soap, and many soaps indulged in a comfy home such as this example from SHM's Collection.

Bottom view of Ironstone Soap Dish, note the unique Twin Lions Coat of Arms Makers Mark. SHM Permanent Collections Object: 1980-030-042.

This soap dish is crafted Ironstone Ware, a high grade cream-colored material refined from porcelain. On the bottom you can see the Maker's Mark, which indicates the creator to be Anchor Pottery. 

1900 picture: Anchor Pottery, 1900 Industrial Trenton. Photo Courtesy of Industrial Trenton and Vicinity. George A. Wolf Publishers, Wilmington, Delaware. 1900

Based in Trenton, New Jersey from 1884-1926, this pottery owned fourteen kilns (four biscuit, five gloss and five decorating) and employed two hundred fifty hands. Chiefly unique is the Twin Lion Coat of Arms, an adaptation of the British Arms. This mark was endemic to the early pieces of the Anchor Company established by James E. Norris in 1894.

This dates our soap dish to around the late 19th century, placing it between both the Victorian and Edwardian periods. Despite the Anchor Pottery's area of service being the Northeast United States, it is quite interesting to wonder how this remarkably unique artifact made its way to Shoreline!


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UW Biochemist David Baker receives Nobel prize in Chemistry

University of Washington biochemist and professor David Baker has won the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his pioneering work in designing new proteins that can neutralize viruses, target cancer cells, and more. Photo courtesy University of Washington

Computational biologist David Baker, professor of biochemistry at the University of Washington School of Medicine and director of the UW Medicine Institute for Protein Design, has been awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for computational protein design.

He shares the Nobel Prize with Demis Hassabis and John M. Jumper of DeepMind, who were honored for protein structure prediction.

The award, announced October 9, 2024 by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, will be presented in a ceremony Dec. 10.

"Joining the ranks of Nobel Laureates is a testament to David Baker's dedication and innovation," said University of Washington President Ana Mari Cauce. 
"The University of Washington is proud to be a place that fosters groundbreaking and impactful research, and extends its heartfelt congratulations to David on this remarkable recognition."

“I am thrilled that David Baker has been named a Nobel Laureate in Chemistry,” said Dr. Timothy Dellit, CEO of UW Medicine and dean of the UW School of Medicine. “His relentless pursuit of excellence and visionary approach to protein science has helped crack the code for understanding protein structure."

Dellit added, "David’s success in harnessing the power of computational protein design to deepen our understanding of protein prediction and design has allowed for the creation of novel proteins to tackle some of the greatest challenges in medicine, technology, and sustainability.”

Proteins are the workhorses of biology, essential for countless cellular functions. Baker and his colleagues have for decades used computing power to learn how long chains of chemicals called amino acids fold into protein structures. The resulting 3-D shapes of protein molecules determines how they function in living systems and is important for understanding biology and developing new medicines.

Recently, artificial intelligence has been tapped by Baker and others to predict protein structures with unprecedented accuracy and speed. This has greatly expanded scientists’ ability to model the building blocks of life.

Baker is also known for collaborating on the development of an online video puzzle game called "Foldit” with colleagues at the UW Center for Game Science. This game enables people with no background in science to help solve protein structure problems. 
More than 400,000 people have played the game, and Foldit players have been named as co-authors in some of Baker’s published work. These citizen scientists have contributed to research on a wide range of medical challenges including cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and the Ebola virus.

Baker has worked on designing new proteins not found in nature, including molecules that carry out specific tasks. His lab has created new proteins that neutralize viruses, target cancer cells, and even serve as catalysts for chemical reactions. His research contributed to the development of the world’s first computationally designed protein medicine, a vaccine for COVID-19 pioneered by colleagues at UW Medicine.

To date, Baker has published more than 640 peer-reviewed research papers, been awarded over 100 patents, and co-founded 21 biotechnology companies. Ninety of his doctoral and postdoctoral trainees have gone on to independent faculty positions. 

His dedication to open science has fostered a collaborative community of researchers worldwide, and he has ensured that the most advanced tools and insights developed through his work are shared freely to accelerate scientific discovery.

Baker was recently named one of the 100 Most Influential People in health by TIME and a Clarivate Citation Laureate for the influence of his published research on the work of other scientists. STAT News also listed Baker among its 50 influential leaders and changemakers in the life sciences in 2024.

He is the Henrietta and Aubrey Davis Endowed Professor in Biochemistry and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator at UW Medicine. He is member of the National Academy of Sciences and American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Baker, 62, was born in Seattle and grew up not far from the University of Washington campus. Both his parents were UW faculty members. He completed his undergraduate studies at Harvard University in 1984 and earned his doctorate in biochemistry at the University of California, Berkeley, in 1989 under Randy Schekman, who won a Nobel Prize in 2013. 

Baker completed his postdoctoral training in biophysics with David Agard at the University of California, San Francisco, in 1993. Baker has been a faculty member in the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Washington School of Medicine since 1993.

He is married to UW Medicine biochemist Hannele Ruohola-Baker, a noted stem-cell biology researcher. They are the parents of a daughter, Amanda, and a son, Benjamin. In his free time, Baker is an avid hiker.

Baker is the eighth University of Washington faculty member to receive a Nobel Prize. He is the sixth Nobel Laureate from the UW School of Medicine. Those six include three whose primary affiliation was with Fred Hutch Cancer Center (Linda Buck, E. Donnall Thomas and Leland "Lee" Hartwell).

Past UW Nobel Laureates:
  1. 2016 – David Thouless, Physics (deceased)
  2. 2004 – Linda B. Buck, Physiology and Medicine (Affiliate Faculty)
  3. 2001 – Leland H. Hartwell, Physiology and Medicine (former faculty)
  4. 1992 – Edmond Henri Fischer, Physiology and Medicine (deceased)
  5. 1992 – Edwin G. Krebs, Physiology and Medicine (deceased)
  6. 1990 – E. Donnall Thomas, Physiology and Medicine (deceased)
  7. 1989 – Hans Georg Dehmelt, Physics (deceased)

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What you need to know about Heat Pumps — Free Webinars October 21-23, 2024


Heat Pumps — Free Webinars
Join us Oct. 21-23 for three exciting webinars exploring the world of heat pump water heaters.

Heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) are the most energy-efficient water heaters on the market, saving 2-4x the energy of other types of water heaters. Like heat pumps, they efficiently transfer heat instead of creating it, which leads to huge energy savings. Learn more at our upcoming webinars.

DIY Heat Pump Water Heater Install

Monday, Oct 21, 2024
9:00 AM Pacific Time


While there are incentives in place to offset the cost of a heat pump water heater, the installation can be more costly than a standard electric or gas water heater. It can also be more challenging to find a contractor experienced in installing HPWHs. Many homeowners are choosing to install their own HPWHs, to overcome these challenges and save money. Surveys show that significant amounts (between 30-50%) of HPWH installs are DIY in leading markets like the Northwest and Maine.

Watch a full HPWH installation live, assisted by leading HPWH installer Steve Brotton from Great Northwest Installations. Get professional tips and tricks for making your installation smoother and more successful.
 
Join us on Monday, October 21st for a unique, live webinar that shows the complete installation of a heat pump water heater (HPWH) from start to finish.

Register for this webinar


Heat Pump Water Heaters - Lowest Cost, Lowest Carbon Hot Water

Tuesday, Oct 22, 2024
12:00 PM Pacific Time


Learn how to make your hot showers feel even better by saving money and slashing your carbon emissions with a heat pump water heater. More heat pump water heater models are available now than ever before, and sales are growing fast, soaring 35% in 2023 alone. Due to new federal efficiency standards, local building policies and consumer preferences, they are poised to become the dominant water heater in the near future. Even though they have been on the market for decades, many homeowners are still unfamiliar with them, how they work and how to incorporate them into our homes. Join us in advance of Heat Pump Water Heater Day as we discuss everything you need to know about heat pump water heaters and how to take advantage of these appliances in your home.

Join us on Tuesday, Oct. 22nd for our informative 30 minute “HPWH 101” webinar.

Register for this webinar


Heat Pump Water Heater Day
An entire day dedicated to heat pump water heater (HPWH) education and awareness.

Wednesday October 23, 2024
8:00 AM - 4:30PM Pacific Time -
Full agenda here

Featured session:
Residential HPWH Update - New Manufacturers Come to Market

1:15pm Pacific Time

An important sign of HPWH market transformation is the increasing number of manufacturers bringing products to the market. Join us for a session facilitated by Electrify Now that will feature many of the companies that have brought new heat pump water heaters to market recently along with others that plan to release products in the near future. These manufacturers will describe their new products along with their plans to grow market share in an increasingly crowded market.
Join us on Wednesday, Oct. 23rd for Heat Pump Water Heater Day—for the whole day, or just the sessions that interest you!

Register for HPWH Day



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