Travels with Charlie: Balancing Wetlands and Urban Life

By Gordon Snyder

After taking some photos of the geothermal well project, Charlie and I headed to Swamp Creek Park in Kenmore. We parked and headed up the path. Charlie has learned to stay on the paths as we explore wetlands. This nice path is a good example of Balancing Wetlands and Urban Life.

Charlie on the path
Photo by Gordon Snyder

You begin to hear something unusual in an urban environment. A creek flowing! Up around the bend, you see Swamp Creek tumbling, splashing and flowing along. What a wonderful sound and site.

Swamp Creek - above the bridge
Photo by Gordon Snyder

Charlie at end of Swamp Creek Bridge checking things out as I listen to the water.

Charlie at the end of the Bridge
Photo by Gordon Snyder

Walking down the path, we catch a glorious treat of green mosses in sunlight.

Green moss glows in the sunlight
Photo by Gordon Snyder

Photo by Gordon Snyder

Spring is coming. Everything will be changing daily.

Wallace Swamp Creek Park
Photo by Gordon Snyder

Take any time you can to wander thru Wallace Swamp Creek Park, it will be good for you.

Cheers,
Gordon Snyder

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Shoreline resident is new chair of Department of Urology at the University of Washington School of Medicine

Dr. Daniel Lin

Shoreline resident Dr. Daniel Lin is the new chair of the Department of Urology at the University of Washington School of Medicine.

Lin joined UW Medicine in 2001 and is a professor in the Department of Urology. He holds the Pritt Family Endowed Chair in Prostate Cancer Research at the School of Medicine. Lin is also the director of the Institute for Prostate Cancer Research in partnership with the Fred Hutch Cancer Center.

He serves in leadership positions with the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, American Urological Association, the SWOG Cancer Research Network and the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health.

Lin researches molecular and genomic biomarkers for aggressive prostate cancer, as well as the active surveillance of prostate cancer and novel management strategies for high-risk prostate cancer.

He received his undergraduate degree from Stanford University and his medical degree from Vanderbilt University. Lin completed his urology residency at the University of Washington and urologic oncology fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

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HomeTechHacker: Getting Into Smart Home Tech Without Going All In

By Marlon Buchanan

The idea of turning your house into a smart home might sound exciting until you start imagining hubs, wiring, and a weekend spent troubleshooting your Wi-Fi. 

However, getting started with smart home technology doesn’t mean you need to dive headfirst into a fully automated setup. 

Some of the most useful smart devices work great on their own, no central hub required.

Start small and build confidence

One of the easiest ways to dip your toes into smart home tech is with a smart plug. 

These little devices plug into your existing outlets and let you control anything plugged into them from your phone. Want to turn a lamp on at sunset or a coffee maker on from bed? A smart plug can do that.

Other one-off devices that are beginner-friendly include smart thermostats, video doorbells, and smart bulbs. Many of these products connect directly to your home Wi-Fi and can be controlled via their own app or a voice assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant. You don’t need a hub, a subscription, or a complicated setup.

Convenience and control, one device at a time

A single device can offer real value. A smart thermostat, for example, helps you save money by learning your heating and cooling preferences and adjusting automatically. A smart video doorbell gives you peace of mind when you're not home. Even something as simple as controlling your lights from your phone or voice can be surprisingly useful.

These small upgrades add up. They help you see the potential of smart home tech without locking you into a particular system or requiring a big upfront investment.

Tips for getting started

If you're thinking about trying your first smart device, here are a few quick tips:

• Choose a product from a reputable brand with good app reviews
• Make sure it's compatible with your phone or existing smart assistant
• Start with something simple, like a smart plug or light bulb
• Avoid trying to do everything at once—get comfortable with one device, then consider adding more

I break this down in more detail in my guide on 5 Steps to Start Your Smart Home, which outlines a beginner-friendly approach to smart home success.

Ready to take the next step?

If you find yourself enjoying that first smart device and want to explore more, I’ve put together a free course called Create Your First Smart Home in 5 Days. It walks you through what to buy, how to set it up, and how to make it all work together without getting overwhelmed.

Smart homes don’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with one plug, one light, or one thermostat—and before you know it, your home is working a little smarter for you.

Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology.

If you have questions or comments about this article, you can contact Marlon through his website or X (Twitter).

See Marlon's previous articles here.

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Vesper Piano Trio at St. Dunstan's March 8, 2026

The community is invited to an upcoming event at St. Dunstan's, Echoes through Time: Weaving Sound Across Centuries with the Vesper Piano Trio, happening on March 8, 2026 at 3:00pm.

Join the Vesper Piano Trio for a thrilling journey through two centuries of chamber music. The concert will open with the charming and playful Piano Trio in A-flat by Joseph Haydn. Next, the musicians will share Jennifer Higdon's Piano Trio, which explores the relationship between sound and color. Finally, experience the sheer brilliance of Felix Mendelssohn's passionate and triumphant masterpiece, the Piano Trio No. 1 in D minor. Come enjoy a memorable concert that blends beauty, energy and passion.

The Vesper Piano Trio brings together three Seattleites who have built their musical relationships and friendships with each other over the course of decades. Violinist Caitlin Kelley, cellist Emily Hu, and pianist Thomas Lee are among the most in-demand classical musicians in the Seattle area, maintaining diverse performance careers as recitalists, soloists, chamber musicians, symphonic players, and pedagogues. 

Their individual careers include frequent appearances with the Seattle Symphony, Seattle Opera, Pacific Northwest Ballet, and The 5th Avenue Theater, along with performances in venues including Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center.

RSVP at Eventbrite

Suggested donation at the door: $20 Adults, $5 Youth

St. Dunstan's is ADA accessible, and designated ADA parking is available in the upper west lot.
722 N 145th St, Shoreline, WA 98133

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Eastbound/westbound SR 522 closure in Bothell

Photo courtesy WSDOT

From Friday, Feb. 27 through Monday, March 2, travelers should plan for a full closure of eastbound and westbound State Route 522 in Bothell.

Eastbound and westbound SR 522 will be closed at the I-405/SR 522 Interchange beginning at 10pm Friday, Feb. 27 to 4am Monday, March 2. 

Crews will start closing lanes as early as 9pm. Signed detours will be in place : Eastbound SR 522 detour
Westbound SR 522 detour

The following ramps will also close:

• Southbound I-405 off-ramp to eastbound SR 522
• Northbound I-405 off-ramp to westbound SR 522

Crews will remove the remaining portion of the northbound I-405 ramp over SR 522 as part of the I-405/Brickyard to SR 527 Improvement Project. This ramp needs to be removed to open the center of the interchange for I-405 expansion in Bothell

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Jobs: City of Shoreline Extra Help – Grounds Seasonal Laborer

City of Shoreline

Extra Help – Grounds Seasonal Laborer
Job type: Extra Help
Opening date: 02/23/2026
Salary: $28.49 - $34.59 Hourly
Closing date: Open till Filled

Shoreline is an inclusive City that endeavors to build a work culture which embraces diversity, encourages participation, and promotes equity.

• Five 40-hr per week seasonal positions in the Public Works Grounds Maintenance Division available.
• Employment is contingent upon successfully passing State/Federal pre-employment background checks.
• Position is Open till Filled. First review date of applications - 3/16/26.

DEFINITION

This is a seasonal 40-hour per week position from April through October. The work schedule will be a 9/80 schedule:
- Monday - Thursday, 6:30 am - 4:00 pm
- Every other Friday 6:30 am - 3:00 pm
- Every other Friday off

Schedule details will be worked out with selected applicants.

Seasonal Laborers may work up to six months (1040 hours) during the vegetation growing season performing landscape maintenance for parks, streets and surface water facilities beginning March through September. Work is completed in all weather conditions.

This position performs a variety of semi-skilled maintenance and repair duties under the supervisory direction of the Grounds Maintenance Supervisor, Senior Grounds Maintenance Worker, or other full-time maintenance staff.

Please apply at: Extra Help - Grounds Seasonal Laborer

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Jobs: CMO Fellowship

CMO Fellowship

Job type: Internship

City of Shoreline  
Salary: $31.97 - $38.89 Hourly
Opening date: 2/20/2026
Closing date: 3/30/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Shoreline is an inclusive City that endeavors to build a work culture which embraces diversity, encourages participation, and promotes equity.

Flexible schedule with up to 19 authorized hours per week, June 2026 through May 2027

Do you have a passion for public service? Do you want to make a positive impact on your community? The City of Shoreline is looking for a talented and innovative future leader seeking meaningful opportunities to explore local government management to join our team for this unique professional development opportunity. The City Manager's Office Fellowship is a one-year career development opportunity designed to attract, develop, and retain talented emerging professionals in city government. The City Manager's Office Fellow works under the direction of the City Manager's Office, playing a leading role coordinating, facilitating and managing city projects and programs across the organization. The Fellow will routinely interact with city leadership and attend high-level meetings to be exposed to the responsibilities of each department and current local government issues.

At the City of Shoreline you'll be part of a team committed to providing exceptional customer service, upholding the public interest and being a part of the community vision. Our people bring unique skills and qualities to the table, embrace the values of integrity, teamwork, respect, innovation, and sustainability, in addition to taking pride in their work. You'll work in an environment where being innovative, collaborative, and future focused are the status quo. Shoreline's diversity is our strength. It's what makes the City of Shoreline an exciting place to live, work, and play.

The City Manager's Office Fellowship accepts applicants that have completed at least one year of coursework toward a Masters of Public Administration, Masters of Public Policy, or Masters of Political Science. This Fellowship position is for a 12-month period (approximately June through May) and is eligible for PERS retirement.

Please apply at: CMO - Fellowship

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Comic Con at the Teen Center March 13, 2026 for 6th to 12th grade

Celebrate your favorite fandoms at the Shoreline Teen Center’s Comic Con! 

Join other teens for a day filled with cosplay, games, art, and trivia. Explore themed activities, show off your costume, and connect with friends who share your interests in comics, anime, movies, and gaming. 

Whether you dress up or just come to hang out, it’s all about creativity, fun, and community.

Friday March 13, 2026
The Shoreline Teen Center is open from 2:30 to 9:00pm
Comic Con activities will begin at 4pm

ALL FREE
6th to 12th grade only

16554 Fremont Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133

Questions? Email mhale@shorelinewa.gov

RULES FOR SHORELINE TEEN CENTER COMIC CON:

• Attendees must respect common sense rules for public behavior, personal interaction, common courtesy, and respect for private property. Harassing or offensive behavior will not be tolerated.
• All costume props must be inspected by staff. The Costume Props Policy is subject to change at any time and final approval on costume props will be at the sole discretion of our Recreation Specialists. 
• No functional or sharp-edged props or weapons are allowed at Comic-Con. Certain props may need to be tied to your costume in such a way that they can’t be drawn. Our staff will make these determinations. If you do not want to have your costume prop(s) inspected or tagged, or if you are not willing to comply with these policies, please do not bring your costume prop(s) to Comic-Con. 
• Absolutely no functioning props or weapons are allowed. No gun or gun-shaped weapons' are allowed.
• As per Shoreline Teen Center rules, full face masks are not permitted. Event-goers will be given cubby space to place masks or props deemed unsuitable to wear during the event. Mask and Props will be allowed to be worn for event on-stage costume contest.
• Comic-Con reserves the right to change or modify any policy or rule at any time and without notice.

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Memoir Writing Group at the Senior Activity Center

Memoir Writing Group

We’ve all got a lifetime of stories. Join Arlene every 1st and 3rd Thursday to work on and share your short memoirs. 

Practice preserving your memories in writing with this supportive and encouraging group! - - If you've written any short memoir pieces, you are encouraged to bring them to share with the group!

WHEN: Thursday - 3/5 3/19 4/2 4/16 from 10:00 - 11:30am

COST: Per Class - Members $4 - Non-Members $8

LOCATION: Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center, 18560 1st Ave NE

REGISTRATION: Call or visit the senior center 206-365-1536

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Dance to the lively music of Scandinavia at Third Place Commons February 27, 2026

Six Feet Back Band plays the sounds of Scandinavia

Join us this Friday on the Commons Stage at 7pm for the wonderful sounds of Scandinavia!

The Six Feet Back Band brings the traditional tunes of Norway, Denmark, and Sweden to life. 

Featuring Nick Ericson on the torader (button accordion), Jared MacFarlane on fiddle, Lydia on flute, and Lyn Jackson on guitar and banjo—along with other local folk favorites.

It’s going to be a night of high energy and beautiful music you can dance or listen to. 

Whether you're a fan of Nordic folk or just looking for a reason to get up and dance, we’d love to see you there!

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Our Olympics go year-round

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

The Olympics with the medals has wrapped up - but we still have our Olympics and they have a new coat of snow.

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What’s Happening This Week in Shoreline? – February 25 – March 3

By: Kate Ledbetter, www.DestinationShoreline.com

 
What’s Happening This Week in Shoreline? – February 25 – March 3
Shoreline is showing up with a week full of opportunities to learn, reflect, connect, and get involved. From powerful community conversations like Dante King’s keynote at Shoreline College and an inside look at the importance of hyperlocal journalism, to hands-on workshops, homebuying classes, gardening seminars, film festivals, tastings, and live music, there’s a meaningful mix of education and entertainment happening across the city.
 
Destination Shoreline’s Must-Attend Events of the Week:
Dante King at Shoreline College
Wednesday, February 25 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Shoreline Community College
Join us in this thought-provoking keynote, Dante King will explore the systemic nature of anti-blackness in America, its psychological and sociocultural dimensions, and the ways it continues to shape our communities today. Drawing on historical research, lived experiences and contemporary examples, this keynote will challenge participants to confront uncomfortable truths while offering a vision for equity, justice, and collective healing. 
 
Why Hyperlocal Journalism Matters
Saturday, February 28 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Shoreline Library
On February 28, we’ll be hosting a casual conversation on hyperlocal journalism and its role in civic life. We’ll be joined by Teresa Wippel of My Edmonds News, Oliver Moffat of The InterUrban Canopy, and David Mendez of The Osprey to talk about how journalism can support public engagement and social resiliency, how we can help keep it alive, and whether we should ever, ever read the comment section.
 
Shoreline Area Events You Should Know About this Week:
(Follow the event links for additional information, directions, and add to your calendar links.)
 
Paperwork and Packing Tape: What You Need for the Next Chapter
Wednesday, February 25 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM, Shoreline/LFP Senior Activity Center
Learn about essential documents like wills and power of attorney, and get a roadmap for decluttering and downsizing with confidence.
 
Financial Literacy Month - Home Buying 101: Why Rent When You Can Own
Wednesday, February 25 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Third Place Commons
In today’s presentation we will learn about homebuyer loans, including FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional financing options, along with how to qualify, prepare and get the most out of your money. We will also talk about establishing realistic goals and how to make a successful offer in today’s market.
 
Volunteer Training and Refresher at the Shoreline Tool Library
Wednesday, February 25 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Shoreline Tool Library
This is a great opportunity to learn more about how you can get involved with the community and help out at the Shoreline Tool Library.
 
NY Dog Film Festival - at Landmark Crest Cinema Center, Shoreline
Wednesday, February 25 7:00 PM, Landmark’s Crest Cinema Center
One-night-only celebrations of our favorite furry stars!
 
Ballinger Thriftway Ambassador Cellars Tasting!
Friday, February 27 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Ballinger Thriftway
Stop by the Ballinger Thriftway each week for weekly wine/spirit/beer tastings. 
 
FREE Class - Simplify The Homebuying Process
Saturday, February 28 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Ballinger BECU
This FREE Homebuying class will share key resources and demonstrate how BECU can support you on the path to homeownership.
 
Shoreline Cooperative Preschool Open House
Saturday, February 28 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Shoreline Cooperative Preschool
We can’t wait to welcome you into our classroom, open up the playground gates, and introduce our wonderful teachers!
 
Getting Your Hands Dirty: Veggie Gardening 102
Saturday, February 28 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Sky Nursery
Okay, so you've grown a vegetable or two in your time, sure. But how can you optimize your garden to reach your harvest goals?
 
Book Signing: "Feasts of Good Fortune" by Hsiao Ching Chou and Meilee Chou Riddle
Saturday, February 28 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Town & Country Market Shoreline
Come to Shoreline T&C to meet celebrated cookbook authors Hsiao-Ching Chou and Meilee Chou Riddle, who will be signing copies of their book "Feasts of Good Fortune," a joyful, deeply personal celebration of Lunar New Year food and tradition.
 
Succeeding with Roses
Saturday, February 28 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Sky Nursery
Learn everything you need to know to succeed in growing your very own roses in your own backyard or patio. It’s easier than you think!
 
GADZ plays the Songbooks
Saturday, February 28 7:00 PM, Third Place Commons
Perform interpretations of songbook classics for your listening and dancing pleasure.
 
Alzheimer’s Association Special Presentation Series at Laurel Cove
Tuesday, March 3 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Laurel Cove Community- Assisted Living & Senior Care Community Shoreline
We are pleased to announce that Laurel Cove is joining forces with the Alzheimer’s Association to bring you a Special Presentation Series focused on raising awareness about Alzheimer’s and dementia and improving the lives of all those impacted by it. This session will focus on 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s.
 
What’s Up Next in Shoreline (Save the Date):
(Follow the event links for additional information, directions, and add to your calendar links.)
 
Third Place Commons Community Breakfast 2026
Wednesday, March 4 7:00 AM - 8:45 AM, Third Place Commons
As our largest fundraiser of the year, the Breakfast is a meaningful way to support the hundreds of free performances, events, and activities that serve the community year-round.
 
Shoreline Community Resource Fair
Thursday, March 5 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM, Spartan Recreation Center
Meet community organizations offering support with health, food, clothing, childcare, and day camp resources. This free event is a great opportunity to learn what’s available in our community and discover helpful services that support you and your family.
 
Shoreline Comic Con
Friday, March 13 2:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Richmond Highlands Recreation Center
Celebrate your favorite fandoms at the Teen Center’s Comic Con! Join other teens for a day filled with cosplay, games, art, and trivia. Explore themed activities, show off your costume, and connect with friends who share your interests in comics, anime, movies, and gaming.
 
LANTERN FESTIVAL Hosted by Shorelake Arts
Saturday, March 14 11:30 AM - 3:30 PM, Shoreline College
 
For Upcoming Events in Shoreline visit: DestinationShoreline.com/Calendar
 
Destination Shoreline is brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, Real Estate Broker with Windermere Real Estate/Shoreline, Salvation - Artists and Makers Collective - a Boutique and Gallery, Front Door Creative, Success Minded Leader, Bri Crow Creative, Phases Clinic, Become a Destination Shoreline Partner, learn more here
 

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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Leak

Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter here

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Registration open for the Emerald City Bicycle Ride

Emerald City Ride photo courtesy Cascade Bicycle Club

Registration opened Tuesday for the historic Emerald City Ride, which offers the rare chance to bike on the West Seattle Bridge car-free. Join thousands of happy people on bikes on April 25, 2026 and experience Seattle from a unique vantage.

Cascade Bicycle Club worked with the City of Seattle and the Washington State Department of Transportation to temporarily close the westbound lanes of the West Seattle Bridge and the southbound lanes of Washington State Route 99 to motor vehicles for several hours on the morning hours of Saturday, April 25.

Register here

See the list of other planned rides

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Sign-waving Sundays at Shoreline-Edmonds line continue March 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2026

Special "No Kings" rally Saturday, March 28 - look for details to come

Sign-waving Sundays at Shoreline-Edmonds line continue, March 1, 8, 15 and 22

The steady stream of untruths, Constitutional disregard, and inhumanity emanating from President Trump, his billionaire buddies, and his enablers in Washington, D.C., can be disheartening.

That's part of the goal - to make you feel powerless and stand down - but standing up with others who are concerned for the future of democracy, civil rights, and a healthy economy in our country can buoy your spirit and help build strong communities that say "no" to dictatorship and "yes" to rule of law.

Sunday Sign-wavings are scheduled for March 1, 8, 15, and 22, 2026 from 1-2pm, at the intersection of Aurora Ave N and N 205th St. at the Shoreline-Edmonds line. Organized by local group Everyday Activists, participants are committed to the principles of nonviolent protest - and all are welcome to attend.

Bring a sign or just yourself (some signs will be available to borrow). Toiletries and shelf-stable food items will be accepted for donation to a local organization.

Please note there is no sign-waving scheduled for March 29 due to a special nationwide "No Kings" rally on Saturday, March 28. Local events are planned, including in Shoreline. Watch for more details coming soon.

--Pamela Mieth

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Public Art Exhibit: The Art of Blanca Santander

Blanca Santander’s vibrant works weave color, culture, and spirit to honor loved ones and the stories that live on.

On view at Spartan Recreation Center now through February 27, 2026.

202 NE 185th St, Shoreline, WA 98155

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Councilmember Dembowski helps secure capital grant for Hunger Intervention Program (HIP)

Rod Dembowski at the HIP 2026 Community Appreciation Event
Photo courtesy HIP

King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski has helped the Hunger Intervention Program to secure a  $1.75 million capital grant to help them acquire a new, larger home for HIP. 

"This money would allow us to expand the breadth and quality of services that we provide. As more families, single adults, and seniors struggle with food insecurity every day, this new home will be key in addressing the increasing need."

Dembowski said,

"I’ve been a big fan of Hunger Intervention Program in Lake City for a long time. They are effective and efficient at making sure people don’t go hungry - a policy area I want King County to do more in. Thrilled to be able to write into our 26-27 budget a significant capital grant to help them acquire a permanent home that will secure their future and help them grow their essential work."

HIP began in 2007 with a group of volunteers who served a daily breakfast to clients at a major downtown Seattle shelter. 

During this time, HIP’s volunteers were awarded multiple Mayor’s End Hunger Awards for their commitment to feeding the Seattle community. 

In 2008, HIP became a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

HIP transitioned its daily breakfast service up north in 2010 in order to emphasize the issues of hunger among the homeless and low-income residents of the Lake City community. 

In the years that followed, HIP created the Summer Meals, Senior Community Meal, Afterschool Snacks, and Shelter Meals programs, and added nutrition education and anti-hunger advocacy as pillars of its work. 

Today, HIP serves over 10,000 meals a month to children and families, seniors, and unhoused individuals across North King County.

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Four Shoreline schools receive Music Program Grants from Women’s University Club Foundation

Photo courtesy Women's University Club Foundation

Two area elementary schools, Meridian Park and Lake Forest Park, as well as Shorecrest High School and Einstein Middle School have just been awarded grants to support their music programs.

The grants, made by the Women’s University Club of Seattle Foundation, support struggling public school music programs through their Music Counts! Program. 

Schools like these then use grant money for basic classroom needs such as sheet music, instrument repairs and accessories, educational materials, coaching, and purchase of instruments. This year, 21 schools won more than a combined $11,000 in awards, benefiting almost 6,000 of their students.

“We were delighted to fund these grant applications,” says Susan Norton, Chair of the 2025 Music Counts! Committee. “Area public school music teachers can easily find our short-and easy application online at Women's University Club Grants to K–12 Music Programs."

Norton noted that, for almost two decades, the Music Counts! Grant program has raised funds for schools at their annual Cabaret, which features performances by talented high school ensembles that have received grants.

“Our greatest pleasure is raising money at our Cabaret—and then giving it all away to schools so students can learn to make music,” said Norton. “Truly, we know we’re helping give them a gift of a lifetime.”

This year’s Cabaret will feature a Garfield High School jazz ensemble, Bellevue High School’s jazz chorus, and a 21-piece jazz band from Hazen High School of Renton. It is scheduled for Thursday, March 26 from 7-9pm. 

Tickets for the Roaring 20’s dessert fest are available here for $35. Club members and all jazz lovers of every age and sex are invited to attend. More information is online here 

The Women’s University Club of Seattle Foundation, a public charitable trust established in 2005, supports scholarship, historic preservation, and community education and outreach.

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Transit riders can now Tap to Pay with multiple methods

Tap to Pay has officially launched for transit agencies across the Puget Sound region. This new feature allows riders to simply tap their contactless Visa, Mastercard, Discover® Network, or American Express credit or debit cards, or cards in digital wallets, using Apple Pay™, Google Pay™, or Samsung Pay™ to ride.

How the new Tap to Pay feature works 

• Riders can pay for transit with most contactless-enabled credit or debit cards with a contactless symbol, or with digital credit or debit cards via Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay, by tapping their cards or smart devices on ORCA card readers. 
• ORCA cards will still be issued and accepted across the region on buses, trains, and ferries. ORCA cards continue to provide the most cost-effective, convenient benefits for many riders across the region, especially those enrolled in free or reduced fare programs such as ORCA LIFT, Senior RRFP, Disabled RRFP, Youth, and those with employer or organization sponsored ORCA cards. 

• Contactless payments through ORCA are not accepted on:

• Seattle Monorail
• Washington State Ferries
• King County Metro DART, Community Vans, Metro Flex
• Community Transit DART, Zip Shuttle
• Pierce Transit SHUTTLE, Pierce Transit Runner
• Everett Transit Paratransit 

• Some of these services may offer other ways to pay using contactless payments outside of the ORCA system. 
• Tap to Pay will soon be available on Kitsap Transit Fast Ferries, Foot Ferries, and King County Water Taxi. 
• Riders paying with contactless credit or debit cards are charged an adult fare and will still receive the ORCA 2-hour transfer window benefit, allowing for seamless transfers across Puget Sound, as they do today. 
• Riders cannot receive discounts (Senior, Youth, ORCA LIFT, Disabled) or passes. 
• Riders with ORCA cards that receive discounts are encouraged to keep tapping their existing ORCA cards. 
• Customers will not be able to pay for multiple riders or groups using one card or device. Every rider will need their own payment method. 
• Cards need to be tapped directly on the ORCA card readers. Riders should remove physical cards from their wallets before tapping to avoid unwanted charges on other cards or tap failures. 
• If you have both an ORCA card and a credit or debit card in Google Wallet™, the card reader should default to charging your digital ORCA card when tapped. If you wish to use a digital credit or debit card, select that form of payment on your smart device before tapping. 
• For Apple Pay users with Express Mode enabled, riders can simply hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a card reader to ride transit across the Puget Sound Region — without having to unlock or wake up their device. And with power reserve, if their iPhone needs to be charged, they can still use it to ride transit. 
• Riders who tap with a contactless payment method may be subject to fare inspection on some services. Fare inspectors will not scan credit or debit cards; however, they will ask Tap to Pay riders to share the last 4 digits of their card number to confirm fare was paid. This allows fare inspectors to input the last 4 digits of the card used to confirm that the fare transaction occurred. More information on how fare inspection will work can be found here

ORCA cards remain the best option for many, but this enhancement to the ORCA product suite makes riding transit easier than ever for all types of riders.

Learn more here 

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February recipe from Town & Country Market: How to Thaw and Cook Lobster Tails

Lobster tails might look scary but they're actually easy to prepare. They're decadent and impressive. Let's make tonight lobster night!

How to Thaw and Cook Lobster Tails

• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Prep Time: 1 Hour 30 Minutes
• Cook Time: 10 Minutes
• Yield: 1 per person

Ingredients:

• Lobster tails
• Butter
• Salt
• Pepper
• Paprika
• Lemon wedges for serving
• Extra melted butter or sauce of choice, optional

Preparation:

1. Thaw lobster tails by placing in refrigerator overnight; or, to thaw same-day, place in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water. Change water every 15 minutes for 1 to 1-1/2 hours, or until fully thawed.
2. Place oven rack in top third of oven. Heat broiler to high. Rinse lobster tails and pat dry with paper towel.
3. Using shears, cut shell down the back to expose meat. Gently pull the shell apart and loosen the meat but leave it in the shell. Dot the tail with about 1 tablespoon butter and season with salt, pepper and paprika.
4. Broil 7-9 minutes for smaller tails, or up to 15 minutes for large tails. Lobster is done when the meat is opaque and is tender when poked with a fork. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and melted butter or sauce of choice.

Options: 

Lobster is delicious served with melted butter, garlic herb butter, hollandaise, or beurre blanc. You can use cooked chopped lobster meat in any number of uses such as in mac and cheese or fettuccine, in chowder or eggs benedict.

Or make everyone's favorite - lobster rolls! Simply mix with mayo, celery, chives, lemon juice and other seasoning as desired then place in a soft bun with lettuce and enjoy.

Dietary Information: Wheat-Free, Gluten-Free

Town & Country Market is located at 15505 Westminster Way N. Shoreline WA 98133. It is easily recognized by the distinctive silo at the front of the building.

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New ladder truck dedicated at "push in" on February 23, 2026 at Station 63

New ladder truck for Shoreline Fire Station 63
Photo by Mike Remarcke

Ladder trucks have to be able to rescue people from the upper stories of burning buildings, so as buildings get taller, the ladders have to reach higher.

Ceremonial cutting of the "rope"
Photo by Mike Remarcke

This brand new ladder truck was dedicated Monday morning at its new home in Station 63 on NE 180th in the North City Business District.

Fire fighters and commissioners push the truck into the bay
Photo by Mike Remarcke

Firefighters worked together to push the truck into the service bay. The Push-In Ceremony is a long-standing fire service tradition dating back to the days of horse-drawn apparatus, when firefighters would physically push equipment into the station after returning from a call.

Fortunately this only happens once, during the ceremony. Subsequent returns will drive in through the back of the building.

Fire Chief Matt Cowan (right) speaks to the crowd
Photo by Mike Remarcke

A chaplain blessed the truck. Fire chief Matt Cowan made remarks. Fire commissioners held the place of honor.

--Diane Hettrick

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Shorewood basketball wins district title and heads for state tournament

Basketball team poses with the district championship trophy after defeating Snohomish 51-36.
Photo courtesy Shorewood Basketball

By Zane Hopen, Assistant Coach

The Shorewood High School boys basketball team will begin its journey through the WIAA 3A State Tournament this Friday after winning its third district title in school history (1984, 1986).

The Stormrays defeated Snohomish 51-36 in the district championship game last Saturday night, and are seeded 10th in the state bracket awaiting the winner of Monroe and University (Spokane).

This marks the second consecutive season the Shorewood boys have appeared in the state tournament after breaking a 38-year drought last season where they were eliminated by Federal Way in the opening round as the 19 seed. This year, the Stormrays have to win one game to advance to the Round of 12 at the Tacoma Dome.

Sophomore forward Tyler Marlow (23) and senior forward Jaden Marlow (24) high-five after a big play. Photo by Kristi Lin

Season at a Glance

Following a successful year three under Head Coach Joey Petschl in the 2024-25 season, the Stormrays came into 2025-26 with a significant core of the drought-ending state team coming back. 

Preparation began for the season last June, with a strenuous schedule of weight lifting, practices, and games on the weekends against top competition, capping it off with a showcase at Bellevue College put on by the Washington Interscholastic Basketball Coaches Association with college coaches in attendance. 

With so many of the team’s contributors experiencing the highs and lows of the run to state, they worked extremely hard in the summer to prepare for their next goal: make it even further next season.

The Stormrays started the year 4-1 in their non-league games with two wins over WesCo 4A opponents Kamiak and Jackson. With three WesCo League games before the holiday break, Shorewood went 2-1 including an 85-61 win over rival Shorecrest, marking the program’s first win over Shorecrest under Coach Petschl.

Junior guard Yuto Allison shoots a corner three-pointer against Edmonds-Woodway.
Photo by Kristi Lin

Shorewood took its 6-2 record to Vancouver, WA for a three-game event at Mountain View High School over the holiday break, an essential stretch to prepare for the remaining league schedule. They went 1-2 with a win over Battle Ground and losses to Auburn Mountainview and Columbia River, who have both qualified for their respective state tournaments. Despite the tough competition, they didn’t play their best. The sky wasn’t falling by any means, sitting with a 7-4 record and only one league loss, but the trip south ended up being a big turning point in the season.

The team went 8-1 in January, with its only defeat being a 54-52 loss to Mount Si which is currently the No. 1 team in the state in 4A. All eight wins came in league play, outscoring opponents 533-392 and holding them under 55 points in eight of the nine games. Within the hot streak was a win over Edmonds-Woodway which at the time was undefeated and ranked No. 5 in the state, and a 63-55 win over Meadowdale which beat Shorewood earlier in the year.

Approaching playoff time, Shorewood had two crucial games to close the year: a rematch with Edmonds-Woodway in the season finale for the regular season championship, and a WesCo League North/South crossover game with Snohomish to solidify seeding for the district tournament. The Stormrays lost both (55-48 to Edmonds, 61-55 to Snohomish), earning themselves the fourth seed in the district tournament.

Senior guard Nathan Abraha shoots a three-pointer against Sedro-Woolley.
Photo by Kristi Lin

Playoffs

Shorewood won its first playoff game at home against Sedro-Woolley 63-45 in a strong defensive performance, setting the team up for a third matchup with Edmonds-Woodway in the district semifinals, with the winner clinching a spot in the state tournament.

After losing in their gym two weeks prior, Shorewood bounced back and beat Edmonds-Woodway in a hard-fought game 42-40, continuing to find ways to win with a defense-first mentality.

The win set up another clash with Snohomish in the district championship game, where Shorewood was able to get revenge yet again by securing the third district championship in program history with a 51-36 win.

The 3A state tournament bracket was released midday on Sunday where the seeding committee put Shorewood in the 10 slot, awaiting the winner of Monroe vs. University. The winner will advance to the Tacoma Dome in the Round of 12. 

The game will be this Friday, February 27 at 8:00pm at North Creek High School in Bothell, and streamed live on NFHS Network. Find the full state tournament bracket here.

Senior guard Nathan Abraha, junior guard Tommy Moles, and junior guard Kevin Cambronero playing defense against Edmonds-Woodway. Photo by Kristi Lin

Note from Coach Hopen

As an assistant coach, I speak for the whole coaching staff when I say I’m incredibly proud of the season the boys have put together. Since last June, each of these boys has been bought into the strategy, mentality, and principles we’ve preached in order to complete the incredibly difficult task of reaching back-to-back state tournaments. Through the highs and lows of the season, they’ve continually responded to every challenge put in front of them, and have done it the right way.

Senior class Jaden Marlow, Nathan Abraha,
and Elijah Haub pose with the district
championship trophy.
Photo courtesy Shorewood basketball

As a Shorewood alum, I’m even more proud to see the way these guys play the game and represent the school. Whether it’s running clinics with the youth teams or garnering attention from Shorewood basketball alumni of all ages with their on-court success, they are easy to root for and have put a massive spotlight on the program. 

They are role models to kids throughout the school district and community in how to carry themselves and how to compete.

Thank you to all of those who have supported us along the way, and we would love to see as many people as possible wearing blue at North Creek on Friday night, and hopefully at the Tacoma Dome beyond that. Go Stormrays!

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