Brier’s SeaScare Parade returned Wednesday evening, August 12, 2026

Story & Photos by David Carlos

Brier’s SeaScare Parade returned Wednesday evening, August 12, 2026 bringing neighbors, classic cars, candy and a little controlled chaos to Brier Road.

The parade started off at 7pm near 232nd Street and Brier Road and traveled south to 238th Street.

Kenmore District Pipe Band

Once again, the weather cooperated. Temperatures hovered around 65 degrees under partly sunny skies — just about ideal parade weather for the hundreds of people lining the route.

The evening had the familiar feel of a small-town reunion. Classmates spotted classmates, neighbors caught up with neighbors, kids scrambled for candy and plenty of people seemed to know somebody passing by in the parade.

The All Stars

SeaScare has never been particularly interested in taking itself too seriously, and judging by Wednesday’s parade, that tradition remains in very good hands.

The parade was an anything-goes procession that seemed perfectly suited to SeaScare. The Kenmore & District Pipe Band provided the bagpipes and drums, South County Fire rolled through with both modern apparatus and an antique fire engine, and unicycle riders showed off their balance while making their way down Brier Road.

Ghostbusters with their Ecto-Jeep mobile.

There were pirates tossing candy, Ghostbusters in their decked-out Ecto-Jeep, Mob City Junior Roller Derby skaters, the North Queens Drill Team, youth baseball players, community organizations and local businesses.

Classic cars mixed with decorated trucks and homemade floats. Even a pair of miniature horses joined the parade wearing unicorn horns.

Miniature horses

The one thing missing from previous years was the sight of horses dancing their way down the road to mariachi music. The miniature “unicorns” were charming, but we’re still hoping their larger, dancing cousins make a comeback next year. Consider this my official request for their return in 2027.

And, as always, candy was serious business. Children scrambled into the street after each passing group, while adults waved from the sidewalks and bubbles drifted overhead.

Leading this year’s parade as grand marshal was a business that has been part of Brier for 45 years: Brier Grocery.

Grand Marshal Sunnie Andrade

Sunnie and Victor Andrade bought the neighborhood store in 1981 and operated it together for decades. Victor passed in 2018.

Today, Sunnie continues running the store with help from their children, Charlie and Anna, and Sunnie’s sister, Soon.

Pirates

Asked how she felt about being named grand marshal, Sunnie kept her answer simple: She was happy.

She had initially been hesitant about participating in the parade. Those who know her might chalk that up to her quiet and humble nature. But eventually she was glad she had decided to take part.

South County Fire's vintage truck

Elsewhere along the route, there was plenty going on...

The band On Common Ground performed classic-rock cover songs in the outdoor dining area at Vita Momenti Italian Kitchen, providing a soundtrack to the evening festivities.

SeaScare certainly wasn't lacking for noise without them.

Pie eating contest

One enthusiastic young passenger in a Wally’s truck made sure of that by putting the horn to very good use. The pie-eating contest also added to the raucous fun.

L-R Brier Mayor Dale Kaemingk, U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene, D-Wash,
Brier Council Member Hisham Othman

The celebration has been a Brier summertime tradition since 2002, when the city’s volunteer Park Board created the nautically themed event to replace the former Brierfest.

Conceived as Brier’s playful answer to Seattle’s Seafair, SeaScare grew around its Porch Light Parade and has brought pirates, sea creatures, classic cars, bands and plenty of neighborhood whimsy to Brier Road each August.

Parade participant

This year’s celebration was made possible with support from local businesses and organizations, including Brenner Hill Windermere Real Estate, Brier Grocery, Cedar Plaza Vet Clinic, Elsner Law, Jason’s Java, Las Espuelas, MLT Licensing, Nellie’s Thistle Salon, Patty’s Egg Nest, Pet Adventure, PuroClean, QFC, Sorelli Pizza, Sound Community Bank, South County Fire Fighter Foundation, Teeter Tots Montessori and Vita Momenti Italian Kitchen.

4-H unicorn

By the time the last candy had been scooped up from the road, the pie contestants had been thoroughly coated in chocolate, and On Common Ground had filled Vita Momenti with classic rock, SeaScare had once again delivered exactly what Brier seems to like best: neighbors, noise and a little bit of nonsense.

Brier is a town of 6,600 in South Snohomish County, east of Mountlake Terrace and north of Lake Forest Park and Kenmore, with Alderwood Manor to the north and Bothell to the east. See map.

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Battle of the Bands in Lake Forest Park - August 22, 2026

🎶ShoreLake Arts’ 6th Annual Battle of the Bands 🎶

Saturday, August 22, 2026

5:00pm - 8:00pm

Pfingst Animal Acres Park, Lake Forest Park

Open Call for New Bands

Get ready for a summer night full of music, energy, and local talent! ShoreLake Arts proudly presents the 6th Annual Battle of the Bands, a dynamic showcase of emerging and developing bands from across Washington State.

This all-ages event features a diverse lineup of musical styles, offering something for everyone—from indie rock to funk, pop, and beyond. Enjoy the show from the comfort of your lawn chairs and blankets, and soak up the lively, family-friendly atmosphere.

🍻 21+ Beer & Wine Garden
🍔 Local Food Vendors
🎸 Live Performances by Rising Artists

The Battle of the Bands is more than a concert—it's a stepping stone for up-and-coming musicians, offering them a chance to build their skills, connect with industry professionals, and shine on a public stage.

Don’t miss this chance to support the arts and discover the future of Washington’s music scene—right in your own backyard!

All ages welcome. 21+ access required for Beer & Wine Garden.

The ShoreLake Battle of the Bands aims to support the development of emerging musical talent in Washington State. The competition provides these up-and-coming musicians a platform and a unique pathway to build their musical skills and network with industry professionals.

 

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Join the Alumni Soccer Match at Shoreline College August 15, 2026

One Game. One Community. Forever Dolphins!

Don't miss the annual Alumni Soccer Match to kick off the Shoreline College athletics season. 

Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 2:00pm - Shoreline A Field 19030 1st Ave NE, Shoreline, WA 98155. Wear green. Bring energy. Represent the Dolphins.

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Children's Activities at Celebrate Shoreline

Celebrate Shoreline, Saturday August 15, 2026 at Cromwell Park 18030 Meridian Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133 has food and beer gardens, but is a determinedly family event.

Look at all the activities planned for children - and most of them are free.

Last Leaf Productions will perform Bayou Bug Tales, an original musical adapted from Aesop's fable about the Ant and the Grasshopper. Performances at 1:15pm and 3:30pm.

Other children's activities:

• Pony Rides: Seattle Pony Party: ($)
• Petting Zoo: Animal Encounters, Free
• Kids Theater: “Bayou Bug Tales” by Last Leaf Productions (free) presented by King County Library System, Performances at: 1:15 & 3:30 pm
• Inflatables: (free)
• Roving Entertainment: Louie Foxx Magic
• Hands on Art: Pip cleaner flowers (free)
• Bubble Play Area: (free)
• NEW: Touch a Truck
• Community Engagement
• Sponsor Engagement
• Tumbling: Seattle Gymnastics
• Police, Fire and Emergency Management booths
• Game Booth
• Photo Booth
• Face Painting

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Celebrate Shoreline Saturday noon to 9pm at Cromwell Park

Join us on Saturday August 15, 2026 from noon to 9pm to celebrate the City of Shoreline’s birthday at Celebrate Shoreline!

Cromwell Park

18030 Meridian Avenue N
Shoreline, WA 98133

The festival has two stages with live music and shows, beer garden, pony rides, children’s theater, food trucks, petting zoo, hands-on activities and more!

This is a free family friendly festival. There is a cost for food, beverages and some activities.

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Edmonds welcomes Stephanie Lucash as City Administrator

Stephanie Lucash, Edmonds
City Administrator

City Administrator Stephanie Lucash is officially on duty in Edmonds.

Lucash came to Edmonds from Kenmore, where she served as Deputy City Manager, bringing 34 years of public sector experience with her. She is widely recognized for her leadership at both the state and national levels. 

In 2024, she received the National Leadership Trailblazer Award from the League of Women in Government and was inducted into the organization’s Hall of Fame. 

In 2023, she was named Washington State’s Outstanding Assistant City Manager of the Year.

She is Immediate Past President of the Washington City/County Management Association. 

In addition to her professional leadership, Lucash serves as an Affiliate Professor and Distinguished Practitioner at the University of Washington’s Evans School of Public Policy and Governance, where she teaches local government management. 

She is also a dedicated mentor and advocate for advancing women in public service, serving on the board of the Northwest Women’s Leadership Academy.

"We are proud to welcome a leader who is committed to continuous learning and bringing nationally recognized best practices to the City of Edmonds. We look forward to seeing all that Stephanie will accomplish here. She is already off to a great start." – Mayor Mike Rosen

In July, she earned the Credentialed Manager designation from the ICMA - International City/County Management Association, one of the highest professional recognitions for local government executives. The ICMA Voluntary Credentialing Program recognizes local government executives who have demonstrated the knowledge, experience, and dedication required to lead complex public organizations.

This achievement places Stephanie among an elite group of local government professionals worldwide. There are currently just over 1,770 ICMA Credentialed Managers across the globe. In Washington State, where there are 281 cities and towns, only 39 individuals have earned the designation, and just 27 currently serve in active local government leadership roles.

Stephanie says, 
"Local government has a direct impact on people's daily lives, and I'm honored to serve the Edmonds community alongside an exceptional team dedicated to delivering high-quality public services."

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Lime bikes are nearing the end of their two year pilot program in Shoreline

Lineup at Aurora Village Transit Center
Photo by Claudia Meadows

The program began in August 2024 as a two year pilot program. It kicked off with 200 devices, including 50 bikes, operated by Lime (maximum number of devices capped at 400).

New seated scooters called Gliders were added to the fleet in 2025. Currently, up to a maximum of 1,000 scooters and bikes are allowed in the City. 

The City will reevaluate the pilot program and make adjustments by the end of the pilot in summer 2026.  

Riders must be 18 years or older. Helmets are strongly encouraged by Lime and the City. You can get a 10% discount by verifying that you are wearing a helmet through the Lime app.

Lime is managing all operations including device deployment, maintenance, recovery/rebalancing, and responses to community reports.

Report all issues to Lime at: 

• email: Support@li.me
• phone: 1-888-546-3345
• web: help.li.me

Starting June 2026, end a Lime bike or scooter trip at Link light rail stations in Shoreline and get an automatic discount of up to $7 off your ride!

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Shawn White retires after 31 years as paramedic and Medical Services Officer

We extend our appreciation to Shawn White for his 31 years of service to the residents of Bothell, Kenmore, Lake Forest Park, Shoreline, Woodway and the surrounding cities. 

Shawn became a paramedic in 2003 and in 2013, he was promoted to Medical Services Officer. (MSO)

We thank him for his service and wish him the very best in his retirement.

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King County Sheriff: ICE can tell us to 'pound sand' and that’s what we would do

The Shoreline City Council has wondered what its officers could do when its residents call about ICE activity. The answer? Not much.

By David Mendez
The Osprey News

King County Sheriff Patti Cole-Tindall 

King County Sheriff Patti Cole-Tindall told the Shoreline City Council last week that she believes the community “has unrealistic expectations about what law enforcement can or should do related to ICE” — and that her office has effectively no ability to deal with federal immigration agents, even when they’re unidentified in the field.

The sheriff’s meeting with the council occurred during a Shoreline dinner meeting workshop, which took place before the regular council meeting. 

Most of the meeting focused on agency staffing — the King County Sheriff’s Office runs the Shoreline Police Department through a contract agreement — but KCSO’s policies regarding ICE were the elephant in the room.

Federal immigration officials have been very active in the city, leading to chases through residential streets, arrests along Aurora Avenue and confrontations in neighborhoods.

Upon being told of ongoing resident concerns regarding ICE, Cole-Tindall told council that she doesn’t believe it’s KCSO’s job to “track ICE incidents.”

“My responsibility is to respond to 911 calls. And that could be an ICE agent calling, or it could be the community calling,” Cole-Tindall said.

“What I don’t want is any of my officers to be charged with obstructing, or somehow we’re doing something that is obstructing the federal government from doing what they need to do.”

Shoreline’s leaders have taken a public stance against ICE activity over the last year, spurred in part by public action. Earlier this year, the city passed an ordinance banning the agency from staging on city-controlled land. 

Officials have also asked residents to call the city’s police department to help document ICE activity, and on one occasion city council members accompanied a resident to the police station, offering support as she reported an attempted arrest by ICE.

“Do you have a sense of how many times our King County Sheriff’s [Deputies] from across the region are responding to someone calling about an incident,” asked Councilmember Chris Roberts. “What’s the sort of universe in terms of how infrequently the sheriffs respond to these kinds of things?”

“We just don’t have that much interaction with ICE. They’re out there, we know it, but we don’t have a lot of interactions,” Cole-Tindall said. “People don’t really call that much. And certainly, just to be clear, [ICE doesn’t] let us know when they’re coming into our area.”

One councilmember then asked Cole-Tindall if deputies would respond to a call reporting an arrest by an unidentified person claiming to be an ICE agent.

“Yes, and all we could do, we could go out and we could say, ‘Hello, I’m Deputy So-and-So. Can I see your credentials?’ And they could say ‘pound sand,’ and that’s what we would do,” Cole-Tindall replied.

“We would ask, and that’s on camera, so that’s what the deputy is required to do — to ask and document, yeah. But they don’t have to give it.”

King County Sheriff’s Office policy states that deputies will prioritize responding to a call when it is “unclear people claiming to be immigration officers are officers,” if there are “concerns that a crime is being committed” or if ICE activities “may be occurring on property where they are not allowed.”

On-scene policy states that deputies will turn on their body-worn camera, speak with the person who called 911, “verify law enforcement credentials, if appropriate” and document their attempts to check the identity of officers on the scene.

When asked for comment on the sheriff’s statements, a KCSO spokesperson referred The Osprey to the department’s General Orders Manual and emphasized the orders that deputies must follow.

ICE agents confer after running into a vehicle and confronting the young driver,
who ultimately was not arrested or detained.
See previous story

According to KCSO policy, deputies “shall not compel federal personnel to provide information or obstruct their operations.” Rather, they must attempt to de-escalate on the scene, then file a report with superiors, which will then be sent to county prosecutors for possible further action.

In March, Governor Bob Ferguson signed into law Senate Bill 5855 and House Bill 2165, a legislative package intended to prevent law enforcement from hiding under masks and added penalties to police impersonation laws.

But the state’s mask law, as Cole-Tindall and Councilmember Keith Scully both noted, is a civil matter. Further, sheriff’s deputies will not enforce the ban, the KCSO spokesperson told The Osprey.

“The person who feels they’ve been aggrieved can go to court, I guess,” Cole-Tindall told the Shoreline City Council.

Whether or not a city has tested the limits of the law by suing the federal government hasn’t been reported. “Somebody’s going to have to test that at some point,” Scully mused.

“I mean, it’s an ineffective law because you have to bring a motion for an injunction saying ‘don’t do it again.’ And they do it again, and you go back and you say, ‘now you have to pay a fine because you did it again,’ and they can ultimately drag it out forever,” Scully said, drawing out the string on his hypothetical.

“But it’s all we’ve got, right?”

Similarly, a ban on ICE assembly on prohibited properties — like King County-owned land, or City of Shoreline-controlled land — is untested. A spokesperson for the King County Prosecutor’s Office was uncertain what charges could be filed should federal agents ignore official warnings to leave.

A Shoreline municipal code says only that the city attorney “shall have the ability to enforce this chapter by any legal mechanism of enforcement available under the law.” Per a staff report, that means the city might sue the federal government to gain “injunctive relief, temporary restraint, or some other type of legal remedy.”

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Blue skies and low tide at Richmond Beach

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

Blue skies and low tide at Richmond Beach. Finally the wildfire smoke has cleared.

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NE 195th at Ballinger Way closed due to a water main break

🚨 TRAFFIC ALERT – NE 195th Street CLOSED 🚨

NE 195th Street at Ballinger Way NE is currently closed due to a water main break.

Ballinger Way and NE 195th at 25th NE

The North City Water District and additional resources were on scene working to address the issue.

Officers from the Lake Forest Park Police Department and deputies from the King County Sheriff’s Office are assisting with traffic control and public safety.

🚧 Please avoid the area and use alternate routes until further notice.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation while crews work to resolve the situation.

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Fall Recreation Guide - registration begins August 18, 2026

The Shoreline Fall Recreation Guide was mailed to all Shoreline households last week. 

Copies are also available at Shoreline City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave N or the Spartan Recreation Center, 202 NE 185th St, Shoreline.

Fall registration begins August 18 at 8am for Shoreline residents.

Lake Forest Park residents receive a 24-hour early registration window before each season's programs open to the public, along with an 8% discount on all program fees year-round (excluding rentals). 

Fall early registration for LFP residents begins on August 20 at 8am. If you miss the early window, the discount applies all year long. 

Registration is open to non-residents on August 21 at 8am.

The Recreation Guide is available online here.

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James Islington at Third Place Books September 2, 2026

Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at 7pm

Third Place Books at Lake Forest Park

17171 Bothell Way NE A200, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155

Main building, upper level
​
Third Place Books welcomes bestselling Australian SFF author James Islington for a conversation about his new book Scion.
​

In a cyberpunk near-future where the uber-rich are immortal until crowdfunded assassins hunt them down, a cyborg contract killer must use his unusual skills to protect a mysterious client from harm. Tickets are required.

All tickets come with a pre-signed copy of the featured book. This event will include a public signing. No photos, please!
​

Tickets start at $37.06 (including tax and fees)
Purchase tickets here

James Islington is the New York Times bestselling author of The Will of the Many and The Strength of the Few, as well as the Licanius Trilogy (beginning with The Shadow of What Was Lost). 

He has sold more than two million books, and his work has been translated into seventeen different languages. He lives on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia, with his wife and two children.

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Open house for new townhomes on 10th Ave NE near light rail station - August 15, 2026

Nine newly completed townhomes in Shoreline on Saturday, August 15, 2026

Grove Pointe — 18004 10th Ave NE

Saturday, August 15, 11am–4pm (and Sunday the 16th, same hours). Catered lunch.

Three and four bedrooms, from the $770s. Walking distance to the 185th Street light rail station.

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Shoreline SD Seeks Applicants for Long-Range Facilities Planning Committee

This fall, Shoreline School District is launching a Long-Range Facilities Planning Committee to help guide a plan for maintaining and improving our school buildings. 

This community-driven effort may inform upcoming ballot measures aimed at funding building upkeep and new school construction where it's needed most.

Interested? Read on for more information about the committee and how members of the Shoreline and Lake Forest Park communities can apply to be a part.

Why This Committee is Forming

Many of our school buildings are aging, and some no longer meet the needs of a modern learning environment. 

Rather than addressing facility needs one at a time as they arise, the district is taking a proactive, long-term approach: understanding the condition of our buildings, planning ahead for needed investments, and engaging our community every step of the way.

This committee will help build community understanding of, and involvement in, that long-range plan. 

Their work will help ensure alignment with the district’s educational programs, demographic changes, and community needs, which may also inform future bonds for replacement of district buildings.

What the Committee Will Do

Committee members will:

• Learn about our facilities. Members will review building conditions, safety data, and long-term planning information so they have a clear, accurate picture of our district's needs.
• Provide community input. While data helps identify facility needs, community voice and judgment are essential in shaping how the district communicates about and prioritizes this work.
• Help inform their neighbors. Committee members will be equipped to talk with friends, neighbors, and community members about the district's facilities plan and why it matters.

Final decisions about specific buildings, sites, and funding measures rest with the Shoreline School Board. The committee's role is advisory, bringing community perspective to this important work.

To learn more about the committee and apply, visit: Long Range Committee

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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Salmon ID

 

See previous cartoons by Whitney Potter here

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Worker rescued in Richmond Beach after trench collapse on work site

You can see the path of Barnacle Creek by following the line of trees

On Monday August 10, 2026 a worker on the Barnacle Creek culvert replacement project in Richmond Beach (see previous article) was rescued by Shoreline Fire after a shored up trench collapsed under him, dropping him 15 feet.

Photo courtesy Shoreline Fire

Fire was able to extricate the male in his 30’s after only 13 minutes on scene. He was transported by the medics to Harborview with a potential leg injury.

The project, on NW 204th St in Richmond Beach is in response to concerns about the stability of the rockery and roadway embankment and stream erosion at the culvert outfall.

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What’s Happening This Week in Shoreline: August 12 - 18

What’s Happening This Week in Shoreline: August 12 - 18

Live Music, a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to open a business in Shoreline, Farmers Markets, and the pièce de résistance, Celebrate Shoreline! It’s a fun week ahead! We hope to see you on Saturday at Celebrate Shoreline, we have a fun (and easy) community art project we would love for you to be a part of!
 
Shoreline Area Events You Should Know About this Week. We highlighted our must attend events of the week!
(Follow the event links for additional information, directions, and add to your calendar links.)
 
Wednesday, August 12th
Concert in the Garden featuring live music by The Rallies
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM, Kruckeberg Botanic Garden
Concert in the Garden, hosted by ShoreLake Arts. This free, family-friendly evening will feature live music by The Rallies in the beautiful gathering Grove, surrounded by towering trees, woodland paths, and the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
 
We Opened A Business In Shoreline... Here's What it Was Like
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM, Richmond Beach Foods
Join Urbanist Shoreline for a conversation with Norene Meredith and Lauren Peterson of the newly-opened Richmond Beach Foods.
 
Thursday, August 13th
Public consultation “How to build on your backyard” Presented by Greencity
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM, Shoreline Library
A free 90-minute educational panel for homeowners thinking about adding an ADU or backyard cottage to their property.
 
Friday, August 14th
3rd Annual Shoreline Community Champion Award Reception
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Shoreline City Hall
We are proud to honor this year’s outstanding community leaders and volunteers and hope you will join us for this special celebration.
 
Outdoor Dance Party hosted by Seattle Dance Fitness
7:00 PM - 8:15 PM, Ridgecrest Elementary School
One Night. One Dance Party. One Epic Summer Vibe. For ONE NIGHT ONLY, we’re taking the Friday Night Dance Party OUTSIDE!
 
Saturday, August 15th
Shoreline Farmers Market
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Corner of 192nd & Aurora
Shoreline's community hub for farm fresh & local foods, flowers, baked goods, local honey, live music, food trucks, kids programming, and so much more.
 
Storytime @ at the Shoreline Historical Museum
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Shoreline Historical Museum
This engaging, family-friendly program invites children ages 1–8 (with an adult) to explore local history and the environment through stories, music, movement, and hands-on art activities.
 
Huchoosedah Festival at Licton Springs Park
11:00 AM - 6:30 PM, Licton Springs Park, Seattle
A free, public, family-friendly celebration of Coast Salish traditions. Through music, storytelling, Native flute, poetry, cedar bark weaving, plant medicine workshops, dance, and a ceremonial Prayer Walk, the event invites the community to step closer to becoming holistically well and co-creating a shared paradise once again.
 
Silesia Guitars 13th Anniversary Yard Sale
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Silesia Guitars
Silesia Guitars 13th Annual Anniversary Yard Sale! Guitar Parts. Luthier tools. Live Music. $13 off guitar setups, one day only!
 
2026 Celebrate Shoreline
12:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Cromwell Park
Come celebrate the City of Shoreline’s 31st birthday! The festival has two stages with live music and shows, beer garden, pony rides, children’s theater, food trucks, petting zoo, hands on activities and more!
 
Sunday, August 16th
Lake Forest Park Farmers Market
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, in front of LFP City Hall (17171 Bothell Way NE)
Your go-to spot for fresh food, local goods, and community connection.
 
August 16 Urbanist Shoreline Coffee in the Park!
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Echo Lake Park
We’ll have coffee and snacks. RSVPs encouraged for headcount, and so we can be in touch with exact meeting location. Kids, families, friends, friendly dogs welcome!
 
Darrell's Jazz Jam
7:00 PM, Darrell's Tavern
 
Tuesday, August 18th
Kids Summer Book Club (August)
6:00 PM - 6:45 PM, Ridgecrest Books
Kids ages 8-11 are welcome to join us for our Summer Book Club! We'll be reading The Swifts by Beth Lincoln for our July club. The book will be available at the store, 15% off. 
 
Energize Shoreline Free Workshops
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM, Shoreline City Hall
Energize Shoreline is offering free workshops this summer to help residents learn about heat pumps — energy-efficient systems that heat, cool, filter, and dehumidify your home.
 
What’s Up Next in Shoreline (Save the Date):
(Follow the event links for additional information, directions, and add to your calendar links.)
 
50th Anniversary Dahlia Show
Saturday & Sunday August 22-23, Sky Nursery
Since 1976, the Puget Sound Dahlia Association has been gathering gardeners together around the diverse, rewarding and endlessly evolving world of dahlias. Join us this summer in the greenhouse for a Dahlia Show unlike any other, to celebrate these incredible blooms and the people who grow.
 
ShoreLake Arts’ 6th Annual Battle of the Bands 
Saturday, August 22 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Pfingst Animal Acres Park
Get ready for a summer night full of music, energy, and local talent! ShoreLake Arts proudly presents the 6th Annual Battle of the Bands, a dynamic showcase of emerging and developing bands from across Washington State.
 
For Upcoming Events in Shoreline visit: DestinationShoreline.com/Calendar
 
Destination Shoreline is brought to you by:
Salvation - Artists and Makers Collective - a Boutique and Gallery
Shorelake Arts bringing people together through art, culture, and shared experiences.
Seniors Helping Seniors®, Supporting Independence for Seniors in Shoreline
Shoreline Chamber of Commerce – Supporting local businesses in Shoreline
City of Shoreline - Official city news and resources.
 Become a Destination Shoreline Partner, learn more here.

 

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Mud Bay Launches Spokane Fire Relief Drive for Pets

OLYMPIA, WA – Independent PNW pet retailer Mud Bay is launching a donation drive to help pets and families affected by devastating fires across Spokane-area communities. 

From August 12–30, 2026 customers can purchase pet food or supplies at any Mud Bay location and donate the items to Spokane-area pets in need. Mud Bay will match donated purchases up to $10,000.

“When disaster disrupts a community, making sure pets have food and basic supplies can relieve one immediate worry for families facing an incredibly difficult time,” said Mud Bay CMO Al Puntillo.

“Our customers have always shown extraordinary generosity for animals and the people who love them. By matching their donations, we hope to help reach even more Spokane-area pets and families.”

 
Donations will support Spokane-area animal welfare organizations such as, SpokAnimal, that are working to provide essential food and supplies to those affected by the fires. AFCO Distribution, Mud Bay’s Spokane-based distributor, will transport the donated products directly to the area for delivery to local organizations.

 
The most requested items include dry dog food, dry cat food, food and water bowls, dog and cat harnesses, leashes, litter, litter boxes, and litter scoops. Customers may donate any eligible pet food or supply purchase made in a Mud Bay store during the campaign. Every contribution will help provide practical, timely support where it is needed most.

 

“We’re grateful to our customers, AFCO Distribution, and the animal welfare teams responding on the ground,” said Puntillo. “Working together, we can try and help Spokane-area pets stay fed, safe, and cared for as their communities recover.”

Founded in Olympia in 1988, Mud Bay is a family- and employee-owned business that has grown to become the Pacific Northwest’s largest independent pet retailer, with 65 locations and over 500 employees in Washington and Oregon. 

Mud Bay stores are known for their welcoming environments, deep knowledge of pet nutrition and supplies, and strong commitment to animal welfare—donating over $1,000,000 annually to animal-welfare organizations throughout the region. 

Local stores:

• Shoreline Mud Bay 1201 N 175th
• Lake Forest Park Mud Bay Town Center LFP

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Bookstore Romance Day at Third Place Books August 15, 2026

Saturday, August 15, 2026 is Bookstore Romance Day at Third Place Books 17171 Bothell Way NE Ste A101, Lake Forest Park WA 98155

Mark your calendars for the 8th annual celebration of Bookstore Romance Day!

Get 20% off all adult romance titles, book-bundle giveaway, and a new, tropey bookmark (to be revealed).

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Season tickets for Edmonds Driftwood Players

Get ready for a season filled with amazing characters, stories, and entertainment! 

From the clever twists of Agatha Christie’s A Murder Is Announced and the holiday magic of A Christmas Carol The Musical, to the gripping suspense of Wait Until Dark, and the laugh-out-loud comedy of Suite Surrender, this season has something for everyone. 

The BEST way to enjoy our upcoming season is with a subscription! You’ll receive discounted tickets and first pick of reserved seats, plus additional benefits. Being a Season Subscriber is a GREAT way to support your local community theatre, and we would love to have you!

PACKAGE PRICING

Mainstage 4-Show Subscription Package

• General (19-59 years of age) – $120*
• Youth/Senior/Military – $110*

PURCHASE SEASON SUBSCRIPTION

For questions about season subscription date customization, pricing, special requests, or adding on additional tickets beyond your subscription package, please contact the EDP Office by calling 425-774-9600 or emailing boxoffice@edmondsdriftwoodplayers.org!

*Season subscription package prices are inclusive of $3/per ticket fee. All purchases are final and non-refundable unless show is cancelled. First exchange per show is no charge, additional exchanges will incur a $3 per transaction fee.

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WSAC receives $1 million grant to study gaps in educational attainment in Washington

OLYMPIA—The Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC) has been awarded a $1 million grant from the National Center for Education Research (NCER). This funding will support a research project examining the relative benefits of postsecondary education for students from traditionally underserved groups in Washington. 

WSAC will work with Westat, a professional services organization. The project will use data provided by the Washington Education Research & Data Center (ERDC).

The project studies patterns of educational attainment and outcomes among Washingtonians to identify areas and policies that may improve the postsecondary access and success of all residents. The analyses will identify disparities in educational attainment and in the economic returns to postsecondary education, since these are both correlated with other disparities such as lower-paying jobs, poorer health outcomes and greater dependence on social services. 

In addition, the work will assess the alignment of fields of study with projected occupational and industry needs, both statewide and across Washington counties. These findings will help identify policy solutions that could increase the proportion of the population with a postsecondary education credential and boost enrollment in programs with high economic returns to students, industry and the state.

“A postsecondary credential is one of the most reliable pathways to economic opportunity, better health and long-term stability. However, that pathway isn't equally accessible to everyone in our state. This project will give us a clearer picture of where gaps in educational attainment and economic returns exist, and why,” said Isaac Kwakye, deputy executive director of WSAC.

“By connecting what students study with the future of Washington's economy, both statewide and in each county, we can pursue policies that help more residents earn credentials to improve their economic status. These credentials benefit students, employers and our communities. This research moves us closer to a Washington where every resident has a real chance to succeed beyond high school.”

This new award helps WSAC provide better support for students in postsecondary education. It also shows Washington’s commitment to using data to improve policy. The award will lead to a public data dashboard on the historical outcomes of different pathways. The dashboard will be a useful tool for students, institutional staff and state legislators in making informed decisions.

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HomeTechHacker: How Technology Can Help You Age in Place

Smart deadbolt

By Marlon Buchanan

Most of us hope to stay in our own homes for as long as possible. Familiar surroundings, neighbors, and routines can provide comfort and independence as we get older. While technology can't replace family, friends, or healthcare, it can help remove some of the everyday challenges that become more common over time.

You don't need to turn your home into a high-tech showcase. A few well-chosen devices can make daily life a little easier and provide peace of mind for both you and your family.

"Did I Lock the Front Door?"

It's a question many of us have asked after leaving the house or settling in for the evening.

A smart lock can help eliminate that uncertainty. Many models can automatically lock at a scheduled time or after a certain number of minutes, helping ensure your home stays secure even if you forget. If you arrive home without your keys, you can unlock the door with a code, a smartphone, or in some cases even your fingerprint. You can get one that also unlocks with traditional keys.

I appreciate this feature myself. My smart deadbolts automatically lock each evening, and if I ever leave my keys inside, I have several other ways to get back into the house.

"I Don't Want to Walk Through a Dark House"

Falls are one of the biggest concerns as we age, and poor lighting can make them more likely.

Smart lighting makes it easy to automatically turn lights on at sunset, brighten hallways during the evening, or provide low-level lighting overnight for trips to the bathroom. Motion-activated lights can also illuminate stairs or hallways without anyone needing to find a light switch.

These small conveniences can make moving around the home both easier and safer.

"I'm Afraid I'll Forget Something Important"

Many of us find ourselves relying on reminders more than we did years ago. That's completely normal.

Voice assistant

Voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant can announce medication reminders, appointments, birthdays, or even remind you to take the trash to the curb each week. Smart displays can also show upcoming calendar events, weather forecasts, family photos, and daily schedules in one easy-to-read location.

The goal isn't to remember more. It's to let technology remember some of those routine tasks so you can focus on the things that matter most.

"What If I Fall?"

Wearable devices have become remarkably capable over the past few years.

Many smartwatches now include automatic fall detection. If the watch detects a serious fall and you don't respond, it can automatically contact emergency services or notify family members. Some devices can also monitor heart rate, irregular heart rhythms, and other health information that may be useful to discuss with your doctor.

No technology is perfect, but these features can provide an added layer of confidence for people living independently.

"I Want My Family to Worry Less"

Technology can also make it easier to stay connected.

Video calling has become much simpler thanks to smart displays and tablets that allow family members to connect with just a few taps or even voice commands. Shared digital photo albums let children and grandchildren automatically send recent pictures that appear on a display in your home.

Sometimes the greatest benefit helping families stay in touch more often.

Start with One Problem

One lesson I've learned over the years is that the best technology solves a specific problem.

Rather than trying to automate your entire home, think about the one challenge that would make the biggest difference in your daily life. Maybe it's remembering medications, making your home safer at night, or staying connected with family. Start there, see how it fits into your routine, and expand only if it continues to provide value.

I've written in more detail about several of these ideas, including additional smart home features that can help people remain independent, on my HomeTechHacker website and in my book Life by Design.

If you're interested in learning more but aren't sure where to begin, organizations like the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center and the Lake City Seniors Computer Labs and Technology Program offer resources and assistance to help older adults become more comfortable with today's technology.

Technology won't solve every challenge that comes with aging, but thoughtfully chosen tools can make everyday life a little easier, a little safer, and help many people continue enjoying the comfort and independence of home for years to come.

Marlon Buchanan

Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, technology educator, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, where he helps people make technology simpler, safer, and more useful in everyday life.

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

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