46th Legislative District in-person town hall
Sen. Javier Valdez, Representative Gerry Pollet and Representative Darya Farivar are hosting a community town hall.
Join us next Tuesday April 28, 2026 from 6:00 – 8:00pm at North Seattle College. We’ll be in the Auditorium taking your questions and sharing updates on the outcome of the 2026 legislative session.
The 46th LD covers northeast Seattle, from 45th to 145th, primarily east of Aurora. (Map)
Business Spotlight: From Compliance to Culture: HR Support That Makes a Difference
.png)
From Compliance to Culture: HR Support That Makes a Difference
Strategic HR Support That Helps Businesses—and People—Thrive
Behind every successful business is a strong foundation of people, culture, and thoughtful leadership. Amy Bolson, Human Resources Consulting brings decades of experience in people operations to businesses of all sizes, helping them navigate everything from compliance to culture with clarity and confidence. Based right here in Shoreline, Amy’s work is rooted in both professional expertise and a deep commitment to community connection.
Q & A with Amy Bolson, Human Resources Consulting
Q & A with Amy Bolson, Human Resources Consulting
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: 3.5 years
Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: After more years in HR than I am willing to admit, I took the opportunity to slow down a bit, work a bit less, and be more strategic with my time, allowing me to volunteer more, care for my health and that of my aging parents. So far, it’s been an amazing ride and I think I will be able to continue doing this long beyond when I would have felt the need to stop working FT. Providing my years of experience in all areas of people operations/human resources with businesses both near and far is so rewarding and I enjoy the relationships built with my clients whether short or long term engagement.
Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: I offer businesses of any size or industry support with a variety of people operations/human resources including handbooks, compensation programs, compliance, employee & labor relations, benefit program design, workplace culture, staff & leadership development, investigations, project support, etc.
Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: I have lived in Shoreline for over 20 years and love it here. Why would I base my business anywhere else?!
Q: How does your business support or give back to the local community?
A: I am an active volunteer with my local neighborhood association board and the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce. Building community and relationships in the city is a top priority for me.
Connect with Amy Bolson, Human Resources Consulting
253-655-7472
amybolson.com
amybolson.hr@gmail.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amy-
Facebook: Amy Bolson Human Resources ConsultingCity of Lake Forest Park names Commander Diego Zanella as Interim Chief of Police
 |
| Commander Diego Zanella named Interim Chief of LFP Police |
Mayor French stated
“Commander Zanella has deep experience across every part of the department and a strong commitment to our community.
"He is highly respected by the administration, the law enforcement community and the residents of Lake Forest Park.
"He will provide continuity and structure to the department during this interim period.”
The city will soon begin the process of interviewing for the next chief of police.
Boys varsity soccer Shorecrest vs Meadowdale 4-24-2026
 |
| Photo by Wayne Pridemore |
4-24-2026
Shorecrest 2 - Meadowdale 0
28th
Goal: Ashton Johnson
Assist: Kai Short
58th
Goal: Miles Garbaccio
Assist: Kaemon Chen
Shutout:
Asher Martin
JV
Shorecrest-5 v Meadowdale-1
--Jon Cottons, Assistant Coach, Shorecrest
Pop-up Pure Barre Community Class at the Commons Sunday April 26, 2026
Pop-up Pure Barre Community Class
Start your day with a free pop-up community class in the Commons!
Pure Barre is a low-impact, high-intensity workout that uses small, controlled movements to strengthen and tone your entire body.
It combines elements of barre, Pilates, and strength training - set to energizing music in a supportive environment.
Bring a yoga mat (extras available first come first serve), grip socks (or use bare feet) & water bottle.
David Rose: Help Major Crimes Unit with Shoreline cold case
 |
| Shoreline resident Carol Edwards went missing in 1981 |
By David Rose, Q13 News
"Something happened to her and we want to know what that was," said King County Major Crimes Sgt. Jim Belford.
On January 2, 1981, Edwards disappeared after leaving her job at TV Guide in downtown Seattle near 6th and Stewart.
Detectives think she took a Metro bus to 165th and Aurora Avenue North, then walked to her residence in the 500 block of North 167th Street in Shoreline.
Investigators found her mail and keys inside on the counter. Her coat was found on the ground in the garage but no one has heard from her since that day and they suspect foul play.
She and her boyfriend had only lived there for three months when she disappeared. Her dog was still tied up out back when her boyfriend got home from work. The first thing she usually did when getting home was go and untie him.
Detectives have been working diligently on this case for more than four decades and are seeking new leads or tips.
"I was the last person who talked to her," said Head. "We were best friends."
Sally Head is Carol's older sister. She describes her sister as creative and quiet.
 |
| Carol Edwards went missing in 1981 |
"Her boyfriend called and said that he had got home and she wasn't there," Sally said.
He thought Carol was with her mother, but when she wasn't back the next morning, he called Sally.
"That's when Sally became concerned and that's when they called the police and initiated the missing person," Sgt. Belford said.
According to detectives, Carol's boyfriend is not considered a suspect and has been cooperative.
"He's submitted a polygraph, DNA swabs," Sgt. Belford said. "He has provided two statements and met with detectives along the way."
 |
| Carol's house on N 167th in Shoreline |
"So we started doing searches all around. We had a lot of people at the house looking for her,” said Head.
In 1981, Ted Bundy was already locked up in Florida.
When Gary Ridgway, the Green River Killer, started killing women in 1982, she wondered if Carol could have been his first victim. She wasn't.
"Gary Ridgway has been contacted and interviewed regarding Carol's disappearance. He is not considered a suspect," Sgt. Belford said.
But was there another serial killer targeting women in the North End?
"We have explored persons of interest and work to eliminate or include them as a pool of suspects involved in Carol's disappearance. At this point in time, there is not enough evidence that will allow us to charge anyone with Carol's disappearance," Sgt. Belford said.
They are hoping someone has info or has heard talk about the case that can point them to a suspect.
They do have some fragile DNA evidence. The science is advancing rapidly so he hopes one day it will be useful.
"I do believe that if we find her that dominoes will begin to fall and we will be able to identify who's responsible for her disappearance," Sgt. Belford said.
He wants to hear from anybody who worked with Carol at TV Guide. "If anybody remembers her and has had conversations with her and talked to her or were friends with her, I would be interested in talking to them," said Sgt. Belford.
For 45 years, holidays have come and gone, birthdays remembered.
"It's been hard just not knowing. And to see my mom, you know, you think of losing a child. That was difficult for her," said Head.
A family still waiting, a life interrupted, a mystery unsolved.
"We've done searches. We've done digs in areas of interest and have come up with nothing. At this point in time, I believe that someone out there has spoken to someone who has knowledge about this case. And we need that knowledge. We need to push this case forward. We need to find Carol and bring her home," Sgt. Belford said.
If you have any information on what happened to Carol Edwards or who may have been involved, you can call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS, text the info through the P3 Tips App that you can download to your cell phone for free or go to P3Tips.com. You can also send an email to Det. Belford at mcutips@kingcounty.gov.
Old Friends
Friday, April 24, 2026
 |
| Photo by Vicki Westberg |
Old Friends
Books on my shelves,
I have held you on my lap
And I have held you in my hands.
Your presence is a reminder of pleasant times,
Meaningful hours and good company.
I have felt your covers
Left my finger prints on every page.
We have compared thoughts
And shared intimate time together.
Your words have spoken to me.
Do you wait patiently now for my return
To renew cherished memories, imparted
From another time? Discoveries, histories,
Stepping stones, mysteries
Into the waters of the mind
Rough or refined.
Hand-in-hand,
Huddled with a book,
Cuddled in the arms of a chair
How will it seem now
If I take another look
And you take another bow?
Vicki Westberg 4-20-26
Shooting Star Gardens plant sale Saturday, April 25, 2026
Open Garden & Plant Sale featuring Garden in a Box
Shooting Star Gardens, Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 10am to 1pm
Cash/Check/Venmo only
Join us for DAY TWO on Saturday, 4/25 from 10am-1pm!
or email info@shootingstargardens.com
Open House for the NEMCo Air Squirrels April 30, 2026
UAS Spring Open House
Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 6:30–8:00pm
The Air Squirrels are not a government agency. They’re your neighbors — teachers, engineers, business managers, and retirees — who chose to build something useful for the communities they live in.
Read more...
Thursday, April 30, 2026 from 6:30–8:00pm
Shoreline Fire Station 51, 7220 NE 181st St, Kenmore, WA
Free admission • All community members welcome
When a wildfire threatens a neighborhood, a person is missing in a forested park, or floodwaters make roads impassable, getting the right information fast can mean the difference between a controlled response and a crisis.
When a wildfire threatens a neighborhood, a person is missing in a forested park, or floodwaters make roads impassable, getting the right information fast can mean the difference between a controlled response and a crisis.
Increasingly, that information comes from above — and in Kenmore, Shoreline, and Lake Forest Park, it comes from a team of trained community volunteers.
The NEMCo Air Squirrels, a volunteer UAS (drone) program operating across North King County, have spent the last two-and-a-half years building something rare: a fully deployable, professionally structured aerial program staffed entirely by community volunteers.
The NEMCo Air Squirrels, a volunteer UAS (drone) program operating across North King County, have spent the last two-and-a-half years building something rare: a fully deployable, professionally structured aerial program staffed entirely by community volunteers.
They work alongside Lake Forest Park Police, Shoreline Fire Department, the emergency manager, and public utilities to provide aerial incident support.
On Thursday, April 30th, they’re opening their doors to the community and inviting anyone who’s curious to come see what this program actually does.
On Thursday, April 30th, they’re opening their doors to the community and inviting anyone who’s curious to come see what this program actually does.
The first part of the program features the volunteers explaining how the program operates.
During the second half they will move outside for live drone demonstrations to give attendees a close look at the equipment in action, with pilots on hand to walk through specific missions and answer questions.
The conversation will also cover how police departments, fire agencies, cities, and utility companies across the region are expanding their use of drones — and where volunteer programs fit into that picture.
The event also marks the opening of applications for the next semester of NEMCo UAS Ground School. The NEMCo UAS program has open positions across every level of operations — no previous drone experience required.
Volunteer roles include ground team support, air team operations, flight coordination, piloting, photo and video editing, 2D mapping, and live video feed management.
The event also marks the opening of applications for the next semester of NEMCo UAS Ground School. The NEMCo UAS program has open positions across every level of operations — no previous drone experience required.
Volunteer roles include ground team support, air team operations, flight coordination, piloting, photo and video editing, 2D mapping, and live video feed management.
You don’t have to do it all, but if you have an interest in an area, we can use you! All community members are welcome for this training. For students aged 15 and up, the training provides applied STEM knowledge with real operational context that no classroom replicates.
The Air Squirrels are not a government agency. They’re your neighbors — teachers, engineers, business managers, and retirees — who chose to build something useful for the communities they live in.
The April 30th event is an invitation to understand what that looks like, and for the right people, a chance to become part of it.
Opening Soon! Agatha Christie's The Mysterious Affair at Styles May 15 - June 7, 2026
Agatha Christie's The Mysterious Affair at Styles
May 15-June 7 at the Wade James Theatre
Adapted for the stage by local playwright Kate Danley
Directed by Bryar Freed-Golden
Get ready to be swept away by a world of family secrets and all the Agatha Christie murder mystery intrigue you could desire in EDP's upcoming mainstage production!
This faithful, new adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel The Mysterious Affair at Styles introduces audiences to the first mystery of Hercule Poirot.
The year is 1916 and, injured in WWI, Hastings finds himself convalescing at Styles Court, the manor of his old friend, John Cavendish. But when John’s mother is poisoned in the middle of the night, everyone becomes a suspect.
The only person who can solve the crime is none other than the famed Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot. Agatha Christie’s gifts of misdirection are on full display as red herrings, twists, and turns lead the audience on a dizzying journey to find out whodunnit.
Performances
- May 15 - June 7, 2026
- Thursdays-Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 2pm
TICKETS:
- $31 General Adult (19-59)
- $28 Youth/Senior/Military
- Available online at www.EdmondsDriftwoodPlayers.org/shows-tickets/
- or by phone at 425-774-9600
Ribbon cutting ceremony and grand opening of Copperleaf Northgate affordable housing
 |
| Copperleaf - a new 235-Unit Affordable Housing Community in Northgate |
On April 21, 2026, King County Executive Girmay Zahilay, BRIDGE Housing, and Community Roots Housing hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony with elected leaders, community members, and partners to celebrate the grand opening of Copperleaf Northgate, a new transit-oriented affordable housing community.
The seven-story development features 235 apartments. Of those, 211 units are affordable to households earning up to 60% of Area Median Income, and 24 units are reserved for residents who have experienced housing instability and are receiving supportive services.
 |
| New transit-oriented affordable housing development connects residents to jobs, education, and services across the region |
Apartments range from studios to three bedrooms and feature modern kitchens, wood-style flooring, and scenic views. The energy-efficient and pet-friendly building also includes a community room with a kitchen and TV/media lounge, an outdoor courtyard, makerspace, full-time maintenance staff, laundry on every floor, and extensive bike storage.
Community Roots Housing is also providing all residents over 18 with free transit passes for light rail, bus, and ferry service for up to three years.
A ground-floor daycare center and commercial space are slated to open in late 2026.
 |
| The ribbon-cutting included executives from all the funding agencies, as well as residents, and community members |
Copperleaf Northgate was jointly developed and owned by BRIDGE Housing and Community Roots Housing. The project was designed to connect residents to high-capacity transit and expand access to jobs, education, and services across the region.
“This is the largest investment King County has made in affordable housing, and reflects our commitment to building a region where everyone has access to a safe, stable home,” said King County Executive Girmay Zahilay.
King County’s Housing Finance Program, under the Department of Community and Human Services (DCHS), contributed $30 million in transit-oriented development funding to this development.
Under a 75-year, $1 per-year lease, King County Metro also provided land valued at approximately $12.85 million for the development.
 |
| King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski |
King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski said,
“Copperleaf Northgate is a welcome addition to our community, enabling financially burdened households to live in a desirable North Seattle neighborhood. The County is proud to have supported a project that offers residents access to modern housing, neighborhood amenities, and convenient public transit.”
In 2021, King County entered into a development agreement with Community Roots Housing and BRIDGE Housing to redevelop approximately one acre of the Northgate property, which previously provided 185 transit parking spaces.
BRIDGE Housing is a key affordable housing developer on the West Coast with more than 15,000 units, including over 1,200 units open or under development in King County.
BRIDGE Housing is a key affordable housing developer on the West Coast with more than 15,000 units, including over 1,200 units open or under development in King County.
 |
| Left, Colleen Echohawk, CEO Community Roots Housing |
Seattle-based Community Roots Housing owns and operates over 1,800 units across 44 apartment buildings in Seattle and White Center, providing safe, affordable apartments to over 2,400 residents.
Copperleaf also received funding support from the Seattle Housing Authority, Bank of America, and the Community Preservation Corporation. It was designed by Ankrom Moisan Architects, with Walsh Construction serving as general contractor.
Public hearing for South County fire and EMS construction bond
South County Fire’s Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing May 5 to discuss a resolution to place a fire and EMS construction bond before voters in the November 2026 General Election.
The bond would provide funds for essential facility improvements to support the community’s current and future fire and EMS needs.
If approved by voters, funding would be used to:
- Replace 6 aging fire stations serving Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mill Creek and unincorporated Snohomish County.
- Complete essential renovations and seismic upgrades at 4 existing fire stations in Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace and unincorporated Snohomish County.
- Build 4 additional fire stations to meet growing service demands and maintain response times.
- Address additional critical facility needs essential to daily operations and emergency readiness.
This plan results from more than a decade of strategic work to determine the community’s most important emergency response facility needs. The total value of the bond measure is estimated at $420 million.
Recycling Collection Event in Kenmore May 16, 2026
.png)
Kenmore Park 'n Ride
Please enter off Bothell Way
The Cities of Lake Forest Park and Kenmore are partnering for a combined Recycling Collection Event!
Take a look at the Event Flyer to view the full list of what you can and cannot bring. Please be aware fees do apply for certain items.
The collection event will take place Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 9:00am to 3:00pm at NEW Location: Kenmore Park and Ride and Heron Haven Kenmore Women’s Shelter
While supplies last, for cash only, you can purchase a Rain Barrel or Compost Bin for $25!
Items you can bring (please view the event flyer for full details and information):
While supplies last, for cash only, you can purchase a Rain Barrel or Compost Bin for $25!
Items you can bring (please view the event flyer for full details and information):
- Tires - fees apply
- Lead Acid Batteries
- Alkaline Batteries
- Electronic/Computer Equipment
- TV Sets
- Confidential Paper Shredding
- Propane Tanks - fee applies
- Porcelain Toilets & Sinks - fee applies
- Refrigerators & Freezers - fee applies
- Appliances/Scrap Metal - some fees apply
- Bulky Wood
- Electronic Equipment
- Mattresses/Box Springs - fees apply
Please note: No flat beds or dump trucks allowed. We reserve the right to refuse!
Continuing Education: Making Meaningful AI Conversation - May 6 -13, 2026
 |
| Brian Boston |
$89.00 Register here
Brian Boston is offering a practical, confidence‑building introduction to using AI effectively.
Learn how prompts work, compare free tools, reduce hallucinations, protect your privacy, and use AI to support research, planning, creativity, and everyday tasks.
For beginners and others who just want to learn more.
Learn to:
Brian Boston has been a computer professional for over 30 years, and has educated and informed hundreds of support engineers, and thousands of end users on computer software and hardware for Microsoft and other tech companies.
Read more...
- Identify how to write an effective prompt and apply them to get better results.
- Write clear, structured prompts that produce accurate, useful, and personalized responses
- Compare major free-tier chatbots.
- Use AI tools for everyday tasks such as research, writing, planning, organizing, and creative projects
- Privacy and safe data use when interacting with chatbots.
- Incorporate AI into daily routines with confidence while maintaining healthy skepticism
With Boston Legacyworks, he assists and educates in topics ranging from cloud computing and mobile device/computer security, to operating systems, hardware, and accessibility technology.
In addition to teaching computer related classes through Continuing Education at Shoreline College, he leads classes through the Creative Retirement Institute at Edmonds Community College and volunteers to help people with their tech questions in the community. More information here
County Executive Zahilay statement on King County Regional Homelessness Authority forensic audit
 |
| County Executive Girmay Zahilay |
“Solving King County’s significant homelessness crisis requires honesty about where the regional response system is falling short and a commitment among government partners to bring more people inside.
"We have a responsibility to ensure this system delivers results — operating with greater efficiency, full transparency, and strong accountability for every public dollar entrusted to us.
“The forensic evaluation report from Clark Nuber, the independent third-party consulting services firm brought on in August 2025, raises serious, concerning questions about KCRHA’s internal controls, fiscal management, and accountability.
“Today, after carefully reviewing the full report and its findings, King County and the City of Seattle shared a letter of expectations with KCRHA that outlines immediate actions the Authority will be expected to take.
Read more...
“The forensic evaluation report from Clark Nuber, the independent third-party consulting services firm brought on in August 2025, raises serious, concerning questions about KCRHA’s internal controls, fiscal management, and accountability.
“Today, after carefully reviewing the full report and its findings, King County and the City of Seattle shared a letter of expectations with KCRHA that outlines immediate actions the Authority will be expected to take.
The letter also identifies actions both the County and City will take, as the two primary funders of KCRHA, to provide additional fiscal oversight while KCRHA works to meet the expectations outlined in the letter and to address the report’s findings. The letter and report have also been shared with the full KCRHA Governing Board and the County and City Councils.
“I’m committed to identifying immediate concrete next steps to achieve better financial oversight and stewardship in short order to help stabilize KCRHA, ensure that enhanced, transparent fiscal controls are in place, and that KCRHA maintains the continuity of service that King County taxpayers, service providers, and service recipients need.
“I’m committed to identifying immediate concrete next steps to achieve better financial oversight and stewardship in short order to help stabilize KCRHA, ensure that enhanced, transparent fiscal controls are in place, and that KCRHA maintains the continuity of service that King County taxpayers, service providers, and service recipients need.
"I’ve also asked the King County Executive Finance Committee to identify options that protect the County's investment pool. Over the next few weeks, I will work with the full KCRHA Governing board, County Council, cities, providers, and members of the community on next steps to have the right financial controls in place while also ensuring continuity of care and collaborative engagement on a shared vision for the future of this work.”
Travels with Charlie: Apple Buds Blossoming
Thursday, April 23, 2026
 |
| Future Washington apples Photo by Gordon Snyder |
Oh... it is definitely Spring Time. Charlie and I headed to Fircrest area to checkout my favorite wild apple tree and let Charlie get in some running around sniffs.
Perfect new Apple Buds blossoming and sucking in the sunshine.
Over the next weeks, these buds will grow into Washington Apples. Look around and find a neighborhood apple tree to watch and follow. It’s a fun way to have an outdoor touchstone as apples develop.
Cheers, Gordon Snyder
Earth Day
 |
| Denis Hayes, co-founder of Earth Day |
In 1970, a senator and a young activist joined forces to inspire a new era of environmental activism.
The senator – Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin – had long been concerned about pollution and the environment when a horrific oil spill in Southern California in January 1969 spurred him into action.
Inspired by the anti-war protests of the era, he recruited a 25-year-old graduate student named Denis Hayes to help. They decided to create a day entirely dedicated to environmental advocacy and action; a day meant to inspire the birth of the modern environmental movement…
For more than half a century now, Earth Day has served as an annual affirmation of our environmental commitments – a day of advocacy and activism, a day of protests and celebrations, a day to remind us all of the urgent need to protect our planet.
Here in Washington – home to some of the most beautiful landscapes, forests, and waters in the country – Earth Day has always taken on special significance in the Evergreen State.
At the Department of Natural Resources, Earth Day is a special holiday for the 2,200 of us at this agency dedicated to sustainably stewarding the millions of acres of public land under our care.
Our Aquatics team is dedicated to removing the pollution from derelict vessels and structures from our waters. Our Forest Health team is committed to restoring the health of our forests. Our Urban and Community forestry staff are hard at work helping local organizations plant trees in their communities. And, of course, our Wildland Firefighting Division is always ready to respond quickly to wildfires to protect our forests, landscapes, and communities.
Read more...
Inspired by the anti-war protests of the era, he recruited a 25-year-old graduate student named Denis Hayes to help. They decided to create a day entirely dedicated to environmental advocacy and action; a day meant to inspire the birth of the modern environmental movement…
For more than half a century now, Earth Day has served as an annual affirmation of our environmental commitments – a day of advocacy and activism, a day of protests and celebrations, a day to remind us all of the urgent need to protect our planet.
Here in Washington – home to some of the most beautiful landscapes, forests, and waters in the country – Earth Day has always taken on special significance in the Evergreen State.
At the Department of Natural Resources, Earth Day is a special holiday for the 2,200 of us at this agency dedicated to sustainably stewarding the millions of acres of public land under our care.
Our Aquatics team is dedicated to removing the pollution from derelict vessels and structures from our waters. Our Forest Health team is committed to restoring the health of our forests. Our Urban and Community forestry staff are hard at work helping local organizations plant trees in their communities. And, of course, our Wildland Firefighting Division is always ready to respond quickly to wildfires to protect our forests, landscapes, and communities.
Richmond Beach Community Association will hear from city officials on immigration and public safety April 29, 2026
The church is located at 1512 NW 195th St, Shoreline, WA 98177
City officials are coming to talk about Immigration and public safety.
Shoreline Mayor Robertson, City Manager Ellington, and Police Chief Collins will speak about City Resolution 560, "Supporting and Protecting Immigrant Members of Our Community" and the related issues of Public Safety.
Read more...
City officials are coming to talk about Immigration and public safety.
Shoreline Mayor Robertson, City Manager Ellington, and Police Chief Collins will speak about City Resolution 560, "Supporting and Protecting Immigrant Members of Our Community" and the related issues of Public Safety.
Shorecrest lacrosse coach Adam Weybright dies unexpectedly
 |
| Adam & Elizabeth Weybright |
Adam Weybright, a science teacher at Nathan Hale High School and lacrosse coach at Shorecrest High School, died suddenly last week.
Adam Weybright was 51 years old. His wife says he wore many hats: husband, dad, foster dad, lacrosse coach, to name a few.
He even worked as a scientist until he was 44 years old. Then he followed his heart and his wife into teaching.
“Thursday last week, he went in for a routine procedure, and the next morning he didn’t wake up,” said his wife, Elizabeth Weybright. He leaves three children behind.
“Thursday last week, he went in for a routine procedure, and the next morning he didn’t wake up,” said his wife, Elizabeth Weybright. He leaves three children behind.
Hundreds of people have been posting on social media, sharing in the family’s loss.
Elizabeth said she’s touched by the outpouring of support, “So many people reaching out and hearing their voices and learning how much of an impact he had on everyone.”
The King County Medical Examiner listed his cause of death as coronary artery disease.
A GoFundMe has been set up for Elizabeth and the children.
Elizabeth said she’s touched by the outpouring of support, “So many people reaching out and hearing their voices and learning how much of an impact he had on everyone.”
The King County Medical Examiner listed his cause of death as coronary artery disease.
A GoFundMe has been set up for Elizabeth and the children.
--Some information in this story from KIRO 7
Dembowski calls for dissolution of Regional Homeless Authority in wake of devastating new report
 |
| Kelly Kinnison, CEO of KCRHA |
The Times said,
"The King County Regional Homelessness Authority’s essential weakness relates to its funding model, which depends heavily on retroactive reimbursements — an approach that leaves the body vulnerable to losing track of dollars and expenses, the audit found.
"Though the analysis did not find any examples of outright fraud, the accountability was not strong enough to guarantee that would not happen, it said."
King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski is issuing the following statement concerning a new report outlining continued widespread operational and financial failures within the King County Regional Homeless Authority (KCRHA), calling for the agency to be dissolved.
“I was a skeptic of establishing the Regional Homelessness Authority from the beginning and successfully fought to amend the authorizing legislation to ensure that elected officials would remain in control and would oversee its budgets, and that it could be shut down if it failed. It’s now time for elected officials to bring this failed experiment to an end.
"The Authority has had many chances to advance its mission, and has failed miserably, over and over again. The financial review which has been completed is shocking in its findings - overspending, lack of controls, and an inability to show where significant public dollars have been spent. The agency has failed in its core obligation - to make significant progress in getting people sheltered.
"We must return the work of addressing homelessness to the City of Seattle, King County, and our partner cities throughout the region, and eliminate this expensive and ineffective layer of government.”
Neighbors fight for more parking at Lakefront Park
Lakefront Park funding is at risk after a hearing examiner found the plans don’t meet the city's parking rules.
 |
| A proposed Lakefront Park site plan shows the ten-car parking area and public dock opposed by neighbors. |
Lakefront Park neighbors challenged the LFP park project and after nearly 50 hours of testimony over 9 days, a hearing examiner found the city had violated its own parking rules.
Funding for the Lakefront Park project could be at risk as the city must redesign the park before a grant deadline.
Nearly 90% of the $14.7 million park cost will come from federal, state and county grants.
The planned park would combine the Lyon Creek Preserve with two adjacent properties to create a 3.9-acre park on Lake Washington and include a community center, a playground, and a dock for swimming and paddling.
But only ten parking spaces were planned.
 |
| An aerial view from the LFP website shows the location of the Lakefront Park site near LFP Town Center |
Thousands of cyclists and walkers pass by on the nearby Burke-Gilman Trail and Sound Transit will build BRT stations nearby.
But the project is now at risk after a hearing examiner sided with neighbors over car parking and dock sizes.
Neighbors who live next to the future park site hired an attorney to appeal the project plan and testified they are worried about noise, traffic, and people trespassing. They also said they want nearly a hundred parking spaces paved at the site instead of ten.
Park designers testified that filling the site with more parking would damage the environment and would leave no room for the playground or trees.
In his recent ruling, the hearing examiner rejected the neighbors environmental complaints, but agreed the plans don’t meet the city's parking and dock rules.
Emerald Energy and Choral Magic: Seattle Men’s Chorus Brings Oz to Life In the Wicked Wiz of Oz
 |
| The Wizard of Oz Photo by John Pai |
Review by Kindle Carpp
See below for dates, locations, and tickets!
If you have never experienced a Seattle Men’s Chorus performance, this production offers a vivid introduction to their signature style. As the curtain rises, the chorus stands in polished formation, dressed in black slacks and suit jackets paired with emerald green t-shirts and red HIV and AIDS awareness ribbons. The visual is immediately striking, blending cohesion with personality.
An ensemble of five instrumentalists anchors the sound, including bass, piano, keyboard, and two percussionists. Their presence adds both depth and energy to the performance. At center stands Maestro Paul Caldwell, artistic director and conductor, dressed in a sharply tailored black suit bedazzled with rhinestones. Caldwell’s visual flair matches his musical command, and his expressive conducting style keeps the ensemble unified and engaged throughout the evening.
The musical execution is consistently polished and confident. The chorus demonstrates excellent tonal accuracy, clear diction, and a strong sense of ensemble balance. Their sound is cohesive, with each section supporting each other while still allowing soloists to shine.
The set list draws from a wide range of Oz-inspired material, including selections from The Wizard of Oz film, The Wiz, Wicked, The Oz Project, and additional thematic pieces. This variety keeps the program fresh while still feeling unified. The pacing follows a familiar and effective structure, opening with high energy, settling into a varied middle section with dynamic contrast, and building back to an high-energy finale.
Kelvin Close-Kung delivers a standout performance in “What Is This Feeling.” His vocal clarity and expressive delivery bring humor and character to the piece, while his stage presence keeps the audience fully engaged. He also works seamlessly with the ensemble, enhancing the overall energy of the number.
Cameron Hollingshead shines in “Popular,” bringing charisma and precision to the performance. His vocals are bright and controlled, and his physicality adds a playful dimension to the role. Hollingshead’s interaction with fellow performer Eric Wielock creates a lively and engaging dynamic that elevates the number.
Eric Wielock complements Hollingshead with a performance that is both grounded and spirited. His vocal work is strong and supportive, blending well while still maintaining individuality.
Guest soloist Maya Russell delivers a powerful performance in “Don’t Nobody Bring Me No Bad News.” Her voice is rich and commanding, filled with both joy and intensity. Russell demonstrates remarkable poise and stage presence, and her performance resonates with confidence and artistry. At seventeen and preparing to graduate high school, she already displays a level of skill that marks her as an artist to watch.
What sets the Seattle Men’s Chorus apart is their commitment to theatrical storytelling. This is not simply a concert but a fully realized performance experience, with choreography, character work, and staging that bring each number to life. Approximately half of the program incorporates dance and or featured soloists, adding visual dynamism and variety.
The choreography is energetic and well integrated, enhancing rather than distracting from the music. The choreography feels intentional, supporting the tone and narrative of the songs. The performers clearly enjoy themselves, and that sense of joy translates directly to the audience.
Costume Designer Doris Black creates a visually cohesive yet imaginative world on stage. Her designs are playful, colorful, and meticulously tailored, contributing significantly to the storytelling. The attention to detail is evident in every piece, from fabric choices to embellishments. The costumes are all about detail, velvet shoes, glitter fabric and fun embellishments.
Cameron Hollingshead’s Galinda costume features a perfectly tailored pink suit accented by a bold, oversized flower with silver detailing. The look is both whimsical and polished.
*Eric Wielock’s Galinda costume offers a striking contrast, drawing from matador influences with a cropped jacket, asymmetrical cape, and coordinated pink elements.
Maya Russell’s costume stands out for its layered textures and dramatic silhouette. Her maroon tiered dress, paired with a hoop skirt and pannier-inspired elements creates a bold and memorable image.
A particularly effective moment comes during the transition from the reprise of “Don’t Nobody Bring Me No Bad News” into “Brand New Day.” An onstage costume change adds excitement and theatrical flair, seamlessly leading into the final number. This moment captures the production’s playful creativity and sense of spectacle.
If you have never experienced a Seattle Men’s Chorus performance, this production offers a vivid introduction to their signature style. As the curtain rises, the chorus stands in polished formation, dressed in black slacks and suit jackets paired with emerald green t-shirts and red HIV and AIDS awareness ribbons. The visual is immediately striking, blending cohesion with personality.
An ensemble of five instrumentalists anchors the sound, including bass, piano, keyboard, and two percussionists. Their presence adds both depth and energy to the performance. At center stands Maestro Paul Caldwell, artistic director and conductor, dressed in a sharply tailored black suit bedazzled with rhinestones. Caldwell’s visual flair matches his musical command, and his expressive conducting style keeps the ensemble unified and engaged throughout the evening.
The musical execution is consistently polished and confident. The chorus demonstrates excellent tonal accuracy, clear diction, and a strong sense of ensemble balance. Their sound is cohesive, with each section supporting each other while still allowing soloists to shine.
 |
| Photo by John Pai |
The set list draws from a wide range of Oz-inspired material, including selections from The Wizard of Oz film, The Wiz, Wicked, The Oz Project, and additional thematic pieces. This variety keeps the program fresh while still feeling unified. The pacing follows a familiar and effective structure, opening with high energy, settling into a varied middle section with dynamic contrast, and building back to an high-energy finale.
Kelvin Close-Kung delivers a standout performance in “What Is This Feeling.” His vocal clarity and expressive delivery bring humor and character to the piece, while his stage presence keeps the audience fully engaged. He also works seamlessly with the ensemble, enhancing the overall energy of the number.
Cameron Hollingshead shines in “Popular,” bringing charisma and precision to the performance. His vocals are bright and controlled, and his physicality adds a playful dimension to the role. Hollingshead’s interaction with fellow performer Eric Wielock creates a lively and engaging dynamic that elevates the number.
Eric Wielock complements Hollingshead with a performance that is both grounded and spirited. His vocal work is strong and supportive, blending well while still maintaining individuality.
Guest soloist Maya Russell delivers a powerful performance in “Don’t Nobody Bring Me No Bad News.” Her voice is rich and commanding, filled with both joy and intensity. Russell demonstrates remarkable poise and stage presence, and her performance resonates with confidence and artistry. At seventeen and preparing to graduate high school, she already displays a level of skill that marks her as an artist to watch.
What sets the Seattle Men’s Chorus apart is their commitment to theatrical storytelling. This is not simply a concert but a fully realized performance experience, with choreography, character work, and staging that bring each number to life. Approximately half of the program incorporates dance and or featured soloists, adding visual dynamism and variety.
 |
| Photo by John Pai |
The choreography is energetic and well integrated, enhancing rather than distracting from the music. The choreography feels intentional, supporting the tone and narrative of the songs. The performers clearly enjoy themselves, and that sense of joy translates directly to the audience.
Costume Designer Doris Black creates a visually cohesive yet imaginative world on stage. Her designs are playful, colorful, and meticulously tailored, contributing significantly to the storytelling. The attention to detail is evident in every piece, from fabric choices to embellishments. The costumes are all about detail, velvet shoes, glitter fabric and fun embellishments.
Cameron Hollingshead’s Galinda costume features a perfectly tailored pink suit accented by a bold, oversized flower with silver detailing. The look is both whimsical and polished.
*Eric Wielock’s Galinda costume offers a striking contrast, drawing from matador influences with a cropped jacket, asymmetrical cape, and coordinated pink elements.
Maya Russell’s costume stands out for its layered textures and dramatic silhouette. Her maroon tiered dress, paired with a hoop skirt and pannier-inspired elements creates a bold and memorable image.
A particularly effective moment comes during the transition from the reprise of “Don’t Nobody Bring Me No Bad News” into “Brand New Day.” An onstage costume change adds excitement and theatrical flair, seamlessly leading into the final number. This moment captures the production’s playful creativity and sense of spectacle.
 |
| Photo by John Pai |
The Seattle Men’s Chorus delivers a vibrant and engaging performance that combines musical excellence with theatrical flair. The production is polished, energetic, and filled with moments of genuine joy. From the precision of the ensemble to the individuality of the soloists, every element works together to create a memorable experience.
For audiences who love Oz and its many interpretations, this show offers both nostalgia and fresh perspective. It celebrates familiar material while adding new layers of creativity and performance.
There truly is no place like a Seattle Men’s Chorus show, and this journey over the rainbow is one well worth taking.
---
*In this performance Elphaba was performed only by Eric Wielock
---
With performances in Seattle, Bellingham and Tacoma, Wicked Wiz of Oz promises a magical concert experience for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Tickets are available now through the Seattle Men’s Chorus website at SeattleChoruses.org.
Wicked Wiz of Oz – Seattle Men’s Chorus Concerts:
Sunday, May 3, 2026 3 p.m. Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham
Saturday, May 9, 2026 8 p.m. Benaroya Hall, Seattle**
Sunday, May 16, 2026 3 p.m. Pantages Theater, Tacoma
**Streaming Pass available for purchase for this performance (and viewing from May 16–31, 2026).
Wicked Wiz of Oz – Seattle Men’s Chorus Concerts:
Sunday, May 3, 2026 3 p.m. Mount Baker Theatre, Bellingham
Saturday, May 9, 2026 8 p.m. Benaroya Hall, Seattle**
Sunday, May 16, 2026 3 p.m. Pantages Theater, Tacoma
**Streaming Pass available for purchase for this performance (and viewing from May 16–31, 2026).
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
Posts
