Shoreline Area News

Welcome to Week 2 of the Shoreline Farmers Market season - Saturdays 10an - 2pm

Saturday, June 13, 2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us for opening day. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces, meet new community members, and celebrate the start of our 15th season together. The energy, support, and enthusiasm from shoppers, vendors, volunteers, and sponsors made for a fantastic kickoff to the season.

As we head into Week 2, we're excited for another Saturday filled with fresh local produce, handcrafted goods, delicious prepared foods, live music, and community connection.

We're also continuing to celebrate Pride Month alongside the City of Shoreline, with our Pride Lounge and Pride-themed activities helping make the market an even more welcoming and vibrant place for all.

We can't wait to see you at the market this Saturday!

MARKET GAMES

POWERED BY SALAL CREDIT UNION

Looking for a little extra fun during your market visit? Stop by Market Games, where kids, families, and market-goers of all ages can enjoy a variety of games while spending time at the market.

A special thank you to Salal Credit Union, the proud sponsor of Market Games. They'll be tabling at the market this Saturday, so be sure to stop by, say hello, and thank them for helping make this fun community program possible!

KIDS CLUB

POWERED BY OPTUM

returns this week at the market! From crafts and activities to fresh food fun, we’re excited to welcome young market-goers for another season of learning, exploring, and market adventures.

Dunn Gardens Books with Beth June 23, 2026

Photo courtesy Dunn Gardens

13533 Northshire Rd NW,

Books with Beth
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at 12:30pm

Pay-what-you-can with a suggested donation of $10.

Join us for a warm, welcoming afternoon as we celebrate the return of our dear friend and former Dunn Gardens Executive Director, Beth Weir, visiting from New Zealand.

Beth will read from her newly published book, One Move, One Mouse, One Marriage, a heartfelt and humorous reflection on life’s unexpected turns, and invite guests to share a favorite book of their own—sparking conversation, connection, and plenty of great recommendations.

She’ll be joined by two fellow writing friends, Laura C. Lippman, sharing poems from The Catastrophist’s Daughter, and Wanda J. Herndon, author of Working Class to Breaking Glass: One Woman’s Fight to Belong and to Lead.

We’ll sip tea and wine, enjoy a few cookies, and settle into the beauty of Dunn Gardens—perhaps even outdoors, if the weather cooperates.

To sweeten the afternoon, Beth is offering a book raffle!

Come for the stories, stay for the community.

Register here

Echo Lake Neighborhood Association to host candidates for 32nd LD at virtual meeting June 16, 2026

A more detailed map can be found here

At their monthly meeting on Tuesday June 16, 2026 at 7pm on Zoom, the Echo Lake Neighborhood Association (ELNA) will host the candidates for positions in the 32nd LD of the state legislature.

State Senator and Representative Position 1 are on the primary ballot on August 4, 2026 after which the top 2 candidates in each race will advance to the November election.

Representative Position 2, with two candidates, will not be in the primary but will go directly to the November ballot.

State Senator (4 year term) - Cindy Ryu, Ira McBee, Jesse Salomon
State Representative Position 1 (2 year term) - Jenna Nand, Will Chen, Keith Scully, Danica Noble, Lisa Resnak, Chris Bloomquist
State Representative Position 2 (2 year term) - Lauren Davis, Imraan Siddiqi

All the candidates have been invited to the ELNA meeting and all but one so far have confirmed. This is not a debate or a candidate forum, but an opportunity for each candidate to introduce themselves.

The 32nd legislative district includes

all of Shoreline
a section of northwest Seattle
the Town of Woodway
a section of Edmonds, south of Edmonds Way
the unincorporated neighborhood of Esperance
Mountlake Terrace
Lynnwood

If you are not on the ELNA mailing list, send an email to ELNABoard@gmail.com requesting the link for this meeting. Please state the area where you live. Echo Lake residents will be added to the mailing list; others will not.

Please do not reply to this article but send a new email to ELNABoard@gmail.com

Jobs: WSDOT Lead Appraiser (PAS5)

WSDOT

Lead Appraiser (PAS5)

Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$80,816 – $108,712 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a Lead Appraiser (Property & Acquisition Specialist 5) to serve as the Northwest Region’s expert-level eminent domain appraiser, providing leadership and technical expertise for complex property valuation and right of way acquisition activities. This position performs and oversees appraisal and appraisal review assignments in compliance with USPAP, FHWA, and WSDOT requirements while ensuring transportation projects meet all applicable state and federal regulations. The Lead Appraiser develops scopes of work, manages consultant appraiser contracts, performs valuations and reviews, and provides guidance on valuation methodologies and project delivery. In addition, this role supports the Appraisal Division Supervisor by leading appraisal efforts, training staff, overseeing projects, and establishing quality standards for appraisal work products from project design through final valuation.

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK

Gloria Z. Nagler: Anna's Hummingbird says...

Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

Up there, photog, that’s my Happy Place. Flying free, and finding feeders...

--GZN

No Drone Zone for FIFA matches

Leave Your Drone at Home

SEATTLE, WA – The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), has established a “No Drone Zone” for FIFA World Cup 2026.

Unsafe and improper use of “unmanned aircraft systems” (UAS) or drones poses a physical hazard to other aircraft and individuals on the ground and can violate federal law. 

The FBI is working with the FAA to enforce temporary flight restrictions (TFRs), using federally authorized capabilities to detect, track, and assess unauthorized drone activity, with personnel from both agencies deployed full-time to identify drone activity that could threaten aviation safety, critical infrastructure, or public safety at and around event venues.

FBI Seattle, together with our partners from Seattle Police Department, King County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Patrol, the Port of Seattle, and DHS agencies, including the Federal Air Marshal Service, emphasize the importance of drone operators checking for active flight restrictions.

TFRs will be in place for all U.S. match venues and associated event sites. 

In Seattle, the TFRs will cover Seattle Stadium (Lumen Field) and a radius of 3 miles around the stadium. The TFRs will be in place 3 hours before the match until 3 hours after the conclusion of the match

FREE Annual E-Waste Recycling and Paper Shredding Event at Shoreline Windermere July 11, 2026

Don’t miss our FREE Annual E-Waste Recycling and Paper Shredding Event!

Stop by Windermere Real Estate/Shoreline on Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 10:00am - 12:00pm (or until the truck is full) to safely dispose of old electronics and sensitive documents.

900 N 185th St, Shoreline 98133

This drive-through event is simple and secure; just pop the trunk and we’ll take care of the rest.

Limit of two bankers’ boxes per vehicle
Residential drop-off only (no commercial loads)
Please remove paper clips, binders, and plastic

We will also be accepting non-perishable food and cash donations benefiting a local food bank serving Shoreline.

Thank you for helping our community!

Archiving and Preservation Workshop June 30, 2026

Curation 101: Archiving and Preservation Workshop - Learn how to take care of your own treasures with the Shoreline Historical Museum!

Bring a treasured photo, letter, or other small artifact and learn how to properly house and store your items so they can have a long and happy life!

Participants will all receive a free archival box to preserve their keepsake!

WHEN: Tuesday, June 30 2:00 - 3:30pm
COST: FREE
LOCATION: Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center, 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline 98155
REGISTRATION: Call or visit the senior center 206-365-1536

Ridgecrest Neighborhood clean up day today

Join the Ridgecrest Neighborhood on Saturday June 13, 2026 from 9am to 2pm to clean up the neighborhood.

Meet at either of these location:

Clean up zones will be assigned at meet up sites.

Wildfires begin

2017 view from Richmond Beach
Photo by Lee Lageschulte

By Diane Hettrick

The first wildfire in the state serious enough for State fire assistance has been reported in Whitman County in southeast Washington near the Idaho border.

Whitman County - State fire assistance has been mobilized under the Washington State Fire Services Resource Mobilization Plan in support of local firefighters working to contain the Snake River Fire located in Whitman County, near Clarkston.

The Snake River Fire started on June 12, 2026, at approximately 5:55 p.m. This fire is estimated at 160 acres and growing. It is burning in grass and brush and is threatening rangeland, primary residences, and power, communication, and rail infrastructure. No evacuations are in effect at this time. The fire cause is currently under investigation.

Ever since that awful summer where Puget Sound was filled with smoke from Canada, California, and eastern Washington and we couldn't open our windows for weeks, I have paid attention to the wildfire announcements.

In the intervening years, the state has paid more attention to its forests and worked extensively with local fire jurisdictions, but we are still vulnerable, even in Puget Sound.

Scene on the Sound: Pelican migration

Friday, June 12, 2026

By Jan Hansen

Decades ago, White Pelicans were common in Puget Sound. But with pesticides and habitat changes, they disappeared. I've only seen them twice in 70 years. Today was one of those times.

The pelicans flew over while my camera and I were having coffee on the deck. With the loss of breeding grounds, these huge birds are known to seek out new locations, and ten years ago the pelicans found Deer Lagoon on Whidbey Island and Honeymoon Bay on Vancouver Island in British Columbia. They have returned every year since.

Global Celebrations This Week in Shoreline, June 12 - 19

Global Celebrations This Week in Shoreline, June 12 - 19

One City, Many Nations: A Welcoming Celebration for All

Your weekly roundup of Global Celebrations in Shoreline. Each week we’re highlighting events, games, and places to gather related to the FIFA World Cup 26™.

Is your neighborhood organizing a watch party at local hangout spot? Email DestinationShoreline@gmail.com to be included.

For the latest information visit: www.destinationshoreline.com/global-celebration

Global Celebration Events this Week in Shoreline:
Shoreline Kick-Off Gaming Tournament for Teens
Saturday, June 13 6:00 PM - 10:30 PM, Richmond Highlands Recreation Center
Join us at the Teen Center for a Soccer themed video game competition with free snacks! Open to all middle school students.

Smokin Pete's Game Day BBQ
Monday, June 15 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Shoreline North/185th Station
Friday, June 19 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Shoreline North/185th Station
Smokin Pete's BBQ will be at the Shoreline North/185th Station starting 2 hours before the match time serving local BBQ favorites until sold out!

Parkwood Neighbors Watch Party: USA vs. Australia at Jersey’s Great Food & Spirits
Friday, June 19 12:00 PM, Jersey's Great Food & Spirits
Join the Parkwood Neighborhood Association for a watch party as the USA takes on Australia in Match 32! Gather with neighbors at Jersey’s Great Food & Spirits on June 19 at 12:00 PM to cheer on the USA team, enjoy great food & drinks, and celebrate the excitement of international soccer.

Juneteenth Celebration in Shoreline!
Friday, June 19 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Shoreline City Hall
In partnership with Black Coffee Northwest and the City of Shoreline, we can’t wait to celebrate community, culture, and freedom with you. See you there!

Upcoming Games:

Friday, June 12
Canada v Bosnia and Herzegovina - Toronto Stadium - 12 PM PT
USA v Paraguay - Los Angeles Stadium - 6 PM PT

Saturday, June 13
Qatar v Switzerland – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium- 12 PM PT
Brazil v Morocco – New York New Jersey Stadium – 3 PM PT
Haiti v Scotland - Boston Stadium – 6 PM PT
Australia v Türkiye – BC Place Vancouver – 9 PM PT

Sunday, June 14
Germany v Curaçao – Houston Stadium – 10 AM PT
Netherlands v Japan – Dallas Stadium – 1 PM PT
Côte d'Ivoire v Ecuador – Philadelphia Stadium – 4 PM PT
Sweden v Tunisia – Estadio Monterrey – 7 PM PT

Monday, June 15
Spain v Cabo Verde – Atlanta Stadium – 9 AM PT
Belgium v Egypt – Seattle Stadium – 12 PM PT
Saudi Arabia v Uruguay – Miami Stadium – 3 PM PT
IR Iran v New Zealand – Los Angeles Stadium – 6 PM PT

Tuesday, June 16
France v Senegal – New York New Jersey Stadium – 12 PM PT
Iraq v Norway – Boston Stadium – 3 PM PT
Argentina v Algeria – Kansas City Stadium – 6 PM PT
Austria v Jordan – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium – 9 PM PT

Wednesday, June 17
Portugal v Congo DR – Houston Stadium – 10 AM PT
England v Croatia – Dallas Stadium – 1 PM PT
Ghana v Panama – Toronto Stadium – 4 PM PT
Uzbekistan v Colombia – Mexico City Stadium – 7 PM PT

Thursday, June 18
Czechia v South Africa – Atlanta Stadium – 9 AM PT
Switzerland v Bosnia and Herzegovina –Los Angeles Stadium – 12 PM PT
Canada v Qatar - BC Place Vancouver – 3 PM PT
Mexico v Korea Republic - Estadio Guadalajara – 6 PM PT

Friday, June 19
USA v Australia – Seattle Stadium – 12 PM PT
Scotland v Morocco – Boston Stadium – 3 PM PT
Brazil v Haiti – Philadelphia Stadium – 5:30 PM PT
Türkiye v Paraguay – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium – 8 PM PT

Community Gathering Places:
(Interactive Map)
·        Cabin Tavern
·        Darrell's Tavern
·        El Volcán Azul
·        Jersey's Great Food & Spirits
·        North City Lounge
·        Sodam Chicken Shoreline
·        Touchdown's Sports Bar & Grill
·        Vault 177
·        Woody's Bar
·        Yum Yum Thai Restaurant

Register a Team for the Shoreline Unity Youth Soccer Jamboree on July 12th
Join us for a dynamic 5v5 soccer jamboree celebrating the spirit of the game and the unity it brings. Whether you're playing to win or just love the game, this event is about community, competition, and connection. This free community event is open to boys and girls from under 9 to under 12.

Brought to you in partnership with Destination Shoreline, the City of Shoreline and the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce, Lake City Collective, and Seattle Youth Soccer Association.

The Giant Chess Set returns to Third Place Commons

Photo courtesy Third Place Commons

The giant chess set is back at Third Place Commons! On June 6, 2026 a joyful celebration marked the return of this iconic Commons tradition after its disappearance during the pandemic.

Commons Director Silje Sodal welcomed the crowd

Far more than simply a collection of oversized chess pieces, the chess set is a truly beloved part of the history and identity of the Commons, with generations of visitors holding fond memories of learning the game, playing spirited matches, and gathering around the board.

Thanks to an extraordinary multi-generational volunteer effort over the past year and a half, scattered chess pieces were located, restored, and rebuilt, and a beautiful new custom board was created.

The heartwarming celebration featured a whimsical Parade of Pieces with a trumpet procession, chess workshops, open play, cake, button-making, festive decorations, and a video documenting the restoration journey.

Ross Baarslag-Benson headed the restoration, assisted by many volunteers,
including Ethan Robertson, Henry Hill, and Justin Lee, who all spoke at the event

Guests also enjoyed remarks from Mayor Tom French, Executive Director Silje Sodal, and teen volunteers Ethan Robertson, Henry Hill, and Justin Lee, who helped refurbish the pieces under the leadership and mentorship of Ross Baarslag-Benson.

Chess workshops and play

The return of the giant chess set is a celebration of the vision that inspired the Commons nearly 30 years ago: creating a space where people of all ages can come together to learn, play, and build community.

Third Place Commons is grateful to the volunteers whose dedication, creativity, and generosity made this special day possible, including Ross Baarslag-Benson, Ethan Robertson, Henry Hill, Justin Lee, Ken Lee, Siva Sankrithi, ShoreLake Arts, Safeway, Tara Shadduck and James Lyons.

--Photos courtesy Third Place Commons

Windows Basics: Everyday Computer Skills June 22, 2026 at Senior Activity Center

Windows Basics: Everyday Computer Skills

This class introduces the fundamentals of using a Windows computer, including navigating the desktop, managing files and folders, adjusting settings, and learning helpful shortcuts for everyday tasks.

Time will be reserved at the end for questions and discussion.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own laptop if they would like hands-on help, but it is not required.

WHEN: Monday, June 22, 2026 from 10:00am - 12:00pm
COST: FREE
LOCATION: Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center, 18560 1st Ave NE
REGISTRATION: Call or visit the senior center 206-365-1536

Dunn Gardens: Tails on Trails and Music on the Lawn June 17, 2026

Photo courtesy Dunn Gardens

Dunn Gardens

Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Tails on Trails 9am - 4pm
Music on the Lawn 12 - 3pm

13533 Northshire Rd NW, Seattle 98177

Get ready for a tail-wagging good time at Dunn Gardens! For the very first time ever, we’re opening the Gardens to our four-legged friends for Tails on the Trails—paired with a lively afternoon of Celtic music from our favorite band, Third Harbour, who will perform from 12-3pm.

Leash up your pup, pack a picnic, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon wandering the trails, lounging on the lawn, and soaking in the beauty of the Gardens alongside toe-tapping Celtic and Irish tunes.

As this is a special one-day-only dog-friendly event, we kindly ask that all dogs remain on leash and that owners clean up after their pets.

Grab your family, friends, blankets, and baskets, and join us for a paws-itively unforgettable summer afternoon!

This is a pay-what-you-can event, with a suggested donation of $10. We believe everyone should have access to the Gardens—please give what you’re able, and know that your support helps sustain inclusive programming and ongoing stewardship of the Gardens.

Register here

NUHSA creates Immigrant Resource Guide with Housing and Homelessness Glossary

The North Urban Human Services Alliance (NUHSA) has compiled resources to support our immigrant community members.

The Community Resource Guide / Guía de recursos comunitarios lists links to resources related to:

Legal Resources and Family Separation Planning
Contacts and Public Policies
Plans and Policies for Businesses and Nonprofits
Mutual Aid and Rapid Response Groups
Mental Health Resources
Low-barrier Food Resources

Download the English PDF resource guide here, or en Espanol aqui.

Esta guía fue preparada por North Urban Human Services Alliance.

See the NUHSA website for the most up-to-date version.

In addition, NUHSA created the Housing and Homelessness Glossary

to provide a list of important terms related to housing and homelessness, and
to define and clarify these terms to empower community members to engage in the critical housing discussions happening throughout Northern King County.

Statistics and program details reflect the most recent data available as of 2026 and may change annually.

GS Labs settlement provides $1M in restitution for Washingtonians regarding COVID-19 testing

Washingtonians will receive nearly $1 million in restitution through a bipartisan multistate settlement with GS Labs resolving claims that the company, which ran COVID-19 testing sites, overcharged patients and failed to deliver timely test results.

The 18-state coalition, co-led by Washington, investigated a number of problems with GS Labs’ nationwide testing practices from 2020 through 2022, including that:

GS Labs intentionally advertised inflated “cash prices” for COVID-19 tests, sometimes as high as $380 per test or nearly $1,000 for multi-panel tests, that were used to justify overcharging patients with insurance coverage. And while GS Labs offered a “discount” from these “cash prices” to actual cash-paying patients, almost 30,000 patients still paid much more than market rate for their COVID-19 tests.
For hundreds of thousands of patients, GS Labs guaranteed test results within three days and failed to deliver on its promise, sometimes taking a week or longer to get test results to patients.
Despite advertising that patients with insurance would have no out-of-pocket costs, the company charged administrative fees as high as $49 per test to about 70,000 patients.

“During the height of the pandemic, GS Labs unfairly profited off of Washingtonians just trying to get tested for COVID-19,” Attorney General Nick Brown said.

“This is another great example of how our office vigorously enforces Washington’s consumer protection laws to protect people from deceptive business practices.”

Under the terms of today’s settlement, GS Labs will pay a total of $3.6 million in restitution to patients in the 18 plaintiff states. That includes $1.8 million for cash-paying patients who were overcharged for tests, $1.75 million for patients who were charged administrative fees, and about $34,000 for cash-paying patients who did not receive test results within three days.

In Washington, more than $987,000 will be available to compensate state residents who were harmed by the company’s testing practices. More than 11,000 people in Washington are expected to qualify for restitution, in amounts ranging from $5 for people who were improperly charged administrative fees to $200 for people who paid for a COVID test out of pocket.

Eligibility

The settlement creates an online restitution mechanism that will be funded and administered by GS Labs, with oversight by the multistate coalition. Eligible consumers include out-of-pocket paying consumers who paid more than the market rate for testing, consumers who paid for test results that were not delivered within the advertised turn-around time, and consumers who paid administrative fees to GS Labs.

To determine one’s eligibility and, if applicable, to receive a restitution payment, consumers must complete a brief verification process, which is available here

Streamlined customs inspections for travel from Canada on Amtrak

Amtrak Cascades train

OLYMPIA – Just in time for international soccer matches, traveling into the United States from Canada on Amtrak Cascades trains will be a little easier – and quicker.

As of June 8, 2026, Amtrak Cascades passenger trains connecting Vancouver, British Columbia with 18 stations in western Washington and Oregon began offering streamlined customs inspections for passengers traveling into the United States.

Under a “preclearance” designation, trains no longer need to stop in Blaine, Washington, for U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents to board and conduct a second review of declaration cards, luggage and carry-on items.

The preclearance designation allows those seeking entry to the United States to be cleared through customs at locations outside of the United States. Previously, this has only occurred at airports, not at train stations. There are 16 preclearance airport locations around the world, including ten in Canada. Canada’s Pacific Central Station in Vancouver becomes the first rail station in North America with the designation.

Gloria Nagler: Darling little mammals

Thursday, June 11, 2026

Dougie on lookout
Photo copyright Gloria Z. Nagler

Birds are my usual photographic subject, but darling little mammals are nothing to shake a stick at! (If that phrase even works here:)

--Gloria Z. Nagler

$550,000 in Grants available for Gesa Credit Union’s Local Heroes Grant Program

Gesa Local Hero program

Gesa, a leading credit union in the Pacific Northwest dedicated to driving meaningful change in the communities it serves, has announced it is now accepting applications for its 2026 Local Heroes Grant Program through July 31, 2026.

Local organizations that support one or more of Gesa’s recognized local heroes groups, including firefighters, healthcare workers, law enforcement, educators and Veterans, are encouraged to apply for individual grants of up to $50,000 to assist their continued service.

“The Local Heroes Grant Program is a great example of how our members join us in supporting meaningful causes throughout the communities we serve,” said Amber Merrill, Community Relations Manager at Gesa Credit Union.

“These local heroes make our communities a better and safer place, and we’re proud to support them in making a difference.”

Funding for the grants comes from Gesa’s Affinity Debit Card Program, which allows members to support their chosen local heroes category with every swipe. Funds generated through the program are collected and awarded annually by the Gesa Community Foundation.

Since 2021, the Local Heroes Grant Program has provided more than $2.2 million in grants to local educators, firefighters, healthcare workers, law enforcement and Veterans. Last year alone, the program distributed more than $528,000 across 52 grants, marking the largest single-year total in program history.

Grant applicants must show proof that the funds will directly benefit at least one of the specified local heroes groups in a Gesa community, newly defined this year as a community where Gesa has field of membership. The grant application period closes July 31, 2026.

For more information on grant eligibility and to apply, visit this page.

Gesa Credit Union is one of Washington's largest credit unions, with $6.7 billion in assets, and is more than 320,000 members strong. Gesa is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and is a full-service financial institution that offers a complete array of consumer, mortgage, and business products and services.

Headquartered in Richland, Washington, Gesa operates 46 branches, loan centers, full-service student-operated campus branches at Washington State University, and 25 student-operated high school branches across Washington state

The Gesa Community Foundation, established in 2022, further supports Gesa's ongoing commitment to local communities and charitable giving, which includes support for schools, Local Heroes groups, and community organizations through its Affinity Debit Card Program, as well as through its annual youth scholarships, and free financial and educational resources available to members and the general public.

Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Cookies

Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter here

Local student graduates from Marquette University

MILWAUKEE, Wis. (June 10, 2026)

This past spring, Nicholas Markham of Seattle, WA, graduated from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Markham earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science.

Markham was one of 3,166 students to graduate from Marquette in May. The university celebrated its 145th Commencement with a series of events, including Graduate Recognition Ceremonies at Fiserv Forum and a Baccalaureate Mass on campus.

Marquette University is a Catholic, Jesuit university that draws over 8,000 undergraduate and 3,700 graduate and professional students from nearly all states and more than 60 countries.

Washington Green School

Washington Green School Alert—Year 2!

We’re back for our second year, and gardeners in the Pacific Northwest can register for the 2026-27 Washington Green School course.

Gardeners have the opportunity to learn research-based, sustainable gardening practices. The curriculum covers everything from pest management to fire-resistant landscaping.

There are two tracks: WSU Extension Master Gardener and the Washington Gardener certificate.

Mark your calendar! You'll find all the details here: WA Green School - Washington State University

Lynnwood sisters indicted for wide ranging wire fraud and identity theft scheme

Seattle – One of two sisters who allegedly defrauded a national retailer and individuals by gift card and debit card fraud, appeared yesterday and pleaded not guilty to a 16-count indictment in U.S. District Court in Seattle, announced First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Neil Floyd.

Hayley Brown Lundquist, 30, of Snohomish County was ordered detained pending trial currently scheduled for August 3, 2026. Brown Lundquist’s sister, Samantha Fleischacker Gillihan, 34, of Arlington, was arrested last month and pleaded not guilty to the indictment. She was released on her personal recognizance.

“As alleged in the indictment, these two defendants cut a wide swath of fraud in Snohomish County,” said First Assistant Neil Floyd. “We put a priority on assisting local law enforcement who are struggling to put a stop to persistent offenders who continue to commit crimes despite local arrests.”

“This investigation demonstrates the importance of thorough local investigations and the value of strong partnerships across all levels of government,” said Lynnwood Police Chief Coleman Langdon.

“What began as a municipal investigation ultimately revealed criminal activity that extended beyond the scope and jurisdiction of a single agency. Through close coordination with federal authorities, investigators were able to leverage additional resources, expertise, and prosecutorial capabilities to pursue a more comprehensive response to the criminal conduct involved.”

“These subjects are charged with stealing tens of thousands of dollars by draining gift cards they had not purchased, as well as debit cards obtained by exploiting other people’s identities,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office.

“The FBI and our law enforcement partners like the Lynnwood Police Department take wire fraud and identity theft seriously and are committed to holding fraudsters accountable.”

According to the indictment, the two defendants used a sequencing scheme to load gift card numbers on their smartphones – numbers for gift cards they never purchased that may have been purchased by others.

The women would use any balance on the gift cards to purchase merchandise and then return the merchandise for cash or other value. Some of the merchandise was sold to others. In all the pair defrauded the retailer of more than $80,000.

In addition to the gift card scheme, Brown Lundquist and her sister used stolen debit cards belonging to other people to purchase merchandise. At times they used fraudulently obtained debit cards along with fraudulently obtained gift cards to make purchases. At the time of her arrest, Brown Lundquist had identity information for numerous people in her possession.

Each woman is charged with multiple counts of wire fraud for their gift card and debit card scheme. Each is also charged with Aggravated Identity Theft for using a real person’s information in connection with the debit card purchases.

Finally, Brown Lundquist is charged with unlawful possession of a firearm because of her previous felony convictions in Snohomish County.

Jobs: WSDOT Biology Lead (TPS4)

WSDOT

Biology Lead (TPS4)
Shoreline, WA – Northwest Region
$82,857 – $111,409 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is currently seeking a Transportation Planning Specialist 4 to join the Northwest Region (NWR) Environmental team that protects Washington’s environment and communities as part of operating and improving the state transportation system.

The NWR Environmental team works closely with all transportation partners, users, and diverse communities to protect and improve the environment through its policy development, technical support and training, and leadership in sustainability and resiliency. This lead position supports the agency’s mission, strategic plan goal areas, and safety of the traveling public by serving as a regional leader in biology.

The candidate will provide guidance to regional biologists through mentoring and active engagement related to biological analysis, documentation, and mitigation requirements for WSDOT in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK

County Executive Girmay Zahilay delivers 2026 State of the County address: Building A More Connected King County

King County Executive
Girmay Zahilary
King County – Executive Girmay Zahilay delivered the 2026 State of the County address, focused on building a more connected King County. This was Executive Zahilay's first State of the County speech since taking office in November 2025 as the first new executive in 16 years and as the first immigrant, refugee, and millennial to hold the position.

Speaking to a crowd of over 500 local leaders, community advocates, King County employees, and residents at the Federal Way Performing Arts Center, Executive Zahilay reflected on his administration’s early accomplishments and reaffirmed his commitment to the work ahead.

“We are living through a period of tremendous change in King County,” said Executive Zahilay.

“Right now, we are making generational decisions about the future of our transit system, our homelessness response, our climate resilience, our health care infrastructure, and the affordability of our region. I’m incredibly proud of the King County employees and community partners who have stepped up to meet this moment.
"In just six months, we have expanded housing and behavioral health services, strengthened accountability in government, advanced major transit investments, and protected vulnerable communities in the face of federal threats. There is still much more work to do, and we will continue to act with urgency to build a King County that is more affordable, more equitable, more connected, and full of opportunity for the next generation.”

READ: Executive Zahilay’s State of the County Remarks As Prepared

WATCH: We Are King County Video

Highlights from the 2026 State of the County include:

Doubling investments in childcare: As part of the renewal of the Best Starts for Kids levy, Executive Zahilay announced he will propose at least doubling investments in childcare for kids ages zero to three and increasing the County’s total investment for childcare to more than half a billion dollars – the largest investment in childcare in county history – building on his commitment to make King County more affordable for working families.
Expanding shelter and housing: As part of his Breaking the Cycle Executive Order and commitment to opening 500 net new units of housing and shelter in 500 days, Executive Zahilay announced that the County will open a new tiny home village on county property in Seattle with 80 new units. This announcement builds on recent openings, including 86-units of permanent supportive housing at the Booker House and 235-units of affordable housing at Copperleaf Northgate and a groundbreaking at Prisma which will offer 328 new affordable homes in Redmond.
Improving government accountability: King County has made progress to implement Executive Zahilay’s Better Government Executive Order, including hiring an internal auditor director, launching a countywide fraud prevention training to over 3,000 employees, creating a stronger countywide conflict-of-interest policy, and beginning a base budget review for the first time in county history to ensure every dollar spent is driving outcomes.
Modernizing the behavioral health system: Executive Zahilay continues work with urgency to implement the voter-approved Crisis Care Centers initiative, expanding access to behavioral health services across King County. The Kirkland Crisis Care Center is currently open and serving youth and adults in North King County, and the Seattle Crisis Care Center is on track to open next year. A provider has been selected for the future South King County site, and providers for the East King County site and a youth-focused center will be announced in the coming months.
Increasing transit service and safety: Executive Zahilay announced King County Metro’s Next Stop Service plan, creating a roadmap for transit service improvements through 2038. The plan will deliver nine new bus routes, four new RapidRide routes, increase the number of routes running every 15 minutes, and expand security and behavioral health presence.
Preventing gun violence: Reflecting his commitment to safe, healthy communities, Executive Zahilay announced that his administration will invest $4.9 million to sustain and strengthen the Regional Office of Gun Violence Prevention, building on its work to prevent violence, intervene with those most at risk, respond when violence occurs, and support safer communities throughout the region.
Cutting through red tape: As part of his Build for Affordability agenda, Executive Zahilay announced the creation of a new permitting advisory panel focused on streamlining regulations and reducing barriers to building needed housing and opening businesses in King County.
Building climate resilience: King County continues to implement the Strategic Climate Action Plan, including expanding EV infrastructure, preserving forests and farmlands, reducing waste, and preparing frontline communities for the impacts of extreme weather events.
Securing the future home of the Skyway Community Center: King County recently purchased the Skyway Bowl property as the site for Skyway’s first community center, marking a major investment in this historically underserved area of unincorporated King County. The project, championed by the Executive during his time on the County Council, is part of his vision to build connected neighborhoods where families have access to amenities that improve quality of life.
Fostering trust with Tribes: To strengthen government-to-government relations with Tribes, Executive Zahilay announced the development of the first countywide Tribal consultation policy. This policy will ensure that Tribal sovereignty is incorporated at all levels of decision making.
Expanding employment opportunities for youth: Last month, Executive Zahilay successfully launched YouthWorks, connecting teens and young adults to paid internships and job opportunities across the region to build skills and explore career paths.
Launching the Volunteer Corps: As part of his Be in Community priority, Executive Zahilay will launch the King County Volunteer Corps this summer, a new initiative focused on connecting residents to volunteer opportunities across King County through a centralized web portal, making it easier for people to serve their communities and make a difference.

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