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| Tulips in the Garden Photo by Lee Lagerschulte |
"Tulips in the garden
Tulips in the park
But the best place for tulips
Is two lips in the dark"
Thanks to Jean Monce Bryant's long memory for this song snippet!
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Círculo de Lectura en Español / Spanish Literature Reading Circle Wednesday
Wednesday, April 1, 2015 fro 7 - 8:30pm at the Shoreline Library, 345 NE 175th, in the large meeting room, the Spanish Literature Reading Circle will discuss Gabriel García Márquez' book El amor en los tiempos del cólera (Love in the time of cholera).
Vengan a conocer a los lectores hispanohablantes y a mejorar su español. Participen en estos círculos de lectura mensuales donde comentaremos las obras previamente seleccionadas. La biblioteca tendrá disponibles copias de los libros en cantidad limitada para su préstamo. Todos son bienvenidos a participar, les esperamos. El amor en los tiempos del cólera by Gabriel García Márquez.
If you don't like the weather - wait ten minutes
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| Sleet on a deck in Lake Forest Park Photo by Phyllis Johnson |
"Just after noon in Lake Forest Park we had heavy sleet off and on for a good 10 minutes," said Phyllis Johnson. "Enough to leave an icy patch on the back deck and scare the birds away.'
About the same time, Shoreline had a hail storm.
For the next hour or so, there was thunder, lightning, sleet, hail, rain, and, yes, some blue skies and sun.
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| Photo by Cathy Goodrich |
People who missed the storm and drove into the area later looked at all the white covering the grass and vehicles and thought it had snowed.
The storm moved south, leaving behind the usual patchy rainfall.
Two Youth Councilmembers to serve as pages in the State Legislature for Senator Frockt
The Lake Forest Park Youth Council is proud to announce that two of its members, Christopher King and Robyn Muilenburg, have been selected for the coveted opportunity of paging in the Washington State Senate.
Paging is an excellent opportunity for young people in Washington to learn about the political process through firsthand experience in Olympia working with the legislature. Pages are chosen to perform tasks that assist the legislature by allowing Senators and Representatives to directly focus on legislation. In addition, pages attend two hours of “page school” every day, where they gain invaluable experience about our democratic system and the legislative processes.
Robyn and Christopher learned about this opportunity through a presentation to the entire Youth Council courtesy of Lake Forest Park City Council Member Hilda Thompson.
Robyn and Christopher will be paging through the office of Senator David Frockt. Senator Frockt represents the 46th Legislative District (North Seattle, Kenmore, Lake Forest Park) and sits on the Higher Education, Health Care, and Trade and Economic Development committees.
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| Robyn Muilenburg |
Robyn is a sophomore at Shorecrest High School, and has served on Youth Council for two years. She is passionate about academics, and she swims for the Cascade swim team and participates in Lake Forest Park’s Youth Court.
Robyn is overjoyed to serve as a senate page, stating “I am very excited to serve as a Page in the Washington State Senate. I'm grateful to have learned about this opportunity through Youth Council and cannot wait to walk through the state capitol building for the first time.”
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| Christopher King |
Christopher is a freshman at Shorecrest and joined Youth Council this fall. He is passionate about aviation and government, and plays tennis for the Shorecrest Varsity team. He is also an active Boy Scout and has nearly attained the Eagle Scout rank.
He is also excited for the opportunity to page, stating “The opportunity of being able to page for the Senate down in Olympia will give me experiences like no other, where I will get an incredible insight on how our government works and how change is possible."
Job seekers' Friday Round Table: nonverbal communication in interviews
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| Diana Knauf, SCC Professor of Psychology |
This Friday, April 3, 2015, the Job Seekers' Round Table will hear about Interviewing: Nonverbal Communication, with SCC Professor of Psychology, Diana Knauf.
The content of what you say in response to questions (and the content of questions you ask) is obviously exceedingly important in a job interview.
What is less well known is the importance of the part of the interview that isn't spoken -- the way you present yourself and behave nonverbally.
Please join us for tips on “selling your brand in silence,” with our own Diana Knauf, SCC Professor of Psychology.
As always top notch coffee and treats, courtesy of Central Market.
Friday, April 3, 1:00-2:30pm, Shoreline Community College, Room 5116, Building 5000 (ground floor). SCC Campus Map and Parking information.
The sessions are open to the job-seeking public, as well as students.
Op-Ed: Student loan debt is crushing an entire generation
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| Congressman Jim McDermott |
Congressman Jim McDermott is a Democrat, represents the 7th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. The 7th District includes most of Seattle, all of Lake Forest Park and Shoreline, and a section of Snohomish county.
By Congressman Jim McDermott
The more I talk to students, parents and grandparents the more I’m concerned that mounting student loan debt is one of the greatest national crises facing this generation.
Total student loan debt in the United States currently stands at $1.3 trillion and is growing by the day. Nearly 45% of U.S. households have at least some student loan debt and this number is only increasing as the cost of college tuition rises faster than the rate of inflation.
Student loan debt is crushing an entire generation of Americans who can’t move out of their parents house, get married or start a family because of their loans — many of which have interest rates of 7, 9, or even upwards of 11 percent.
Congress can, and should, do more to help students and parents. That’s why I recently filed the Fairness in Student Loan Lending Act, which takes commonsense steps to provide much needed relief to students and families struggling to pay off their loans. While this legislation will not fix the greater problem of college affordability, it will help lower monthly loan payments for millions of borrowers.
Under my plan, student loan borrowers in good standing will be able to refinance their student loans to a rate equal to the 10-year Treasury note plus one percent. For example, a borrower who refinanced in February 2015 would have refinanced to a rate of 2.68%. Homeowners and car owners can work with their banks to refinance their debt and I believe students and parents should be able to do the same.
As I continue to lead the fight in Congress to bring down student loan interest rates and help students and parents struggling under a mountain of debt, I want to hear from you. Will you share your story with me?
Visit my website and share your story about how student loan debt is affecting you and your family. It’s important for Congress to hear how sky-high student loan rates are affecting you.
Beer Festival charity benefit for RiteCare of Washington
The Seattle RiteCare clinic hosts its third annual Beer Festival Fundraiser indoors at the Shoreline Scottish Rite Masonic Center, 1207 N 152nd St, Shoreline 98133 on Saturday, April 25, 2015, Noon to 5:00pm.
Cost is $30 in advance through Brown Paper Tickets and $35 at the door.
All event proceeds support child speech and language services for RiteCare’s Seattle clinic.
Entry fee includes seven beer tastes, a full bratwurst lunch and a commemorative glass. Extra tastes can be purchased at the event. Guests can sample beers from 15 regional breweries and up to eight types of gourmet jerky.
There will be music, raffles, prizes and swag. A silent auction will raise more funds for the charity. Limited to 300 attendees.
2015 breweries represented include:
Big E Ales, Brier Brewing, DruBru, Deschutes Brewery, Georgetown Brewery, Hilliard’s Beer, Lagunita’s Brewing Company, Lowercase Brewing, Mac and Jack’s, Maritime Pacific, NW Peaks Brewery, Peddler Brewing Company, Seapine Brewing Company, Stoup Brewing.
About RiteCare of Washington.
RiteCare of Washington provides clinical care to children with speech and language delays. Clinics are located in Seattle and Spokane; with selected services in Everett, Tacoma, Kennewick, Olympia, and Vancouver. RiteCare of Washington is a nonprofit 501(c)3 founded by the Scottish Rite Masons.
Text, Talk, and Distracted while driving - you'll get a ticket in Lake Forest Park
Fair warning from Chief Sutton, Lake Forest Park police:
Text, Talk, and Distracted while driving - you'll get a ticket! From April 1st through April 15th, the Lake Forest Park Police Department will be participating in the Statewide Distracted Driver Campaign.
You will see us out in force on several days with extra officers. Remember, always wear your seatbelt and stay off your phone. Pass the word in the City.
Shoreline moms design STEM clothing for little girls
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| You can like pink AND rocket ships! |
ABC News has a story about two Shoreline moms who were frustrated because science-themed clothing was only made for little boys.
So they started their own clothing line, featuring "dresses, leggings, t-shirts and underwear with patterns like rocket ships, trains, and dinosaurs in both blue and pink or teal and gray."
They are funding their business, called buddingSTEM (for science, technology, engineering, and math) with a Kickstarter campaign - they are now collecting expansion funds.
They have three clothing designs: Apatosaurus, Space, and Train, (See webpage) and hope to bring their line to market soon.
12th Man and Evergreen Speedway join forces to help support Toys for Tots
Billed as a celebration to thank the Seahawks for their back to back division championships, opening day (April 4) of the Evergreen Speedway NASCAR races is also a day for the 12’s to continue their support of the South Snohomish county Toys for Tots program.
With more than twenty alumni Seahawk players confirmed, and Sonics greats Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp walking the fairgrounds, The 12th Man and the Evergreen Speedway folks are determined to raise both awareness and dollars while providing a night filled with fun for all ages at the track.
Three live bands, a kidz zone (free Easter egg hunt, pony rides, prizes), 50/50 raffle (with 50% to the winner and 50% to Toys for Tots) car show, vendors, fireworks, and of course the NASCAR races are just a sample of the many activities scheduled.
For ticket information and pricing contact the Evergreen Speedway.
Evergreen Speedway, 14405 179th Ave SE, Monroe, WA 98272, 360-805-6100
Saturday, April 4, 2015, Gates open at noon.
Shorewood soccer wins in the rain Monday
Shorewood Soccer hosted Marysville Getchell on a very rainy night at Shoreline Stadium.
Shorewood came out fast and scored in the first 3 minutes on a goal by Marco Shifflette that was assisted by Callahan Gobel.
Although Shorewood had a number of more chances, Marysville denied them and the half ended 1-0.
In the second half both teams battled hard. Marysville knew one goal would put them back in the game and Shorewood was looking for a second goal to put the game away.
Finally in the 74th minute, Ousainou Bojang took a free kick from outside the box and bent it in for Shorewood.
That is how the game ended 2-0k.
Isaac Whitaker was in goal for Shorewood, 2-0 league and 3-1-2 overall, while Erik James minded net for Maryville Getchell who are 0-2, 1-5.
--Bill Wilkins, Shorewood Soccer
Wonderland of the Arts - Arts Council 2015 Gala
Theme
announced for 2015 Arts Council Gala
“Wonderland of
the Arts”
Saturday, June 6
Saturday, June 6
Tumble down the Rabbit Hole for a whimsical evening of exceptional wine (drink me!), great food (eat me!), and fantastic auction items (this way! that way!). Indulge in an evening that will simply be curiouser and curiouser.
Wonderland of the Arts
2015 Gala Benefit Dinner & Auction
Saturday, June 6, 5:30pm
Shoreline Center – Shoreline Room
The Annual Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council Gala for the Arts is our biggest and most important fundraising event of the year. Join hundreds of other community arts supporters at this entertaining event. Fine wine, delicious food, enticing auctions and wonderful company makes this a "don't miss" event. Come and support YOUR community arts organization.
New This Year! We are happy to offer 3 ticket levels for this year's signature Gala event.
As always, Individual Tickets ($85) include sit-down dinner and wine throughout the evening.
Arts Advocate, our premium level tickets ($150), offers the opportunity for guests to financially support the Arts Council with a tax-deductible donation along with their ticket purchase. Arts Advocates will be recognized in the auction catalog; can enjoy a reserved front row parking spot; and of course dinner and wine.
Happy Hour tickets ($40) are for those guests who would like to come and enjoy wine and appetizers during the first half of the event. Happy Hour guests are welcome to stay for the entire evening but these tickets do not include dinner.
Visit the Arts Council webpage or call 206-417-4645 today to purchase tickets. Gala sponsorship opportunities are available for your business; please inquire with the Arts Council. For more information or questions please contact Gala Coordinator Tara Shadduck.
"Imagination is the only weapon in the war against reality"
- Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland
The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to cultivate creativity and inspire community through the arts.
Holy Week services at Ronald UMC
Ronald United Methodist Church
17839 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133
APRIL 2, 2015 MAUNDY THURSDAY
6;15 pm Soup Dinner (Soup and bread provided)
APRIL 3, 2015 GOOD FRIDAY
APRIL 5, 2015 EASTER SUNDAY
We gather in joy again to celebrate
the Risen Christ Amongst Us!
ALL EVENTS WILL BE HELD IN THE FELLOWSHIP HALL
Shoreline City Manager appoints Interim Public Works Director
Shoreline City Manager Debbie Tarry appointed Peter Hahn as the Interim Public Works Director for the City of Shoreline. He will fill the position while the City seeks to replace outgoing director Mark Relph.
"Peter has extensive experience in public works and will ensure a stable transition as we search for Mark's replacement," noted Tarry. "We are fortunate to have him on board."
Hahn has 30+ years experience in public works and transportation. Most recently, he was the Director of Transportation for the City of Seattle. Prior to that, he was the Deputy Administrator of Public Works for the City of Renton, the Director of Public Works for Snohomish County, and the Director of Community Services for the City of Edmonds.
Relph has accepted the position of public works director for the City of Littleton, Colorado. His last day with the City of Shoreline will be April 10.
The City will engage in a nationwide search for a new public works director.
Monday, March 30, 2015
Photo: Tiptoe through the tulips
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| Photo by Lee Lageschulte |
These glowing beauties were photographed by Lee Lageschulte. You can see why everyone wants to take a trip to the Skagit Valley. I'm told that Thursday is a good day to go, with the fewest number of tourists, but the events are on the weekends. It's all good.
Aurora traffic shift
From the City of Shoreline
Traffic on Aurora has been shifted to the west with a concrete barrier or traffic safety devices between both directions of traffic.
For your safety and the safety of others, please DO NOT attempt to make left turns across Aurora to or from driveways and cross streets where these devices or ‘No Left Turn’ signs are present.
Please drive carefully through construction work zones and obey the traffic signs.
Participate in World Concern's 7th Annual Free Them 5K in Shoreline
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| Last year's event raised $167,000 |
1,500 Runner and Walkers will help stop Human Trafficking through the 7th Annual “Free Them” 5k on May 9, 2015
On Saturday, May 9, 1500 advocates will take to the streets of Shoreline to protect vulnerable children and women from human trafficking at World Concern’s 7th Annual Free Them 5k.
Participants will raise awareness and funds for this cause by running or walking the 5k route through Shoreline, beginning at World Concern’s headquarters on the CRISTA Ministries campus.
The event is a favorite for runners, walkers, and families in the Puget Sound region because it offers a fun, tangible way to make a difference in a problem that can otherwise seem overwhelming.
Worldwide, an estimated 35 million men, women, and – most heartbreakingly – children, are trapped in modern slavery today (*2014 Global Slavery Index). Last year’s event raised $167,000 to support World Concern’s anti-trafficking projects in some of the poorest countries in Southeast Asia – a hub for sex tourism, trafficking, and slavery.
The event is expected to sell out in April, so those interested in getting involved in the fight against human trafficking should register now.
World Concern is a Christian global relief and development organization. At World Concern, the solutions we offer, the work we do, creates lasting, sustainable change. Our areas of expertise include disaster response, clean water, education, food security, child protection, microfinance and health.
Opus Bank awards grant to Banchero Disability Partners
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| Jeff King of Opus Bank presents a check to the staff of Banchero Disability Partners |
On March 24, 2015, Jeff King, Shoreline’s Branch Manager for Opus bank, presented a grant award of $5000 to local nonprofit agency Banchero Disability Partners.
Since 1971, Banchero Disability Partners has provided community based, 24-hour, comprehensive in home support and case management services to adults who have developmental disabilities in Shoreline and North Seattle.
Banchero Disability Partners is grateful for the funds which they will use for operating support of programs not funded by their DSHS contract, such as nutrition classes and exercise programs for their clients.
Said Jeff King, “we are thrilled to be able to help such a worthy cause!”
Jeff is going the extra mile by volunteering at Banchero Disability Partner’s upcoming Heart and Soul auction, and he challenges you to attend and lend your support.
Opus Bank is located at 15225 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline 98133.
Shorecrest Hip Hop wins state championship
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| Shorecrest Hip Hop - State Champions |
Shorecrest Hip Hop competed at the State Dance / Drill Championships held in Yakima at the Sundome on March 26-27th.
Our Varsity Hip Hop Team competed in the 1A/2A Hip Hop category and took 1st Place!
Earlier in the month, the team captured their 10th consecutive District Title. The team completes the season winning a treble of titles as District, State, and National Champions.
Team consist of 17 students from Shorecrest High School with Captains Wendy Luu and Kevin Chhoom and Officers Angela De Venecia and Keelie Frisk.
Team members:
Manahil Atiq
Annie Cha
Kevin Chhoom
Angela De Venecia
Kim Do
Julia Duke
Keelie Frisk
Meagan Horman
Wendy Lu
Alayna Moffat
Jaimia Plancich
Maria Raza
Rylie Roufs
Miyuki Rutledge
Maggie Thorsen
Mya Torres-Norton
Oswaldo Vasquez
--Coach Rex Kinney
Free gardening class - Great Plants for Northwest Gardens
Savvy Gardener Class – FREE
Simply Lovely: Great Plants for Northwest Gardens
Tuesday, April 28, 2015
6:30pm – 8:00pm
North City Water District Board Room
1519 NE 177th St, Shoreline 98155
Email to reserve your spot or call 206-366-1939.
This class will provide you with understanding on how to analyze your site, then make wise plant choices based on ornamental value, low water use, pest and disease resistance, winter hardiness, easy maintenance, wildlife-friendly, safe for children and pets, and that thrive in a variety of soil types.
The presentation includes a display of plants, demonstration of proper planting and mulching methods, and a handout with multiple lists of easy-care plants for sun, shade, dry and wet site conditions.
The presenter, Emily Bishton, is an environmental educator and landscape designer who has gardened organically for 30 years. Since 1997, she has specialized in creating wildlife-friendly and child-friendly gardens, and edible landscapes throughout the Seattle area.
During that time, Emily has also taught gardening and environmental education programs throughout the Puget Sound region, reaching a wide range of audiences from elementary school and community college students to homeowners and professional landscapers.
Lake Forest Park Youth Council assists at LFP Green Fair
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| Youth Council members Teagan, Samantha, and Robyn help out at the Earth Smart Green Fair. |
The Lake Forest Park Youth Council recently volunteered at Lake Forest Park’s 10th annual Earth Smart Green Fair put on by King County’s Local Hazardous Waste Management program.
The fair is an opportunity for the community to learn how to integrate earth friendly practices into their everyday lives. The event features information on natural alternatives to chemical laden products, green gardening, and making environmentally conscious purchases.There were also presentations and free products that help make green living easier.
The Youth Council has participated in this event for years, and is always excited to make a difference in the community and help spread awareness about the importance of eco-conscious living. Youth Council volunteers help set up and clean up the fair, and during the event they engage with the community, assist at the booths, and help distribute products.
Youth Council volunteer Samantha Fisher stated about volunteering at the event, “It was a wonderful experience to engage with the community and spread valuable information to help people live their lives more aware of the environment and their actions.”
Chamber April 8th luncheon with local education leaders
The Shoreline Chamber of Commerce will hold its April 8th Luncheon from 11:45 am - 1 pm at the Shoreline Center - Alumni Room (south end), 18560 1st Ave NE.
The topic is "Education in Shoreline" with speakers Cheryl Roberts, President of Shoreline Community College and Rebecca Miner, Superintendent of the Shoreline School District.
Members are reminded to bring their business cards for the monthly "Member of the Month" drawing and to promote yourself to others, also bring promos to display.
Northwest Scottish Fiddlers’ Concert in Shoreline April 18
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| Scottish fiddle music April 18 |
The Northwest Scottish Fiddlers will present a Scottish fiddle music concert at Calvin Presbyterian Church in Shoreline on Saturday, April 18th at 7.00pm. Calum MacKinnon, a Scot and long-time Edmonds resident, will lead the twenty-plus musicians of all ages.
The local group has been in operation for several years and performs at a variety of venues including Northwest Folklife Festival, the annual Alasdair Fraser Fiddle/Camp Casey weekend, the Everett and Seattle libraries, and Keith Highlanders concerts.
The show will feature performances by the very accomplished Youth Band, and several solo and small ensemble performances that will include dance and song.
Admission: suggested donation for adults; $15, senior and youth; $10, and children 6 and under; free. Calvin Church members are admitted for free.
The Calvin Presbyterian Church is located at 18826 3rd Ave., NW, Shoreline, WA 98177.
Arts mini-grants available for teens and ethnic populations
The Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Arts Council is offering Arts Mini Grants for teens and / or ethnic populations.
The deadline to apply is May 31, 2015. Projects can go through August 2015.
The grants are open to teens and/or ethnic populations in Shoreline or Lake Forest Park who want to do hands-on arts or creative activities. So whether it’s funding to pay for a teacher, buy supplies, rent a space or all of the above, you can apply.
We can help you get started, find a teacher, or even with the application. We have made the application as simple as possible to help the first time grant seekers.
Each mini-grant award may be up to $100.
The application (word and pdf) is available here, or on the Arts Council’s website or by calling the Arts Council office at 206-417-4645 .
The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council’s Arts Mini-Grants are supported in part by 4Culture, power2give/ PugetSound presented by ArtsFund, and Raynier Institute and Foundation.
Photos: Tulips in the Skagit Valley
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| Skagit Valley tulips Photo by Wayne Pridemore |
Wayne Pridemore says, "The tulips in Skagit Valley are now in bloom and it is a perfect time to enjoy the colorful display. A favorite viewing location of many people is Roozengaarde Tulip Garden on Best Road near Mt Vernon."
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| Cinda Sue Dow paints tulips Photo by Wayne Pridemore |
A Friday Harbor artist, Cinda Sue Dow, was creating a pastel work of the tulip field. Cinda Sue is known for putting a contemporary twist on traditional subject matter. You can view her pastel art here.
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| Fields beginning to bloom Photo by Steven H. Robinson |
Steve Robinson was up about a week before Wayne. Some of the tulips were in full bloom then and some were just starting to show color.
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| Multi colored fields Photo by Steven H. Robinson |
The official tulip festival time this year is April 1-30, 2015. The fields are around the Mt Vernon / Burlington area - check the brochure.
The expansion to 30 days was to ensure that the huge fields of tulips grown in Skagit Valley would actually bloom sometime during the festival, since a shorter festival sometime missed the blooming of the fields.
Today the festival boasts an amazing assortment of events -- art shows, gala celebrations, concerts, tours of local shellfish and cheese operations and an open house at PACCAR. Two signature events have grown along with the festival --the Downtown Mount Vernon Street Fair and the Kiwanis Salmon Barbecue – fundraisers for both organizations that have proven highly successful. There are lots of physical activities associated with the festival as well – a run, 20- 40- and 60-mile bike rides, and a youth basketball tournament.
Sunday, March 29, 2015
Staff Sergeant Bob Martinson: first hand account of WWII in Europe
On March 28, 2015, 90 year old Bob Martinson was honored by the French government with the French Legion of Honor for his service during WW II. (see companion story) Following is his first-hand account of his war service in Europe, where he was in the forefront of pivotal battles and events.
By Robert A. Martinson
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| Staff Sergeant Robert A. Martinson 1943 |
By Robert A. Martinson
Branch of Service: United States Army
Unit: Headquarters Company 242nd Regiment, 42nd Infantry (Rainbow) Division
Dates of Service: July 1943 – April 1946
Training Locations:
- Basic Training, La Jolla, CA – July 1943
- Army Air Corps-Buckley Field, Denver, CO – October 1943
- Army Air Corps Cadet-West Texas State College – January 1944
- Camp Gruber, OK – March 1944
Combat Locations:
- France – 1944-45
- Germany – 1945
- Austria – 1945
Biography
I left New York City on a transport in November, 1944 and landed in Marseille, France on December 8th, 1944.
On December 16th Germany launched its great and final offensive of World War II, commonly known as the Battle of the Bulge (Bataille des Ardennes in France).
Taken totally by surprise, all available American forces were rushed to the front to stop the onslaught of the German offensive. To this end we were formed into Task Force Linden and moved across France through Lyon to the vicinity of Strasbourg in the Alsace region.
On Christmas Eve, 24 December we went into the line and combat against the Germans. We did so without our own tanks or artillery which were still back in the States; such equipment as to be found was hurriedly borrowed from other units.
On January 2nd, as the German offensive began to falter, they swung down and tried to come through our sector. Task Force Linden had been positioned to defend a 31 mile sector on the French side of the Rhine; an area north and south of Strasbourg.
At this time, our division was outmanned, outgunned and badly inexperienced, but even so we repulsed a number of German counterattacks at Hatten and other locations.
We held until January 22nd. On that date, in the middle of a snow storm and beginning at 10 o’clock at night, our units pulled back some 15 miles to better defensive positions. When the Germans attacked our positions again, they suffered very high casualties such that it ended the final enemy offensive of the war on the Western Front.
The cost of the January battle, however, was very high to our division. We lost over 50% of our front line troops including well over 1,000 men who were captured by the enemy.
At the end of this fighting we were relieved by the 101st Airborne Division and were sent to the rear for R and R. We had fought in Strasbourg, Hatten, Betschdorf, Hindburg and Haguenau and many small French crossroads. During this break in fighting, the division tanks, artillery and other special units caught up to us and we were finally a complete division again.
For myself, I would later be recognized with the award of the Bronze Star Medal for my contributions during this period of combat.
On February 14, 1945, the division was ordered to take frontline positions once more. On March 15th we attacked in the Haardt Mountains where we encountered fierce fighting. However, the enemy was now on the run and we soon pushed into Germany.
Easter Sunday, April 1st, we crossed the Rhine at Worms and entered Germany for the first time. For the next 54 days the division attacked and captured the following enemy cities: Wertheim, Wurzburg, Schweinfurt, Furth, part of Nurnberg, Donaworth, Munich, Salzburg and many smaller towns and villages in between.
In what was a most horrific experience, our division was the liberator of Dachau concentration camp. I was in one of the first groups to come upon the camp. When I arrived the guards were gone having fled, surrendered, been wounded or killed. All shooting had ceased.
I arrived at the south side of the camp which was fenced-off with electric wire. There were many dead bodies lying around the camp and many, many inmates milling around aimlessly or sitting/ laying against the barrack’s walls. There was a railroad siding next to a moat beside a fence. There were many boxcars on the tracks holding about 1,500 dead prisoners in them. They had been shipped from Buchenwald concentration camp and had died from starvation, dysentery and cold weather. Some of the dead were naked because after they died the live prisoners took their clothing to keep warm.
The scene was horrible as was the stench of the dead bodies. I learned that our medics found one live prisoner among all those dead.
The camp held about 33,000 prisoners at that time. After viewing the scene for about half an hour or more, we moved out, driving into Munich which was in the process of being captured or “liberated” as it became known.
Our division would ultimately become part of the occupation forces in Salzburg, several Tyrolean Alps villages and in Vienna. Vienna was a four-nation occupation city like Berlin.
I remained as part of the occupation troops for some period. I was offered a promotion to Master Sergeant if I would stay longer. However, I turned this down as I wanted to return home as quickly as possible.
I was discharged in the separation center at Fort Meade, Maryland on April 7, 1946 and returned to my home town of Hoquiam, Washington shortly thereafter.
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| Bob Martinson 2015 |
Op-Ed: Don’t let your city turn basic necessities into a blank check
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| Sen. Maralyn Chase D-32 |
Sen. Maralyn Chase represents the 32nd Legislative District, which includes all of Shoreline.
By Sen. Maralyn Chase
Our cities and towns are struggling to stay above water these days, with good reason. When the Great Recession devastated tax revenues, the state reduced every funding stream it could to balance the budget during the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. As a result, the local infrastructure necessary for economic growth has become the equivalent of a wish upon a star.
So it’s understandable that municipalities would scramble to exploit any potential avenue for raising precious tax dollars—and their target du jour is the special-purpose water or sewer district, which offers fresh revenue streams. So, yes, it’s entirely understandable. It’s also entirely inappropriate.
Here’s what makes it understandable:
These water and sewer special-purpose districts, when taken over by municipalities, can be used to impose utility taxes to fund anything a municipality deems important. Unlike statutory limits on private sector utilities such as electricity and gas (6 percent), there is no limit on the percentage of utility taxes cities can impose on their citizens; rates can run as high as 39 percent. It’s the equivalent of a blank check at a time when municipalities are flat broke.
Here’s what makes it inappropriate:
These special-purpose water and sewer districts were approved by voters for very specific purposes (which is why they’re called special-purpose districts in the first place). They were created by a vote of the people to provide the basic essentials of civilized life — sanitary water and sewage systems. As such, these districts cannot impose utility taxes on water or sewer services like cities do. They operate primarily from service rates charged to their customers and use the revenue only to build and maintain the water or sewer systems — the basic essentials. No voter cast his or her ballot thinking, “I’m going to vote for this so that anybody at any time can raise my taxes to fund anything they like without my consent.”
Yet that’s exactly what happens when a municipality assumes control of a water or sewer district. The voters lose control over how much they are taxed or how their tax dollars are spent.
That’s why I am sponsoring Senate Bill 5048. If this legislation passes, any time a municipality seeks to take control of a special-purpose district, the public will have the right to call for a referendum — to vote on whether the municipality can turn the taxpayers’ dedicated water and sewer taxes into a source of additional revenue.
My proposal is simply a basic component of representative government. But against the landscape of today’s limited dollars and municipal appetites, it’s urgent and essential. Without this safeguard, municipalities will be able to raise your taxes to pay for projects or services you never approved.
If you think that’s wrong — if you think that’s not what you voted for when you approved the creation of a water or sewer district — then you need to let your state legislators know now. Senate Bill 5048 needs to be passed and written into law before any more municipalities turn our basic necessities into a blank check for who knows what.
First Thursday featured artist: Barbara Wyatt
Meet April Featured Artist: Barbara Wyatt (Ceramics)
April 2nd - 4:00 - 8:00 (open house)
20152 Ballinger Way NE
Shoreline, WA 98155
Store: 206-453-3920
We are proud to present the work of ceramics artist Barbara Wyatt of Edmonds. Her stunning work includes whimsical birdhouses, spectacular planters and a variety of other amazing pieces. Her art will be available in our gallery for the month of April.
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| Ceramics by Barbara Wyatt |
"Creating in clay has been my passion for more than 15 years. Love of nature and natural materials are the backdrop for my inspirations. My creations are influenced by organic forms and native design.
"My work is a combination of hand building and wheel throwing. Currently I am teaching ceramics part time at Edmonds Community College and working most days in my studio over my garage."
Spaces left in Great Discussions group at SCC
Great Discussions 2015
Shoreline Community College
Room 1010(M)
6:30 – 8:30 pm
Do we need to rethink U.S. foreign policy? There is still time to join Great Discussions 2015 at Shoreline Community College, beginning Thursday, April 9. Enrollment is limited, so hurry!
- Russia and the Near Abroad, April 9
- Privacy in the Digital Age, April 16
- Sectarianism in the Middle East, April 23
- India Changes Course, April 30
- U.S. Policy Toward Africa, May 7
- Syria's Refugee Crisis, May14
- Human Trafficking, May 21
- Brazil's Metamorphosis, May 28
$35 to register for the series (8 meetings)
To register, go online, click on “Event Registration” and specify “Great Discussions 2015” – Make a donation of $35, or
Send a check payable to “SCC/GAC,” to SCC Foundation/GAC, 16101 Greenwood Ave. North, Shoreline, WA 98133
For more information contact Larry Fuell
LFP resident awarded the French Legion of Honor
Sergeant Martinson holds some of the medals he earned in combat. On top is the "Combat Infantryman's Badge which can only be worn by a soldier who has served in combat. To the left below the badge is the "Bronze Star" which is awarded for exceptional bravery in combat. On the bottom left is his Expert Rifleman's Badge.
Text and photos by Jerry Pickard
On Saturday, March 28, 2015. long-time Lake Forest Park resident Staff Sergeant Robert A. "Bob" Martinson was conferred as a "Chevalier" in the National Order of the Legion of Honor of the nation of France, seventy years after the war in Europe ended.
This is the highest award that the nation of France awards to non-citizens. At age ninety Sergeant Martinson is in poor health and at present is residing in ManorCare Lynnwood, while he recovers from an injury for which he will have surgery.
Part of the proclamation from France reads:
This award is made in recognition of the brave American soldiers who arrived first across the beaches at Normandie in June 1944, into a foreign land, going forward into territory they had never seen before in order to free the world from the Nazi domination. We celebrate today the unforgettable sacrifice that you and your brothers-in-arms made more than 70 years ago to raise the flag of Freedom.
Mayor Mary Jane Goss of Lake Forest Park visited with Sergeant Bob after the awards ceremony was over. Sergeant Martinson is a long time resident of Lake Forest Park and raised his family here.
Shoreline Area News reporter Jerry Pickard (American Legion), Chevalier Bob Martinson, and Commander Richard Martinson.
Read Bob Martinson's first hand account of his war experiences.
Read Bob Martinson's first hand account of his war experiences.
Shoreline City Council Monday: Broadband, Incarceration, Traffic, and litigation
The Shoreline City Council meets Monday, March 30, 2015, 7:00pm, City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave N, parking in City garage.
There are three study items on the agenda (links to staff documents on each topic)
The Council will then go into Executive Session: Potential Litigation.