On the Mayor's Mind: Spring

Mayor Shari Winstead

On the Mayor’s Mind

3.23.15

By Shoreline Mayor Shari Winstead

It is with great delight that I welcome Spring and daylight savings time. Although it is somewhat challenging to recover from the missed slumber, the extra daylight at the end of the day seem well worth it. It feels like I almost have two days in one, more time to walk my dog after work, or to catch up on those household projects.

Echo Lake Park opening

It’s been a great first weekend of Spring. On Saturday we officially reopened Echo Lake Park, after over a year of renovations. Through the Crime Prevention through Environmental Design program, the park is now safer – modified plantings give way to open views of the park, especially for Ashworth and 200th.

The restroom has been renovated, there are more picnic tables, and fencing along the interurban trail and the wetland areas create a separation between trail users, park users, beach goers and also protect the native habitat at the lake’s edge. There is also an accessible route, and easy walking grades to the lake.

New to the park are a loop path and play area for families. There’s even a turtle for kids to climb on, named Barbara Jeanne! I drove past the park today and was excited to see quite a few families out enjoying the park. (see article)

Art Kruckeberg's 95th birthday!

I was honored to attend Art Kruckeberg’s 95th birthday party on Saturday afternoon. Dr. Kruckeberg is the founder of the Kruckeberg Botanical Garden, a very special place in Shoreline. If you haven’t checked out the garden, now is the perfect time! Their website lists all the upcoming great activities for kids and adults.

New Recreation Guide

There is never a shortage of great activities in Shoreline. The best thing to hit my inbox and mailbox last week was the City’s Spring/Summer Recreation Guide. It’s no longer a pamphlet, but more like a magazine! No matter what you are interested in, I bet you will find something you want to try. I've marked several items that sound like great fun – everything from a one-day hike on the Pacific Crest Trail to Pilates classes. You will find fun activities for everyone from 18 mos. old and up!

I'm especially excited to end the first weekend of Spring with a “Sound Bath” at Richmond Beach Yoga. Taking a bit of time to meditate, relax and absorb good energy while listening to the meditative sounds of Himalayan Singing Bowls and Native American Flutes is the perfect way to prepare for the week ahead.

I hope Spring brings you a sense of renewal and happiness.