Rob Oxford: ...until today

Earl Thomas gestures as he is removed, injured, from the field
TV screen shot

..until today,

I had your back Earl. A Texas boy who helped bring the Seattle Seahawks their very first Super Bowl, I had your back.

At 5' 10, 202 lbs., the toughest Safety in the NFL, I had your back.

A Ball Hawk who could close faster than a screen door on a windy day, I had your back. 

The Legion of Boom minus Kam and Sherm, I still had your back.

Your mad dash to catch up to Dallas Cowboy Coach Jason Garrett when you begged him to come and get you, I had your back.

That is... until today.

I don't profess to know the inner workings of an NFL front office and when it comes to professional sports I have no business acumen. I do, however, realize it is a business. It's your business, it's Paul Allen's business and to some extent it's my business.

Whether I pay my electric bill or buy two tickets to a Seahawks' game is my business. Whether I pay 50 dollars to park and spend 24 dollars on 2 hot dogs and 2 small drinks is my business. With a net worth of 24 million, so far I would say the business has been pretty good to you.

Ask the families of Mike Webster (Pittsburgh Steelers), Junior Seau (San Diego Chargers) and a host of others, how business has been? I understand it was a different time. TV contracts, endorsement deals, I get it.

There's much to pro football that the average fan doesn't know. The toll it takes on ones body. What is and isn't discussed in a locker room. The hard work and dedication it takes to simply be on a practice squad, let alone a 53 man roster. A career ending injury is only one snap away.

Today we may have witnessed YOUR career-ending injury, I hope not. But unfortunately, it appeared from where I was sitting that you may have experienced the same injury that kept you off the field in 2016. Again I don't know, I am merely speculating, but something tells me your doctors may have known how prone you were to reinjuring that leg and I would wager the Seahawks doctors knew as well. If indeed that is the same leg, that may be the reason they were hesitant to extend your contract.

I don't care that you missed all of training camp. I don't care that you may not have been in "football shape" on day one of the regular season. I don't care that you're mad. You can be mad. You can feel you're worth more than what you're currently being paid.

What I care about is your gesture to your coaches, your teammates and to a certain extent, all of us as you were being carted off the field on network television.

Is that how you really feel about the 12's? We're all 12's! Coach Pete, Russell, Mr. Allen, the Equipment Mgr., the ball boy... all 12's. The little kids who wear your jersey and who'll never see the inside of Century Link Field because their parents barely make enough money to pay their bills?

You just told every single one of us how much you really love us.

Well, we love you too.

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WeatherWatcher: Fall Showers

Fall ferns
Photo by Frank Kleyn

Forecast: Fall showers have returned this weekend and are expected to continue off and on through the next 7-10 days.

Temperatures are expected to be near normal and trend slightly cooler than normal Tuesday and beyond.

We have a series of weak cold fronts expected to move through the area throughout the week.

Wednesday a weak ridge is expected to develop, which should be our driest day of the week.

Temperatures Monday and Tuesday are expected to be near the mid 60's, Wednesday through Saturday down towards the lower 60's.

Lows are expected to be in the low 50's early and then down to the upper 40's later in the week.

Rainfall amounts are expected to be light, less than a tenth of an inch for the entire week.

For current weather conditions visit www.ShorelineWeather.com

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Pumpkins have arrived at Central Market

Photos by Steven H. Robinson

The pumpkins have arrived at Central Market in Shoreline at Shoreline Place on Westminster and Aurora.

Orange and white, large, medium and small, they are ready for pumpkin bread, pumpkin pie, and Halloween jack 'o lanterns (start practicing now).

White jack o' lanterns aren't as strange as you may think. The original jack 'o lanterns were carved from turnips. Large turnips.

Next week the trucks roll in with the giant pumpkins for the 17th Annual Pumpkin Weigh-Off.

10am - 3pm Saturday, October 6. These behemoths tip the scales at over a thousand pounds.

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Rob Oxford: What A Kick!

The first Graduating Class of Shorecrest High School 1964
were in the stands to support their team

Text and photos by Rob Oxford

Friday Night the stage was set for what was certain to be an exciting football game for the Shorecrest Highlanders. Looking to rebound from a devastating shutout by their crosstown rivals in last week's Rotary Cup, Homecoming 2018 was upon them and the undefeated (in league play) Snohomish Panthers were on the prowl at Shoreline Stadium.

In attendance and recognized during the game by Stadium Announcer Wyatt Tonkin, sitting together as I'm sure they did those many years ago, the Shorecrest High School Charter Class of 1964.

Facing one of their toughest opponents, the Scots remained optimistic about their chances of bouncing back. Their defense had been altered slightly to account for the Panthers all but non-existent passing attack and instead focused on the tough running of Snohomish RB Tyler Massena.

QB Eladio Fountain looks to connect with a receiver downfield

At times throughout the first half the offensive line seemed to be providing its QB with ample opportunity to deliver the ball, but #19 Eladio Fountain seemed to be just a bit off. Some passes were overthrown while other missed opportunities seemed to be the result of miscommunication or possibly the wrong routes being run by his receivers. The second half would prove to be his redemption as he completed 19-of-35 passes for 257 yards and a touchdown.

Silencing the home team early and leading Shorecrest 21-0 with 1:59 to play in the first quarter, it seemed that the Scots would be forced to regroup at halftime. Fortunately for them, stout defense and a failed fake punt by the Panthers led to a 1 yard plunge by Fountain into the end zone and the Scots were finally on the board.

During the very next defensive series, with nothing but open space in front of him, a sure "Pick 6" was dropped by #8 Gavin MacFarlane. An opportunity to put the Scots 6 points closer was missed, but nonetheless, a glimmer of optimism began to encompass the Green and Gold.

As the world-famous Highlander Marching Band played and the Homecoming Court was being introduced, in the locker room this reporter was curious as to what was being said.

What words of wisdom was Coach Christensen sharing with his warriors that would motivate them to mount a comeback? What would make this game different than the last? Most importantly, how would the Highlanders emerge and how would they answer the call?

The Scots received the ball in the second half and quickly engineered two lengthy scoring drives to take the lead in the third quarter. RB Cyris Filteo, who averaged 2.5 yards a carry, was starting to see some daylight, but it was defensive starter Marcus Selzler in at fullback who added the Scot's 2nd touchdown of the game - another 1 yard dive across the goal line that took several would-be tacklers along for a ride.

WR Antonio Stillwell would haul in a 42 yard pass from Fountain and surefooted sophomore kicker Gavin Dalziel would put the Scots up 24 - 21 when he connected on a 22-yard field goal. At that point the momentum had definitely shifted in favor of the Scots and the home crowd erupted with excitement. 

Sophomore kicker Gavin Dalziel sends the game into OT

Snohomish RB Tyler Massena, who left early in the game with what appeared to be an ankle injury, emerged in the 4th quarter and led a nine-play, 64-yard scoring drive with six carries that put Snohomish back in front 27-24 with :49 secs. to play.

After 2 back-to-back timeouts by the visitors, meant to "ice" the Sophomore Kicker, Dalziel sent the game into overtime with a clutch 40-yard field goal at the end of regulation.

Eventually Snohomish relied on what could be considered their only offensive weapon of the night to dot the "i" in win when Massena scored his fifth rushing touchdown giving Snohomish a thrilling 33-27 WesCo 3A South victory.

Call it intestinal fortitude, call it bravery, call it courage. Whatever you want to call it, the Shorecrest Scots played one of their best games in a very long time. Down at the half they mounted a comeback like none seen in quite some time. A game that came down to the wire and really could have gone either way.

Be proud Highlanders. Be Highlander Proud!

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T-birds top the Seagulls 30-13, as Shorewood improves to 4-1 on the year

#31 Brandon Main #71 Cameron Whitehead #8 Kevin Hirohata plug the gap
Photo by Lisa Hirohata

Everett Veterans Memorial Stadium, Friday, September 28, 2018
As of Game Final - record for next week:
Shorewood (4-1 Overall / 3-1 WesCo South)
Everett (1-4 Overall / 1-3 WesCo South)

School	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	F
Shorewood	0	7	16	7	30
Everett	6	7	0	0	13

Going into the game this week versus the Everett Seagulls, Shorewood coach Brandon Torrey knew the game would be won or lost at the line of scrimmage.

“Everett has a lot of tough kids that never give up. It’s extremely important that we take care of the ball and create a new line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.”

#22 Kaden Graves sacks the Everett QB
Photo by Lisa Hirohata

Shorewood has a fairly experienced offense line, anchored by senior Tres Zeigler, but they are extremely undersized when compared to other schools. Same story on the defensive side of the ball - the T-birds often lineup a nose guard who weighs around 190 pounds.

With a smaller line, success will come by blocking angles and pulling lineman in order to create running lanes for the back - seldom will you be able to stuff it down someone's throat in smash mouth football.

Speed becomes the defining factor on the defensive line - you take your quicker lineman and seek to use explosiveness off the ball to avoid getting locked into a block and seek to disrupt the run behind the line of scrimmage.

At the end of the first half - Shorewood was losing the battle at the line of scrimmage. Everett had a cadre of talented and disruptive offensive and defensive lineman and were winning the battle at the point of contact - pushing the T-bird defensive line back a few yards, and overpowering the Shorewood offensive lineman while the Seagulls bull rushed into the backfield.

Coach Torrey is a former offensive lineman, having played at Western Washington University and he must have put something in the halftime gatorade, or truly invoked the need to win the battle upfront, for both the offensive and defensive line came out in the second half and gave the T-birds the spark needed to turn the game around and record a solid victory.

#18 Alex Lim kicks off after a SW touchdown
Photo by Lisa Hirohata

In the 3rd quarter - Everett lined up for a punt around their own 25.

The snap sailed high over the punter's head and rolled to the end zone - the punter, in a moment of panic, tried to cover the ball, but then inexplicably decided to try and kick the ball off the ground.

Safety Shorewood and the score was now Everett 13 - Shorewood 9.

Offensively in the 2nd half - the T-birds went to the air, with senior quarterback David Snell hitting his cadre of sure-handed receivers - putting two TD’s onto the board to include a great catch by junior Spencer Osborn who leaped into the air between two Seagull defenders - brought down the catch and scampered in for a 30 yard touchdown.

Defensively - the T-birds adopted a swarm mentality, with the defensive line getting great pressure on Everett as they fell behind and were forced to go to the air. The Seagull running game which shredded the Shorewood front seven in the first half - had no answer in the second, as the white jerseys and blue numbers of the defense showed yet again, a bend, but not break attitude and nose for the ball.

#15 Kody Carpenter gets a pick six Photo by Lisa Hirohata

The night was capped by a Shorewood secondary pick 6 - their second in the last two games, as junior strong safety Kody Carpenter took the interception back for a 30 yard score.

The Shorewood Thunderbirds are on a roll and won the battle of the birds - as the victory soured Everett’s homecoming celebrations.

A few notes:

• Shorewood has not started 4-1 since 2002 - also the last time they made it to the week 10 preliminary state play-in game;
• In Shorewood's 4 victory’s to date - Shorewood has outscored its opponents by 114 points - with an average victory margin of 28 points;
• Through 5 games - Shorewood has scored more points than they did in their 3 previous full seasons - total points scored for 2017 - 150 / 2016 - 98 / 2015 - 150;
• Since 1997 - Shorewood is 13-5 against the Lynnwood Royals - next week’s opponent - but have dropped the last 3 meetings - including a 52-6 loss in 2016.

#1 Shorewood fan Nicole Nelson
Photo by Lisa Hirohata

The battle for the top spots continue to shake out at the mid-way point in the season. 

Snohomish sits atop the WesCo 3A South standings after a thrilling 33-27 overtime victory over Shorecrest. 

Snohomish is now 3-0 in league play followed by Shorewood at 3-1.

Shorewood plays Lynnwood next Friday night - October 6, 2018 at 7pm at Shoreline District Stadium.

Lynnwood comes into the game 0-5, but should not be overlooked - the Royals have played competitively all year.

--Aaron Bert

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SWAT team startles neighbors in Ridgecrest

Police raid in the 15100 block of 8th Ave NE

Ridgecrest neighbors were startled with a loud explosion near Paramount School Park and Paramount Open Space in the early hours of Thursday, September 27, 2018, followed by lights and smoke. Sirens and a large police presence followed.

According to the King County Sheriff's Office, the KCSO SWAT team was serving a warrant on a suspected drug house in the 15100 block of 8th Ave NE in Shoreline.

The explosion and smoke were from a "distraction device" commonly known as a "flash bang." A flash bang is a non-lethal explosive device that causes temporary blindness, deafness, and disorientation. It briefly incapacitates the target, allowing the SWAT team to take the occupants into custody without resistance.

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Missing woman never made it to Shoreline - instead found deceased near her home

The West Seattle Blog reports that 74 year old Jackie Dupras, missing for two weeks from her home in West Seattle, has been found, deceased.

Her body was found near the SW Spokane stairway between 60th and 61st [map], by a landscaper who was working in a steeply sloped back yard of a family who was away from home.

She was a well-known community activist in West Seattle.

Friends and family have been posting flyers, searching and following all leads since Dupras disappeared. One of the leads was that she had been spotted heading for a bus whose route ends at Shoreline Community College, so many people in Shoreline were watching for her.

Dupras, who had dementia, also went missing from the Folklife Festival at Seattle Center in May of this year, but she was quickly found that time.

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Humble Feast Taco bar Monday - recipe for Salted Caramel Apple Slices

Photo by Devra Gartenstein

Patty Pan's Humble Feast is a series of community-based, monthly dinner events featuring local ingredients sourced primarily from area farmers who are our friends and neighbors at the markets.

They are held the first Monday of each month, 5:30 to 7:30pm.

This month's dinner is Monday October 1, 2018 and features a taco bar with their very own flour tortillas along with "whatever else looks good at this weekend's markets."

Patty Pan's Neighborhood Kitchen: 15550 27th Ave NE, Shoreline 98155.

The dinners are a flat rate of $12/person (plus tax). For $10 (plus tax) discounted tickets if you prepay via PayPal by 4pm on the day of the dinner. Kids half price.

Salted Caramel Apple Slices (makes 6 servings)

½ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter
¼ cup half and half or heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla
¼ teaspoon salt
2 apples (any kind but Red Delicious)

Combine the brown sugar, butter, half and half or cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. Cook on low heat, stirring almost constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Remove the cores from the apples and cut each apple into six slices. Spoon the caramel sauce over the apple slices and sprinkle lightly with additional salt.

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Getting Involved in Public Policy: An Expert Panel Discussion

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) sponsors a panel discussion "Getting Involved in Public Policy" on Saturday October 13.

Mary Helen Roberts, retired 21st District legislator; Pamela Crone, AAUW-WA Lobbyist; and Karen Anderson, AAUW WA Public Policy Director, will discuss the behind the scenes strategies for setting public policy priorities and how you can get involved in advancing them in your community.

Anne Penny reports on The National Conference for College Women Student Leaders (NCCWSL).

Saturday, October 13, 2018 from 10am-noon at Edmonds Community College, Snohomish Hall Room 338, 20000 68th Ave W, Lynnwood 98036. Free Parking.

All are welcome. Refreshments served. No charge. Book Sale.

If you have questions, email Edmonds SnoKing Branch Leadership aauw.esk@gmail.com.

See the AAUW website for their future speaker plans.

The Mission of the AAUW is To advance gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy.

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Homeless in Our Community session brought people together to talk about homelessness

Residents gather at Ronald UMC for the first
Shoreline session on Homelessness
Photo courtesy NUHSA

Over 40 residents, community leaders, faith organizations and businesses shared their experiences of homelessness last Tuesday evening, September 25, 2018 at Ronald United Methodist Church in Shoreline (see previous article)

In the process, they learned what it takes to be safe while living on the street, how mental illness complicates efforts to get and sustain housing, where services and supports can be found, and how their neighbors respond with compassion.

This was the first of three sessions hosted by the North Urban Human Services Alliance (NUHSA) to address the issue of homelessness in our community.

Gathered at Ronald United Methodist Church, this first session used a World Café model to create a space for conversation about personal experiences and interactions with those who struggle with homelessness, along with questions about how we respond individually and as a community.

Coming away from the discussion, all were focused on understanding more about what they could do individually and as community to reduce the number of people living homeless.

Join the next two sessions to get answers to these questions at Ronald United Methodist Church, 17839 Aurora Ave N, 6:30 - 8pm:

• Oct. 16th - Adverse Experiences and Resiliency: Why some struggle and others don’t 
• Nov. 20th - Dangerous vs. Difficult: Useful tools for responding with compassion and concern 

Or, join the conversation as the series is presented at Kenmore City Hall, 18120 68th Ave NE, 6:30 - 8pm, on October 2nd, 30th and December 11th.

For more information, contact staff@nuhsa.org or see the NUHSA website. RSVP is appreciated but not required.

--NUHSA

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The streams of Lake Forest Park - presentation Tuesday at The Commons

Tuesday, October 2, 2018, 7-9pm at the Third Place Commons Stage, join the Lake Forest Park Stewardship Foundation for an evening presentation and discussion concerning the streams of LFP.

Learn about the collaborative efforts of the Stewardship Foundation, Streamkeepers, City of LFP, and UW Bothell to enhance salmon in our streams and what you can do to help.

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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Fall guy

Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter can be found under Features 

in the first column of the front page of the Shoreline Area News

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VISION meetings in Lake Forest Park

Town Center VISION Scoping Meeting
Wednesday, October 10 from 6–8 pm

The City is amending its development code to facilitate the implementation of the Town Center VISION that was created earlier in 2018. Comment on the elements of the environment, as well as potential alternatives, concerns about potential impacts, and possible mitigation measures to be analyzed in the environmental impact statement (EIS). The EIS will look at potential changes to the City’s Planning and Land Use Regulations and related redevelopment scenarios. Learn about other ways to comment.

Town Center VISION Outdoor Open House
Sunday, October 14 from 11 am–3 pm

Stop by during the Farmers Market to learn more about potential redevelopment at Town Center and how the VISION may take shape in the coming years. Participate in a self-guided tour with stops at key locations where change may occur and provide input on the scope of the proposed environmental impact statement (EIS) and potential amendments to the City’s Planning and Land Use Regulations.

All meetings will be held at LFP City Hall, 17425 Ballinger Way NE

For the full list of events, visit YourLFP.com/events

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Kenmore hires City Engineer and new Traffic Engineer

John Vicente, Kenmore City Engineer

The City of Kenmore is proud to announce that John Vicente, P.E., P.M.P., was officially named City Engineer in August 2018.

John was originally hired in March 2015 to manage the West Sammamish River Bridge Project. 

Over the last few years, John's scope has expanded to oversee other critical capital projects including SR 522 enhancements, multiple sidewalk and bike lane projects, and the Town Square and Hangar building. 

As Acting City Engineer for the last year, John finished the design of the Bridge Project and will oversee the demolition and construction expected to start later in 2019.

As City Engineer, John oversees all transportation capital projects, including two of the five Walkways and Waterways projects approved by Kenmore voters in November of 2016. These two projects are the future new sidewalks and bike lanes on 68th Avenue and Juanita Drive. John also supervises traffic engineering, the engineering review of private development applications, permits for accessing the city’s right-of-way, among other responsibilities.

“John is a hard worker, an outstanding grant writer, and great engineer,” said City Manager Rob Karlinsey. “We’re fortunate to have him on our city team, and I’m thrilled that he is willing to accept this leadership role.”

Tobin Bennett-Gold, Kenmore Traffic Engineer

This month Kenmore also welcomed Tobin Bennett-Gold, P.E., as the new Traffic Engineer. Tobin comes to us from Pima County Department of Transportation in Arizona and will work hard to deliver traffic safety and roadway improvements for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.

Understanding the priority we place on Target Zero, Tobin is excited to start working with our community to identify, analyze, and implement design solutions that make our streets and neighborhoods more safe and efficient for all modes of travel.

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Shoreline Proposition 1: Sales and Use Tax for Sidewalk Improvements – Informational Meetings

High priority 175th Stone to Meridian

Shoreline City Council has placed a sales and use tax measure on the November 6 general election ballot. 

Proposition 1 represents an effort to accelerate sidewalk improvements through a dedicated funding source. All of the revenue generated by the additional sales tax will be dedicated to sidewalk improvements in Shoreline, with the majority going toward the construction of new sidewalks.

To learn more about Proposition 1, come to an informational session.

Thursday, October 4
7:30 to 8:30pm
Richmond Highlands Recreation Center16554 Fremont Avenue N

Wednesday, October 10
7:00 to 8:00pm
Shoreline Library345 NE 175th Street

Information about Proposition 1 is also available on the web. If you have questions about sidewalk improvements, contact Senior Transportation Planner Nora Daley-Peng, 206-801-2483. 

For questions about the sales and use tax, contact Administrative Services Director Sara Lane at 206-801-2301.

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Edmonds Sons of Norway hosts Pancake Breakfast and Bake Sale Oct 6

The Edmonds Sons of Norway is hosting a Pancake Breakfast and Bake Sale on October 6, 2018 7:30am-12:00pm at the Edmonds Masonic Center, 515 Dayton Street. 

Breakfasts are a hearty portion of Norwegian pancakes with strawberries and syrup, ham, juice, coffee tea, and milk and cost $8.00 for adults and $5.00 for kids 6-10 (under 5 are free). Enjoy live music and after you eat, visit the craft and bake sale tables. Kids can participate in free folk dancing lessons between 10am-noon.

The breakfasts are one of the largest fundraisers for the lodge. Proceeds support the Edmonds Food Bank, Ski for Light outings for mobility and sight impaired skiers, scholarships and the Sons of Norway Foundation. Eat great food while supporting lodge programs and local organizations!

The Sons of Norway is the largest Norwegian organization outside of Norway with a mission of preserving and promoting Norwegian heritage and tradition through cultural and social activities offered at local and district lodges.

For more information about the Edmonds Chapter of the Sons of Norway (Norwegian ancestry NOT required) contact 2018 Lodge President Norma Jean Sands 206-524-6020.

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King County Republican 2018 Liberty Dinner and Auction to feature Paris hero Alek Skarlatos

Join the King County Republican Party for their 2018 Liberty Dinner and Auction on the evening of Thursday, November 1, 2018 at the Bellevue Hyatt Regency.

To register for the event, click here.

The keynote speaker you may know from The 15:17 to Paris, Alek Skarlatos, received worldwide attention by helping stop a gunman on a Paris Bound Train in 2015.

His heroic actions have awarded him multiple international medals and recognition, including the United States Soldier's Medal.

After serving his country, Alek traveled around the world speaking on the event, starred in a movie created by Clint Eastwood, and competed in Dancing with the Stars! Alek is also currently running for Douglas County Commissioner in Oregon.

In addition, guests will have an opportunity to hear from candidates running for office across King County, the always entertaining John Curley, and more. There will also be many fantastic items and experiences to bid on during both the live and silent auction.

Ticket prices start at $125 for general admission. Silent auction, general, and VIP receptions will begin at 6pm and the dinner program and live auction will begin at 7pm.

VIP guests will get preferred seating for the dinner and have access to the VIP reception, which will include a photo opportunity with Alek and a signed book.

Please join us on November 1st for a great evening and let's help get our King County Republican candidates across the finish line.

To purchase your tickets today, click here.

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Ribboncutting for opening of Kumon Shoreline South location

Kumon Ribbon cutting ceremony
Photo courtesy Chamber of Commerce

The Shoreline Chamber of Commerce welcomed the new Kumon Math and Reading Shoreline South with a ribbon cutting on Friday, September 28, 2018. Nate Daum, the Shoreline Economic Development Program Manager, joined in the celebration.

The Chamber wishes Hui Zhao, owner, great success with her new business.

Kumon - Shoreline South is located at 910 N 145th St, Shoreline 98133.

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Sound Transit proceeding with station at NE 130th St in Seattle

The 130th station is indicated as "Future Station 2031"

Residents will remember the tussle over the location of the Sound Transit station at NE 145th, now called the Shoreline Sound station.

Councilmembers in Seattle were lobbying for the station to be located at NE 130th St. The decision was to locate the station in Shoreline and promise a future station in Seattle at 130th.

It appears that the future is getting closer.

At its September 27 meeting, the Sound Transit Board decided to advance the NE 130th Street Station into preliminary engineering (PE).

Originally scheduled to open in 2031 as an infill station along the Lynnwood Link Extension alignment, the Board directed staff to advance to PE to determine if the station can be sufficiently built by 2024 when LLE goes into revenue service.

Building earlier could potentially save construction costs and avoid later service disruptions associated with constructing it as an infill station.

Staff and consultants will take the next year to complete the PE work resulting in greater details on the benefits and downsides of project acceleration and understand the impacts to Sound Transit’s financial and staff resources.

This information will be brought back to the Board to make a final decision on whether or not to accelerate construction.

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Parent Map: Best Pumpkin Patches and Corn Mazes

Stocker Farms turns into Stalker Farms at night
Photo courtesy Stocker Farms

Shoreline and Lake Forest Park have some productive vegetable gardens but for farms you need to head north on I-5 into Snohomish county.

This time of year the pumpkin farms are in full swing with family activities for ages from toddlers to teens (and adults).

Our friends at Parent Map have compiled a list of ten farms in Snohomish county (and other locations).

Pumpkin patch experiences vary widely. Purists can pick their gourds at a farm that offers little more than hot cider as a side activity, while families looking for a more carnival atmosphere can visit farms and pumpkin patches tricked out like amusement parks — the offerings get a little wilder each year.

They have photos and detailed descriptions of what each farm offers.

Take a look HERE

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Halloween Carnival and Silent Auction Oct 20

Shoreline Cooperative Preschool is hosting its 31st Annual Halloween Carnival and Silent Auction Fundraiser!

Bring your kiddos in their costumes for carnival games and prizes, face-painting, balloon artists, a raffle and more! Games are designed for children ages 1 to 8 but will be fun for the whole family! There will be food trucks and tasty Halloween treats as well.

31st Annual Halloween Carnival and Silent Auction Fundraiser

Saturday October 20th, 2018 10am-2pm

Free Admission, game tickets 4 for $1.

Shoreline Community College - PUB

The legendary silent auction boasts bid-worthy gift certificates, Disneyland tickets (!), food and wine experiences, book and music packages, and much more!

Admission is FREE and carnival game tickets are only 4 for $1. All proceeds support SCP, a nonprofit preschool.

This INDOOR event will be held in the Pagoda Union Building (PUB) at Shoreline Community College, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline on Saturday, October 20th from 10am to 2pm. See you there! If you would like to donate and support our school in its new location, please see our fundraising site.

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Shoreline K-9 gifted with Kevlar vest

K9 Atom

For many law enforcement agencies, bulletproof Kevlar vests for K9s are not in the budget. Through non-profits like Keeping K9s in Kevlar, funds are raised from community donations to vest K9s in need of assistance. 

Keeping K9s in Kevlar started a fund-raising campaign to buy vests for the King County Sheriff’s Office’s newest K-9 partners, K9 Atom of Shoreline and K9 Niko of Sammamish.

The vests come at a high price, $2,560 each.

Shoreline's K9 Atom, an 18.5 month old Belgian Malinois, is certified in tracking and apprehension with Deputy Holmes as his handler. When funded, K9 Atom’s vest will honor Fallen Officer Deputy Sheriff Mark William Brown. (See a previous story)

Deputy Holmes and K9 Atom
Photo by Wayne Pridemore

K9 Atom has his own Instagram account: k9_atom

K9 Niko, a 19 month old German Shepherd / Belgian Malinois mix, is certified in tracking and apprehension with Deputy Treadway as his handler. 

When funded, K9 Niko’s vest will have the quote, “What counts is not necessarily the size of the dog in the fight; it’s the size of the fight in the dog.” —Dwight D. Eisenhower (34th President of the United States)

The K9 Storm Patrol SWAT Kevlar vests are custom fit, protect against shrapnel, stabbings, and common handgun bullets. They also allows for rappelling and have a lifetime guarantee.

Kendra Cook, Founder, K9 Handler Assistant, of Keeping K-9s in Kevlar, put out a plea for funds on September 17, 2018.

Ron and Don with K9 Atom
Photo from Ron and Don Facebook page

Then Christie Malchow, the Mayor of Sammamish, contacted the Ron and Don Show on KIRO radio. She and the two deputies and dogs went on the show Monday, September 24.

Ron and Don frequently hold on-air fund drives for causes they believe in. They have a huge and supportive audience - The Ron and Don Nation.

That afternoon, while Atom played under the desk, Ron and Don easily raised enough money to outfit Atom in Kelvar - as well as Niko and another dog named Ace.

K9 ATOM needed a Kevlar vest to protect and serve, and The Ron and Don Show on KIRO Radio Nation got it done. K9 NIKO and K9 ACE too! Thanks to everyone who donated!

Deputy Holmes says that once Atom gets the vest he will need to do training with the vest because of the additional weight.

But now he will be as well protected as the other officers.

Keeping K-9s in Kevlar is a group of K9 handlers and an assistant. No one is paid, 100% of donations go to the K9s and are tax deductible. There is no cost to handlers or agencies. Keeping K-9s in Kevlar is a Non-Profit 501(c)(3) under the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Support Foundation.

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Shorecrest tennis scores decisive victory over Meadowdale

Ben Silber
Photo by Anne Tangeman

WesCo 3A boys varsity tennis
9-27-18 @ Kellogg MS
Shorecrest 7 - Meadowdale 1
SC overall 4-5

(Shorecrest players/scores listed first)

Singles

1. Ben Silber v Ben Fahey 3-6 6-4 6-4 W
2. Reed Tangeman v Daniel Tameishi 6-3 7-6 (7-0) W
3. Zaid Khan v Chase Harmon 6-2 6-0 W
4. Micah Glesener v Zach White 6-1 6-4 W

Micah Glesener
Photo by Anne Tangeman

Doubles

1. Gabe Vogel / Tyler Keen v Kyle Perez / Xavier Sherette 6-3 6-4 W
2. David Chen / Simon DeVos v Matt Hartono / Neema Shokri 6-4 4-6 10-12 L
3. John Williams / Carson Hart v Ryan Secrest / Eric Kim 6-0 7-6 (7-2) W

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Beach orcas are still missing - do you know anything?

The stolen orcas have not yet surfaced. The art works, by Harro Scharbau and Emily Eng, were removed from their installation at Kayu Kayu Ac park in Richmond Beach.

The Richmond Beach Community Association, which commissioned and owns the art works, has made a "no questions asked" offer if the orcas are returned by Friday.

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Rob Oxford: Camperman

"Camperman" Joe
Sketch by one of the regulars at the Kaffeeklatsch
where Joe enjoyed his coffee

By Rob Oxford

Nearly 20 years ago we moved into the home we currently occupy and if truth be told, we have no plans of ever leaving. 

I often say that when the time comes "they'll be carrying me out of here in a pine box" or whatever it is they make coffins of these days.

At the end of our street there once stood what I considered to be a dilapidated old shack. It was, however, a home. A home that at one time hosted family get together's and holiday dinners. It had seen children off to school and welcomed them back home. 

Unfortunately, for whatever reason, it was now a dilapidated old shack. So dilapidated in fact that its current owner lived outside... in a tent.

Overgrown with trees and brush, I am assured that it had seen much better days. In fact longtime residents of our neighborhood recall it as being a quaint little place with flower beds and a lawn that needed regular cuttings.

Sadly it now needed more love and attention than anyone could possibly provide. A prime piece of real estate, I am certain offers to purchase this corner lot were constantly being made.

To me, although I am now somewhat embarrassed to admit, it was an eyesore. New families were moving into our neighborhood all the time. There were newlyweds buying their "starter" homes, bachelors looking for "fixer uppers" as well as retired couples enjoying their twilight years.

On an given weekend, weather permitting, I'd find myself running to the nursery for flowers, plants or beauty bark. Each time I had to drive by that dilapidated old shack and each time "Camperman" would be sitting outside at a tiny card table with only one chair. "Camperman" is what my sons called him. After all, he "camped" outside... all year long.

At first I would act like I didn't see him. I would avoid eye contact pretending to be looking for something on the dash of my truck or on the seat beside me. Other times when I was wearing sunglasses, I was able to sneak a peak. Camperman on the other hand wasn't as inconspicuous, he was always watching.

As the years went by I started feeling more guilty for not waving as I passed by his home. Especially as my sons got older and became more curious about "Camperman." I wasn't sure how to respond. He was an odd fellow with a long white beard and long hair that stuck out from under his knit hat. He wore dark glasses, an overcoat, rolled his own and as far as I could tell, his only crime was he lived in a tent on property he owned...

One afternoon, I decided I couldn't hide from him any longer. He was a part of our community and belonged in our neighborhood. So, I purposely pulled up in front of his house (tent), introduced myself and immediately realized I had made the right choice.

His name was Joe and it turns out he knew more about me than I about him. He knew my wife and I walked our boys to school almost every day. He knew I worked at a radio station. He knew where I lived and he seemed to know that in ignoring his earlier attempts to be cordial, I meant him no disrespect.

From that day forward I would look for Joe as I drove past his home. I would slow to a crawl in order to give him a friendly wave, sometimes rolling my window down to say hello and he would always ask "How are those boys doing?" Eventually I started seeing him in other parts of the city and he would greet me with his hearty hello. Sometimes I would offer him a ride and on all but one occasion he said "No thank you".

The man I met that day was nothing like the man I had envisioned him to be. He was talkative, warm, funny, bright and had a smile a mile wide. His hands were rough but gentle to the shake and I was honored to have made a new friend. Although I was sorry it took so long.

While writing this "Ode to Joe", my wife reminded me that we put together a care package for Joe one Christmas. I had completely forgotten. It contained a flashlight with extra batteries, hand warmers, some candy, peaches, apples and pickles that my wife had canned, as well as an assortment of other little goodies that any man living in a tent would appreciate. Each item individually wrapped in colorful Christmas wrapping and placed in a basket near his tent. We never heard whether or not he liked his Christmas Gifts and it didn't matter, we liked giving them to him.

One day I heard Joe was ill and that he may not be coming home. That night I prayed and I didn't pray all that often. When he eventually passed I was sad. I would no longer have the opportunity to wave at our "Camperman". I would no longer see him walking about town. He would no longer ask "how are those boys?"

A memorial was held for Joe at the Kaffeeklatsch on Lake City Way, a place he would visit every day. I took my wife and sons. We heard stories about Joe and met his nephew, the only family member in attendance. 

Owner Annette told me Joe would come there for coffee and chess. She said he was a hoarder, but said so with a smile. She had just opened her little coffee shop and occasionally asked Joe if he had this or that, to which he would reply "Yes, I have 3 of them". The next day he would have only 2.

There now sits a beautiful two story home where Joe's "dilapidated old shack" once stood. But before Joe's things were cleared out and the property was sold, I went and had a look around. I wanted something of Joe's to remember him by and I found it.

Hanging from a tree was a wind chime of pink flamingo's. It was perfect! I carefully took it down and today it hangs from the arbor that decorates our front walk.

I will never forget you, Joe Patrykus. Nor will I ever forget the lesson you not only taught my sons, but their father as well.

Everyone deserves respect, everyone deserves love and you certainly can't judge a "Camperman" by the tent in which he chooses to live.

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Sound Transit contractor continues early demo of houses in path of light rail

Photos by Mike Remarcke

The contractor for Sound Transit continues the early demolition of houses purchased by ST to make way for the light rail through Shoreline.

These photos were taken recently in the 17000 block of 1st NE, next to the freeway.

This block of 1st NE faced the sound wall.

For now, the contractors are protecting the trees and large plants on the site.

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A City Mourns and Moves On: Part 3 of "Pandemic in Seattle"

By Meredith Li-Vollmer
Public Health - Seattle and King County

What happened when a second wave of severe influenza came through Seattle on the heels of a war victory? We present the third installment of a 4-part comic strip commemorating the centennial of the 1918 influenza pandemic.

This comic strip series, illustrated by David Lasky and written by Meredith Li-Vollmer, commemorates the centennial of the Great Pandemic of 1918 and celebrates the 10th Anniversary of our original comic book, No Ordinary Flu. To order copies of No Ordinary Flu (available in multiple languages) and for more on pandemic flu, including what schools, businesses, and individuals can do to be ready for a severe pandemic: https://kingcounty.gov/health/pandemicflu

Part One: Seattle a Century Ago – Backdrop for a Pandemic

Part Two: Seattle Faces a Pandemic

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