LFP Mayor’s Corner – Reflection

LFP Mayor Jeff Johnson

With this being my last Mayor’s Corner message to the LFP community, I would like to use it to say what an honor it has been to serve as your Mayor the last eight years and as a city council member for four years before that.

 

Over the last 12 years, we have accomplished a lot, including the following:

• We weathered the COVID-19 pandemic and maintained balanced budgets throughout the economic downturn
• Moved to hybrid city council and advisory body meetings, expanding public access to the legislative process
• Moved the culvert replacement plan forward by completing the culvert on NE 178th Street and preparing the next replacement at NE 185th Street
• Built a picnic shelter at Pfingst Animal Acres Park
• Purchased the Lake Front Park property and began the public planning process
• Held Coffee with the Mayor events
• Welcomed a new Municipal Judge
• Held the annual Picnic in the Park event each year and the popular Battle of the Bands
• Created the Climate Action Committee
• Said goodbye to some long-term staff who retired, and welcomed new hires

If I had to pick the one thing I am most proud of during my tenure as mayor, it is the city’s purchase of the Lake Front Park property. Once complete, our community will have free waterfront access to Lake Washington. Our name is Lake Forest Park, after all.

If I had to pick the biggest ongoing challenge to the city, it would be finding funding to maintain and update our public amenities like parks and sidewalks. 

When presented with a proposition on the November 2021 ballot to help fund sidewalks, parks, and multimodal connections, voters said no. Without the community’s support for funding of these types of improvements throughout the city, future city leaders will be faced with tough choices when developing budgets— how to maintain the current levels of service and improve and maintain infrastructure in the face of inflation and staffing limitations. 

If park and sidewalk development and maintenance is truly a desire of the community, the community will need to support funding options.

I would like to thank all the city staff members for their hard work and dedication to the LFP community. I always enjoyed seeing you at council meetings, events, and around city hall.

Lake Forest Park is a great place to live and work and it has been an honor to serve as an elected official during these past 12 years.

Happy holidays to you and yours, and may the new year bring blessings to all.

--Mayor Johnson

Celebrate Anne Stadler: An Online Memorial, December 8 or 9

Please join friends and family of Anne M. Stadler to honor and remember her love of life and the human spirit

December 8*

• 5:30pm Hawaii
• 7:30pm Seattle
• December 9, 9am India

OR

December 9*

• 7am Hawaii
• 9am Seattle / Noon New York / 5pm London

Zoom link**  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81632260735

Our purpose:

To share what Anne meant to us through our stories and other creative expressions.

Add your pictures, links to videos and messages here: Send Anne Love

We’ll hold two online celebrations to welcome Anne’s friends from around the world. Both sessions will be recorded for the family.

With love,
Peggy Holman, Anil Sachdev, Matthew Stadler, Annick Corriveau, William Aal

P.S. Please spread the word.
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** Zoom Dial In Information

Meeting ID: 816 3226 0735

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Holiday and Winter Photography with Merrill Images Saturday December 2, 2023

Holiday and Winter Photography with Merrill Images

Shoreline Library 345 NE 175th St, Shoreline WA 98155

Saturday, December 2, 2-3:30pm

For Adults.

Jumpstart your photography with new approaches to image-making throughout the winter season. John and Lisa Merrill from Merrill Images will help you harness the transformative power of light, compose for impact and intentionally make compelling photos.

Sponsored by the Friends of the Shoreline Library.

Registration not required.

Holiday Open House and craft bazaar at Friendship Academy December 2, 2023

Holiday Open House and Craft Bazaar at Friendship Academy

Saturday December 2, 2023 1 - 4pm 

1206 N 185th St, Shoreline WA 98133

Shop for participant-made holiday gifts and local artisan crafts and gifts.

Decorate cookies, play games and visit with friends. Pictures with Santa! 

Saturday December 2 is a fun event convergence zone - too many things too little time

By Diane Hettrick

There are several dates during the year where every organization in town seems to schedule an event and December 2, 2023 is clearly one of those days.

I thought I had a route figured out to be able to get to everything, but then discovered three more events. Obviously you will need to make choices. Sorry - you can't have it all.

8am - 6pm (Fred Meyer on Aurora) Shoreline Fire Toy Drive

9am - 1pm (LFP) Five Acre Woods work party

10am  Green Shoreline Day - (12 locations in Shoreline) planting events

10am - 2pm (Sky Nursery) Heartful Rootz Makers Market

10am - 1pm (Shoreline College) Let's Make Gifts for the Holidays

 10am or 12:30pm or 2pm (Kruckeberg) Holiday Wreath-Making (pre-registration required)

10am - 3pm (Shoreline Place) T&C Gingerbread House Decorating Event

10am -5pm (Hillwood) Paul Lewing annual studio sale - Saturday and Sunday

12 - 4pm (Ridgecrest) Cascade Winter Market

1 - 4pm (Aurora / 185th) Holiday Craft Fair and Open House at Friendship Academy

2 - 3:30pm (Shoreline Library) Holiday and Winter Photography

4:30pm (Richmond Beach) Tree Lighting and Santa

6 - 10:30pm (Ridgecrest) Star Party

6:30pm (North City) Tree Lighting, Toy Drive, and Santa

 

Man shot during Lake City robbery

Shooting in 13200 block of 35th NE in Lake City

By Officer Shawn Weismiller

Seattle Police Department

Robbery detectives are searching for multiple suspects after a 28-year-old male was shot and robbed of his scooter Wednesday afternoon November 29, 2023 in Lake City.

Shortly after 1:30pm, officers responded to reports of a male shot in the 13200 block of 35th Ave NE. Police arrived and located a male victim with a gunshot wound. Officers provided life-saving measures until the Seattle Fire Department arrived. The victim was transported to Harborview Medical Center in stable condition.

Police learned the victim was on his scooter when he was approached by a vehicle occupied by multiple males. One of the suspects was armed with a rifle and a handgun. The suspect pointed the gun at the victim and demanded his property. The suspect then shot the victim and fled with the victim’s scooter and backpack.

Officers searched the area but were unable to locate the vehicle or the suspects. Robbery detectives responded to the scene and will be leading the investigation.

If anyone has information about this incident, please call Seattle PD’s Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000.

WA Ferries awarded $4.8M in federal funds to extend lifespan of six aging vessels

M/V Issaquah. Photo courtesy WSDOT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – November 29, 2023, U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Patty Murray (D-WA), chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that Washington State Ferries (WSF) has received $4.8 million in federal funding to refurbish passenger areas on six aging boats in its ferry fleet.

The grant will pay for upgrades on all six of WSF’s Issaquah Class Vessels, originally constructed between 1979 and 1982 and currently serve travelers in Fauntleroy, Vashon, Southworth, Mukilteo, Clinton, Anacortes, and the San Juan Islands. 

Funds came from the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) 2023 Ferry Programs Grants. The Washington State Department of Transportation is providing an additional $960,000 for the project.

“Our ferry system is a critical part of our transportation network and ridership is growing. With this money, Washington State Ferries will extend the useful life of six vessels by five to ten years, which will help improve service reliability throughout the ferry system,” Sen. Cantwell said.

 

M/V Chelan. Photo courtesy wikimedia commons

Sen. Murray said, 

“Here in Washington state, ferries are really important to our daily lives and commutes— so we need the federal government to make a serious investment in this mode of transportation.  

“These critical refurbishments made possible with the funding we’re announcing today will allow these vessels to serve passengers more comfortably and for years to come. 

"As Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I’m working hard to secure additional federal resources for our ferries, and to make sure that our nation’s largest ferry fleet— right here in Washington state— can continue to serve our communities well.”

This project will extend the useful life of the vessels and improve passenger amenities, allowing for more space between passengers in high-occupancy areas, and making cleaning easier for WSF staff. The benefits will be primarily felt by the increasing number of walk-on riders in the nation’s largest ferry system.

Each of the six ships can carry 90-124 vehicles and 1,200 passengers per trip. The vessels receiving upgrades are:

• MV Issaquah (1979)
• MV Kittitas (1980): Serving Fauntleroy/Southworth/Vashon
• MV Kitsap (1980) : Serving Mukilteo/Clinton
• MV Cathlamet (1981): Serving Fauntleroy/Southworth/Vashon
• MV Chelan (1981) : Serving Anacortes/San Juan Islands
• MV Sealth (1982)

In FY2022, only 43% of the 21 WSF vessels met the target for State of Good Repair. Additionally, the accumulating maintenance backlog has resulted in pervasive service disruptions. From July 2019 to June 2023, each of the six vessels was out of operation in shipyards for an average of 3.12 months each year. 

Without refurbishment, vessels will continue to deteriorate, and service disruptions will become even more commonplace. The project will extend the useful life of these aging vessels – which comprise 28.5% of the entire WSF fleet – for another five to 10 years.

By the end of 2025, these six ships will have a combined preservation backlog of over $88 million, with only $28.9 million available for preservation. With such severe fiscal constraints, preservation funding has been necessarily directed toward only the most urgent needs to keep vessels operational, in the absence of significant funding allocated for passenger amenities.

In January, Sen. Cantwell and Sen. Murray announced that Washington State Ferries would receive three grants from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) totaling $11.6 million, including a grant to electrify the Mukilteo-Clinton route. 

Sen. Cantwell and Senator Murray played an instrumental role in securing $25 million to replace the 60-year-old Lummi Island ferry with a state-of-the-art electric hybrid vessel through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program first established by Senator Murray.

As chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Sen. Cantwell has consistently championed investments in the State of Washington’s transportation systems and has helped secure federal funding for important infrastructure and transit expansion projects throughout the state. 

In August, Sen. Cantwell announced a $44.6 million grant to help convert three Washington State Ferries to hybrid-electric propulsion systems, along with a $100 million contract with shipbuilder Vigor.

Sen. Murray has long fought to increase funding for in our nation’s ferry systems and this year, as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, she secured $20 million for the Passenger Ferry Grant Program— a $5 million increase over last year’s funding level— in the draft Transportation, Housing and Urban Development funding bill for Fiscal Year 2024 that overwhelmingly passed the Senate in November. 

In last year’s spending package, Senator Murray successfully fought to increase investments for the Passenger Ferry Grant Program, as well as a minimum of $5 million set aside for low or zero-emission ferries. 

Senator Murray also helped secure record funding for ferries in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law she helped pass as Assistant Majority Leader; the legislation included $2.3 billion for ferry boats and terminal infrastructure, including $250 million over five years for low or zero emission ferries and more than $17 billion for port and waterway infrastructure.

Sens. Cantwell and Murray have long been strong supporters of robust increases to competitive transit grant programs such as the Capital Investment Grant Program, the Low or No Emission (Low-No) Grant Program, the Bus and Bus Facilities Grant Program, and the Passenger Ferry Grant Program.

Live and Local: Tap your toes at Third Place Commons

Michele D'Amour and the Love Dealers at Third Place Commons Friday

This Friday, December 1, 2023 at 7pm, Michele D'Amour and the Love Dealers return to the stage at Third Place Commons for a sizzling night of blues, jazz, and deep grooves sure to keep you moving all night.

Dance to the 85th Street Big Band Saturday at Third Place Commons

Then Saturday at 7pm, because we know you love to dance, we bring you none other than the 85th Street Big Band for an irresistibly swinging good time.

And by the way, discreet toe-tapping counts as dancing, so if you'd rather just sit and enjoy the great music, that's perfect, too!

Community starts here. Join us!

Third Place Commons, upper level Town Center Lake Forest Park, intersection Bothell and Ballinger Way NE.

  

Let's Make Gifts for the holidays on December 2, 2023 at Shoreline Community College

Nothing beats a handcrafted gift! 

Join us for this fun workshop, and learn how to create paper beads, then fashion them into jewelry. 

Decorate a candle with coordinating box of matches, and make a cute pinecone owl to grace a mantel or a tree. 

Leave with several treasures and patterns to make more. For families and adults of all ages.

Saturday, December 2, 2023 from 10am to 1pm at Shoreline Community College, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133, The PUB 9000 building, room 9208.

Fee: $39.00 All supplies provided!

Register here

Sponsored by Continuing Education, Shoreline Community College.

Work party in Five Acre Woods on Saturday, December 2, 2023

Five Acre Woods
Photo courtesy LFP Stewardship Foundation

Five Acre Woods Volunteer Work Party 

in Lake Forest Park

Saturday December 2, 2023 from 9am - 12noon

City Park "Five-Acre Woods" 18678-18998 40th Pl NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155.

Restoration volunteers continue at your local forest park, Five Acre Woods. This new hidden gem of a park is really coming along! 

Work includes removal of invasive plants like ivy, blackberry and bamboo, trail building and maintenance, and planting trees and native plants. 

Come dressed for all weather – rain or shine. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain and mountain beaver holes. 

We will have a limited number of tools available so please bring your garden shears, loppers, folding hand saws or metal rakes but leave your power tools at home.  

Don’t forget your gloves — some people are sensitive to ivy sap.

Green Shoreline Day - volunteer in a Shoreline Park

Green Shoreline Day, Saturday December 2, 2023 in parks throughout the City.

This is the first year for this event. The volunteers who shepherd each park will have up to 100 native plants that need to get into the ground on this day.

One potential problem of having all the events on the same day: there are people who routinely volunteer at more than one park. They will have to choose and some parks will be short-handed. Brugger's Bog is one location that struggles for volunteers. Northcrest could use some help, too.

Map of park locations

Details and sign up at each park link. Most events are 10am - 1pm but may vary by location.

Darnell Park
12/02/2023
Darnell Park

Echo Lake Loves Native Plants
12/02/2023
Echo Lake Park

Shoreline Park
12/02/2023
Shoreline Park

Brugger's Bog
12/02/2023
Bruggers Bog

Help Us Plant Native Trees!
12/02/2023
Richmond Beach Saltwater Park

Northcrest Park
12/02/2023
Northcrest Park

Hamlin Forest Restoration Site 
12/02/2023
Hamlin Park

North City Park
12/02/2023
North City Park

Tree Planting Celebration
12/02/2023
Boeing Creek Park

Winter planting
12/02/2023
Twin Ponds Park

Join us! Weekly Sunday Work Party
12/03/2023
Twin Ponds Park

Cartoon by Whitney Potter: The End

Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter can be seen here

 

Elections certified: Major turnovers in local races

l-r Tom French, next Mayor of Lake Forest Park; Annette Ademasu, newest member of Shoreline City Council; Jon Culver elected to Kenmore City Council

King county has certified the results of the November 2023 general election, as has Snohomish county.

Locally, our elections were remarkable for the long-term, well-known incumbents who were defeated by challengers.

• LFP Mayor Jeff Johnson defeated by Tom French
• Shoreline Councilmember Doris McConnell defeated by Annette Ademasu
• Kenmore Councilmember David Baker defeated by Jon Culver

Mike Rosen, next Mayor of Edmonds
Susanna Johnson, Snohomish County Sheriff

Snohomish County incumbents had not been in office as long, perhaps 3-4 years.

• Edmonds Mayor Mike Nelson defeated by Mike Rosen
• Snohomish county sheriff Adam Fortney defeated by Susanna Johnson

Local races were notable for the number of incumbents who had no challengers. Effectively, they were reelected the moment that candidate filing closed.

As always, local races were also notable for the number of people who did not vote, i.e. "undervotes."

King County ballot returns

There are some good reasons for people who are registered but do not vote. People move out of the state and don't think to notify elections. People who are infirm, or ill. People who don't think they know enough about issues or candidates to make a choice.

People who figure the incumbent will win and doesn't need their vote. 

People who are so stressed and busy that the whole thing just got away from them. People who fill out their ballots early, put them on the desk and bury them in a stack of paper (you know who you are).

That leaves a lot of people that I have no excuses for.

Having said that, the turnout was better this year in some areas. The City of Kenmore had 40% turnout, which isn't bad compared to Shoreline's 34% - but Kenmore still had a council race that was decided by 70 votes.

Lake Forest Park has bragging rights with a 48% ballot return.

City of Kenmore - 15,656 registered -  6,289 ballots  40.17%

City of Lake Forest Park -  10,352 registered - 4,954 ballots  48.26%

City of Seattle -  480,980 registered - 220,938 ballots  45.93% (numbers from Prop 1)

City of Shoreline - 39,313 registered  - 13,326 ballots 33.90%

In Snohomish County, 

• Total Ballots Cast: 185,738 
• Registered Voters: 512,546
• Overall Turnout: 36.24%

Town of Woodway - 1045 registered voters - 499 ballots  47.75%

--Diane Hettrick

King County Library System (KCLS) Board of Trustees has appointed KCLS Deputy Director of Public Services Angie Miraflor as interim director of the library system

Angie Miraflor named interim director
of the King County Library System

ISSAQUAH, WA — The King County Library System (KCLS) Board of Trustees has appointed KCLS Deputy Director of Public Services Angie Miraflor as interim director of the library system, effective December 19, following the retirement of current KCLS Executive Director Lisa Rosenblum.

Miraflor joined KCLS in November 2021. She brings over 20 years of experience working in diverse communities throughout the country. Before coming to KCLS, she served as the director of central services at the St. Louis Public Library. 

Miraflor has also served as the director of customer experience at the Brooklyn Public Library, associate director of the West Bronx Library Network at the New York Public Library, and division manager for literacy and learning at the San Jose Public Library. 

Angie holds a master’s degree in library and information science and a bachelor’s degree in public relations from San Jose State University.

“I’m proud to say KCLS has been my library home for the last two years,” stated KCLS Deputy Director of Public Services Angie Miraflor. “I’m excited and honored to lead such an innovative and community focused organization during this time of transition. KCLS’ devoted staff will continue to provide excellent programs and robust collections.”  

The KCLS Board of Trustees is charged with hiring the new executive director. They are conducting a national search for the position, and they expect the effort to take several more months.

"The Board of Trustees is happy that Angie Miraflor has graciously agreed to fill the role of the interim director,” stated KCLS Board of Trustees President Harish Kulkarni. “We are confident that the library and its patrons will be in able and experienced hands until a new director can start their duties."

Rosenblum announced her retirement in July. A distinguished librarian, she has spent the past 35 years working for public libraries. Since Rosenblum joined KCLS in January 2018, the library system has received numerous awards and accolades for outstanding services and innovation, including being named a National Medal finalist by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) this year — a first for KCLS.

Popular ideas of Christmas (and where they came from)

Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 11:45am we will offer a seminar titled, “Popular ideas of Christmas (and where they came from)”

 
We have a lot of wild and wonderful ways of celebrating Christmas: St. Nick, Santa Claus, The Christmas Creche, The Night Before Christmas, A Christmas Carol, Sugar Plum Fairies, and even Flying Reindeer. 

Where did all these come from? We will give some of the history in a fun, interactive seminar format, finishing by 1:00pm. 

In addition to the seminar presentation we’ll have a chance to share favorite family traditions. All are welcome.

St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church

722 N 145th St, Shoreline WA 98133

Free COVID Test Kits available now

COVID-19 at home tests are available, at no cost to you when you order online. 

Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order an additional 4 free at-home tests beginning November 20, 2023. 

If you did not order tests this fall, you may place two orders for a total of 8 tests. 

Make sure you and your loved ones are heading into winter ready to test if needed.

To request your tests visit COVID.gov/tests

Northwest Neighbors Network - a great place to volunteer

This holiday season consider giving yourself the gift of connection to some wonderful members of your community. That's what happens when you volunteer with Northwest Neighbors Network. 

You can do it at the times your life allows without the pressure of a regular schedule. 

As a volunteer for five years, helping seniors remain in their own homes by assisting with yard and household tasks, I've crossed paths with fascinating people I would otherwise never have met.

What do NNN Volunteers Do? *Transportation *Shopping/Errands *Light Cleaning *Help with Trash/Mail *Social Visits/Walking Partners *Simple Repairs*Tech Assistance and More! 

Serving people in Northern King County and South Snohomish Counties.

Find out how to get involved; email danie@northwestneighborsnetwork.org or call 253-237-2848

--Anne Guthrie

Shop Local: Paul Lewing Studio Sale and Open House December 2-3, 2023

Acrylic painting by Paul Lewing

Paul Lewing will hold his annual studio sale and open house Saturday and Sunday, December 2 - 3, 2023 from 10am - 5pm, at his studio at 105 N 200th St. in the Hillwood neighborhood of Shoreline. 

He will be show his acrylic paintings and ceramic tiles. Joining him again this year will be Rupa Palasamudram, showing her functional porcelain ceramics.

Functional porcelain ceramics by Rupa Palasamudram

This year marks the 50th consecutive year Paul has staged a home/studio sale. All are welcome. Bring your friends and shop local.

Paul Lewing

• Tiles: www.paullewingtile.com
• Art: www.paullewingart.com

Shoreline Fire Board meeting Wednesday November 29, 2023

SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE

 

As required by RCW 42.30, the Open Public Meetings Act, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Commissioners of the Shoreline Fire Department will hold a Special Meeting at the date, time, and place specified below.

 

The purpose of the meeting is to re-approve the Shoreline Fire Department’s 2024 Budget Resolution 23-05 - Tax Levy Certification of Regular Property Tax Levy and Bond Levy.

 

DATE:                          Wednesday, November 29, 2023

 

TIME:                           4:00 pm

 

LOCATION:               Shoreline Fire Department (upstairs conference room)

                                    17525 Aurora Avenue North

                                    Shoreline, WA  98133

 

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85118828972?pwd=a1pNYUhtNmtJeDNObGRDZ09NM3pQQT09

Meeting ID: 851 1882 8972

Passcode: 821305

 

Notice posted by:                Beatriz Goldsmith

                                                Executive Assistant

                                                November 28, 2023

Sno-King School Retirees award mini-grants to educators in Shoreline Schools

Each fall the Sno-King School Retirees, an organization of active and retired employees of the Edmonds, Northshore, and Shoreline School Districts, offers educator grants to our active members. 

Since 1998, SKSR has awarded over $120,000 in mini-grants.

SKSR is pleased to announce that seven Shoreline employees and one school volunteer are 2023-24 mini-grant recipients.

Briarcrest Elementary

• Jafeet Corral: A classroom subscription for IXL math. (2nd grade)
• Michelle Holguin: High-quality headphones for her class to use during reading rotations. (3rd grade)
• Emma LeBlanc: High-quality headphones for her class to use, especially for literacy programs. (1st grade)
• Amy Pitts: A classroom subscription for IXL math. (2nd grade)
• Janet Shin: High-interest books and tactile materials for her reset station. (K-5th grades)
• Wendy Yamamoto: Alphabet magnets and magnetic boards to use with the phonics program. (Kindergarten)

Brookside Elementary

• Mary Telstad: Art supplies for watercolor workshops. (4th/5th grades)

Syre Elementary

• Julie Anneberg: Lap desks to offer alternative seating options in order to meet different learning style needs. (3rd grade)

SKSR is glad to be able to assist these educators and their students in this small way.

Classified: Notice of Meeting Cancellation Shoreline Fire Board of Commissioners

NOTICE OF MEETING CANCELLATION

 

As required by RCW 42.30.090 the Open Public Meetings Act, you are hereby notified that the Board of Commissioners of the Shoreline Fire Department has CANCELLED the regular meeting scheduled for December 21, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. The meeting will not be rescheduled. The next regular scheduled Board meeting is January 4, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.

 

Notice posted by:                Beatriz Goldsmith

                                             Executive Assistant

                                             November 27, 2023

Sea-Tac Airport: Semi stuck under skybridge jams traffic at airport

Semi stuck under skybridge at Sea-Tac
Photo courtesy Sea-Tac airport

From Sea-Tac Airport

Sorry for the interruption tonight.  The lower arrivals drive is closed right now as there is a semi truck stuck there. 

Tip: don’t drive a semi on the airport drive. It can’t go under the skybridges. 

We’re in the process of getting it backed out so we can reopen the drive soon.

Traffic was backed up to I-5 as people got caught in lanes they couldn't turn around in. People missed flights. It took at least an hour to back the truck out of the lane. 

Burn Ban lifted for Snohomish county

Burn Ban Lifted for Snohomish County, Continues in Greater Pierce County

In Pierce County, outdoor burning, and the use of fireplaces and uncertified wood stoves is prohibited until air quality improves

The burn ban for Snohomish County has been lifted, effective 2PM today, November 27. Due to stagnant weather conditions and rising air pollution, a Stage 1 burn ban continues for Greater Pierce County

King county was not included in the bans.

Support Washington Youth in foster care this Holiday Season

SEATTLE, WA – Treehouse, Washington state’s leading nonprofit supporting youth in foster care, is calling on individuals, community groups and companies in all corners of Washington state to host donation drives and raise money to meet the increased need this holiday season.

While the holiday season officially kicks off November 1 for most people, Treehouse’s Material and Financial Resources team has been assisting shoppers, shipping online orders and processing funding requests for the holiday season for weeks.

Demand increases as seasons change, making the need for high-quality winter coats, shoes and warm clothing evident. It is especially critical for youth who don’t have or have outgrown their cold weather clothes.

“We are anticipating a greater need this holiday season compared to last year,” said Victoria Kutasz, Resources and Operations Director at Treehouse. “With the recent expansion of statewide eligibility for Treehouse programs, hundreds more youth have enrolled in our programs. We need the public’s support now more than ever.”

Treehouse’s school-aged programs opened eligibility to all Washington youth in foster care to ensure that no matter where a youth is placed, a Treehouse staff member will be by their side, connecting them to educational and community resources for long-term success.

During the 2022 holiday season, close to 4,300 youth received a gift or other support, with thousands utilizing multiple supports.

How the public can help:

• Host a donation drive and encourage your community to make purchases from our wish list. Visit treehouseforkids.org/take-action/host-a-drive/#drive to get started.
• Start a fundraising page. The money raised through peer-to-peer fundraising helps to fill in the gaps in inventory at the Treehouse Store, pay for shipping costs and support funding requests for activities and expenses related to school and youth development. Visit treehouseforkids.org/take-action/host-a-drive/#fundraise to sign up.
• Purchase items from Treehouse’s wish list at treehouseforkids.org/wishlist. This list is kept up to date with the items most requested by youth and their caregivers.

About Treehouse

Treehouse envisions — and strives to create — a world where every child who has experienced foster care has the opportunities and support they need to pursue their dreams and launch successfully into independence. 

We directly support and work alongside thousands of youth in foster care in Washington State as well as their caregivers, educators, school administrators and social workers to ensure each youth has individualized plans and support. 

Flags at Half-Staff: Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter

Flag Lowering - 11/27/23 (Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter)

Pursuant to the attached Presidential Proclamation, Governor Inslee hereby directs that Washington State and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff immediately, in honor and remembrance of former First Lady of the United States, Rosalynn Carter.

Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset on the day of interment, Wednesday, November 29, 2023.

Other government entities, citizens and businesses are encouraged to join this recognition.

Please email FlagRequests@gov.wa.gov if you have any questions about this flag lowering.

North City Business Association's 24th Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Festival and Toy Drive December 2, 2023

We at North City Water District look forward to this special moment every year— when hundreds of colorful lights in the shape of a giant Christmas tree suddenly light up the night sky, installed by our crew on top of our 3.7 million gallon reservoir.

As always, this festival offers fun for the entire family, including live music, sing-along carols, warm beverages, tasty Christmas cookies, and photos with Santa Claus... but there's something extra this year: 

The Center for Human Services is conducting a Toy Drive!

If you are able, consider bringing a new, unwrapped toy to donate on the night of the event. 

Here are a few ideas:

• Infants: plush animals, sensory and developmental toys
• Children ages 3-10: books, science kits, Legos, puzzles, games, soccer balls or basketballs, art kits / supplies, dolls, plush animals
• Teens: sports equipment, board games, science kits, art supplies, gift cards for clothing or music stores

We hope to see you all there!

Les Schwab at NE 180th St and 15th Ave NE in North City on Saturday December 2, 2023 starting at 6:30pm

Thank you to this year's generous Sponsors:

• North City Water District will ensure Santa Claus is on hand for photo opportunities
• Les Schwab will provide a gathering place for everyone in their parking lot
• Around the Sound Community Band will be playing all sorts of festive, sing-along holiday tunes
• Center for Human Services is coordinating a Toy Drive for kids in need
• Shoreline / Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center will serve up plenty of hot chocolate and coffee
• North City Neighborhood Association will hand out delicious holiday cookies
• Gabbert Architects and Planners helps make everything possible
• North City Business Association supports our area's small businesses throughout the year

Richmond Beach Holiday Tree Lighting Saturday December 2, 2023 at 4:30pm

Holiday Tree Lighting in Richmond Beach

Saturday December 2, 2023 at 4:30pm

Join us for the Tree Lighting event on Saturday, December 2nd at the Richmond Beach Congregational Church, 1512 NW 195th St, Shoreline, WA 98177.

We'll begin gathering at 4:30pm in the parking area next to Richmond Beach Road. We'll have hot drinks, snacks, holiday music, and a visit from Santa!

Gingerbread House decorating event Saturday at Town and Country Market

Gingerbread House Decorating Event

It's a winter wonderland at T&C as gingerbread houses are 50% off for one day only!

Saturday December 2, 2023 from 10am-3pm

Shoreline Town & Country Market

15505 Westminster Way N.Shoreline, WA 98133

Come one come all to Town & Country’s annual gingerbread house decorating extravaganza! 

On December 2, 2023 for one day only, gingerbread kits will be on a can’t-miss half-price sale for $10.99! 

Pick up one of our premium, pre-assembled kits at your local T&C, and join us for some decorating fun! 

We’ll provide all the icing and candies you will need for decorating, plus we’ll be serving hot apple cider and festive cookies! 10 am-3 pm!

Ridgecrest Neighborhood Holiday Food Drive for HopeLink - Shoreline's Food Bank

Ridgecrest Neighborhood Holiday Food Drive for HopeLink - Shoreline's Food Bank. 

The Food Drive will be going on now through the end of December. 

Please donate non-perishable food items and personal care items. 

Our goal is to collect 1,300 lbs and raise $1,300. You can make cash donations online here.

Food and personal care items can be dropped off at:

• Cafe Aroma, 509 NE 165th St, Mon-Fri 6am-5pm, Sat-Sun 7am-5pm
• Drumin, 522 NE 165th St, Mon-Sat 3-10pm, Sunday 8am-10pm

Shakespeare's Lost Christmas Play at the RBCC Players December 8-9, 2023

This holiday season RBCC Players Presents

“Shakespeare's Lost Christmas Play”

Shakespeare’s Lost Christmas Play by Dwayne Yancy and produced by special arrangement with Big Dog/Norman Maine Publishing LLC, Rapid City, SD.

Friday, December 8, 2023 - 7:30pm

Saturday, December 9, 2023 - 2:00pm

Join us for a Holiday Festival in the village of Moldingham-on-Cheese. This delightful comedy will have laughs and surprises from start to finish and is great for ages 10 and up. The show time is approximately 75 minutes without an intermission..

Adults: $20 Seniors 65+ and Under 18: $10

Tickets

Bill McLaughlin Theatre
Richmond Beach Congregational UCC
corner of 15th Ave. NW & NW Richmond Beach Rd.
Shoreline, WA 98177
**entrance on West side of building

Cascade Winter Market Saturday December 2, 2023 at The Drumlin

Cascade Winter Market

Saturday, December 2, 2023, noon to 4pm

The Drumlin Pub 522 NE 165th St. Shoreline 98155

We will host 18+ art and craft vendors from the Shoreline / Lake Forest Park community and beyond.

The event also features a bake sale with delicious homemade treats, and an array of non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages served by our gracious host. The event is ALL AGES.

This is a perfect place to bring the family for a festive afternoon. Admission is free. 

Cascade Winter Market is sponsored by the Cascade K-8 PTSA.

Tier 2 Severe Weather Protocols through Wednesday, November 29, 2023

King County Regional Homelessness Authority

The forecast has shifted, with several more days of overnight freezing temperatures. We are extending the activation of our Tier 2 Severe Weather Protocols through Wednesday, November 29. 

A Tier 2 activation means the KCRHA, in partnership with local service providers, is working to:

• Open temporary emergency shelters (also known as severe weather shelters), seek expansions to existing emergency shelter programs including 24/7 shelters and night-by-night shelters
• Update communications materials including but not limited to KCRHA’s Severe Weather webpage, and flyers, to include up-to-date information

Find resources and learn more on our Severe Weather Page

Scene on the Sound: Red sail, red tree

The red sail and the red tree made for a festive combination Friday morning.

- Lee Wolfe

Laugh until your face hurts at A Nice Family Christmas at The Phoenix Theatre

The cast (L - R) Patrick Holland, Karli Reinbold, Susan Connors, James Lynch, Shaylyn Reed, Jag, and Melanie Calderwood. Photo courtesy The Phoenix Theatre

By Kindle Carpp

A Nice Family Christmas, by Phil Olsen, directed by Eric Lewis, opened November 24, 2023 at The Phoenix Theatre in Edmonds to an uproarious response from the opening night crowd. 

I was surrounded by audience members who were snorting with laughter. 

The scene opens on a midwestern living room decorated for Christmas, missing only the scent of cookies and a sprig of mistletoe.

Our cast of characters includes Carl, the Family Disappointment; Michael the Golden Brother; and forgotten little sister Stacy. 

Rounding out the cast are Carl's peacemaker mother, floozy grandmother, and uninvited lush of an uncle.

Susan Connors, Jag, and Shaylyn Reed
Photo courtesy The Phoenix Theatre

The family dysfunction is evident immediately as Carl arrives and his mother and grandmother are disappointed that he isn't Michael.

As the night progresses we watch the family attempt to be civil, assisted by a bribe from their mother, as their secrets come to light.

And let me tell you - the tea is hot. I found myself gasping at the gossip that was being spilled. If this fruitcake family weren't so funny, it would be a disaster. There are so many one liners that were delivered so well that the cast often had to pause for audience laughter.

And the unsaid question of the night was: will the magic of Christmas heal their relationships? 

If you want to laugh until your face hurts and be immersed in family gossip that will brighten your holiday season, please go see A Nice Family Christmas.

Melanie Calderwood and Jag
Photo courtesy The Phoenix Theatre

A Nice Family Christmas at The Phoenix Theatre, 9673 Firdale Ave, Edmonds, WA

November 24 - December 17, 2023

• Friday - Saturday 7:30pm
• Sunday 2pm

Buy tickets here

• Adults $25, 
• Seniors 55+, Students, Military $20