Pages

Wednesday, July 31, 2024

King County Sheriff's Office updates pursuit policy effective August 1

“I have confidence in the good judgement
of our deputies," said Sheriff Patti Cole-Tindall
The King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) has updated its Pursuit of Motor Vehicles policy. 

The Washington Legislature’s revision of law enforcement vehicle pursuit laws earlier this year prompted this change.

The change applies to Shoreline and Kenmore police departments, which are contract agencies of KCSO.

In June of 2024, Initiative 2113 lifted certain restrictions on vehicle pursuits, restoring the authority to pursue a fleeing suspect when there is reasonable suspicion the suspect has violated the law, but retaining many of the risk reduction requirements found in the previous legislation. 

This impelled the Sheriff’s Office to evaluate modifications to its policy.

Effective August 1, the revised policy continues to restrict vehicle pursuits to dangerous felonies and DUI, while modifying the definition of dangerous felony to include burglary. 

The policy also allows pursuits for felony crimes, and non-felony crimes against a person, under extraordinary circumstances where there is an imminent and ongoing threat to persons or the community at large.

The most important factor when deciding whether to engage in a pursuit remains the risk to the community. Deputies are required to continually weigh the danger of failing to apprehend a suspect against the danger to the community created by the pursuit.

“I have confidence in the good judgement of our deputies when weighing the dangers of a chase against the potential threat to the people of King County,” said Sheriff Patti Cole-Tindall. 
“We have given these adjustments careful consideration. We understand the vital importance of striking a balance between holding people accountable for their actions and the well-being of the community.”

The more restrictive law, passed in 2021, only allowed law enforcement to chase suspects involved in a narrowly defined set of serious, violent crimes and required probable cause (a higher legal standard than reasonable suspicion) to chase.

Between 2018-2021, the King County Sheriff’s Office averaged just over 15 pursuits per quarter, compared to 14 per quarter from 2021-2023, after the more restrictive legislation went into effect.

In contrast, prior to the 2021 legislation, 41 suspects refused to stop for deputies every quarter, while 138 refused to stop after the 2021 pursuit legislation.

Additionally, the number of pursuits that resulted in injuries stayed static and vehicles damaged went down only slightly from almost 4 a year to 3 respectively.

The new policy lays out what factors deputies should consider when initiating a vehicle chase including communication protocol, supervisor responsibilities, when to terminate a chase, and training.

“KCSO’s vehicular pursuit policy has historically been more restrictive than the state law and that’s worked well for us,” said Undersheriff Jesse Anderson. 
“It was important for us to listen to community members asking us to go after dangerous criminals putting people at risk. That really helped drive our decision.”

The new policy covers all unincorporated King County, as well as the 12 cities that contract with the Sheriff’s Office.

The updated King County Sheriff’s Office Pursuit of Motor Vehicles Policy will be available in the public General Orders Manual here on August 1, 2024.



Pizza & Books at Shoreline Teen Center Friday August 2, 2024

Pizza & Books
Friday August 2, 2024 at 3:30pm

Enjoy some pizza and discuss what you have been reading!

For middle and high school ages.

Co-sponsored by the Friends of the Richmond Beach Library and the City of Shoreline.

Held at the Shoreline Teen Center (Richmond Highlands Rec Center) 16554 Fremont Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133


Upcoming restoration work party events in Shoreline parks

Invest in the future of our city’s urban forest! Please join us for upcoming restoration work party events in Shoreline parks:

On Saturday, 8/3 we will be in

· Shoreline Park

· Shoreview Park

· Hamlin Park

· Richmond Beach Saltwater Park

No experience necessary! Just bring your enthusiasm.

Contact Joy Wood at stewardship@restorationad.com with any inquiries about the Green Shoreline Partnership.



Bicyclist hit on Aurora Tuesday July 30, 2024

Medic One photo by Steven H. Robinson
A vehicle - bicycle collision sent the bicyclist to the hospital on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.

Shoreline Fire responded to a collision at northbound Aurora and N 170th just after noon on Tuesday, to treat an injured bicyclist and transport to the hospital.

The roadway was blocked northbound and narrowed to one lane southbound during the response.

No other information is available.

Correction: The date of the collision was July 30, 2024, not August.


What’s Happening this Week in Shoreline? July 31 – August 6


By Kate Ledbetter, Destination Shoreline

What’s Happening this Week in Shoreline?

July 31 – August 6


Get ready for a week of engaging events in Shoreline! Start with "Suited for Space" on July 31, where young explorers can design spacesuits for marshmallow astronauts at the Richmond Beach Library. 

Then, on August 3, extend your vegetable harvests with a free gardening class and enjoy fresh produce and local goods at the Shoreline Farmers Market. 

Don’t miss the scenic Richmond Highlands to Boeing Creek Walk and the magical Lunchtime Concert featuring AlakaSam on August 6. For the littlest ones, there's Baby Story Time at Shoreline Library on August 5. 

Keep reading for more details or visit www.DestinationShoreline.com/Calendar.

Suited for Space with the Museum of Flight
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Richmond Beach Library

Learn about the dangers of the vacuum of space by investigating how low-pressure environments affect the human body. Using household materials, design spacesuits for a marshmallow astronaut. Then test your design in a vacuum chamber. All materials provided by The Museum of Flight. Ages 9 to 13.Please register. Walk-ins welcome only if space allows.

FREE Class: Extend Your Vegetable Harvests
Saturday, August 3, 2024
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Spartan Recreation Center

Learn how you can address climate change in your own yard and garden. The WSU Extension King County Master Gardeners will present a series of six classes on different aspects of gardening in a time of climate change in July and August. Funding has been provided, in full or in part, by the City of Shoreline’s Environmental Mini-Grant Program. The classes will be held in person at the Spartan Recreation Center, 202 NE 185th St., Shoreline, WA 98155. All classes are Saturday mornings, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Classes are free to residents of Shoreline. However, space is limited, and registration is required.

Shoreline Farmers Market
Saturday, August 3, 2024
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
BikeLink Park & Ride

Shoreline's community hub for farm fresh & local foods, flowers, baked goods, local honey, live music, food trucks, kids programming, and so much more. Join us every Saturday through October 5th, located at the BikeLink Park & Ride (corner of 192nd & Aurora, across from Sky Nursery).

Richmond Highlands to Boeing Creek Walk
Saturday, August 3, 2024
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Calvin Presbyterian Church

Explore the Richmond Highlands neighborhood including Sunset Park and part of Boeing Creek Park. Approximately 3.1 miles. Rated moderate for some steep hills. Meet in the north side parking lot of

Walk is approximately: 3.1 miles / 1.5 hours
Walk Rating: Moderate (steep hills)
Meet at: Calvin Presbyterian Church, 18826 3rd Ave NW, North side of parking lot.
Walk Leader: Dan

Baby Story Time
Monday, August 5, 2024
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Shoreline Library

Share bouncy rhymes, familiar songs and a book for babies, newborn to 24 months with adult. Stay for a short play and social time for children and caregivers afterward. Registration not required.

Lunchtime Concert Series
Tuesday, August 6, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Spartan Recreation Center Field

AlakaSam – Magic. Bring family and friends of all ages to one of Shoreline’s beautiful parks for a free concert at lunchtime during the summer. Free Lunchtime Concerts for All Ages!

For more information and more upcoming events, visit the Shoreline events calendar on DestinationShoreline.com/Calendar

To have your event included please email DestinationShoreline@gmail.com.


Ridgecrest block party on 3rd NE between 157th and 158th August 3, 2024


Ridgecrest Block Party Saturday, August 3, 2024 5:00-9:30pm on 3rd Ave NE between 157th & 158th

Hang with your neighbors for National Night Out!

Everyone who lives in the vicinity of 3rd Ave NE in the Ridgecrest neighborhood is welcome!

Bring a chair and food/drink for yourself/family or an optional dish to share.

There will be a grill available if needed.

Please note: 3rd Ave NE will be closed to through traffic between 158th and 157th from 4:30pm - 10:00pm on the 3rd.

For updates and more info, follow us on Instagram @RidgecrestBlockParty


Large Rummage Sale August 9 - 10, 2024

Rummage sale at EUUC

Large rummage sale at Edmonds Unitarian Universalist Congregation (EUUC), located at 8109 224th St SW, Edmonds, WA 98026.

Come see what treasures and useful items are waiting to be found!

Friday, August 9 and Saturday, August 10, 2024 from 10:00am - 4:00pm.


8th Ave NW new sidewalk project online open house

A typical cross section of the street after the project is completed will include two 10 foot traffic lanes, a 5 foot bike lane, and a 6 foot sidewalk.

Visit the online open house
Dates: Open through August 12

We're planning a new sidewalk on 8th Ave NW and want to hear your suggestions and questions. You can add your thoughts to an ideas board or pin them directly to a map of the project area. Please tell us what you think!

Project Overview

This project will construct a new sidewalk on 8th Ave NW between NW Richmond Beach Road and NW 180th Street near the north side of Sunset Park. The sidewalk will be built on the east side of the street. A bike lane will be added to the west side of the street.

This project is part of the 2018 voter-approved effort to build and repair sidewalks throughout Shoreline.

Project improvements include:
  • Pedestrian facilities with curbs and gutters
  • Bicycle facilities
  • Curb ramps
  • Drainage improvements
Project website


Tuesday, July 30, 2024

Watering the Miyawaki Forest

Volunteers getting ready to water the Miyawaki Urban Forest

By Sarah Phillips

Last December 300 people came together to plant the Miyawaki Urban Forest at the Shoreline Historical Museum.

The forest needs to be watered and weeded for three years after which it should be self-sustaining.

Getting water to the plants is part of a grant from the King Conservation District. The grant provided funds for a 3000-gallon cistern.

The cistern is full. The rainwater is collected from the roof of the of the archive building and stored in the cistern. It was collected in June when it was raining. before the water could be used to water the forest a pump was needed. The installation of the pump is complete, and the cistern is working to water the forest.

Matt Tullio (in brown shirt) installed the cistern, installed the pump, and
built a fence around it.

The cistern was installed by Shoreline Historical Museum board member Matt Tulio. Matt also built a fence to protect the cistern an put in the pump.

Visit the museum for a storytelling event by Roger Fernandez. 

On September 28 at 10am Roger Fernandez will tell indigenous stories. In addition, there will be hands on activities for children and tours of the forest. Save the date Sunday, December 8, 2024, for the one-year anniversary of the planting of the forest and for the official unveiling of the Welcome Stone.

More information about the forest here.


Puget Sound Energy to transfer Colstrip Unit 3 and 4 ownership

Colstrip Generating Station in Eastern Montana
Photo by Patrick Webb
BELLEVUE, Wash. (July 30, 2024) – As part of its pathway to complying with Washington State’s Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA), Puget Sound Energy has signed an agreement to transfer its ownership in Units 3 and 4 of the Colstrip Generating Station in Eastern Montana to NorthWestern Energy effective December 31, 2025.

Under CETA, the state’s electric utilities must remove coal-fired generation serving Washington state customers by the end of 2025. PSE is one of six owners in Unit 3 and 4, holding a 25% interest in each unit. 

There are no changes to PSE’s ownership rights in the Colstrip transmission system as part of this agreement.

“PSE customers want clean energy and we are committed to providing it as we plan for our future in accordance with Washington state law,” said Ron Roberts, senior vice president of Energy Resources for PSE. “We are happy to find a partner in NorthWestern and for the future of the Colstrip plant to be in Montana’s control.”

PSE continues to invest in the diverse energy resources of Montana, announcing last week a power purchase agreement for a 315 MW wind farm under development in Wheatland and Meagher County. 

PSE is currently developing the Beaver Creek Wind Farm, a 248 MW project located in Stillwater County. 

Other recent examples include power purchase agreements with Energy Keepers, Inc., the tribally owned corporation of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes for hydroelectric power, and an agreement with NextEra for power from Montana’s largest wind farm, Clearwater Wind, based in Rosebud, Custer and Garfield Counties. 

In 2017, PSE contributed $10 million to the Colstrip Impacts Foundation to support the community’s transition planning efforts.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to invest in, and be a part of, the Colstrip community, and appreciate the decades of dedication by the facility’s workforce,” said Roberts.

Jobs: WSDOT IT System Administrator – Entry (Project)

WSDOT
IT System Administrator – Entry (Project)

$74,226 – $99,867 Annually

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Technology Services Division (TSD) is currently seeking to fill an IT System Administrator Entry vacancy located in Shoreline, WA. 

This position is an entry-level system administration professional serving the Northwest Region (NWR) for the end-user computing environment. The role requires professional and technical knowledge to independently identify and resolve problems within the region for matters involving desktop, laptop, and tablet hardware, software, operating systems, mobile devices, and related components. 

The successful candidate will ensure the agency can accomplish its mission of providing safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options to improve communities and economic vitality for people and businesses by supporting the high-profile transportation infrastructure projects of the Northwest Region and Mega Projects.

Job description and application


$200 credit for income qualified electric utility customers


WA State Department of Commerce is launching the WA Families Clean Energy Credits Program! 

Funded by the Climate Commitment Act, it'll provide a one-time $200 energy bill credit for low- to moderate-income electric utility customers. 

Check your eligibility and apply before September 15, 2024
(This is probably the easiest application you will ever encounter.)


Where's the sun?

 
Photo by Lee Lageschulte

The sun is taking a nap. The rain is busy washing the dust off the trees and leaves and watering the lawn and plants. 

I'd rather have a rain forest than a boiling desert but I was born here and have webbed feet.

--Diane Hettrick


195th pedestrian bridge to close for up to three weeks for renovation

Photo by Johanna Pollit

Sound Transit will be closing the NE 195th St pedestrian bridge for restoration. The closure is expected to begin on Thursday, August 1, 2024 and last for approximately three weeks. 

This work is weather-dependent, and the duration of closure may change.

The pedestrian bridge will be closed for 3 weeks.
Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to detour to 185th overpass.

There will be no access for pedestrians or cyclists during this closure. They are advised to use crossing routes at NE 185th St.

Crews will be working on the east side of the NE 195th St pedestrian bridge, and the bridge will be closed on both sides.


Public Hearing before LFP City Council August 8, 2024


City of Lake Forest Park
PUBLIC NOTICE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2024 - 7:00 P.M.
WASHINGTON INITIATIVE 2117 CONCERNING 
CARBON TAX CREDIT TRADING

The City of Lake Forest Park City Council will consider whether to adopt a resolution supporting or opposing Washington Initiative 2117 concerning carbon tax credit trading on the general election ballot. The City Council seeks public input for and against the initiative.

The initiative would repeal the 2021 Washington Climate Commitment Act (CCA), a state law that provided for a cap and invest program designed to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 95% by 2050. The cap and invest program sets a cap on the total carbon emissions in the state. Businesses with emissions exceeding 25,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year must purchase allowances equal to their allowed greenhouse gas emissions. The cap and invest program was designed to allow businesses that reduce emissions to sell their remaining carbon emission allowance permits to other companies, thereby incentivizing companies to lower their emissions.

The public hearing will be conducted during the City Council’s regular meeting on August 8, 2024. The meeting will begin at 7:00 P.M., and the public hearing will commence thereafter. The public hearing will be held in person at the City Council Chambers. Written testimony will be accepted prior to the meeting and distributed to the City Council, and verbal testimony will be accepted during the public hearing.

Written comments should be submitted to City Clerk Matt McLean at mmclean@cityoflfp.com no later than 5:00 p.m. local time on the date of the hearing. A request to speak can also be made by phone directly to the City Clerk at (206) 368-5540 prior to 5:00 pm on the date of the meeting.

Matt McLean
City Clerk
July 29, 2024


Climate Resistant Garden coming to Kruckeberg

Drought-tolerant plants in new garden
at Kruckeberg
Volunteers at Kruckeberg Botanic Garden spearheaded a successful application for an Environmental Mini-Grant from the City of Shoreline

They have received $5,000 to proceed with the installation of a Climate Resilience Garden filled with drought-tolerant plants suited to our region's shifting climate.

Plants and interpretive signs will be installed this fall and prep work is underway.

This project is an inspiring collective effort from Board Members Julia Cox and Heidi Loewen, Vicki Demetre and members of the Garden Committee, volunteer grant writers Kathryn Walsh-Clark and Kim Turner, and others.

Kruckeberg Botanic Garden 20312 15th Ave NW, Shoreline WA 98177


First Annual Shoreline Slam High School Tennis Tournament a breakout success

Rylie Gettman, Shorewood and Luke Madath,
Bishop Blanchet, earned Gold in mixed doubles
By Barb Smith

July 29, 2024 Shoreline, WA

The First Annual Shoreline Slam High School Tennis Tournament Presented by Tennis Center Sand Point was a resounding success, attracting 162 players from over 35 different high schools from Friday July 26 through Sunday July 28, 2024.

Jointly hosted by the Shorewood and Shorecrest High School tennis programs, with matches played at both Kellogg Middle School and Shorewood High School courts, the Shoreline Slam attracted athletes from all across Washington and as far away as Vancouver Island, Canada and even Luxembourg.

The Shoreline Slam was inspired by the Snohomish Summer Smash, an annual tournament created nine years ago for tennis players looking to compete in the off season against their high school peers. 

Offering Gold, Silver and Bronze divisions, both tournaments cater to players of all abilities, from junior varsity to state medalists.

Senior Luke Madath, Bishop Blanchet, claimed first place
in Boys singles, Boys doubles, and Mixed doubles.

Luke Madath, a senior at Bishop Blanchet and 5th place boys doubles medalist at the 2024 WA State 3A Tennis Championships, dominated the event, claiming first place honors in each of the Boys Gold Singles, Boys Gold Doubles and Gold Mixed Doubles events. 

Madath defeated Henry Zhu from The Overlake School 6-1, 6-4, then teamed up with Peter Kosten, a senior at Shorewood, to claim the Boys Gold Doubles title with a score of 6-4, 6-2 over Zhu and his Overlake teammate, Benjamin Ta

For his last victory of the weekend, Madath teamed up for Mixed Doubles with Shorewood Junior Rylie Gettmann, winning 6-1, 6-1 over Nalu Akiona of Edmonds Woodway and Addie Streidl of Lakeside

Kosten, Gettmann, Akiona and Streidl are all former WA State 3A Tennis medalists.

Shorewood Gold Doubles Rylie Gettmann and Alex Mignogna

Gettmann also claimed multiple trophies, teaming up with Shorewood teammate Alex Mignogna to win Girls Gold Doubles 6-1, 6-1 over Streidl and her Lakeside teammate, Caroline Carter. 

Shorewood Junior Carlota Garibay Romero
 claimed the Girls Gold Singles title
Shorewood Junior Carlota Garibay Romero claimed the Girls Gold Singles title over Gettmann 6-0, 6-2, having secured the Girls Gold Singles and Gold Mixed Doubles titles at the Snohomish Summer Smash the prior weekend.

"We are thrilled with the turnout and the level of competition we witnessed at our inaugural Shoreline Slam," said Arnie Moreno, head coach of the Shorewood High School tennis program.
"This tournament has set a high standard, and we look forward to making it an annual tradition that continues to inspire and connect young tennis players."

“When we started planning this event, we were hoping to have 80 kids registered,” said Leslie Boyd of Shorewood Boosters. 

“To have over double that number participate in our very first year shows us just how much kids value friendly competition against their peers. We are so happy to have been able to provide them with this opportunity.”

Rob Mann, head coach of the Shorecrest High School tennis program, added, "The collaboration between our schools and the enthusiastic participation from the players, families and volunteers made this event a resounding success.
'We are very excited about the future of the Shoreline Slam and the positive impact it will continue to have on our local tennis community for years to come."

Final results are attached, with more information available at Shoreline Slam.

Shoreline Slam
Presented by Tennis Center Sand Point
2024 Final Results

Boys Gold Singles
  • Luke Madath (Bishop Blanchet) def. Henry Zhu (The Overlake School) 6-1,6-4
  • Consolation: Jiang Yang (Cascade) def. Indigo Vining (Shorecrest) 8-4

Boys Gold Doubles
  • Madath & Peter Kosten (Shorewood) def. Zhu and Benjamin Tan (Overlake) 6-4, 6-2
  • Consolation: Dylan Kim & Levi Seslar (Kamiak) def. Aren Whaley (Lincoln) & Dean Johnson (Seattle Prep) 8-3

Girls Gold Singles
  • Carlota Garibay Romero (Shorewood) def. Rylie Gettmann (Shorewood) 6-0, 6-2
  • Consolation: Bernadine Salvatierra (Squalicum) & Claire Stodola (Sehome) def. Cassidy Hill & Natasha Hartley (Highline) 8-3

Girls Gold Doubles
  • Gettmann and Alex Mignogna (Shorewood) def. Addie Streidl and Caroline Carter (Lakeside) 6-1, 6-1
  • Consolation: Meiweya Amazona (Archbishop Murphy) def. Lauren Rosauer (Seattle Prep) 8-4

Mixed Gold Doubles
  • Gettmann and Madath def. Streidl and Nalu Akiona (Edmonds Woodway) 6-1, 6-1
  • Consolation: Aivy Nguyen (Silas) & Nicholas Markham (Curtis) def. Roman Easter & Cassidy Hill (Highline) 8-5

Boys Silver Singles
  • Logan McKay (University Prep) def. Alvaro Lucioni (SAAS) 6-0, 2-6, 10-3
  • Consolation: Edward Hammar (Kamiak) def. Nathaniel Skonier (Shorecrest) 8-2

Boys Silver Doubles
  • Lucioni (SAAS) and Tucker Punke (Seattle Prep) def. McKay and Nash Langer (Bishop Blanchet) 6-1, 6-2
  • Consolation: Joey Nyman & Teagan Nguyen (Curtis) def. Sergey Tsay & Kaden Wu (Kamiak) 8-5

Girls Silver Singles
  • Jojo Ziegler (The Bush School) def. Sophia Manabat (Cascade) 6-3, 6-2
  • Consolation: Sydney Stimmel (Columbia River) def. Audrey Garcia (Kamiak) 8-3

Girls Silver Doubles
  • Annie VanAssche & Cora Jones (Snohomish) def. Scarlett Ebel & Lauren Rosauer (Seattle Prep) 6-0, 6-3
  • Consolation: Addie Falkin & Cally Webb (Shorewood) def. Rachel Bell & Kira McKay (Burlington Edison) 8-7

Mixed Silver Doubles
  • Cole Skotdal & Mary Beth Salentine (Seattle Prep) def. Dean Johnson & Scarlett Ebel (Seattle Prep) 6-3, 6-2
  • Consolation: Jad Elayan & Manabat (Cascade) def. Sydney & Tyler Stimmel (Columbia River) 8-3

Zachary Gordon, Shorewood took
Bronze in Boys singles
Boys Bronze Singles
  • Zachary Gordon (Shorewood) def. Drew Boyd (Shorewood) 6-3, 6-2
  • Consolation: Reid Bley (Shorewood) def. Carter Moores (Snohomish) 8-3

Boys Bronze Doubles
  • Thomas Finch (Bishop Blanchet) and Cameron Kliger (Seattle Prep) def. Gordon and Boyd 7-6, 1-6, 10-2
  • Consolation: Fletcher Grant (Nathan Hale) & Carlos Brown (Mountlake Terrace) def. David Yoon and Kazuki Stellmon (Shorecrest) 8-2

Girls Bronze Singles
  • Ophelia Colic (Brentwood College) def. Milah Merlino (Bishop Blanchet)
  • Consolation: Karli Nelson (Snohomish) def. Abrielle Wahl (Kings) 9-8

Girls Bronze Doubles
  • Aivy Le and Maily Nguyen (Silas) round robin winners


Cascade Music: Keyboard Discoveries Summer Camp at Shoreline Community College


Pianist Dr. Jensina Oliver will guide students in activities such as rhythmic reading and rhythm games, ear training with familiar songs, creativity with chords, notation and drawing, piano teams (duets and trios), and mini-lessons. There will be a recital performance for friends and family during the final hour on Friday. 

Previous completion of method book primer level reading required. Mid-Elementary through Early Intermediate students.

Grade 2 - 5 Keyboard Discoveries!: Session 2 (Students with some experience)

Books & Materials included. Recital on final class period of youth sessions

Fee: $289.00
Item Number: 13327
Dates: 8/12/2024 - 8/16/2024
Times: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Days: Daily
Sessions: 5
Location: Shoreline Community College, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133
Building: SL008 Music Building
Room: Room 814
Instructor: Jensina Oliver

Register here


Secretary of State’s office distributes $2 million to county elections offices to bolster security

King county elections workers
Photo courtesy King County Elections

OLYMPIA — In the second year of a statewide funding program to help counties improve their elections security, the Washington state Office of the Secretary of State has provided approximately $2 million to 30 elections offices statewide, with final calculations pending.

The program’s third year of funding is now open. As in prior years, each county’s elections office can receive up to $80,000 to pay for improvements to local election security.

“County election officials and employees around the state work hard to ensure our election systems are fair and secure,” Secretary of State Steve Hobbs said. “This additional funding will go a long way to bolster security efforts.”

Counties can use this funding to purchase or upgrade elections security software and hardware, hire IT security personnel, make structural improvements, and more. Among the county elections offices that received 2023-24 funds, notable uses included:
  • Snohomish County invested in monitoring devices, security measures for ballot drop boxes, building security, and upgraded cybersecurity measures and training.
“Voters in Snohomish County and across our state can continue to take pride in our fair and accurate elections,” Snohomish County Auditor Garth Fell said. 
“Our elections are supported by state and local government resources that help keep our elections security top-notch.”

Secretary Hobbs launched this program in November 2022. $1.57 million was awarded to 25 counties in the 2022-23 fiscal year.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to work closely with election officials to better protect our elections from cyber threats and other bad actors,” Secretary Hobbs said. “With each new election cycle, these threats continue to escalate in frequency and severity.”

To be eligible, a county must have an Albert sensor in operation to monitor its network for cyber threats and attacks. The deadline for county elections offices to apply is May 2, 2025.


Jobs: Phoenix Theatre Stage Manager AND a Costumer

The Phoenix Theatre in Firdale Village is looking for a Stage Manager AND a Costumer for our Fall show Tartuffe: Born Again!

The show opens in October with rehearsals and fittings taking place end of Aug/Sept. 

These are paid positions with Stage Managers earning $300 and Costumers earning between $350-700 (depending on where the costumes come from).

Want to know more? Email director Eric Lewis at lewiseric559@gmail.com

Photo by Jim Sipes from our production of Clue: On Stage featuring Melanie Calderwood, Jag, Renée Gilbert, James Lynch and Talena Laine


Flags at half-staff July 30, 2024 (Former Representative Georgette Valle)

Governor Inslee is deeply saddened by the death of former Representative Georgette Valle, 99, and directs that Washington State and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff in her memory on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in honor and remembrance of former Representative Georgette Valle.

Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, or first thing Wednesday morning, July 31, 2024.

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

A memorial service will take place on July 30, 2024 at Normandy Park United Church of Christ at 4pm.

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


Monday, July 29, 2024

Artist in Residence at Blue Cottage at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park

Barbie by Leslie Barber
The Art Cottage in Richmond Beach Saltwater Park will host Leslie Barber from mid-July through August.

Leslie Barber is the newest Artist in Residence at the Blue Cottage at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. 

Leslie explores Black culture, womanhood, and joy through embroidery and rug tufting. 

During her residency, she will primarily focus on tufting and invites you to join her for:

  • Open Studios: 
    • 11am – 4pm on Sat, July 27th, 
    • Sat, Aug 3rd, 
    • Sun, Aug 4th, and 
    • Sun, Aug 18th.
  • Art Viewing & Craft Together Community Event: Sat, Aug 24th from 12 to 4pm.

See the full schedule for the Artist in Residence program @ The Cottage at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. 

Following Leslie Barber's residency, the Cottage will host artists Ching-In Chen and Cassie Mira from September through October.

Explore art opportunities with the City of Shoreline: Join open studio times, respond to calls to artists, meet local creators, and attend various arts and culture events. Stay updated by signing up for Shoreline Alerts and selecting “Public Art Events”.


Make sure your vote is counted for the primary election

By Diane Hettrick

I dropped my ballot in the drop box at the 192nd Park n Ride on Sunday afternoon July 21, 2024. 

On Monday, I received a text alert that my ballot had been received. 

On Tuesday, another text alert told me that my signature had been verified and my ballot would be counted.

I expect another text when my ballot has been counted.

I filled out this form to be able to track my ballot.

Now I get to sit back and follow the rest of the process. For the rest of you, know this:

  • July 29: Online and mail registrations must be received 8 days before Election Day. Register to vote in person during business hours and any time before 8pm on Election Day.
  • August 6: Deadline for Washington State voter registration or updates (in person only).
  • There is an in-person Vote Center at Kenmore City Hall.
August 6 is Primary Election Day - Deposit your ballot in an official drop box by 8pm - not one second later!

Drop boxes: 
The purpose of the primary election is to choose the top 2 candidates in each race, who will go on to the general election in November. 


Everett-based Providence Comprehensive Breast Center launches free, personalized cancer screening and Early Detection Program

Image courtesy Providence
Everett-based Providence Comprehensive Breast Center is the first program in Providence’s seven-state health system to launch a free, personalized cancer screening and early detection system. 

Called Prevention4Me, the survey-based assessment has already proven integral to proactive early cancer detection, as well as determining eligibility for enhanced breast cancer screening and/or genetic testing.

This personal and family history screening tool, which was developed by Providence Genomics, gives people and their doctors an individualized assessment of possible risk for developing breast and other cancers. 

It is free and offered to anyone – both women and men between ages 25 and 80 – when they make a mammogram appointment with Providence Comprehensive Breast Center.

How it works

After scheduling a mammogram, patients are offered an opportunity to complete the Prevention4Me assessment via email prior to their mammogram appointment. 

After finishing the assessment, which asks questions about personal and family health history and takes less than 10 minutes, patients instantly receive a personalized cancer risk assessment and details summarizing next steps, including the opportunity to receive saliva-based genetic testing if eligible, which is covered by most health insurance plans. Patients then go to their mammogram appointments as scheduled.

Why it’s important

Identifying cancer risk through Prevention4Me helps patients and their health-care team create a more personalized care plan to support early detection and even cancer prevention.

“Prevention4ME is a supplement to annual mammogram. Based on the personal assessment results, you might be eligible for additional breast cancer imaging – like contrast-enhanced mammography or breast MRI – and/or genetic testing to identify inherited risk for breast and many other cancers,” said Laura Kendrick, manager of Providence Comprehensive Breast Center. 

“After the assessment, patients only need to provide updates or changes to their personal and family health at future mammogram appointments. We do all the rest. We’ll send reminders to update information and fine tune your risk assessment based on any changes you provide and the latest guidelines.”

Personalization

Prevention4ME uses assessment responses to calculate a Tyrer-Cuzick (TC) score, an estimate of someone’s lifetime risk for developing breast cancer. It also assesses eligibility for genetic testing according to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Guidelines to identify possible inherited risk of breast and other cancers. 

Once an assessment is complete, patients receive a personalized risk assessment, outlining steps they and their health care team can use to create a customized care plan.

“For many people, their care will remain the same. But for some high-risk patients, their health-care provider might recommend more frequent screening or other approaches to early cancer detection and risk reduction,” said Kendrick, 51, who, as a breast cancer survivor herself

For more information about this innovative cancer screening assessment program, visit https://prevention4me.providence.org.

Updated: the screening tool was developed by Providence Genomics

Sunday, July 28, 2024

Power outage for 7,500 customers in downtown Seattle and Beacon Hill caused by mylar balloons

City Light is not the only utility with this problem. This photo is from Burbank Power & Water

Just before 6pm on Sunday, July 28, 2024, City Light reported an outage affecting 7,500 customers in downtown Seattle and Beacon Hill.

An hour later, crews had restored power to about 4,500 of those impacted by this outage.

By 7:30pm power had been restored to the rest of those impacted by this outage. 

The outage was caused by mylar balloons that came into contact with the lines. 

PLEASE do not let mylar balloons go. If part of your celebration, cut and dispose of them after you're done with them.


Washington State Standard: Voters to decide on pace of Washington’s transition off natural gas

Greg Lane, executive vice president of the Building Industry Association of Washington, holds a petition for a proposed ballot measure to block local and state efforts to transition away from use of natural gas. Anthony Anton, president of the Washington Hospitality Association, and Ryann Blake, owner of Chimney Techniques in Aberdeen, joined a news conference May 15, 2024 in Olympia, Wash. to kick off signature gathering. (Jerry Cornfield/Washington State Standard)


By Jerry Cornfield

Let the battle over the future of natural gas in Washington begin.

State election officials have certified an initiative for the November ballot that seeks to reverse Washington’s controversial tactics to phase out natural gas use in homes and other buildings.

Supporters of Initiative 2066 began gathering signatures in mid-May and turned in 533,005 signatures earlier this month. State law required at least 324,516 be from registered voters.

“We knew the people of Washington opposed the idea of banning natural gas, but the support for this initiative shows just how strongly they feel about protecting natural gas for heating and cooking in their homes and businesses,” said Greg Lane, executive vice president of the Building Industry Association of Washington, which is the measure’s sponsor.

The measure targets the state’s combination of regulations and laws to move swiftly away from natural gas toward technology like electric heat pumps.

It will appear first on ballots in Washington, followed by three other citizen initiatives that seek to repeal the state’s cap-and-trade system and capital gains tax and make the state’s new long-term care services program voluntary.

If passed, Initiative 2066 would repeal provisions of a new state law meant to hasten Puget Sound Energy’s transition away from natural gas

It also bars cities and counties from prohibiting, penalizing or discouraging “the use of gas for any form of heating, or for uses related to any appliance or equipment, in any building.”

And it would roll back recent changes to energy requirements in Washington’s building codes that are designed to get more electric heat pumps – instead of gas furnaces – installed in newly built houses, apartments and commercial buildings.

BIAW, the state’s leading voice for the homebuilding industry, is the force behind the measure. The Washington Hospitality Association, Washington Realtors and Associated General Contractors are also in the coalition of supporters.

Let’s Go Washington, which qualified the three other initiatives for the fall ballot, conducted the signature-gathering effort for the gas measure.

Critics of the measure say it would take a wrecking ball to state efforts to fight climate change and shift to clean and more more efficient energy sources.

“This is a massive overreach by those who want to undo clean energy progress in our state,” Caitlin Krenn, climate and clean energy director at Washington Conservation Action, said in a statement.


Join communities of crafters and musicians at the Shoreline Senior Activity Center

Here are some of the ongoing activities at the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center. You can drop in at any time and pay at the front desk. Generous parking in front of the building.

And lots of friendly people!

Some of the knitting / crocheting community at the Senior Activity Center

Basic Knitting Club


Whether you want to learn a new craft, gain tips on a knitting project you are working on, or just want a community to knit with, this group of friendly crafters welcomes you. Should you prefer to crochet, no problem! Everyone is welcome. Come and join the fun!
New Participants and Walk-ins are welcome!


Guitar & Song Circle


Come play guitar and sing! This jam session is for people who want to play guitar together, sing together, and share our talents. Skill level needed: Please be able to tune your guitar and read lead sheets (written in English).
New Participants and Walk-ins are welcome!


Driftwood Sculpture


Unveil the hidden beauty in driftwood with expert Susan Watts. Explore the art of driftwood transformation by shaping, smoothing, and enhancing weathered wood into stunning natural art. 

Instructor has basic tools available for $25.
New Participants and Walk-ins are welcome!

  

North Seattle resident graduates from Pacific University

FOREST GROVE, Ore. (July 26, 2024) - 
Daytona Danielsen of Seattle, Washington graduated in Spring 2024 from the College of Arts & Sciences at Pacific University in Oregon with a Master of Fine Arts in Writing degree.

Celebrating 175 years of purpose, Pacific University is Washington County, Oregon's only comprehensive university. 

With undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in the arts and sciences, business, education, health professions and optometry, Pacific inspires its 3,600 students to think, care, create, and pursue justice in the world. 

The No. 1 private research institution in the Northwest, Pacific serves its communities through campuses in Forest Grove, Hillsboro, and Eugene; healthcare clinics throughout the Portland area and through 34,000 alumni pursuing lives of purpose globally.


Kenmore City Council adopts resolution in support of Northshore Fire levy rate ballot measure (Proposition No. 1)

KENMORE, Wash. – At the July 22, 2024 meeting, the Kenmore City Council voted unanimously to adopt a resolution in support of the Northshore Fire levy rate ballot measure, also known as Proposition No. 1.

If approved, this levy would provide a major funding source for emergency services provided by the Northshore Fire Department. (See previous article)

The Northshore Fire Department is seeking voter approval to restore its fire levy to $0.70 per $1,000 of assessed valuation in 2024 (to be collected in 2025), which is an increase of approximately $0.18 per $1,000 of assessed valuation.

State limitations on funding increases have not allowed the Northshore Fire Department to keep up with increasing labor and operational costs and planned capital improvement projects. 

Voter approval of Proposition No. 1 would provide funding for the Northshore Fire Department to continue providing fire and emergency medical services at existing levels in Kenmore. The last time that the Northshore Fire Department asked for a fire levy rate increase was 20 years ago.

Proposition No. 1 will be included on the ballot for the primary election on August 6, 2024.

The City Council's adopted resolution can be viewed here.