Scene on the Sound: High tide in Japan...

 

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

which of course means low tide in Puget Sound

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

I have very fond memories of a field trip at low tide, after dark, under the Edmonds ferry dock.

There was an incredible, multi-colored abundance of sea life on display.

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

Probably not as colorful for these beachcombers but there are still interesting creatures in the rocks and in the sea.

--Diane Hettrick

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What’s Happening This Week in Shoreline? – April 30 – May 6

By Kate Ledbetter, www.DestinationShoreline.com

 
What’s Happening This Week in Shoreline? – April 30 – May 6
From biking basics and little league action to a spring bike sale, free comics, and a family festival for a great cause — there's something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our weekly guide to upcoming local events. For all the upcoming Shoreline events this week visit: www.DestinationShoreline.com/Calendar
 
Destination Shoreline Featured Events of the Week:
 
Pedal Forward Shoreline Off-Bike Class
Wednesday, April 30 
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Shoreline City Hall
The City of Shoreline, in partnership with Cascade Bicycle Club, is hosting an off-bike class for beginner and intermediate riders! Topics include riding equipment, bike infrastructure, rules of the road, and how to plan your bike route. 
Register online! If you plan on coming in person, you will sign in at City Hall.
 For more information on Pedal Forward Shoreline, visit our website: www.shorelinewa.gov/pedalforward
 
Shoreline Little League Jamboree
Saturday, May 3 
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Shorewood High School
Get ready - the Jamboree is almost here! Join us on May 3rd! This year we will have a featured Challenger Division game along with a Home Run Derby. Special guest appearances from our favorite mascots - Webbly, Crispy AND the Mariner Moose! 
 
Bike Shack Spring Used Bike Sale
Saturday, May 3 
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Shoreline Tool Library
Dust off those helmets and join us on Saturday, May 3rd from 10am-2pm at the Shoreline Tool Library. Find your perfect ride from our diverse selection of pre-loved bicycles. Whether you’re seeking a commuter, a cruiser, or something for the kids, we’ve got you covered. All bikes are inspected and tuned by our knowledgeable Bike Shack volunteers, ensuring they’re ready for your spring adventures.
What to expect:
·        Affordable Used Bikes: A variety of styles and sizes to fit your needs and budget.
·        Expert Advice: Friendly Bike Shack volunteers on hand to help you choose the right bike and answer your questions.
·        Community Support: All proceeds support the Bike Shack and the Shoreline Tool Library’s mission of resource sharing and sustainable living.
·        Tool Library Exploration: Discover the amazing resources the Shoreline Tool Library has to offer!
Don’t miss this opportunity to snag a great bike and support your local community. Pedal on down and find your perfect spring ride! Bike Shack’s Spring Used Bike Sale: Where sustainability meets savings!
 
Free Comic Book Day
Saturday, May 3 
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Shoreline Library
The library will have hundreds of comics for all ages from publishers like Marvel, DC, Image, TOKYOPOP and others. Plus, some surprise guests!  Comics available while supplies last so come early for best selection. Sponsored by Friends of the Shoreline Library.
 
Caring for our Future: Community Family Fest
Saturday, May 3 
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Shoreline Free Methodist Church
Join us for an inspiring family-friendly event with MomsRising as we unite to advocate for affordable childcare and fair wages for early education teachers—essential supports that still remain out of reach for too many families. Enjoy interactive kids' activities such as rock painting, mural creation, story time, and kids yoga, along with tasty food and snacks. Let’s learn, engage, and drive the change our community needs for a brighter future. Event is organized and hosted by Kat Hill, MomsRising Washington MomsForce Fellow.
 
For more information about life in Shoreline, WA and upcoming events visit: www.DestinationShoreline.com
 
Destination Shoreline is brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, Real Estate Broker with Windermere Real Estate/Shoreline. Whether you’re planning to sell, buy, or simply explore your options, Kate Ledbetter is ready to provide expert guidance tailored to your unique real estate needs. Visit www.KateLHomes.com for more information.

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Unlock the Truth About Homelessness and Housing in virtual session May 14, 2025

Join us for a compelling virtual lunch and learn on May 14. 2025, from 11am to 12 PM. 

Sponsored by NUHSA and HDC, this free event welcomes Gregg Colburn, author of Homelessness is a Housing Problem. 

Discover how the affordable housing crisis directly fuels homelessness and why community action is more urgent than ever. Gain powerful insights and real data that will transform how you think about housing solutions.

Date: May 14th | Time: 11 AM – 12 PM | Location: Zoom

  Register now

Let’s make a difference—together!

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Matt Muilenburg announces candidacy for Lake Forest Park City Council Pos 2

Matt Muilenburg

Matt Muilenburg announces candidacy for Lake Forest Park City Council Position 2

I am excited to announce my candidacy for Lake Forest Park City Council Position 2. As someone who has called this community home for most of my life, I am deeply committed to serving my neighbors and giving back to the community that has given me so much.

My Roots in Lake Forest Park

Lake Forest Park has shaped who I am. I first moved here in 1978 and attended Brookside, Briarcrest, Kellogg, and Shorecrest. I went on to study political science, economics, and law at the University of Washington. 

After spending twelve years living in Seattle, I knew this was where I wanted to raise my family. My wife Jennifer, a librarian at the University of Washington, and I are proud to have raised six children -- Samantha, Makenzie, Robyn, Olivia, William, and Alexander -- in the same community that gave me so much.

Honoring Lorri Bodi’s Legacy

The recent, untimely passing of Councilmember Lorri Bodi has affected me and so many others in Lake Forest Park. Lorri’s dedication to environmental protection, community engagement, and thoughtful leadership set a high standard for all of us. I am inspired by her example and will work tirelessly to honor her legacy by listening to residents, building consensus, and focusing on what truly matters to our city.

My Experience

Over the years, I’ve gained valuable experience in business and community leadership. I’ve led teams, managed budgets, and helped organizations navigate change -- all skills I believe are essential for effective city governance. Collaboration, practical problem-solving, and a commitment to the long-term health and resilience of our community are core to my approach.

My Priorities

I’ve seen a lot of change during my 47 years in LFP, but the heart of the community and the core conversations always seem to revolve around common themes. Or maybe because they are the things I think and care most about, they’re the conversations I get engaged in. 

I care deeply about:

• Local Resilience and Climate Adaptation: I am committed to preparing our city for the impacts of climate change, from extreme weather to wildfire smoke to stresses on the trees that make up our canopy. I support our Climate Action Plan and will work to protect our natural areas, strengthen emergency preparedness, and ensure Lake Forest Park remains a safe, sustainable place for everyone.
• Financial Stewardship and Transparency: With rising costs and limited revenues, I believe in responsible budgeting and clear communication. I will advocate for transparency in how our city manages public funds, ensuring we maintain essential services and build trust with residents through open, honest dialogue.
• Gentle Growth and Community Character: I support gentle, thoughtful growth that preserves the unique character of Lake Forest Park. I am committed to balancing development with environmental stewardship, maintaining safe neighborhoods, and nurturing vibrant community spaces.

Looking Ahead

As a neighbor, parent, and lifelong resident, I am dedicated to ensuring Lake Forest Park remains a resilient, welcoming, and well-managed community. I look forward to listening to your concerns, working alongside fellow councilmembers, and building on the legacy of service that makes our city so special.

For more information, to volunteer, or to connect with my campaign, please contact:
Matt Muilenburg
Phone: (206) 376-9993
Email: matt@haveyoumetmatt.org

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Citizens needed for ballot pro / con statements - respond today by 3pm

Shoreline Center

On April 26, 2025 the WA State House and Senate approved ESHB 2029, which allows Shoreline School District to place a one-year supplemental levy on the August 5, 2025, ballot. 

The School Board will hold a Special Meeting on Wednesday, April 30, to consider a ballot measure for the August election date for a supplemental levy for the 2026 calendar year. 

If approved, the ballot measure would allow Shoreline Public Schools to supplement the final year of the existing four-year educational programs and operations levy that expires at the end of calendar year 2026.

The taxes collected from this one-year supplemental levy in 2026 will fund educational programs and operations not fully funded by the State of Washington. 

If the voters of Shoreline and Lake Forest Park approve the supplemental levy, these funds will be used to pay for additional instructional and support staff; programs such as special education, athletics, music, drama, and other extracurricular activities; transportation; and teacher pay and training.

This potential one-year supplemental levy is entirely separate from the upcoming replacement levies that will be on the ballot in February 2026, to go into effect in 2027 if approved. The Levy Planning Committee also begins their work this Wednesday evening.

In addition to ESHB 2049, two other bills passed, which will provide some additional funding: E2SSB 5263 (Special Education) and ESSB 5192 (MSOCs). 

As you may know, these two bills are two of The Big Three, which many members of the Shoreline School District carried out significant advocacy work for during this legislative session. 

These bills are now with the Governor for his approval. We will share more information and details about these bills and their potential impact on the budget as our 2025-26 budget development work proceeds.

Supplemental Levy For and Against Committee Members Needed

Shoreline School District is seeking applications from residents of the District interested in being appointed to committees to write the “for” and “against” statements for the King County Local Voters’ Pamphlet related to the District’s Supplemental Levy for Educational Programs and Operations ballot proposition to be considered at the August 5, 2025 election, pending gubernatorial approval of legislation, to increase school district levy authority.

Interested residents should send their name, address, email address, phone number and committee name (or which position they represent) to Angela Von Essen via email at angela.vonessen@ssd412.org by 3:00pm on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

The Board will take action on the committee appointments at its April 30, 2025 special meeting. Contact information for individuals appointed by the Board may be listed in the local voters’ pamphlet. For more information, please reference the King County “Local Voters’ Pamphlet Packet."

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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Problems

Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter here

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Death Café meets Thursday May 1, 2025 at Senior Center

"To speak of death is to speak of life"
Photo by Joachim Lesne on Unsplash.com

Death Café will meet on Thursday, May 1, 2025 from 6:15 - 8:15pm at the Shoreline/LFP Senior Center, 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline WA 98155, free and open to all.

DEATH CAFÉ
A safe space for open conversations about death and dying

What is a Death Café?

Death Cafés are gatherings where people can discuss death, dying, and mortality in a relaxed, supportive environment. 

They are not grief support groups or counseling sessions, but rather opportunities to share thoughts and connect. Join us for a warm, open conversation about life and death in a supportive space. 

We’ll begin with a brief introduction to Death Cafe, followed by free-flowing discussion. Bring your stories, reflections, or curiosity as we explore how death shapes the way we live.

Why attend?

• Connect with others
• Gain new perspectives
• Reduce the taboo of death
• Build community

All are welcome—no agenda, no judgment, just a shared space to talk openly and honestly.

Join us for tea, cake or cookies, and honest discussion.

RSVP: deathcafe@pirielabs.com

Two more gatherings have been scheduled for May 22 and June 5, 2025.

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Acrylic Landscape Class at Senior Activity Center May 19, 2025

Discover the joy of creating a beautiful Puget Sound mountain landscape in this beginner-friendly acrylic painting class! 

Led by local Native American artist Theresa Williams, this class embraces an organic approach to painting.

Monday May 19, 2025 from 12:00 - 3:30pm
Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center 18560 1st Ave NE 

Fee:

• Members of the senior center: $25 
• Non-members of the senior center: $30

Registration closes May 15

Call or visit the Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center 206-365-1536

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Save the date: Lakefront Park Community Workshop #4 June 11, 2025

lfplakefrontpark.com

Join us for the fourth Community Workshop on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 from 5:30 - 7:30pm in the Council Chambers of LFP’s City Hall, 17425 Ballinger Way NE.

This is an open house event with activities for all ages. Stop by anytime between 5:30pm and 7:30pm. The design team will share updates on the park design, and the community will be invited to share their priorities for the park.

Your input is essential to the design of Lake Forest Park’s future public lakefront park!

Visit the project website for more information on the project, sign up to receive email updates, and go on a virtual tour of the park!

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North City Neighborhood Clean Up May 17, 2025

Volunteers ready to help at a previous North City clean up event

Join your neighbors in beautifying the North City community. Sign up for the North City Neighborhood Association Clean Up Event on Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 10am to 12 noon.

Meet others who value our community and pick up litter along the sidewalks in and around the North City Business District or the 185th St Light-Rail Station.

Sign up online

• Volunteers will meet at 10am in front of Sodom Chicken 17551 15th Ave NE, for the North City Business District area crews. 

• Volunteers for the light-rail station area should meet at 10am at the car drop off area at NE 185th St and 8th Ave NE.

Bring gloves. The City of Shoreline will provide vests, reachers and garbage bags. Dress for the weather, the event will happen rain or shine.

For questions or more information, please email: info@northcityna.org

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Updates and corrections to May Day protests - no event in Shoreline

Updated information for protests in our immediate area:

Shoreline - no protest on May Day but "stand-out" planned for Sunday, May 4, 2025 from 1-2pm

Mountlake Terrace - May Day, May 1, 2025, corner of 236th SW and 56th Ave W, 4-7pm

Lake Forest Park - May Day, May 1, 2025, corner of Bothell and Ballinger Way NE, 4:30 - 6pm

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Update: Reader shares information about site of marine rescue near Edmonds

When the tide is in, this rock is under water.
Photo courtesy South County Fire

On Sunday, April 27, 2025, the crew on South County Fire's Marine Rescue boat rescued a man who was marooned on a rock near Edmonds. (See previous article)

With a rising tide, they were able to maneuver close enough to get him into their boat before the rock was under water.

A reader shared information about the location of this incident:

I am an avid sea kayaker, and I recognize that rock.

If you paddle north from the ferry dock, there is a point just before you paddle into Brown's Bay. It is almost in line with a projection of Frederick Place.

The tide can come in very fast there and fill in the space between the tracks and the rock in a matter of 30 minutes.

It is also hard to walk away from that area when the tide is rising, because it is too steep to climb up to the tracks, and the shoreline escape routes on the beach are underwater.

The man was not local and has left the area. No further information is available about him.

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Montessori inspired kids play space and cafe opening in Shoreline in May

Nixi City Play Cafe is opening its first location in the Seattle area, ideal for parents of little ones aged 0-8 looking for a kid friendly “third place” between work and home.

Shoreline, WA May 1, 2025 – Cheers to this news: Nixi City is opening its first ever location in Shoreline, WA. 

The new location in the Richmond Beach Plaza is set to open May of 2025. From a thoughtfully designed play area for kids to a cozy lounge for parents, Nixi City promises a dynamic space where parents and children can connect, play, have a party, and create lasting memories.

Founded by partners Dominique Elkind and Giuseppe Mangiacotti, Nixi City will create a welcoming space that fosters connections and provides a haven for families to unwind and play.

Photograph: Courtesy of Nixi City | A rendering of the Shoreline, WA location kids play area.

Photograph: Courtesy of Nixi City | A rendering of the Shoreline, WA location cafe and lounge area.

“We were shocked at the lack of kid friendly neighborhood businesses in the Seattle area. Places where our family could get out of the house that were clean, beautifully designed, and fun to hang out at,” says Dominique Elkind, co-owner of Nixi City.

“Our play space was thoughtfully designed to support critical thinking, independence, and confidence in little ones ages 0-8 and was inspired by Montessori education principles. We also have a cute cafe lounge for parents and playdates with premium coffee, mocktails, and snacks.”

To celebrate the grand opening, Nixi City is offering discounts on both memberships and bulk play passes. Sign up for the Nixi City email newsletter at www.nixi.city or follow on social media to learn more and be the first to hear about the upcoming events like live music and story times.

About Nixi City

Nixi City is a state-of-the-art kids play and learning space with a cafe where parents actually want to hang out. Our neighborhood play cafe is an inspiring haven for families to come together to eat, play, learn and party.

Our cutting-edge play space supports critical thinking, independence, and confidence with Montessori and Reggio Emilia-inspired activities designed for little ones ages 0-8. 

Designed by former Montessori child educators and ex-Google designers with expertise in intentional play and creative problem solving skill development to grow curious kids who connect together.

We provide nature and cityscape inspired toys and open space, hand built to encourage creative play and connection. Our zen-like space is outfitted with cozy chairs, wifi, premium beverages and snacks so parents can chill (or get some work done!) while the kids play. 

With Nixi City membership, we make parents' lives easier through access to a thriving social and community space.

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Learn Hip Hop Dance & Culture at Shoreline Community College - New Price!

Ready to dive into hip-hop? Hip Hop Dance & Culture at Shoreline CC is a 6-week course where you'll learn popping, locking, breaking, party styles, and freestyle skills — no experience needed!

Taught by Albee Abigania of Kontagious Performing Company, this class also helps build strength, flexibility, coordination, and confidence. Ages 13 and up are welcome!

Class starts May 8, 2025 and runs through June 12, 2025, meets Thursdays from 4:00 to 5:50pm in the 3000 Building Athletics, Room 3011, 16101 Greenwood Ave N, Shoreline WA 98133

The new price is $159 for six sessions. Space is limited to 10 students, so register early!

Learn, move, and express yourself through hip hop! Sign up now Hip Hop Dance & Culture Registration

About Albee Abigania

Albee Abigania’s love for dance started at just three years old and grew into a lifelong passion. After high school, he trained at top studios in North Hollywood, performing with artists like TLC, Christina Aguilera, Destiny’s Child, Ciara, Britney Spears, and Missy Elliott.

In 2004, he founded Kontagious Performing Company to inspire dancers of all levels, believing that passion and creativity are truly contagious. Albee has also worked with Rihanna, Jamie King, Nike, and ABS-CBN International Artists.

Today, Albee leads Kontagious Performing Company and shares his passion, creativity, and industry experience with students at Shoreline Community College, where he teaches Hip Hop Dance & Culture — inspiring the next generation of dancers to move, groove, and express themselves.

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Humor: The Cell Phone Husband Shopper

Cartoonist David Shearer is a resident of Shoreline

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Parkwood Neighborhood Association Spring Cleanup Saturday May 3, 2025

Parkwood Neighborhood Association

invites you to join them for the

Parkwood Spring Cleanup - Neighborhood Trash Walk!

Saturday, May 3 | 10 AM–Noon

Twin Ponds Park, 155th St Parking Lot

Free donuts, coffee, and juice! 

Cleanup supplies provided — or bring your own gloves or trash grabbers.

Help us make Parkwood shine!

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CORRECTION: Protests planned for May Day - Thursday May 1, 2025

Photo courtesy Everyday Activitists

CORRECTION: SHORELINE-EDMONDS PROTEST ON SUNDAY - NOT MAY DAY

Some 40 area residents gave up an hour of their Sunday this past weekend, April 27, 2025 to continue standing up against Trump administration policies and spending cuts they see as detrimental to the well-being of our people and country.

The sign-waving event held at the intersection of Aurora Ave N and N 205th St. at the Shoreline/Edmonds line was organized by Shoreline-based group Everyday Activists, and included an information table for Indivisible Shoreline, a local branch of the grassroots nationwide network seeking to build community and limit harm caused by the radical policy changes.

Photo courtesy Everyday Activists

Signatures were also collected for a petition by National Nurses United calling for continued Medicare, Medicaid and public health funding instead of the proposed tax cuts for billionaires included in the U.S. House-passed budget under consideration in Congress.

In addition, some attendees also brought food donations for Hopelink to the event.

Photo courtesy Everyday Activists

On Thursday, May 1, a traditional day of protest, a gathering is planned for:

Lake Forest Park. 4:30-6:00 pm. Corner of Bothell and Ballinger. 

Public parking available at this corner at LFP Town Center. 

Bus routes 331, 372 and 522 come to this corner. 

Please bring shelf stable food to donate to Hopelink Food Bank if you are able.

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August King County Park Levy would fund new parks, trails, and pools

By Oliver J. Moffat

A levy on the August ballot, co-sponsored by Councilmember Rod Dembowski, would bring millions for North King County recreation if passed.

A preliminary concept created by Toole Design shows a potential route to fill the half-mile gap in the Interurban Trail where cyclists and pedestrians must cross SR104 between Shoreline and Edmonds - curtesy North Sound Bicycle Advocates

The levy would dedicate $5 million towards connecting the Interurban Trail between Shoreline and Edmonds. Currently, pedestrians and cyclists must navigate a half-mile of busy, unsafe roads and brave a death-defying crossing of State Route 104. Proposed solutions include building a bridge over the highway. 

Another $10 million for the connection was included in the state’s transportation budget sponsored by Senator Liias from Edmonds.

The levy would include $5 million for a new Shoreline pool. A levy for a Shoreline Aquatics and Community Center on the 2019 ballot failed to pass. Shoreline budgeted $720.9k for planning a new aquatics center and preparing a 2026 bond measure for voter approval.

An areal image from the LFP website shows the location of the proposed city-owned Lakefront park

The City of Lake Forest Park would receive $4 million for the planned Lakefront Park, a future 3.3-acre park on Lake Washington near the Burke-Gilman Trail and across Bothell Way from Town Center. It will provide public water access and is estimated to cost $12 million.

A map from the city of Kenmore shows the 13.29-acres of the former landfill the city plans to acquire for a waterfront park

$15 million from the proposed levy is allocated to Kenmore for Lakepointe property acquisition. Kenmore recently accepted $8 million towards the planned waterfront park with a trail and wildlife habitat at the former landfill.

A rendering from the city of Bothell shows the possible future layout of the Park at Bothell Landing including a skatepark and pump track

A proposed Skatepark and Pump Track at the Park at Bothell Landing would receive $1 million from the proposed King County Parks Levy renewal. Bothell is holding a workshop on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at City Hall to gather community input on the design phase of this project.

If approved by voters in August, the levy would raise $1.45 billion over six years and would cost a median-valued home owner about $16.33 a month.

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Shoreline Paramedic retires after 37 years with Shoreline Fire

 🌟 On Friday, April 27, Paramedic Erik Johnsen retired, closing out an incredible career that spans more than 37 years with Shoreline Fire Department. 

🌟  Congratulations, Paramedic Johnsen! Thank you for your service.

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Lake Forest Park Climate Open House Thursday May 1, 2025

The City of Lake Forest Park is updating its Comprehensive Plan, which shapes future planning, to include climate policies and wants input from its residents.

Join us for a Climate Open House on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at Third Place Commons! You’ll have the chance to share your experiences and ideas to help create strategies that protect our homes, environment, and economy.

What to Expect: 

• City staff to answer your questions
• Educational displays
• Kids’ activities provided
• Light free refreshments
• Chance to enter a raffle!

Event Details: 

• Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
• Time: Drop by anytime between 5:30pm – 7:30pm
• Location: Third Place Commons - 17171 Bothell Way NE, Lake Forest Park, WA 98155
• accessible via King County Metro bus routes 322, 331, 372
• Spanish interpretation available

Have questions? Contact Sarah Farbstein at sarahf@cascadiaconsulting.com

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Travels with Charlie: Arbor Day at Horizon View Park

Story and Photos By Gordon Snyder

The day started with folks and dogs gathering on the corner of the ball field. A bit nippy and breezy, but what do you expect for this time of year? The parks are wonderful no matter what the weather.

City of Lake Forest Park Mayor Tom French began by remembering Deputy Mayor Bodi. She was a respected and deeply admired person, environmental advocate, and community leader. 

Then he gave an overview of the park directions and budgets. 

Ros Bird gave a preview about the new art installation project for Horizon View, fundraised and organized by the LFP Secret Garden Tour and Plant & Garden Art Sale.

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board shared a status update on the new Lakefront Park Project. 

And we ended with a tour along the paths with Professor Dick Olmstead as he talked to us about trees and their habitat in the park.

 

Here’s a link to their guide.

Everyone enjoyed a wonderful Arbor Day Sunday at our neighborhood Horizon View Park 19800 47th Ave NE, Lake Forest Park WA 98155!

Cheers,

Gordon Snyder

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Statement from Governor Bob Ferguson on 2025 legislative session

OLYMPIA — Governor Bob Ferguson offered the following statement on the conclusion of the 2025 legislative session:

“I want to thank our legislators, staff and my team, for all their hard work this session as we faced a $16 billion budget shortfall. I look forward to carefully reviewing the budgets line by line over the next few weeks. When that review is complete, I will share my thoughts with the public in greater detail.

“Beginning with my inaugural address, I’ve emphasized that we must use realistic revenue projections, preserve our Rainy Day Fund reserves, find billions of dollars in savings and efficiencies, include a $100 million grant program for more law enforcement officers, increase investment in affordable housing, and increase the percentage of our budget devoted to K-12 education. The budgets adopted by the Legislature accomplish those goals.

“Throughout this budget process, I have also insisted that the Legislature take a balanced approach to solving the $16 billion shortfall. That is why I rejected an initial proposal to raise $21 billion in taxes. I then rejected a subsequent $12 billion tax proposal as unsustainable. I appreciate that the Legislature heard my concerns and dramatically reduced the revenue assumed in the final budget. That said, I intend to carefully review all revenue increases.

Preparing for the Trump Administration by protecting reserves

“I appreciate that the budget, at my insistence, protects our Rainy Day Fund. Federal funding makes up 28 percent of our state budget. The Trump Administration is weaponizing funding to punish those it disagrees with to force them into compromising their values.

“Throughout the session, I emphasized the need to budget in a way that prepares for this. This session, we made real progress to ensure we are in a strong position to protect our progressive values against this assault.

“We will continue to work to ensure that we are protecting the most vulnerable in our state as the Trump Administration will doubtless continue its cuts and harmful economic policies. Maintaining our Rainy Day Fund reserves will help us weather this storm. I am not going to allow the state that I love to be at the financial mercy of Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

Read the full statement here

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Women’s University Club of Seattle Foundation awards grants to music programs at five Shoreline schools

Women's University Club members at recent event.
Photo by Alley Rutzel

Each year, the Women’s University Club of Seattle Foundation supports struggling public school music programs through the Music Counts! Program. 

Schools then use grant money for basic classroom needs such as sheet music, instrument repairs and accessories, educational materials, coaching, and purchase of instruments. 

This year, the Foundation provided $26,000 in awards to 48 schools, benefiting over 12,000 students locally.

Multiple Shoreline School District schools won awards this year, including:

• Shorecrest High School
• Einstein Middle School
• Cascade K-8 Community School
• Meridian Park Elementary School
• Ridgecrest Elementary School

“Music Counts! is the happiest committee I’ve ever been on. We have great fun raising money at our Cabaret. Then, we give it all away to schools so students can learn to make music – the gift of a lifetime,” says Sandy Piscitello, 2025 Music Counts! Committee Member and Trustee for the Women’s University Club of Seattle Foundation.

Several incredible high school ensembles, including a jazz group from Garfield High School and Vox Lumina from Hazen High School, will perform at the Women’s University Club for members and our community as part of the entertainment and fundraising dinner at Cabaret. 

This annual fundraising event for Music Counts! is scheduled for May 16, 2025 from 5:30pm-8:00pm. Tickets are available here for $81.05 and include dinner as well as the opportunity to hear some of our most recent Music Counts! Grant award winners perform. 

For more information, please visit us online

The Women’s University Club of Seattle Foundation, a public charitable trust established in 2005, supports scholarship, historic preservation, and community education and outreach.

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Urbanist Shoreline Bike Racks for Businesses

Urbanist Shoreline received an Environmental Mini-Grant from the City of Shoreline to install inverted U bike racks at five Shoreline businesses during the month of May (Bike Month!) These racks will be installed free of charge.

If you're a business owner, you have a spot for a bike rack, and you are interested in having one installed, please fill out this VERY QUICK application by May 7, 2025. 

We will let you know by May 13 if we're able to install a rack at your business, and will install it by the end of May.

Apply here

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Snohomish County Emergency Management Services presentation in Woodway May 8, 2025

Woodway Ready

Emergency Preparedness Presentation

May 8, 2025 from 6:30 to 8:00pm

Woodway Town Hall

There will be a presentation by Sammie Keller from Snohomish County Emergency Management Services to inform residents on emergency preparedness and to help reinvigorate the Woodway Ready Program. 

This presentation will be held in the Woodway Town Hall, 23920 113th Pl W, Woodway, WA 98020 on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 6:30pm. Sammie will focus on what each household can do to prepare for emergencies. 

This is the logical first step toward neighbors helping one another which is the goal of Woodway Ready. There will be a 35–45 minute presentation followed by a 15–20 minute Q&A session.

Click here to visit the Town’s website for more information and virtual attendance details. We are asking people to RSVP via the calendar event - this is not required, but will help us prepare if we know how many people are coming.

Please spread the word in your neighborhood. Woodway Ready is looking for Captains from each neighborhood to help revitalize this important program.

--Tim Cashman and Alethea Westover,
Co-Chairs, Town of Woodway Volunteer Coordinators

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Safety for All: North City Neighborhood Association and Urbanist Shoreline conversation on street design and traffic safety May 7, 2025

Traffic crashes are on the rise here in Shoreline, across our region, and nationally. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable.

On Wednesday, May 7, 2025 from 7 - 8:30pm the North City Neighborhood Association is partnering with Urbanist Shoreline for a community conversation on street design and traffic safety here in Shoreline. 

Come hear from Shoreline Traffic Engineer, Kendra Dedinsky, and Dustin DeKoekkoek from the civil engineering firm Toole Design, about road and street safety. 

Learn what Shoreline is doing to create calmer and safer roadways in North City, along the 175th Street corridor, and beyond.

A short presentation will be followed by a Q&A discussion, with time for socializing afterwards.

The meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 7:00pm – 8:30pm 

at the North City Water District 1519 NE 177th St, Shoreline WA 98155

RSVP here

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South County Fire rescues man marooned on rock in water near Edmonds

South County Fire Marine Rescue boat retrieved a man from this rock in Puget Sound
Photo courtesy South County Fire

On Sunday, April 27, 2025 around 1pm, an Edmonds waterfront resident spotted an individual on a rock in apparent distress.

With rising tides, the rock would eventually be underwater. The resident called 911, and the Coast Guard was notified. 

Ultimately, South County Fire’s Marine 16 boat responded and helped the gentlemen from the rock. He was evaluated at the Marina, and he declined transport.

The gentleman was not from our area and had arrived in Snohomish County via the light rail and at Edmonds waterfront by bus. Our Community Resource Paramedics assisted in getting him warm clothes, something to eat, a cold-weather kit, and a ride back to the light rail.

"Thank you, Edmonds waterfront resident, for your awareness and quick actions"

--South County Fire

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