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.

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.

Humor: The Cell Phone Husband Shopper

Cartoonist David Shearer is a resident of Shoreline

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!

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

Business Spotlight: Meadowlark Consulting

Local Spotlight brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, DestinationShoreline.com

Meadowlark Consulting: Crafting Websites That Elevate Small Businesses

Helping Entrepreneurs Build Their Online Presence with Strategy & Heart

In today’s digital world, a great website is more than just an online presence—it’s a powerful tool that helps businesses grow, attract clients, and make an impact. Meadowlark Consulting, a Shoreline-based web design business, specializes in creating strategic, engaging, and functional websites that reflect the heart of small businesses and the people behind them.

Founded nearly five years ago, Meadowlark Consulting is driven by a passion for helping entrepreneurs—especially women—elevate their businesses, amplify their voices, and increase their impact.

We spoke with founder Cory, a long-time Shoreline resident, to learn more about her journey, her work, and what sets her apart in the world of web design.

Q&A With Meadowlark Consulting

Q: How long have you been in business?
A: I officially launched Meadowlark Consulting on 11/11/2021, so it will be five years in November! It’s been an incredible journey, and I’ve had the privilege of working with so many inspiring entrepreneurs along the way.

Q: What inspired you to start your business?
A: Before starting Meadowlark Consulting, I spent 13 years as a stay-at-home parent and active volunteer in the Shoreline community. I was involved with the Highland Terrace Neighborhood Association, Highland Terrace PTA, and Shorenorth Cooperative Preschool, and during that time, I found myself stepping up for tech-related projects.

Through self-teaching, I learned how to build WordPress websites and discovered a passion for web design. As I faced a major life transition, I knew I needed to create a career for myself—one that would support my family while also aligning with my values. That’s when I decided to build a business centered on helping women grow their own businesses—raising their incomes, voices, and impact through strategic and engaging websites.

Q: What service does your business provide for our community?
A: I co-create websites with small business owners, ensuring their online presence is strategic, engaging, and functional. My work spans a variety of industries—I’ve designed websites for:
An online business coach
A yoga teacher
Several authors
A Montessori preschool
An acupuncture clinic
A financial planner
A veterinarian

Each website is tailored to the unique personality and goals of the business owner, helping them connect with their audience and grow their business.

Q: What do you love the most about Shoreline?
A: I love that Shoreline is a welcoming place for everyone. The strong sense of community, the support for local businesses, and the emphasis on inclusivity make this such a wonderful place to live and work.

Q: Why is your business based in Shoreline?
A: I have lived in Shoreline for over 20 years, and this is home. I run my business from my "shedquarters"—a dedicated workspace in my backyard—allowing me to work closely with local entrepreneurs while being part of the community I love.

Q: What inspires you each day?
A: I love learning about the entrepreneurial journeys of women in different fields—how they’ve turned their passions into businesses and how they use their platforms to create positive change. It’s incredibly inspiring to work with people who are not only building their dream careers but also making an impact in their communities.

Q: How do you approach customer service, and what sets you apart?
A: Building a website from scratch can be overwhelming, and I make it my mission to break the process down into small, manageable steps. I guide my clients every step of the way, ensuring they feel supported, informed, and empowered.

Beyond just technical skills, what sets me apart is my collaborative approach, clear communication, and genuine enthusiasm for my clients' success. I’m not just a web designer—I’m their biggest fan and cheerleader.

Let's Build a Website That Works for You!

Whether you’re launching a business, rebranding, or looking to upgrade your online presence, Meadowlark Consulting is here to help. I work one-on-one with entrepreneurs to create websites that are strategic, engaging, and built to grow with your business.

Meadowlark Consulting – Based in Shoreline, WA
meadowlark.tech
cory@meadowlark.tech


Destination Shoreline is brought to you by Kate Ledbetter, Real Estate Broker with Windermere Real Estate/Shoreline, recognized as the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce Business of the Month. 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.

Free comic book day at Shoreline Library

The annual Free Comic Book Day is a lot of fun when you join others at the Shoreline Library (345 NE 175th, Shoreline WA 98155) to do a selfie with Star Wars characters and grab a free comic book or two to take home. 

The planned visit by the costumed actors and the free comic books are possible because of individuals like you—who buy our used books, join as dues-paying members and participate in GiveBIG with a gift to the Shoreline Friends.

But there’s more than Free Comic Book Day! We continue to fund Spanish Story Time and a variety of programs for library patrons of all ages.

Due to your generosity, the Shoreline Library can offer a robust schedule of entertaining, educational and enlightening programs throughout the year.

The official GiveBIG dates are May 6 & 7, 2025. But why wait til then when you can participate NOW. Thank you!

--Friends of Shoreline Library Board of Directors

Volunteer work party at Midvale Gardens May 3, 2025

2024 work party. In the beginning this site was covered with blackberry vines six feet tall,
with holly mixed in. Photo courtesy Midvale Gardens

Saturday May 3, 2025 from 11am to 2pm there will be a volunteer work party at 'Midvale Gardens' to lay out cardboard and distribute wood chips.

This long neglected Seattle City Light property is located at N 192nd St and the Interurban Trail.  It is directly east of the Trail atop the grassy slope.

Five years ago this site was overgrown with blackberry vines and holly bushes. COVID stopped our efforts until we turned to goats which were financed by an environmental grant courtesy of the City of Shoreline.

By laying down cardboard and wood chips we are burying the decades of hypodermic needles scattered about the soil. 

The obvious ones have been collected and properly disposed of, but the site was long used by homeless drug addicts before the neighbors began maintaining the property.

Come prepared. Wear boots. Bring gloves. If you have a pair of clippers bring those too.  

Pass the word to your friends. 

Caring for our Future: Community Family Fest sponsored by MomsRising

Caring for our Future: Community Family Fest

May 3, 2025, 1-4pm. Admission is FREE. Join for all or part of the event!

Shoreline Free Methodist Church, Fellowship Hall, 510 NE 175th St., Shoreline, WA 98155

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

Brahms Bonanza with the Andrew Sords trio May 18, 2025 at St. Dunstan's

A Brahms Bonanza with the Andrew Sords trio, Sunday, May 18, 2025 at 3pm. 

Seattle Symphony's talented tubist John DiCesare joins forces with concert violinist Andrew Sords and pianist Timothy Durkovic for a sensational presentation of Brahms's iconic Horn Trio in E-flat. 

Sords and Durkovic will dazzle with stunning showpieces by Chopin and Sarasate. This vibrant trio will bring St. Dunstan's 2024-2025 Concert Series to a triumphant close as they share these beloved 19th-century masterpieces and enchant the audience with delightful anecdotes and humor from the stage.

Free, but Reserve a seat online using this link

St. Dunstan's is ADA accessible, and designated ADA parking is available in the upper west lot. All are welcome to stay for light refreshments following the performance.

Aqua-Tots Swim School opens first location in Washington State, bringing year-round, indoor swim lessons ahead of summer

Aqua-Tots Swim School opens in Lynnwood

Lynnwood, WA—Aqua-Tots Swim School is proud to share that its first swim school in the state of Washington is now open in the city of Lynnwood. The 9,300 square-foot facility is located at 19715 Highway 99, Suite 102. 

The school resides within Lynnwood Center along Highways 99 and 524, making it easily accessible to the families of Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, Bothell, Shoreline, Lake Forest Park and the surrounding areas.

Aqua-Tots Swim School’s trusted program has been parent-approved for more than 30 years and is used in schools around the world to create safe and confident lifelong swimmers. 

The company is dedicated to putting “safety first and fun every second” into every lesson. Parents can choose from class sizes of one, two or four students to suit their child’s needs. 

Aqua-Tots also understands that each child is unique and may need accommodations. The year-round swim school makes accessibility a priority by offering adaptive and Fast Track lessons to ensure the right fit for every skill level.

Franchise owners and local residents Erin and Ben Sheedy are eager to empower Seattle's youth with essential water safety skills.

"We’re excited to bring Aqua-Tots Swim School to the Lynnwood community and the greater Puget Sound area," said Ben Sheedy.

"Water safety is essential for every child, especially in a region surrounded by water. Our goal is to provide a welcoming, family-friendly environment where children can build confidence, develop lifesaving swimming skills, and enjoy a lifelong love of swimming."

Aqua-Tots Lynnwood features a 90-degree, 60-foot-long pool with 14 swim zones. Parents can sit back and relax in the lobby’s cozy red armchairs while watching their child’s class through the floor-to-ceiling glass viewing area. Families are invited to use the facility’s fully stocked vanity and 22 changing rooms to get ready before and after class.

Families can walk in during business hours to speak with the team, learn more about the program and take a tour of the school. They should reserve their spot now in this highly anticipated swim school. Follow Aqua-Tots Lynnwood’s social media pages on Facebook and Instagram for more details.

To learn more about swim lessons at this location or to enroll, visit aqua-tots.com/lynnwood/ or call 425-225-4780.

About Aqua-Tots Swim School

Founded in 1991 and headquartered in the Phoenix area, Aqua-Tots Swim School is making waves as the largest international provider of year-round, indoor swim instruction, community outreach and drowning prevention education. Its trusted program is dedicated to children of all abilities from four months to 12 years old and features a proven curriculum used to teach more than five million swim lessons each year.

Introduction to Memoir Writing: Two-Day Workshop at Senior Activity Center May 13 and May 20, 2025

Beth Ann Mathews will lead a memoir writing workshop at the Senior Activity Center in May

Revitalize memories, write vivid dialogue and tap the power of vulnerability! 

Join marine mammal biologist and author of Deep Waters: A Memoir of Loss, Alaska Adventure and Love Rekindled, Beth Ann Mathews, for a two-day introduction to memoir writing.

This workshop is being provided by the Shoreline Library. Writing prompts and resources will help you take your personal story to the next level.

• Tuesday May 13 and 20, 2025 [this is a two day workshop]
• 1:45-3:45pm
• Cost: Free
• Location: Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline WA 98155
• Free parking
• Register: Reserve your spot through the library at 1.kcls.org/ShorelineMemoir

Car crashes through wall of UW Med Clinic at Aurora Village

First responders at scene of crash at UW Med in Aurora Village

Deputies from the King County Sheriff's Office (KCSO) (Shoreline PD) and Shoreline Fire responded to a vehicle accident at 7:52am on Saturday April 26, 2025. 

A vehicle had driven through the front wall and into the UW Medicine Primary Care Clinic at 13355 N 205th St in Aurora Village.

No one inside the building was injured
Photo courtesy KCSO

There were initial reports of injuries to building occupants but, thankfully, this turned out not to be the case. 

The driver of the vehicle was treated for minor injuries on the scene, while her passenger, an older female, was transported to a local hospital for precautionary evaluation. 

It is believed the driver pressed the gas pedal by mistake while intending to press the brake. There was no indication of impaired driving.

Tulips

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

More flowers from Lee's visit to Richmond Beach Lutheran Church.

In Loving Memory of Ken Noreen (1942–2025)

Ken Noreen 1942-2025

Ken Noreen passed away peacefully on the morning of Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at home and surrounded by family. 

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, mentor, and friend, Ken lived a remarkable life of passion, service, and joy.

Ken was the beloved husband of Pearl for 59 years, a loving father to Kevin and Kirk, father-in-law to Kate Noreen and Kate McIntosh, and cherished “Far Far” to his grandchildren Karina, Kierin, Cole, and Madeleine. 

His family was the center of his world, and his love for them was both boundless and inspiring.

He was born in Everett, Washington, to Albert and Annie Noreen. He graduated from Everett high school. A proud alumni of the University of Washington, where he earned both his BA and MA in music education, 

Ken went on to shape generations of students during his 48-year career as a music educator. 

He served as the band director at Shorecrest High School for 24 years, followed by another 24 years as the band director at Shoreline Community College. 

His commitment to excellence in music education extended statewide: he served as President of the Washington Music Educators Association (WMEA) from 1986 to 1988 and was inducted into the WMEA Hall of Fame.

Ken’s impact reached far beyond the classroom. He was a founding member of both the Shoreline Arts Council and the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation. 

He was a founding member of the Shoreline Breakfast Rotary Club and served as president and program chair. He was a tireless advocate and generous supporter of local institutions including the Dale Turner YMCA, the Shoreline Community College Foundation, and the Cedar Building Fund. 

His service and dedication were honored through numerous awards, including: 

• the Christa McAuliffe Award for Educational Leadership from the State of Washington in 1991, 
• the WMEA Leadership Award, 
• the Shoreline Community College Student Success Award, 
• the heART Award from the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council, 
• the Shoreline School District - Award of Merit “In appreciation of support of Youth Athletics and Activities,” 
• Western Washington University Music Faculty - Recognition for career of leadership in music education and 
• the City of Shoreline “Star” award 1995-2005.

Ken also left his musical mark on the broader public, serving as the Director of Music for the Seattle Supersonics and working with the Husky Marching Band from 1965 to 1982. A recipient of recognition from Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI), for performing and providing live music for the Seattle Sonics.

Beyond music and education, Ken was a true Renaissance man—real estate agent, travel agency owner, real estate investor, and passionate traveler. A season ticket holder and loyal fan of the Seattle Mariners for more than 40 years, he never passed up a chance to cheer on his team or enjoy a root beer float from Dick’s Drive-In.

Those who knew Ken will remember him as inspirational, kind, generous, and full of life. He believed in people, in possibilities, and in making the most out of every moment. He was a man of deep integrity, relentless energy, and unwavering commitment to his community.

A celebration of Ken’s life will be held in June, where family and friends will gather to honor the man who taught not just music—but how to live life to the fullest.

In his honor, we toasted his remarkable life with one of his favorite simple pleasures—a root beer float from Dick’s.

He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

A music scholarship has been created in Ken’s name with the Shoreline Community College Foundation - https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx

Get to know the neighbors

Photo by Seattle Poppy

A short walk west of the Shoreline Library, Seattle Poppy found this notice in a neighbor's yard.

And in case you can't read the fine print..

Good to know!