Random Randomness

Well, it’s the Friday Eve of a rather maniacal week. February has nearly completed its arc, March is queuing up its show. This month felt solidly off balance. Busyness facilitates that sensation.

This past Tuesday my son and I went to see Roman vs Fousey. They’re two YouTube stars popular amongst near sociopathic youths, so I’ve read. My experience with these two was rather limited. Thus, I was prepared for an hour or two of insipid drivel. With such low expectations, it’s pretty easy to be up-sold. Surprise: I actually like the show. It was filled with goofiness, directed towards their core audience, but there was a very positive message interwoven. So, parents being drug to one of the other shows? Fear not! It’s alright. And massively more upbeat than the evening news.

One fun thing about the show: it was held at Seattle’s Neptune Theatre. I have a solid history there. I saw the Phantom Menace there. I’m pretty sure I saw Rocky Horror there once (my first time was at the Varsity, though). I used to work a block form there. My dad and most of my uncles grew up in the neighborhood. We parked right by Seattle Heights Community Center. Back in the day, their elementary school. The University District has changed quite a bit recently. It’s quite cosmopolitan now, but still has that student je nes se quois. The warm evening reminded me of getting to wander around the city of Berkeley (California) back in the 80s.  

The prior weekend, the Washington Beer Lovers coordinated a roving open house, featuring gobs of breweries throughout the state, including my friends’ Whiskey Ridge in Arlington. I love the owners and adore getting to spend time with them. Plus, their beer is killer. I’m not the biggest conisseur, ever since I discovered alcohol in anything but the most minute portions gives me migraines. But their “Cinful” is amazing and worth the lingering pain. Fortunately, my wife took care of the rest of the glass, saving me for certain agony. It’s good to be loved so.

In the middle of the month, I won another round of dialing for jurors. Each of the past couple of years, I’ve been summoned for jury duty. Each time it was simply calling in and being told to call again tomorrow. Oddly, I’ve done this for both Snohomish County and the City of Lynnwood. Way back when, I got to do this with Edmonds, too. I’ve never so much as walked into the county or city courthouse. It’s to the point where I just warn my team that this time I might actually need to go in. But don’t really make any plans to be out of the office.

Getting together with a few friends drove home, yet again, that I don’t get together with my dear friends enough. Yet again, I resolve to do something about that. I’ve emailed a few, so we’ll see. It’s challenging to track it all. My contact list is stupid big, with gobs of folks I’ve really lost touch with. As I dig through the thousand plus contacts and see friends and family who died years ago, the benign neglect shows though gloriously. Another of those things that’s easy to do later. Sigh…

As we head into March, I really want to see The Force Awakens a second time. Sadly, it looks like I lost my chance to see it in Imax. Oh, and there’s Deadpool! I’ve seen each Deadpool trailer several times. Must. Go. Soon. And I haven’t made my way down for the Bruce Lee exhibit at Wing Luke yet. So very many objectives; some planning must be started. Should fill the weekend with this. But there’s not much downtime, so it’ll be a challenge. As it always is.

What was your favorite part of the past month? Of this winter? Yep, spring is raising is flower adorned head. Soon we’ll be reminded that early adolescent boys need training to remember deodorant. Oh, the fates aren’t kind. Are there any upcoming things you’re jazzed about. Bike Expo is coming up soon!

May we find blessing in all our lives.

Upcoming Road Closure – 68th Ave West

Hey Lynnwood Folks,

If you’re planning on using 68th right by Edmonds Community College, you’ll want to be prepared for this.


 

Lift Station and Force Main 16 Project


Upcoming Road Closure – 68th Ave West

The contractor for the Lift Station and Force Main 16 project intends to begin extending the sewer force main on 68th Ave W, just north of the new round-a-bout in front of Edmonds Community College. This will require road closures on 68th Avenue West during working hours from Saturday, February 13, 2016Monday, February 15, 2016. Detours will be set up and local access will be permitted. Work will continue north until 202nd St SW at which time the contractor will head east down 202nd Street SW towards Hwy 99.

Please note there will be delays and detours due to this work. 

Please check the project website and sign up for project updates atwww.ci.lynnwood.wa.us/enews and select Sewer Lift Station and Force Main 16 Project.

A Walkabout in Edmonds

This past Saturday, while the rest of my family was at a choir festival, I wandered around one of my favorite locales: the Edmonds Waterfront. As a boy, my grandparents lived down here. As an adult, I lived here shortly after I got married and this was where we lived when my son was born. Many fond memories of the area, the parks, the restaurants, the people. I love making my way back, though my life is centered just a few miles north in Lynnwood.

I was struck by the amount construction near the water. Predominantly remodeling, but also some new construction. And, right next to the post office, there’s a condo going up. Which brings to mind a key thing about this area: multi-family homes. Though there still are more single family residences being sold in Edmonds writ-large, when you refine things down to what I’ll call the bowl, you find the stats switching. In the past 6 months, 53 condos were sold vs 30 SFRs. And watching the construction going on in the area, including Lynnwood, we’re going to see more condos built. This higher density model will impact life, but I don’t expect a gross degradation in lifestyle.  If anything, with a growth in transit options, this might make for a bright future in south Snohomish county.

So, below is a slide-show of my wanderings. Enjoy!

February 6, 2016 Walk Around Edmonds

No Slide Found In Slider.

Lynnwood, My Fair City, Is Looking For A Human Resources Director

I’m biased, but this is probably a great position. Lynnwood is quite the eclectic little community. Our population is a bit over 35k with housing types from studio condos to $ million + homes. This is a very diverse community with many languages spoken, different cultures represented, and business types in place. Lynnwood employs 333 FTE’s and has a 2015-16 General Fund Budget of $104 million and biennial budget (all funds) of $166.7 million

Below are the details from the position’s posting.

The Department & Position

 

Mission

 

The Human Resources Department strives to partner with other departments to attract, sustain and inspire a thriving City workforce.

 

The Human Resources Department provides a variety of professional human resource duties in support of the City’s personnel programs, including professional and technical duties in recruitment, examination and placement, classification and pay administration, performance evaluation, labor relations, safety, training, benefits and employee relations.  The HR Director is expected to apply knowledge of currently accepted human resources policies and procedures and relevant employment laws and regulations.

 

The HR Director is a member of the Mayor’s Executive Leadership Team as a peer with the team but also provides support and guidance regarding personnel and labor issues to the team members. The HR Director must be able to work in a fast paced and, at times, politically charged environments and must be a strategic thinker with a city wide perspective regarding personnel issues, labor agreements and staffing into the future. The director needs to implement innovative methods to recruit and retain employees and must be able to research and initiate effective succession planning programs.

 

The HR Director must have knowledge of labor laws and experience working with labor groups, including labor relations, collective bargaining and conflict resolution. The HR Director will have experience with technology and promote the value of a good technology and HR software programs.

Responsibilities Include:

 

Ø  Delegate responsibility and appropriate authority to assigned staff.  Monitor daily work activities to assure the timely and accurate completion of functional responsibilities.

Ø  Conduct applicant job interviews.  Select, orientate and train new employees.  Assure the availability of adequate staff equipment and facilities.

Ø  Prepare and conduct oral and written employee performance evaluations.  Recognize superior performance.  Effect correction in undesirable trends in performance consistent with established City policy.

Ø  Participate in department-wide long range, strategic planning activities.  Prepare and recommend objectives, methodologies and associated schedules.

Ø  Administer and manage the human resources function for the City, ensuring that appropriate federal, state and local personnel policies, acts, laws and procedures are followed.

Ø  Draft human resource policies and procedures consistent with federal and state legislation; assist City supervisors to administer policies.

Ø  Administer and control departmental budget.

Ø  Provide administrative and advisory support to City management and employees.  Serve as staff support to the Mayor and department heads.

Ø  Direct and administer the recruitment and selection program, including serving as the Civil Service Secretary/Chief Examiner for Police and Fire personnel.

Ø  Direct and/or perform development of job descriptions and classify people into appropriate salary ranges.  Conduct salary surveys to ensure jobs are appropriately paid.

Ø  Administer and direct the employee performance evaluation program and ensure that step increases are granted according to policy and procedure; advise management on discipline issues.

Ø  Develop, implement and monitor a plan to diversify the City’s workforce and provide diversity training to employees.

Ø  Direct the maintenance and security of all personnel files and employee records.

Ø  Coordinate City employee training and development programs; conduct needs assessments; determine needs; arrange for provision of employee training.

Opportunities & Challenges

 

1)    There is a need to review and update policies, procedures and codes that relate to personnel, human resource and training. (This might be completed?)

 

2)    The City will need to continue to evaluate its benefit programs to assure compliance with the Affordable Care Act, in addition to making sure the benefits are fair for employees and cost effective for the city.

 

3)    Into the future, there will be a need to evaluate staffing levels for efficiencies and alignments to the delivery of services provided by the City.

 

4)    There is a strong desire to continue to recruit, hire, and retain qualified staff who reflect the diverse population of the City.

 

Ideal Candidate Profile

 

Lynnwood is looking for a talented director or senior HR professional from a public sector organization of comparable complexity and size, with extensive knowledge and experience in all aspects of human resources. Extensive knowledge of employment laws and human resources regulations and practices is required.

 

The ideal candidate needs to be collaborative and understand the internal and external customer service expectations of the department. He/she must be personable and approachable, and able to build alliances throughout the organization to achieve the personnel goals of the City. The ability to distinguish the skills and talents of each staff member, see the big picture, and look beyond issues of a single department is a key skill to have for this position.

 

 

There are four labor groups; Police, Fire, Teamsters and AFSCME. The most recent labor agreements were negotiated with the contracted assistance of the Summit Law Firm. The HR Director needs to be able to develop and maintain strong professional and positive relationships with labor leadership.

 

The new director must have knowledge and experience with employee benefit programs, and show strong written and oral communication skills. Experience with LEAN or process improvement programs is desirable. The ideal candidate will be approachable and non confrontational, and have strong interpersonal skills with a sense of humor. The ability to embrace diversity and see the value of a diverse workforce will be important to be successful in Lynwood.

 

Education & Experience

 

A bachelor’s degree in Personnel Administration, Public Administration or a related field, plus at least five years of HR generalist experience, including experience in a supervisory role, or any satisfactory combination of experience and training that demonstrates the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the above duties are required.

 

Compensation & Benefits

 

Ø  $106,142– $134,305 DOQ

Ø  100% Medical, Dental & Vision; 90% for dependents

Ø  Life & Long-term Disability Insurance

Ø  PERS State Retirement System

Ø  12 paid holidays & 12 sick leave per year

Ø  Management benefits which include vacation days per year based on past experience

 

Please visit http://www.prothman.com/Current_Searches/index.aspx for the full position profile and to apply.

 

The Lynnwood Wendy’s Remodel Is Coming Right Along

While driving to work the other morning and waiting for the light at 196th and 52nd (right next to Wilcox park), I got this glimpse of the work being done on the old Lynnwood Wendy’s. It feels funny to consider it “old”, and it was built when was in junior high or high-school. Most importantly, it’s been pretty much the same since it was first opened. So, the update should be very welcome.

Lynnwood Wendy's Remodel Feb 2016
Lynnwood Wendy’s Remodel Feb 2016

Edmonds “I Love Dicks” Video

This was shot and posted just about a year ago. Sadly, I completely missed this car show. It’s mindblowing to see the parking lot this full, especially since Winco hadn’t opened yet. Check out the number of cars backed up onto 99 waiting to just pull into the lot. This is a bit long at >10 minutes, but it’s pretty nice.

Tonight! Henna & Reflexology in Edmonds’ FABRIC OF LIFE

I subscribed to Fabric of Live’s email list many moons ago. Back, baaaack when they were in their first store location. I love the work they do, and the service they provide to the greater world. Great folks with a great mission. A big plus: the ambiance of the store is deeply tranquil. I guess that goes with their service ethos.

So, if you love henna, reflexology and just hanging out with people doing great things, here’s a great time to be had.


 

 

 

It’s henna and

reflexology / acupuncture night
at Fabric of Life 
519 Main St 
downtown Edmonds
 
Thursday        February 4th     5pm8pm

Fabric of Life invites you to a special evening of relaxation.
We’ll be serving finger foods and adult beverages while you enjoy the soothing application of henna by artist Meghan Kaloper  plus reflexology and acupuncture by Asha Novak.
 
 
NO COST TO ATTEND
You only pay for henna services starting at $20 for simple designs or up to $50 for more complex designs. 
 
Reflexology and acupuncture 15 minute treatments are complimentary.
 
FREE CHILDCARE
While you enjoy your pampering, Fabric of Life will have art activities for your children supervised by adult volunteers.  Reservations are required for childcare because we are limited to 15 children.  To make your reservation, either email or call:  carol@fabricoflife.org  (425) 478-6711
ABOUT MEGHAN’S MEHNDI HENNA
Traditionally, henna is used for important ceremonies and life transitions.Meghan’s Mehndi is widely known in Seattle for her professional Henna Body Art. Henna allows you to express yourself through symbols, imagery and to feel empowered with your adorned skin.
  
 
Check out Meghan’s Mendhi artwork on her website.
 

 

 

 

 

Black Mt Healing Ctr Logo
COMPLIMENTARY REFLEXOLOGY 
& ACUPUNCTURE 
with Asha Novak
 
Asha practices at
Black Mountain Center for Healing on Main Street in Edmonds. She is a Registered Nurse, Acupuncturist, Reflexologist and Hypnotherapist. Asha helps clients restore their body’s natural harmony.
 
Both Acupuncture and Reflexology systems are mapped on the surface of the skin and achieve their effects by stimulating points and reflexes across these maps. Originating in China some 5,000
 years ago, Acupuncture has rapidly gained favor throughout the world as a popular healing modality for many conditions. Reflexology originated in several cultures across the globe including ancient Egypt.  It stimulates reflex points on the hands, ears and feet to promote relaxation, stress reduction, foot and body pain relief as well as boosting the immune system and naturally detoxifying the entire body.
 
 
These are the young women you support when you shop at Fabric of Life Fair Trade
AND OF COURSE…
You are welcome to enjoy and
shop for unique gifts from global artisans.
Because we’re run by volunteers, your purchase supports girls going from begging to skilled artisan, and

over 1,000 low income artisans from around the world,
Carol's First Name

Lynnwood’s Development and Business Services Office

I’m pleased that the City of Lynnwood is reinvigorating (?) the word of the Permit Center (FYI, this office is not by the city offices on 44th by the library. Rather, it’s just south of 196th, kitty-corner to Goodwill). Hopefully, they can smooth out/simplify the permitting process and keep the dynamic business environment that is Lynnwood vibrant. Our little city is growing, and I’m confident details like this help.


 

 

Lynnwood Washington

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Over the Counter Reviews Return to Lynnwood’s Development and Business Services in February

LYNNWOOD, WA (January 13, 2016) – The City of Lynnwood is pleased to announce that Lynnwood Development and Business Services, formerly known as the Lynnwood Permit Center, now offers Over the Counter (OTC) plan review to expedite and simplify your projects. The OTC review is intended for smaller, less complicated projects that can be reviewed quickly.

Beginning February 2, the OTC reviews will be held every Tuesday from 9:00am – 11:00am at the Development and Business Services Center located at 4114 198th ST SW, STE 7, Lynnwood, WA.

Projects that may qualify for Over the Counter review include:

  • Small residential additions and remodels
  • Most decks, carports, porch covers and sheds
  • Plumbing and mechanical for residential
  • Commercial mechanical roof top unit (RTU) replacements
  • Simple tenant improvements (to be determined by plan reviewer)
  • Plumbing and mechanical for tenant improvements

For more information on Over the Counter plan review and the types of required documents, visit our Business & Development Services webpage.

About Lynnwood Development & Business Services:

Lynnwood Development & Business Services is home to four departments working together to help homeowners, businesses, and developers succeed with their development projects.

The Folklife Folks Reveal Their 2016 Poster Artwork

I just got this email from the good folks at Folklife. Their posters are always lovely. Looking forward to seeing these in the wild.

Folklife is always a fantastic time and definitely worth making your way into Seattle for. Pro-tip: parking around the Seattle Center is always, shall we say, challenging around major events like this. Either plan to PAY for parking, or, my personal recommendation, plan on using Metro.


 

Give to Northwest Folklife
Give to Northwest Folklife BLOG PROGRAMS

Introducing the 2016 Northwest Folklife Festival

Presented by Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

Take a peek at the all-new 2016 Northwest Folklife Festival poster artwork and website now! The beautiful artwork was created by the talented Dan Stiles and our Festival website now boasts some early Festival news and information.

It is with great excitement that we announce that the 2016 Northwest Folklife Festival will be presented by Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, a first-time partnership that aims to educate and collaborate through arts and culture.

We will be updating the website with programming highlights and the Festival schedule as we get closer to the Festival, so make sure to check back!

TAKE A PEEK

Some great photos of Edmonds

I just discovered  the Pacific Northwest Photography Forum today. It’s kinda funny, as the design suggests it’s been around a while.

Bill Anderson is an Edmonds resident and I’ve seen his photos online often. Lovely stuff! Anyway, he posted some great shots here a few days ago.  Below are a few of my favorites:

 

Katy the Kingfisther
Katy the Kingfisther