MANAGER’S CORNER
We want all of you, our neighbors, to know how thankful we are to live in such a wonderful close-knit community. If you’ve ever heard of the “Seattle Freeze,” you know our region doesn’t always have a reputation for friendliness. But Bow Lake breaks that stereotype every day.
We see kindness all around us - neighbors helping each other with errands, taking out trash bins, sharing bouquets of garden flowers, or simply offering a smile and a wave. These everyday gestures remind us how special this place truly is.
Still, living close together means that occasional tensions are natural. Small irritations can grow quickly if we don’t address them with grace. A barking dog, a lot line concern, a noise complaint, or a comment taken the wrong way can all stir up frustration. But what if we choose not to be offended? What if we replace that annoyance with gratitude?
Gratitude has a way of shifting our focus. Instead of dwelling on our annoyances, we can choose to say, “I’m thankful to live in a place where people care about each other.” When we look for the good - a kind smile, a shared laugh, a helping hand – it becomes harder to stay upset. Choosing gratitude not only lightens our own hearts, but it also helps us create a more positive, friendly environment for everyone.
That mindset also helps us respond more thoughtfully when challenges do come up. Being understanding doesn’t mean ignoring real issues, it means approaching them with gentleness, patience, and a willingness to forgive. We may not always agree, but we can still choose peace, kindness, and connection.
Our senior community has so much potential for joy - shared meals, spontaneous chats, and true friendships. That potential grows when we give each other grace and maybe even a second chance. Peace often begins with just one choice: to respond with compassion instead of anger.
As we live side by side in our shared community, let’s consider the power of grace. We’ll never all agree, but we can choose to treat one another with respect, humility, and kindness. And that is something worth striving for - together.
“You can’t be grateful and angry simultaneously. You have to choose.” - Brant Hansen, Unoffendable.
Grace and Peace, Sean and Denise
recreation association NOTES
We hosted the Annual Community Potluck BBQ on Saturday, July 26th, at the Lake. Your Recreation Association provided hamburgers, hotdogs, veggie burgers, and chicken, along with buns, condiments, and bottled water.
Thank you to all the community members who joined and contributed a wonderful variety of side dishes. It was a great day of fun, food, and connection!
August has a few Events to add to your calendars:
• National Night Out – Tuesday, August 5th (at the Clubhouse) – light snacks provided
• Community Carport/Yard Sales – Friday, August 8th & Saturday, August 9th
o 9:00AM – 4:00PM both days
o Reach out to Will Booth no later than Monday, August 4th to register, especially if you wish to have balloons delivered before Friday’s start date/time (please note, registration is not required, however, if we do not know, we cannot deliver balloons to your home)
• Music in the Park – Saturday, August 23rd (at the lake)
o ALL musicians within the Community are invited to come and share their music with one another, and join the Jam Session
o Reach out to anyone on the Board to sign up
• Monthly Recreation Association Meeting - Monday, August 25th at 6:30PM
o If there is anything you would like to see or learn more about, please join your neighbors at this meeting and share your thoughts
o When at least 17 Residents in attendance, there will be a drawing for a $20 gift card
We want to remind all residents that there are no staff members assigned or employed to wash dishes, clean the kitchen, or tidy up after events in the Clubhouse. Our janitorial crew handles only the basics: sweeping and mopping floors, vacuuming carpets, cleaning restrooms, and emptying trash bins. If you leave dirty dishes in the sink or items out of place, they will remain there - no one is scheduled to clean up behind you. Please be courteous and clean up after yourself. Treat the Clubhouse with the same care (or better) than you would your own home. If you have any questions or concerns about the Clubhouse or Recreation Association events, we encourage you to attend the monthly meetings. These meetings are open to all residents and are a great way to stay informed and involved.
COMMUNITY NOTES AND REMINDERS
• RACCOONS
Do not leave any food out for cats, dogs, or any other animals. This attracts raccoons. Because there is no lack of food here for these seemingly adorable, but very vicious animals, they have grown bold, and they will attack. If you are walking, particularly early morning, or at night, we suggest carrying a can of bear spray with you.
• DROPBOX OUTSIDE OUR OFFICE
The black box in front of the office is a drop box for the Bow Lake office. USPS has no access to it, so if you need to drop off your payments, or any other documents or items after hours for Bow Lake, that is where you can drop them.
• YARD MAINTENANCE
Please do your part to keep grass and weeds (especially dandelions) trimmed. If you have a mower or weed eater and are able, consider helping a neighbor who may have physical or financial limitations. Since most yards here are small, just 10 or 15 extra minutes can make a big differenceand help prevent weeds from spreading into your own yard too.
• YARD WASTE
Please do not place plastic bags or pet waste bags in your compostable yard waste bins. These items contaminate the compost. You may include soiled cardboard (like pizza boxes), used paper towels, and compostable food waste with your yard waste. Doing so may also help free up space in your regular trash can.
• PARKING SOUTH OF THE CLUBHOUSE
The numbered parking spaces near the south entrance to the pool and spa are reserved and should not be used by others. Additionally, the handicapped parking space on the south side is designated for individuals with disabilities who are using the pool or downstairs amenities. The numbered spaces on the East and West sides of the pool are intended for guests and residents using the Clubhouse facilities and are not reserved for specific residents.
• PICNIC AREA AND GRILLS AT BOW LAKE PARK
At this time, the picnic area at the park is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please be courteous by cleaning the grills after use and picking up after yourselves. A wire brush is provided at the grill area for your use. Also, make sure you turn off the grill after using it.
• GATE CARD ISSUES
As many of you are aware, we are still having some gate card access issues, and we again apologize for the inconvenience. The issues are not as widespread as before, but we continue to work on the system to get the glitches worked out. If you have problems getting in the pool gate, it may be that you need to push in and then pull the gate open. Because the gate is very heavy, the lock sometimes catches.
• GARBAGE CHARGES
Due to a recent rate increase from our garbage service provider (Recology), you will see a slight increase in your monthly invoice starting this month. Please note that if you put out extra bags or use a 64-gallon trash can instead of the standard 32-gallon can, you will be charged for the additional cost.
Annual Yard of the Month/Home Improvement Derby Winners
• YARD OF THE MONTH CONTEST
This is your opportunity to let your hard work shine! The winner each month (June – August) will get a YARD OF THE MONTH sign in their yard and a gift card. Here is the July winner:
JULY YARD OF THE MONTH
18112 31st Ave S
• HOME IMPROVEMENT DERBY
If you (or your neighbors) have improved the appearance of your/their home and lot exterior, please let us know. We are not necessarily looking for the newest homes and yards, but the homes and lots that show off the hard work of improvement in appearance. Although not required, we encourage you to take “before” and “after” pictures of the home and lot.
JULY MOST IMPROVED LOT
3230 S 183rd St
EVENTS and CLUBS
BLOCK WATCH/NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH
All residents of Bow Lake Estate are invited and welcome to attend the monthly meetings. Please join us and share your thoughts and learn from your neighbors. This month’s meeting will be on Thursday, August 14th at 7:00PM in the Clubhouse. As always, if you see something, say something. Only We Can Make Our Community Safe for All of Ourselves and Our Neighbors.
• To report all emergencies, call 911
• For non-emergencies, call 206-296-3311
BOW LAKE ESTATES ASSOCIATION OF MANUFACTURED HOMEOWNERS (BLEAMH)/HOA
July brought a great turnout, including new Residents and first-time attendees, with lots of conversations around hot topics. Recommendations are always welcome and encouraged. We cannot do this alone, we need everyone’s voice … please join us at our August meeting, on Monday, August 4th at 6:00PM in the Clubhouse. We will have our monthly Meeting/ Potluck of Summer Salads (your definition of a summer salad).
BLEAMH’s mission is to work for the betterment of ALL residents of Bow Lake Estates. Every resident has a voice and is welcome to attend the monthly Association Meetings. Join your Neighbors and share your thoughts; learn from one-another.
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS
Thank you to those who have already Volunteered for this important responsibility; however, we still need more volunteers. We are working to bring various trainings and information to the Community.
Questions?
Should you have questions regarding any of these Community Programs, please attend the applicable Monthly Meeting, or reach out to Will Booth �� 206-310-1307 �� williambooth.wb@hotmail.com
EVENTS and CLUBS
DANCE CLUB
Sallie Palella - 206-960-0303
On Saturday, August 16th, plan to enjoy a golden summer evening with 13 Coins regular Phil Slater! Phil offers a night of great songs – Motown, classic rock, country & disco! Doors will be unlocked, and check-in will begin at 6:45pm. Please do not arrive early. Guests must be accompanied by their resident host. The event is from 7-9:30 pm. Masks are optional, no reserved tables, no pets. Cups, water & ice will be provided. Bring your own beverages and snacks.
Remember you don’t need to dance to enjoy a fun evening.
Did you know Siddie, Wilma & I have collectively volunteered on The Dance Committee for over 50 years? For our dances to continue we need new members of Bow Lake to attend our next Dance Meeting on Wednesday, August 6th at 5:30pm. This meeting is open to all residents.
DANCE CLUB LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE:
August 16th – Phil Slater
September 20th – Randy Litch
October 18th – CC Engel
LINE DANCE CLUB
Sharon Gosline - 206-588-3459
November 15th – Phil Slater
December 20th – Randy Litch
Line Dance Club meets every Wednesday from 6:00pm-7:00pm. Masks are optional. If you are interested in kicking up your heels a bit, al fresco style please let me know. Everyone is welcome!!!
BINGO, BINGO, BINGO!
Sharon Gosline - 206-588-3459
BINGO Every Friday: 6:15-9:00pm in the Club House! The cost, as always, is $2.00 to join and then 25 cents a card which is collected before the games begin. We are also in need of volunteer Bingo assistants to set up and tear down. Please call Sharon if you’re interested!
EVENTS and CLUBS
KARAOKE
David Withrow | 443-910-3943
Second Saturday of the month. August 9th, 2025, 7:00 pm
Nibbles and beverages are welcome! Bring your neighbors, your family and friends. Dancing shoes not required but welcome. Come and join the fun!
HOBBY SHOP HAPPENINGS
Mark Eidem – 425-306-9878 | konatrader78@gmail.com
If you like woodworking, come check out the Bow Lake Hobby Shop. There are a variety of tools, including Table Saw, Radial Arm Saw, Chop Saw, Band Saw, and Router table just to name a few. Contact Mark Eidem by phone or email if you have questions.
BOW LAKE LIBRARY CORNER
Liz | 206-604-3665
Our community library offers more than just books. Come explore our wide selection of jigsaw puzzles, CDs, DVDs, and games available for all residents to enjoy. When visiting, please be mindful of the jigsaw puzzles in progress. These take hours to complete, and we ask that you do not disturb any partially assembled puzzles out of respect for the time and effort others have put in.
Also, we’ve noticed that a number of DVDs have gone missing. It appears that someone may be taking multiple items and not returning them. Please remember that all materials in the library are shared resources, generously donated for everyone’s use. Let’s all do our part to keep the library enjoyable and well stocked by returning what we borrow!
MOVE IT :)
Come move your body with us. We have a walking video, treadmill, bikes, and free weights. Whatever you want to do. Just keep moving with friends. Every Monday and Friday at 9:30am in the club house downstairs. If you have any questions, just call Beverly 206-380-2844
EVENTS and CLUBS
EVENTS and CLUBS
GOOD NEWS CORNER
BOW LAKE MHP 55+ RESIDENTS BUY/SELL/
GIVEAWAY
FACEBOOK GROUP
Selling something? Giving something away? NEW Facebook Group page for Bow Lake residents. To buy, sell, giveaway, make announcements, ask for recommendations, etc. Please join! Search Facebook groups for “Bow Lake MHP 55+ Residents Buy/Sell/ Giveaway”. Or text 253-218–8700 for the link.
The City of SeaTac has a Minor Home Repair program. Call 206-973-4815 to request an application.
King County also has a Housing Repair Program. To apply with King County or to find out if you might qualify, call 206-263-2490 or visit www.kingcounty.gov/ housingrepair.
HANDYMAN – you name it, I do it! Call David at 206-963-0578 NEED A JUMP? | Call Sam 206-229-0439
Retired Auto-mechanic can help you with the following auto emergencies: No start/ Jump Start & Battery/Battery change NEED HELP MOVING OR DUMP RUNS? Call Scott Lohkamp 206-383-6390 THINKING OF SELLING YOUR HOME?
FOR A RELAXING MASSAGE
Call Shirley 626-244-6067
MANICURES/PEDICURES
New resident Selena offers manicures or pedicures. Please call Selena at 425-229-9780
A-1
MELODY AIRPORT SERVICE
Call Mohsen (Mo) 206-999-6567
$50 for airport service
Contact Brandon Judy with CHS 425-589-5365 or email Brandon.Judy@cwres.com Your home will enjoy unmatched exposure when you list your house with us. Our top ranked agents will post your listing on the NWMLS, our YouTube channel, and on our Bow Lake website.
AUGUST CALENDAR
August 202 5
Summer Trivia
1. Which classic 1960s surf rock band is known for songs like “Surfin’ U.S.A.” and “California Girls”?
2. What 1953 film starring Marilyn Monroe featured the iconic scene of her standing over a subway grate in a white dress during a summer in New York?
3. What summer Olympic sport involves athletes fencing with three different weapons: foil, épée, and sabre?
4. In what year did Woodstock—the famous summer music festival—take place?
5. What popular frozen treat, introduced in the U.S. in the 1950s, is made of softserve ice cream dipped in chocolate and served on a stick?
6. What novel, set during a hot summer in the 1930s American South, features a young girl named Scout and her father, Atticus Finch?
7. Which U.S. president signed the law making Labor Day a national holiday in 1894, marking the unofficial end of summer?
8. What catchy summer anthem released in 1983 begins with the lyrics “Hot town, summer in the city…”?
9. What famous amusement park, opened in 1955 in California, became a top summer vacation spot for families?
10. What ancient civilization held summer festivals honoring the sun god Ra?
TRIVIA ANSWERS:
1. The Beach Boys; 2. The Seven Year Itch; 3. Fencing; 4. 1969; 5. Dilly Bar (from Dairy Queen); 6. To Kill a Mockingbird; 7. Grover Cleveland; 8. “Summer in the City” by The Lovin’ Spoonful; 9. Disneyland; 10. Ancient Egypt