Hi friends,

I just got back a little while ago from an outdoor afternoon of service in honor of Dr. King. My son and I joined about 150 neighbors to help restore habitat with the Whale Scouts at the former Wayne golf course. How encouraging to be with so many people, of all ages, united in simple yet powerful work. I hope you found ways today, either on your own or with others, to contemplate Dr. King’s courage, sacrifice, and vision.

We’re a go for our first Civic Social of 2026: Wednesday, January 21st, from 5:30 - 7:00 PM at The Hangar. Hope to see you there. If you’re coming, give me a shout so I know how many tables we’ll need.

Civic Saturday will resume in 2026! If you’re able to join us, please RSVP via Eventbrite for Saturday, February 21st, 10:00 - 11:30 AM.

Sending civic love,
Erika 

Civic Social at The Hangar, Kenmore,
5:30 - 7:00 PM, Wed. January 21st

We’ll be talking about what’s top of mind on the civic front and what kind of engagement we’re drawn to in this new year.

I have two topics to suggest:

• In December, we talked about the “Six Points of Connection” suggested by the US Chamber of Connection. Since then, I attended a webinar to hear the results of their recent study describing where everyday social connection is breaking down, and their suggested blueprint for rebuilding it. Results are here if you’re interested; I’ll share a couple of my impressions on Wednesday.

• I also have a new resource to share: Kate Starbird, whose work I’ve followed for some time, has launched a new blog called “Sensemaking Distortion.” She’s writing about how our ability to make sense of the world is being disrupted and corrupted by bad actors and algorithms on digital and social media. We can talk about this, too, if the group is interested.

Also, Wednesday would have been my paternal grandma’s 99th birthday, so in her memory, I’m making two kinds of cookies to share – sugar cookies AND rhubarb squares. She loved sweets, and she’d say, why just make one?

RSVP for Civic Saturday
10-11:30 AM, Saturday, February 21st at Third Place Commons

Civic Saturday is for anyone who is engaged in the community – or wants to be! We gather as neighbors, strangers, and friends, resolved to grow community connection. Join us!

Come as you are. • Live music, poetry and readings spark inspiration. • Conversation moves us toward action. • Leave with ideas and local resources.

Please RSVP via Eventbrite.

Civic Saturday is FREE, secular, and nonpartisan. We look forward to seeing you!

Special thanks to Third Place Commons, musician Julien Thibault, featured speaker Dr. Joel Domingo, and Citizen University's Seattle Hub Civic Catalysts.