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Green Lake beaches closed

The Parks Department recently announced the closure of Green Lake's two swimming beaches for the rest of the summer after water tests revealed a high level of toxins created by algae bloom. The lake is also closed to activities such as wading and windsurfing. Pet owners are also advised to not let their pets drink from the lake. Parks Department spokesman David Takami said an announcement will be made when the lake is determined to be safe again for swimming.

Groundbreaking new ponds

Officials from Seattle Public Utilities, the Parks Department and Seattle Golf as well as citizen volunteers involved in preserving Thornton Creek will gather to celebrate the groundbreaking of three stormwater detention ponds at the Jackson Park Golf Course on Monday, Sept. 9, from 10-11 a.m. Community residents and golfers are invited to the ceremony at the golf course clubhouse located at 1000 NE 135th. Scheduled for completion in 2004, the ponds are designed to reduce erosion and improve wildlife habitat in the north branch of Thornton Creek. For more information, call 733-9185.

Acupuncture school closes

On Aug. 16, students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the Northwest Institute of Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine held a wake for the school which closed in June due to financial difficulties. NIAOM, founded in 1981, was the oldest accredited graduate program in Oriental Medicine in the Pacific Northwest. The school, which was located in Fremont, provided medical services at clinics throughout King County.