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Community Corner

5 Things You Need to Know Today: December 21

Winter begins; first round of census data released

1. The United States Census Bureau will release the first round of data from the 2010 Census today. You can view an interactive map on the bureau's Web site that includes population changes, apportionment and density throughout the states.

The bureau will release more detailed data as it becomes available in the coming months, but today's information is important because it will be used to determine legislative districts.

2. The City of Shoreline has released its holiday schedule, with most city-operated facilities closed for Christmas Eve and New Years Day. You can view the full schedule here.

Find out what's happening in Shoreline-Lake Forest Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

3. I'm dreaming of some white chocolate. If you're still racking your brain for last-minute Christmas gift ideas, consider giving the gift of sugar. The Chocolate Man in Lake Forest Park sells a variety of bulk chocolates and chocolate-making paraphernalia. Local customers can order by the pound, or you can order bigger quantities from Chocolate Man's Web site.

The staff said single-origin chocolate, a new offering, has proven popular this season. They also suggested buying polycarbonate molds to make your own customized treats.

Find out what's happening in Shoreline-Lake Forest Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

4. An ad set to run on King County Metro buses is drawing criticism. The ad, which is funded by the Seattle Mideast Awareness Campaign reads, "Israeli war crimes: your tax dollars at work," with a link to the organization's Web site.

King County Councilmember Peter von Reichbauer sent a letter to County Executive Dow Constantine on Monday urging the County to refuse to run the ad.

5. Today is the first day of winter. Even though the weather is expected to stay above freezing here in the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park area, expect snow in the mountains.

Winter is a popular time of year for the intrepid hiker, but before going out, make sure to check the Washington Trails Association Web site for winter safety tips and the Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center for mountain weather forecasts.

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