Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Otter blues

Saturday, March 14, 2020




Previous cartoons by Whitney Potter can be found 
under Features in the first column of the 
front page of the Shoreline Area News



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WSDOT temporarily suspends free coffee program at statewide safety rest areas

Rest stops remain open - but no coffee
Google maps
As state and national efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 continue, the Washington State Department of Transportation is temporarily suspending the Free Coffee Volunteer Program at safety rest areas, beginning Monday, March 16, until further notice. 

Statewide, 37 of 47 safety rest areas offer the Free Coffee Program. This is a continuation of efforts to slow the spread of the virus through social distancing, minimizing touch points and limiting close personal contact.

Visitors to the Evergreen State have been receiving free coffee via the popular volunteer-run stations for more than 20 years. The program benefits drivers and allows groups to collect donations for nonprofits.

It is important to note, that all of the state’s 47 rest areas remain open. WSDOT has implemented additional precautions to disinfect rest areas including more frequent cleaning of touch points, and refilling of soap and hand sanitizer.


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Registration for spring and summer recreation programs (not summer camps) postponed

Registration postponed

Due to the uncertainty of when recreation facilities will reopen, Shoreline Parks and Recreation is postponing registration for spring and summer programs.

This does not include summer camps, which we are currently registering online and over the phone.

Currently, they anticipate facilities being closed at least until April 24. Once a decision is made to reopen the facility, staff will review program offerings and determine which programs will open for full registration, which ones might have an abbreviated schedule, and which ones will need to be cancelled.

In addition to postponing spring and summer program registration, they are also not taking any indoor rental reservations at this time. This will be opened once it is known when facilities will be open.



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Lake Forest Park status of services as of March 13

Blue Heron Park
Photo by Mary Jo Heller
COVID-19 Response in Lake Forest Park, updated 3/13/2020

The outbreak of COVID-19 in Washington State is an active situation that is quickly evolving. The City of Lake Forest Park is committed to continuing to provide services to our community members while following the most up-to-date guidelines to ensure public and staff safety:

City Hall

Based on guidance from the CDC, City Hall, the Police lobby, Municipal Court lobby, and Public Works offices are closed to the public, effective March 16. 

City and some Court operations will continue during this time. You can still contact the City by email and phone, 206-368-5440, or use our online services.

The CDC guidelines call for health checks of every individual who enters the building. The City is exploring ways that may potentially allow us to provide health checks of visitors so we can open City Hall on a limited basis. This may require visitors to make appointments and submit to the health check in order to gain access.

City Events and Meetings

City sponsored events and meetings have been canceled through April 30 – see below for more specific details. The City will follow the guidance of Public Health - Seattle and King County in evaluating whether to extend cancellations beyond April 30.
  • City Council Meetings - will be held as scheduled. However, the City will continue to assess the situation and will notify you if this changes.
  • Coffee with the Mayor – April 11 date has been canceled
  • Earth Smart Green Fair – has been rescheduled to June 6
  • NEMCo CERT Class – has been canceled
  • Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Meetings – canceled through April 30
  • Tree Board Meetings – canceled through April 30
Municipal Court

Municipal Court staff is working regular hours and can assist persons who need to reschedule hearings or make payments. (see City Hall section, above). The Court window and lobby are closed. The Court is holding mandatory hearings only, however, the courtroom is closed to the public. Persons with criminal charges should also contact their attorney

Judge Linda Portnoy has entered an emergency administrative order re-scheduling all non-mandatory court appearances for a period of 30 days. Court staff is available via phone, email, or online chat. For additional updates on Court operations and contact information, please check the Court webpage.

Passport Services

Passport Services is closed through May 4. Watch our website or subscribe to email or Facebook to receive updates. Please check the U.S. Department of State website for other nearby locations that may be open.

Permit Counter

The Planning and Building Counter at City Hall Is currently closed to the public. We are encouraging people to take advantage of our remote services. If you can conduct your business with the permit center by email, phone, or online, we encourage you to please do so. If you are unsure, call 206-368-5440 so we can determine if we can help you remotely.

The City will still be issuing permits during this time.

Police Services

The Police Lobby is currently closed to the public. To report an emergency, call 9-1-1. For any other non-emergency police calls, citizens are encouraged to call our dispatch center (Bothell Dispatch) at 425-486-1254.

There are two options to speak with the Police Records Unit: call 206-364-8216; or, use the black call box on the south side of the City hall building.

Many of your questions can be answered by going to the Police Department page on the City website.

Fingerprinting services and Concealed Weapons Permit applications have been suspended through April 30.

Sewer Utility Customers

If you need to make a sewer utility payment, you can use the payment drop box on the south side of City Hall or visit Lake Forest Park Utility Billing for online payment options, and here for Business Licensing and Taxes.

Local Affected Services

Local Declaration of Public Health Emergency

The Mayor has signed a Local Declaration of Public Health Emergency. This emergency declaration is not a cause for alarm. It is a formal step in a process that facilitates coordination with other agencies including the State Department of Health and Public Health – Seattle & King County and grants the city access to additional resources if needed.

Additional Resources



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King County Library System closes all library locations to the public

All King county libraries are closed until at least Apr 13
Photo of Richmond Beach Library
by Steven H. Robinson
Effective at 6pm, Friday, March 13, 2020 the King County Library System (KCLS) will close all library locations to the public

These closures will remain in effect until at least April 13, or further notice, to help mitigate the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

Like neighboring library systems in Seattle, Pierce and Snohomish Counties, this decision was made out of the utmost concern for the health, safety and well-being of library patrons, staff and the community. 

The scientific evidence that social distancing can help stop the spread of COVID-19 is a compelling factor in taking this precautionary step.

“Public libraries have always been about community, and the safety of our communities is paramount,” said KCLS Executive Director Lisa Rosenblum. “We value your understanding of our decision during this challenging time.”

During the closure, library customers should keep items currently checked out until KCLS reopens or until further notice. All due dates have been automatically extended until April 30 and KCLS is waiving all late fees accrued between March 1 and April 30. Library staff will continue to work while buildings are closed.

During the closure, patrons are encouraged to use KCLS’ online resources and services. Residents in KCLS’ service area can sign up instantly for a digital eCard for access to:

As the situation continues to evolve, KCLS will follow mandates from Washington state Governor Jay Inslee and Public Health—Seattle and King County in order to assess when it is safe to reopen our libraries. 

Stay connected to KCLS by:

Local King County Libraries include Richmond Beach, Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore.



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Photo: Even the Fremont Troll takes precautions

Friday, March 13, 2020

Photographer unknown


A contributor saw this on one of the NextDoor sites and sent it in. If anyone knows the photographer, let me know and I'll give credit. But this was too good not to share right away.




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Public Health: Guidance for Childcares and youth gatherings during school closures

Seattle and King county Public Health offered the following guidelines for childcare facilities and gatherings for youth during the school closures.

Guidance for Childcares During School Closures

School closures have been ordered by the state. At this time, this order does not include childcare and early learning programs. Childcare and early learning serve an incredibly important function, and provides essential support for families of doctors, nurses and first responders, allowing them to continue providing critical medical and emergency services.

Childcare spaces are also typically smaller than schools which mean lower exposure and transmission risk. The evidence seems to show that the risk to young children is low, so we believe childcare and early learning programs pose less of a risk to children. Protecting vulnerable staff and students is a priority and we strongly recommend excluding staff and children who are in high risk and vulnerable categories.

Guidelines for Gatherings of Youth While Schools Are Closed

Social interaction is still vitally important to the mental health of young people, and it is still possible for families to have safe gatherings among children and parents. Limit indoor groups to 10 or fewer children and outdoor groups to 50 or fewer. Monitor kids for a fever over 100.4 degrees, coughing, or shortness of breath, and select activities that minimize physical contact. Avoid crowded places, like parties, retail spaces, and movie theaters.

For more detailed information about school closures, childcare, and guidelines for gatherings of children, was well as other details about King County’s COVID-19 response, please visit www.kingcounty.gov/covid



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King county COVID-19 update for March 13, 2020


From Seattle and King County Public Health March 13, 2020

Case updates

Public Health – Seattle and King County is reporting the following confirmed cases and deaths due to COVID-19 through 11:59 p.m. on 3/12/20

328 confirmed cases (up 58 from yesterday)
32 confirmed deaths (up 5 from yesterday)

Deaths being reported today include:

  • A woman in her 90s, a resident of Life Care Center, who died on 3/6
  • A woman in her 90s, a resident of Life Care Center, who died on 3/6
  • A woman in her 80s, a resident of Life Care Center, who died on 3/4
  • A man in his 70s, who died at Overlake Medical Center on 3/9
  • A man in his 80s, who died at Swedish Issaquah on 3/11


Testing

Demand for testing continues to outpace ability for the healthcare system to address the need. Tests for COVID-19 are ordered by health care providers. Someone with symptoms who is concerned can call their primary care provider, who will evaluate their symptoms. If the health care provider determines testing is warranted, they may collect a specimen and send it to a lab.

We are not aware of any capacity limitations for specimen processing at this time. However, there is a shortage of clinical sites where patients can get tested.
 
While many people want testing, not everyone who is sick needs testing, particularly if you have mild illness. If people aren’t severely ill, they should follow the guidance for self-care. They should stay home, stay away from others, and self-isolate

They do not need to be tested if they have mild illness, as the test results will not change how their illness would be treated. 

Do not go to the emergency room. Emergency rooms need to be able to serve those with the most critical needs.



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Gov. Inslee closes all schools, limits large gatherings, and expands protocols for adult family homes

Inslee announces measures to slow COVID-19

In order to further slow the spread of COVID-19, Gov. Jay Inslee announced his intention to sign several executive orders today to expand statewide closures of public, private, and charter schools, limit large gatherings and expand protocols for adult family homes.

Inslee made the announcement at the state Capitol in a larger venue than normal to practice social distancing measures.

Inslee expanded his order to close all K-12 public and private schools. Every district throughout the state of Washington will close for the next six weeks. 

He also announced activity restrictions for all statewide public and private universities, colleges, community colleges and technical schools, private career schools and apprenticeship training programs.

Inslee also announced two further executive orders expanding on orders from earlier this week. 

The first extends the ban on events of 250 or larger beyond the Puget Sound region to the entire state. 

The second expanded Tuesday's restrictions on visitors and protocols to nursing homes and assisted living facilities to include adult family homes and waived certain statutory requirements for long-term care workers.

Read the rest of the story on the governor's Medium page.



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Third Place Books remains open but cancels events through March 31

Stacks at Third Place Books in Lake Forest Park
Photo by Steven H. Robinson


Third Place Books remains open for business at all three of our Seattle area locations - Lake Forest Park, Ravenna, and Seward Park.

We're working hard to keep our staff, and everyone who comes through our doors, healthy.

We know that many members of our community are staying close to home, so we've introduced free media mail shipping through March 31. Customers can shop on our website, or just give us a call at any one of our three locations, and we will happily ship them the books they need.

Of course, we're taking extra precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and that has meant cancelling or postponing all of our in-store events, through the end of March. This includes author events, authorless events like open mic nights, and book clubs.

You can consult our website for the latest on upcoming events, and we will continue to post updates to our website as things develop. We're committed to postponing, and rescheduling, as many of our upcoming events as possible. We will announce rescheduled dates as soon as we are able.

We are, naturally, monitoring this situation carefully. We'll be re-evaluating our events schedule for April in the coming weeks, and will provide updates, as they come, about any changes that are made.

In the meantime, we're here, working hard for the community we love.

If you need more information about a specific event cancellation or postponement, please let me know. You can contact me via email at skaas@thirdplacebooks.com, or at 206-366-3311.

Thank you! - Sam Kaas, Third Place Books




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Emergency cold weather shelter open Saturday night, possibly Sunday and Monday



Due to the predicted cold weather, the North Urban Human Services Alliance (NUHSA) will activate Shoreline’s Emergency Severe Weather Shelter Saturday night.

The Severe Weather Shelter is located at 1206 N 185th Street (the old Shoreline Police station). The operating hours for the Shelter are 8:30pm to 7:30am. 

There is the potential for it being activated Sunday and Monday nights as well if cold weather predictions hold steady. To find out if the Shelter will be activated after Sunday or Monday, call the Shoreline Severe Weather Shelter hotline at 206-801-2797.

COVID-19 precautions: Due to the need to provide for social distancing to help stop the spread of COVID-19, the shelter will be limited to 10 individuals.

For shelter help, call King County’s Crisis Line at 866-427-4747 to connect people to the most up-to-date shelter options during severe weather.



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Shorecrest girls basketball team completes historic season

Shorecrest 2020 Basketball team


The Shorecrest girls varsity basketball team went all the way to the State Tournament this year, and while they didn't win the tournament, they completed one of the best seasons in Shorecrest girls basketball history.

Coached by Carlos Humphrey (along with Ian Powell, Sabrina Angle, and Jon Friesch), the Scots (22-5) were the only team in WESCO to beat the Arlington Eagles (24-3) in the regular season. 

That victory allowed them to win the league championship with a 13-1 conference record and end with a 19-1 regular season record. 

Their 19 wins also set a new Shorecrest girls basketball record for most wins in a regular season, eclipsing Bruce Langley's 1980-'81 18-2 record.

On their way to the State Tournament, the Scots went 3-4, losing 50-34 to Arlington in the WESCO Tournament Championship game. The Scots beat Capital High School 51-34 in their first State Tournament game before losing to Arlington again, 50-49, on an Arlington jump shot with 5 seconds left. In their final game, they held Bethel to a season low 40 points, but couldn't muster enough offense in a 40-30 loss - ending their tournament run.

By ending their season 22-5, the Scots tied Coach Dori Monson's 2011-'12 Shorecrest season record for the most wins in one season. Coach Monson's team also finished 22-5 that season.

This season featured many team and individual milestones and achievements:

  • On a memorable Saturday, February 1, Shorecrest won the program's 1000th game, beating Stanwood in a close 39-36 classic. Many of the program's past coaches and players were on hand to enjoy the event. The program's record now stands at 546-466.
  • The team finished the season as the 7th ranked team in the state.
  • In just his third year, Coach Carlos Humphrey won the WESCO 3A Coach of the Year award.

Coach Humphrey also passed Kelly Brewe and Jon Rasmussen on the all-time wins list with a 57-17 career record, giving him sole ownership of fourth place - 13 wins behind Bruce Langley's 70 wins. (Coach Monson leads with 106 career victories.)

With a career .770 winning percentage, Coach Humphrey is second only to Coach Dennis Broweleit's .778.

With her 13.5 points per game, senior guard and team captain, Amanda Lee, made the WESCO 3A First Team for her second year in a row. She also won the State Tournament Player of the Game for her 13 points and 4 rebounds against Capital. Amanda finished her career with 987 points, 13 shy of 1,000 - a significant achievement for any graduating player.

Senior guard/forward and team captain Sydney VanNess, who averaged 11.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per game, also made the WESCO 3A First Team. Last month, she was chosen as the Everett Herald Player of the Month for January.

Junior Kiana Lino, the team's third captain and powerful forward, made the WESCO 3A Second Team, finishing the season with 10.6 points per game and six double-double games (double figures in points and rebounds).

While the Scots graduate four starting seniors in Lee, VanNess, Maura Weaver, and Taylor Svendsen, they'll have 8 players returning next year: junior Kiana Lino; sophomores Alexa Svendsen, Anais Kagarabi, Jordan Tikalsky, Leila Hosn, Mila Friesch, Romy Nevens; and freshman Jocelyn Shea, along with Ella Sellentin, whose season ended early due to injury.

Unlike many WESCO high schools, who are having a difficult time fielding varsity, JV, and C teams, the Scots program is healthy, and they look to have players for all three teams again for the 2020-21 campaign.

--Sports Desk



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Jerry's Garden 2

Photo and flower by Jerry Pickard


Look at the pretty flower. Think calm, happy thoughts. The flower doesn't care that it might get snowed on. Neither do you. You are getting sleepy...

Red trumpet vine.


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News from Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center

We would like to thank everyone for their compliance and support this week during our closure period. 

In reviewing the needs of our senior population, we recognize that essential services are very important to their welfare.

With this in mind, we will move forward with offering the following essential services beginning Monday, March 16th:

  • Bastyr Naturopathic Medical Services
  • Foot Care
  • Mental Health Counseling

Pre-scheduled appointments will be honored. Anyone needing to schedule an appointment for one of these services, may call the center, Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:30am - 12 noon. Please do NOT drop by as we are limiting admittance to the center to the pre-scheduled appointments. 

The Community Dining Program will be managed as a 'to go' hot lunch service with two options available for meal service:

Pick-up the meal at our front entrance to the center or delivery; meals must be scheduled through the center by calling 206-365-1536; normal donation fees apply
In-house dining has been cancelled

This past week has taught us that each day we are susceptible to changes in our ability to provide these services. Please check our Facebook and in particular, our website at www.shorelinelfpseniorcenter.org for day to day information. 

Shoreline-Lake Forest Park senior center will continue to adhere to all directives from King County Health Department, City of Shoreline Emergency Preparedness team, Sound Generations and the governor's office.

Emotions run high at this time and we encourage each of you to invest your energy and attention to either an existing hobby or a new interest, that you can engage in while remaining close to home. 

This is not a time to allow fear to control your waking hours but find an activity that brings you pleasure where you can direct your attention and energy. Such things as reading, organizing family photos, writing down your memories.

We will update senior center information as our circumstances change. The best to each of you.

Warm regards,

Theresa LaCroix, Director
Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center



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Election count as of March 12

These are the votes for the candidates as of March 12, 2020 6:07pm.

There are still ballots on hand to be counted: 227,049

The next count will be released on Friday.



CandidateVotes% of total votes
Donald J. Trump60398998.41
Joseph R. Biden49174936.87
Bernie Sanders46476734.85
Elizabeth Warren13479610.11
Michael Bloomberg1174808.81
Pete Buttigieg613694.6
Amy Klobuchar322782.42
Tulsi Gabbard112870.85
Write-in - Republican97461.59
Uncommitted Delegates57940.43
Andrew Yang57010.43
Tom Steyer32830.25
Michael Bennet17940.13
Write-in - Democrat13080.1
Cory Booker11980.09
John Delaney5180.04
Deval Patrick4580.03





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Cancelled: Hero's Cafe

Hero's Cafe cancelled
Photo by Jerry Pickard
Due to the current global pandemic-coronavirus, we must cancel the March Hero's Cafe gather and the way things currently look, we may not be able to meet in April as well. 

Your health and wellness is paramount to the team If we meet in May, it might be in our new, spacious location.

At our February gathering, Ms Vivian Olsen told spoke about her event that was being planned for over Memorial Day.

She has decided it is prudent to cancel the event in Edmonds over the Memorial Day Weekend due to social distancing recommendations relating to the coronavirus. 




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Jobs at WSDOT

Open positions at the Shoreline WSDOT

Special Projects Supervisor - Transportation Engineer 3
Closes 4/2/2020 11:59pm

Supervise the Special Projects operations and design group, which investigates safety and operational concerns on State Highways. This position is responsible for the introductory communication, coordination steps and meetings with support staff

Job description and application: Special Projects Supervisor - Transportation Engineer 3

Construction Communications Specialist (CC4)
Closing 3/25/2020 11:59pm

Create, lead, direct and control extensive media and public outreach campaigns as well as strategically respond to media inquiries with minimal supervision.

Job description and application: Construction Communications Specialist - CC4

Property and Acquisition Specialist 3 In-Training
Resume review March 20. Open until filled.

Assist in negotiating acquisitions needed for highway construction from commercial, residential, agricultural, and industrial parcels. The PAS 2 or 3 acts as the lead agency representative to property owners and the public, coordinating the flow of information and activities between owners and staff from other disciplines for each assignment.

Job description and application: apply: PAS 3 In-Training

Property Management Agent - Property and Acquisition Specialist 3
Closing 3/26/2020 11:59pm

Work independently to provide property management services to internal and external clients, which includes maintaining, leasing, inspecting, marketing and disposing of WSDOT owned properties. The agent is further expected to be able to research and interpret public records to locate property information and maps as needed in order to answer internal and external questions regarding property ownership interests, property boundaries, encumbrances, damage claims and possible encroachment issues. This position is also responsible to identify any problems and determine solutions.

Job description and application: Property Management Agent - PAS 3

Work Zone Traffic Engineer - Transportation Engineer 3
Continuous. First review March 30

Provide guidance, support, and expertise related to work zone traffic control design and strategies on WSDOT's Design-Bid-Build and Design-Build projects

Job description and application Work Zone Traffic Engineer




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WeatherWatcher: Snowflakes in the forecast, then cold and sunny

Spring like snow from the past in Shoreline.
Photo by Carl Dinse

We have some snowflakes in the forecast, but no need to panic about this one. We have a weather pattern set up, that if it happened in December or January it would give us a good blast of below freezing high temperatures and a light 2-4 inches of snow. However, this is coming during the middle of March, and the sun is much stronger now.

We have the storm system moving in overnight into Friday morning. It will bring some rain, and there might be a short period of time mid Friday morning where some snow or other wintery mix could join the rain for an hour or two. Rain at times is expected during the afternoon hours and into the evening Friday.

Friday night the cold air starts to surge south, changing the lingering rain showers into snow showers. At this point though, most of the moisture will be south of Shoreline, so no accumulations are expected here. Temperatures will drop into the low 30's.

Saturday is expected to be mostly cloudy, but there may be some rain or snow showers in the morning hours. There could be breezy or gusty northerly winds during Saturday afternoon as well. High temperatures are expected to be right around 40°F.

Saturday night skies start to clear and temperatures drop to the mid to upper 20's. Sunday and beyond we are expecting clear nights and sunny days, with temperatures slowly moderating. Lows will average in the low to mid 30's with high temperatures around the low-mid 40's to the start of next week. High temperatures are expected to be making it to the mid and upper 50's late next week.


For current weather conditions visit www.shorelineweather.com



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Shoreline City Council meeting Monday, March 16

Thursday, March 12, 2020

Photo by Steven H. Robinson
From the City of Shoreline

PUBLIC NOTICE: The Shoreline City Council’s March 16, 2020 Regular Meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at Shoreline City Hall and is open for the public to attend.

However, to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, we are strongly encouraging the public to participate remotely using the following options available:

Agenda Highlights:

Action Item:

Adoption of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan Amendment Docket

The Council discussed the 2020 Docket, as recommended by the Planning Commission, on March 2, 2020. Tonight, Council is scheduled to adopt the Final 2020 Comprehensive Plan Docket. Prior to adoption of the Final 2020 Docket, Council may also consider and move proposed amendments to the Docket. Staff has provided amendatory motions in this staff report for Council’s use, if needed.

Study Item:
  • Discussion of Evaluating Undergrounding Overhead Utilities for a Variety of Capital Projects and Confirmation of Potential Undergrounding on All or a Portion of the 145th Street Corridor Improvement Project Between Aurora Avenue and Interstate-5




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Public Health case updates issued March 12, 2020

Public Health - Seattle and King County is reporting the following confirmed cases and deaths due to COVID-19 through 11:59 p.m. on 3/11/20
  • 270 confirmed cases (up 36 from yesterday)
  • 27 confirmed deaths (up 1 from yesterday)
  • The one death being reported today is in a man in his 80s. He died at EvergreenHealth on 3/11/20.
  • Of the 27 deaths reported, 22 are associated with Life Care Center of Kirkland.
Yesterday, orders were issued limiting gatherings. Regardless, residents will continue to need services.
  
Retail businesses and service operators such as grocery stores, drug stores, movie theaters, restaurants, and other retail establishments may and should stay open, as long as they follow guidance aimed at maximizing excellent hygiene, social distancing, and cleaning.

COVID-19 is spreading in King County, with hundreds of cases reported to date. They expect the case count to double every 5-7 days.

A key Public Health goal is to minimize the number of people who get seriously ill at the same time, so that those who are at risk for severe illness are able to get the care they need.

Public Health has many COVID-19 resources for the general public, the business community, workplaces and employers, travelers, healthcare professionals and links to information at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Washington state Department of Health. See our website.



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Op-Ed: COVID-19 Outbreak peaks stress



Beratta Gomillion is the Executive Director of the Center for Human Services, a local Behavioral Health and Family Support organization serving Shoreline



The outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is causing a lot of stress for people in our communities. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions.

Most people have been bombarded with information about how to protect themselves from getting COVID-19 and preventing the spread of the virus, the Center for Human Services wants to be sure you don’t overlook your own emotional health during this outbreak.

Some things you can do to support yourself include:
  • Avoiding excessive exposure to media coverage about the virus.
  • Taking good care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate. Try to eat healthy, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep and avoid alcohol and drugs.
  • Being patient with yourself. Give yourself time to unwind and remind yourself that strong feelings will fade.
  • Engaging in self-care activities that you enjoy, like reading, watching movies, etc.
  • Connecting with others, even if not face-to-face. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family member.
  • Maintaining a sense of hope and positive thinking.

Children often respond more strongly to a crisis than others. Children react, in part, on what they see from the adults around them. 

When parents and caregivers deal with the COVID-19 calmly and confidently, they can provide the best support for their children. Take time to talk with your child about the COVID-19 outbreak. 

Answer their questions honestly, but in a way that they will understand and is age appropriate. Reassure your child that they are safe. Let them know it is okay if they feel upset. Share with them how you deal with your own stress so that they can learn how to cope from you. Model good self-care.

If you would like to talk to a therapist by telephone for further guidance about emotional support, you can call Center for Human Services (CHS) at 206-362-7282.



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Jobs: Management Analyst

City of Shoreline
Management Analyst

SALARY: $72,268.00 - $91,589.00 Annually
CLOSING DATE: 03/25/20

The Shoreline Planning and Community Development (PCD) department is hiring a Management Analyst to join our team of dedicated professionals in this rapidly growing inner-ring city of 56,000. The PCD department processes nearly 3,000 development permits annually and recently instituted online permitting. PCD staff also have the opportunity to implement innovative deep green construction standards and transform the City around future light rail station with sustainable, transit-oriented redevelopment. PCD also gets to work on important social issues such as affordable housing.

We are seeking a candidate to support our team using data analytics and business intelligence software systems (such as Microsoft BI, Tableau, SAS, Cognos, Salesforce) to create robust reports that integrate and manipulate various data sources to be shared with end-users. Experience with software systems that manage permitting, plan review and inspections and financial/budgetary data systems is a plus. The PCD Management Analyst should also be a proficient writer, communicator and project manager.

The Planning and Community Development department currently has 24 staff members including permit technicians, plans examiners, planners, inspectors, and support staff. The Management Analyst works directly with the Department Director in support of the department and in collaboration with other teams throughout the City. Be a part of an organization that is actively working to continuously improve and become anti-racist and multicultural.

DEFINITION

To perform analytical work of a highly responsible nature requiring program, contract or budgetary analysis; to participate in the design and implementation of possible solutions to problems, policy development, special studies, contract and project management; and intergovernmental coordination; and to provide assistance to lower level professional and clerical personnel.




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Shoreline City Hall and Police Lobby closed to the public; City working on plans for limited access

Shoreline City Hall
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

City Hall and the Shoreline Police lobby will be closed to the public effective Friday, March 13.
 
City operations will continue during this time. You can still contact the City by email and phone (206-801-2700) or use our online services.

The CDC guidelines call for health checks of every individual who enters the building. The City is developing a plan that may potentially allow us to provide health checks of visitors so we can open City Hall on a limited basis. This may require visitors to make appointments and submit to the health check in order to gain access.

If you need to contact Shoreline Police you can call the non-emergency number at 206-296-3311. If it is an emergency, call 911. If you need to submit a police report, you can use the online reporting tool.

The City will still be issuing permits during this time. If you need to contact the permit center, you can call 206-801-2500 or email PCD@shorelinewa.gov.

If you need to make a utility payment, you can use the payment drop box on the upper level of the City Hall parking garage or visit shorelinewa.gov/wastewater for online payment options.

We appreciate everyone’s patience during this crisis. Events change rapidly. For the most up-to-date information on Shoreline’s response to COVID-19, visit shorelinewa.gov/covid.



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King County Library response to COVID-19 coronavirus

UPDATE Mar 13: All King County libraries are closed until at least Apr 13. See article

Original article:

King County Library System is now enforcing social distancing measures in all libraries until further notice. 

The CDC defines social distancing as “remaining out of congregate settings, avoiding mass gatherings, and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet or 2 meters) from others when possible.”

Along with many other measures already in place, this means:
  • Meeting rooms and small study rooms are not available for use.
  • Computers and seating have been reconfigured, with fewer available for use.
  • Payment for fines, fees, or printing/copying should be made with credit or debit, if possible. Cash handling is limited.
  • Patrons and staff need to keep a 4 to 6 foot distance from others, including while staff are assisting patrons with questions.
  • Books should be returned by book drop where possible, rather than staff checking them in.
Local King county libraries include Richmond Beach, Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, and Kenmore.




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Election results as of Tuesday, March 11

Tuesday, March 11 at 6pm


Joseph R. Biden
408,083 35.01%

Bernie Sanders
391,880 33.62%

Donald J. Trump
555,014


Ballots yet to be processed
317,399


More details in next report



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Balloon festival: getting ready to fly

Photo by Steven H. Robinson

And now for something different...

Steve Robinson spent the first weekend of the month in Winthrop, for the hot air balloon festival. Part of the fun was seeing the balloons on the ground, getting ready to fly.




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Out and about in Shoreline: traffic and toilet paper

Northbound I-5 at rush hour

Text and photos by Cynthia Sheridan

Northbound traffic was extremely light during rush hour as people either worked from home - or just stayed home. 

Left lanes are headed south into Seattle at rush hour


Traffic heading into Seattle was even lighter as cars ( in left lanes) approached NE 145th overpass on I-5.



North City Safeway was on overload all day Wednesday as shoppers braced for possible supply shortages and/or store closings.



Personal hygiene items were limited and the toilet paper shelves were “wiped” out. Empty shelves ready for more toilet paper. North City Safeway says there’s more in the back and they’re restocking daily.


Most carts had more than one package of toilet paper as North City Safeway shoppers prepared for possible shortages.


More toilet paper.

Also in high demand: hand sanitizer, bleach, antiseptic wipes and Purell.


TP on the belt, waiting to be checked out.



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City of Shoreline response to COVID-19

Shoreline City Hall
Photo by Mike Remarcke
From the City of Shoreline

The City of Shoreline is working closely with our partner agencies to respond to COVID-19. 

The Washington State Department of Public Health is the lead agency for the State’s response. 

They are working closely with Public Health - Seattle and King County on coordinating and communicating about the response in King County, which includes Shoreline. Please visit their websites for the latest information.

“Public health and safety continues to be the top priority for City Council,” stated Shoreline Mayor Will Hall. “The City is taking steps based on guidance from public health officials and we urge everyone to follow the expert guidance to help slow the spread of the disease.”

We are following the recommendations of Public Health - Seattle and King County and taking proactive steps to protect the health of our community.

The primary guidance from Public Health is social distancing and avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people in close proximity. As such, we concluded it was best to close Spartan Recreation Center, Shoreline Pool, and Richmond Highlands Recreation Center. 

City Hall remains open. We are practicing social distancing at City Hall, which means many staff members are telecommuting for work. If you have business at City Hall, we are asking you to use email, phone, and our online services as much as possible to help limit face-to-face interactions. We are also looking for alternative ways to hold public meetings that supports social distancing.

For the most up-to-date information about the City’s response to COVID-19, visit shorelinewa.gov/covid.

On March 4, the City Manager signed a Local Declaration of Public Health Emergency. This emergency declaration is not a cause for alarm. It is a formal step in a process that facilities coordination with other agencies, including the Department of Health and Public Health – Seattle and King County. It also grants the City access to additional resources if needed.

It's important that everyone take steps to reduce the spread of novel coronavirus, especially to protect those who are more vulnerable.

Public Health recommends that people at higher risk of severe illness should stay home and away from large groups of people as much as possible, including public places with lots of people and large gatherings where there will be close contact with others. This includes concert venues, conventions, sporting events, and crowded social gatherings.

People at higher risk include people:
  • Over 60 years of age
  • With underlying health conditions, including heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes
  • With weakened immune systems
  • Who are pregnant
For everyone else:
  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
  • Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.

The next several weeks will be the most critical in helping to slow the spread of the virus and reduce the number of people infected. We recognize that closing facilities, cancelling meetings, and altering operations have real impacts on our community. 

However, we believe it is necessary to protect our most vulnerable residents. We will continue to follow the recommendations of Public Health and will look to them for guidance.


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