Lake Forest Park earns WellCity Award

Friday, March 27, 2020

The Association of Washington Cities (AWC) recently released a list of the cities, towns, and other local governments that have earned the distinguished WellCity designation. 

City of Lake Forest Park is among this year’s recipients. This recognition is bestowed to entities that meet the AWC Employee Benefit Trust’s stringent WellCity standards and demonstrate a commitment to employee health.

When an employer meets the WellCity standards, they earn a 2% discount on their medical premiums. This is the tenth year in a row that the City of Lake Forest Park has earned this award.

WellCity recipients are all part of the AWC Employee Benefit Trust (Trust), Washington State’s largest local government employee health benefit pool for cities, towns, and other local governments.

Celebrating its 50-year anniversary, the Trust provides health benefits to more than 260 public entities and more than 36,000 employees and family members across the state.



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Book review by Aarene Storms: The Clincher

The Clincher by Lisa Preston (Horseshoer Mystery #1)

Rainy Dale is relatively new in town, but already she's made some friends and some enemies ... and there are more than a few folks that she's not yet sure about. When one of her horseshoeing clients turns up dead, Rainy must sort through clues and suspects to find the real murderer--preferably, before the murderer finds Rainy.

This quick-paced whodunit will appeal to readers who like quirky characters and lots of red herrings. The detective is carrying some mysterious baggage that will definitely hinder her, but she also has some unusual skills that will come in handy. The setting in rural Oregon is well-realized, and the horse-y details are just right.

Highly recommended.


The events may not have happened; still, the story is true. --R. Silvern

Aarene Storms, youth services librarian
Richmond Beach and Lake Forest Park Libraries, KCLS astorms@kcls.org



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Seattle Humane donates personal protective equipment

Seattle Humane donated its supplies


In response to a local call-to-action – echoed around the world – Seattle Humane has coordinated a donation of personal protective equipment (PPE) to WA Supplies Save Lives. This donation of medical suits, gowns, gloves, surgical masks, and other PPE was collected on Wednesday, March 25, for distribution to health care facilities around the state, which are struggling with a shortage of safety equipment.

Health care professionals, including hospital workers and first responders, remain on the front lines of the COVID-19 response, providing urgent care to a growing number of patients who have contracted or are displaying symptoms of this deadly viral infection.

Seattle Humane, located in Bellevue, closed its doors to the public on March 7 in order to help flatten the coronavirus curve and moved roughly 190 shelter animals into foster homes. The not-for-profit animal shelter recently concluded all of its scheduled surgeries, and will now only be providing basic care for those pets in foster via telemedicine and urgent/emergency care as needed.

“We’re saving some gear for our clinic so we can be equipped in case of any emergencies or if an animal in foster becomes sick,” said Seattle Humane Medical Director Jessica Reed. “Most of our donations are disposable personal protective equipment, and we are still well-stocked on reusable gowns and other supplies. 
"We can also use fabric masks, as our medical staff cover their faces to ensure the health of the animals they are working on, and not the other way around.”

Seattle Humane continues to provide support to its network of foster families, who are providing shelter animals with plenty of care and attention during the shelter’s closure to the public.

“The COVID-19 pandemic is having widespread impacts around the globe, as well as right here in our own backyard. Seattle Humane has been looking for multiple opportunities to continue supporting our community during our public closure,” said Seattle Humane interim CEO Paula Littlewood.
“We were overjoyed to find that we had the capacity to provide this life-saving personal protective equipment to the medical professionals who are putting their own health at risk every day to help those impacted by the coronavirus while still being able to meet the needs of our shelter staff and the animals in their care.”

Seattle Humane’s PPE donation includes:
  • 350 Tyvek suits
  • 300 reusable gowns
  • 10 boxes of shoe covers
  • 1,200 surgical masks, including three boxes of masks with face shields
  • 4 boxes of bouffant caps/hair covers

All employees able or wishing to work from home are continuing to support the not-for-profit’s mission of saving lives and completing families remotely, and Seattle Humane’s adoption team continues to handle calls from people wishing to adopt shelter pets so animals can be placed in homes as soon as new safety protocols are finalized and put in place.



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Curbside service for Otto


Story and photos by Cynthia Sheridan

Otto was feeling poorly but due to the COVID-19 epidemic, his owner was reluctant to sit in a waiting room. 

After a phone call to Animal Medical Center in Shoreline, Otto received a curbside check where the decision was made for him to be admitted to the clinic.

Most local vets will come out to the car during the COVID-19 outbreak. Be sure to call first.


 
The sign says "Please Park Here for Appointment Drop-offs"  but Otto had a better idea.... a potty break.

We hope he will soon be feeling better.



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Jobs: WSDOT

Here are four positions open at the Shoreline office of WSDOT:

Scoping Engineer Lead (Transportation Engineer 3)
First review April 15, 2020
Open until filled

This position manages, coordinates, and monitors the development of project scopes, cost estimates, and schedules for future state highway Improvement and Preservation Projects in King County. The successful candidate will partner with Subject Matter Experts within WSDOT, as well as state and local agencies, as they define project scopes and develop estimates. If you enjoy solving problems, working in a collaborative team environment and making a positive impact on transportation in Northwestern Washington – this position may be the right fit for you!

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK


Assistant Scoping Engineer (Transportation Engineer 1)
First review April 15, 2020
Open until filled

This is a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic engineering program office and gain working knowledge in the skills of scoping and estimating successful transportation projects for the NWR construction program.  From field work for site investigation and data collection, to crafting scopes and estimates for buildable highway construction projects – this position is an excellent career path for an innovative engineer.  If you enjoy solving problems, working in a collaborative team environment, and making a positive impact on transportation in Northwestern Washington – this position may be the right fit for you!

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK


Traffic Management Center Engineer (Transportation Engineer 2, In-Training)

In this position you will guide operations and make decisions on a daily basis that directly impact driver safety and traffic flow. Duties and responsibilities include operating the Region's Intelligent Transportation System (ITS), guiding and assisting staff on the use of these systems, and coordinating system activation around major events that impact WSDOT roadways. The candidate selected for this position will also work to support traffic analysis and data requests for the region Traffic Office and assists in producing engineering studies and reports for others including news media as needed. The successful candidate will possess the ability to be available to work a variety of shifts to include day, swing, night, weekends, and holidays, sometimes with little notice to assist in the 24/7 operations of the TMC.

See link for more information, including details on how to apply: LINK


Lead Designer - Transportation Engineer 2 (In-Training)
First review has taken place
Open until filled

The responsibilities of a Lead Designer has a high impact to fulfill WSDOT's mission of providing and supporting safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options to improve livable communities and economic vitality for the state of Washington.

Job details and how to apply: Lead Designer - Transportation Engineer 2


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Burke Museum online: Garter snakes and their connection to old-timey socks


From the Burke Museum at the University of Washington

Garter snakes and their connection to 
old-timey socks

Part of new Collection Q/A video series

Learn about Washington's native garter snakes with Herpetology Collection Manager Peter Miller and how to identify these amazing creatures. Oh, and you'll also learn how they got named after old-timey socks in the first place!

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Keep this: COVID-19: How you can help / Little Free Pantry list

Flowers and photo by Wayne Pridemore

There are many things you can do to help during this pandemic. The City of Shoreline has provided an excellent list.

COVID-19 Update: How you can help


The Shoreline community has always prided itself on a spirit of volunteerism and support for our neighbors and the larger community. With Governor Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order in place, finding a way to volunteer and give back safely can be challenging.

Here are a few ways you can help. There is an updated list of opportunities on the website of the City of Shoreline: shorelinewa.gov/covid

Support your vulnerable neighbors

Reach out, safely, with a call, text, or talk through the door to see how your neighbors are doing.

Visiting the grocery store or pharmacy for food or medicine is still allowed. However, the fewer people who are out, the better, especially those who are over 60 or who have an underlying health condition. Consider asking your vulnerable neighbors if you can combine their errands with your own and pick up their groceries or prescriptions for them.


Support local businesses

Many restaurants are still open for takeout or delivery services. Please support them with your business if you’re able. (See our list here)

For local businesses that have been ordered to close for the duration of the order, consider purchasing a gift card now to use when the crisis is over.


United Way Volunteer Portal

Community based organizations are working hard to continue providing needed services to residents throughout the Coronavirus crisis. Please consider doing what you can to offer your support. Through the link below, you will find a listing of organizations around the county that have identified specific resource needs that you can review. United Way’s Volunteer Portal


Donate blood 

Growing COVID-19 concerns and closures have led to canceled blood drives and thousands of lost donations, putting our local blood supply in danger of collapse.

Donating blood is a safe activity, and there is no risk of contracting coronavirus from the blood donation process.

Make an appointment and find a blood drive: Bloodworks Northwest


Shoreline Schools Family Support

Shoreline School District and Shoreline PTA Council are accepting donations that will directly support students in need. The funds will be used to purchase grocery store gift cards that will be distributed through each school's Family Advocate.


Little Free Pantries

Little Free Pantries were created by residents for residents. You are invited to leave non-perishable food items at any of these locations. Anyone in need of food is invited to "take what they need and leave what they can."

  • Ballinger: On the corner of NE 198th St and 14th Ave NE
  • Ballinger: 20346 21st Ave. NE. Corner of NE 205th St and 21st Ave NE
  • Briarcrest: Shoreline United Methodist Church: corner of NE 145th St and 25th Ave NE
  • Briarcrest: Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 14514 20th Ave NE
  • Echo Lake (Northridge): 20008 6th Ave NE
  • Echo Lake: Shoreline Covenant Church N 185th and Ashworth
  • Lake Forest Park: 19706 30th Ave NE
  • Meadowdale (Edmonds) 15724 53rd Pl W, Edmonds 98026
  • Meridian Park: Little Purple Pantry 16173 Midvale Ave N
  • Meridian Park: 18312 Corliss Ave N
  • Meridian Park: 17900 block of 1st Ave NE
  • Mountlake Terrace: On 56th Ave W across from Calvary Fellowship Church
  • North City: 1674 NE 185th St
  • North City Little Free Pantry Share with your Neighbor: 18910 8th Ave NE - food, books, toys, soap, etc.
  • Stay SaFE Pet Pantry in front of Seattle Area Feline Rescue 14717 Aurora Ave N
  • Richmond Beach: 1422 NW 195th St
  • Richmond Beach: Calvin Presbyterian Church 18826 3rd Ave NW opening in December
  • Richmond Highlands: First Lutheran Church NW 185th and 8th NW
  • Ridgecrest: 15815 11th Ave NE
  • St. Barnabas Anglican Church/Parkwood: 2340 N 155th St
  • Westminster Triangle: Free Little Shed 14544 Evanston Ave N


Hopelink

Hopelink provides support for Shoreline residents through a food bank, emergency financial assistance, eviction prevention and move-in assistance. Hopelink isn't currently accepting physical donations of food out of an abundance of caution. However, you can still make a monetary donation to Hopelink


Shoreline LFP Senior Center

The Center is currently closed, but continues to provide essential services such as Meals on Wheels, mental health consultations, community dining (now on take out), and the neighborhood wellness check program. Despite being closed, their operational expenses are ongoing. Please consider a financial donation via their Covid-19 Donation Relief Fund Drive. Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Center

Donations Connector

King County government is working with regional private and public sector organizations to direct donations to agencies in need – and the people they are charged to serve during the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. As the response effort moves into a critical phase, people, businesses and nonprofits are searching for an effective means to make sure services, supplies and funding reach health care providers, first responders (e.g. firefighters, law enforcement, medical and healthcare providers), and social service entities working on the front lines. Donations Connector


Connect with others on social media

We have a new Facebook page, Shoreline Community Connections, for residents to share positive and creative ideas during a time when we are practicing social distancing.


Updated 8-29-2020

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Agenda for Shoreline Council meeting March 30, 2020

City Councilmembers and staff will be participating in the meeting remotely by calling into an online video conference. 


The agenda for the March 30, 2020 Shoreline Council Meeting includes the following:

Action Item

Approving Preliminary Formal Unit Lot Subdivision No. PLN19-0037, Dividing One Existing Parcel Into Eleven (11) Unit Lots at 18512 Meridian Court N.

The public hearing for this subdivision was held on January 15, 2020 by the Hearing Examiner. As such, the City Council cannot hear any additional public comment on this item.

Study Item

The Council Goals for 2020-2022 includes an action step to “Implement the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Plan, including priority park improvements and acquisition of additional park properties.”

Given the COVID-91 health emergency that currently exists, and the potential devastating impacts it may have on the local and regional economy, staff would recommend that Council delay putting this $38.5M funding on the ballot until a future time when the economic impact is known.

--Pam Cross


City Councilmembers and staff will be participating in the meeting remotely by calling into an online video conference. 

The live feed of the video conference will be playing in the Council Chambers and will be streaming on the City’s website. 

At this time, opportunities to provide public comment are limited to submitting written comment or by calling in to the meeting conference to provide oral testimony. 

We strongly encourage the public to participate and observe the meeting remotely.

Click Here to Watch Online Live Streaming Video of the Meeting

Click Here to Sign-Up to Provide Oral Testimony at the Meeting via Calling-In

Click Here to Submit Written Public Comment

The Council meetings are televised on Comcast channel 21 and Frontier channel 37:
  • Tuesdays at noon and 8:00pm
  • Wednesdays through Sundays at 6:00am, noon, and 8:00pm


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Friday's flowers

Photo by Lee Lageschulte


The wheelbarrow on 8th NW with displays that change with the months and seasons.




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Student loan advocate weighs in on federal COVID-19 changes for borrowers


Olympia—Washington’s student loan advocate has guidance to help borrowers navigate federal changes related to COVID-19. 

This guidance is likely to change as a result of the federal response to this rapidly evolving situation.

The Department of Education's (ED) recent changes offer an opportunity for borrowers to get out of default for as little as $5 a month for a total of $45 over nine months.

Borrowers can work with collection agencies to enter a nine-month rehabilitation plan.

ED’s changes

As of 3pm on March 26, the U.S. Department of Education (ED) has made four changes that apply retroactively to March 13, 2020. They only apply to federally held student loans.

  1. Waive interest.
  2. Suspend payments.
  3. Stop collections on loans in default.
  4. Refund offsets to tax returns that were in process.
Learn more

The student loan advocate has published guidance for borrowers on the Washington Student Achievement Council’s (WSAC) webpage for COVID-19 resources. To get help from the advocate, borrowers that live in Washington can submit their request online via the state’s student complaint portal

Details on ED’s changes

Interest waiver

ED is waiving interest automatically, but it may take loan servicers up to a week to operationalize the federal government’s change. The waiver will apply retroactively.

Suspend payments

Student loan borrowers who can’t make payments because of decreased income have two options to lower or stop their monthly payments. They can contact their servicers and sign up for an Income Driven Repayment (IDR) plan, or they can ask for a deferment or forbearance on their loans.

Federal legislation may result in more changes. But for now, if borrowers can afford to make their payments, they should continue doing so.

Stop collections

For all defaulted student loans, ED will stop collections, wage and Social Security garnishment, and offsets to tax returns. ED has also instructed its contracted private agencies to halt all proactive collection measures—including phone calls and sending collection letters or billing statements.

Refund offsets to tax returns

Although ED has stated that it will refund any offsets that were in process as of March 13, it has not given a timeline for returning these funds to borrowers. ED is also relying on employers to comply with this new policy. Borrowers should contact their employers’ human resources contact and inform them this garnishment was lifted as of March 13, 2020.

About

The Office of the Student Loan Advocate is housed in the Washington Student Achievement Council. Student loan borrowers in Washington State can visit the Student Complaint Portal to submit a request for information or help. The Washington Student Achievement Council is committed to increasing educational opportunities and attainment in Washington.



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Public Health Seattle and King county case updates 3-26-20




Public Health—Seattle and King County is reporting the following confirmed cases and deaths due to COVID-19 through 11:59pm on 3/25/20.

1,577 confirmed positive cases (up 218 from yesterday)

109 confirmed deaths (up 9 from yesterday)

Public Health has taken their dashboard offline to try to work out the technology kinks. The screenshot above is from the current dashboard, with results by cities, rather than ZIP code.

It appears that both Shoreline and Lake Forest Park are in the highest range for normal demographics. Kirkland is the very highest because of the Life Care center and Evergreen Hospital where most of the first deaths occurred.

3207 cases in the whole state.


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Good News: The Chocolate Man is open for take out

Thursday, March 26, 2020

A small selection from The Chocolate Man


Added to the list of food establishments open for take out: The Chocolate Man in Lake Forest Park Town Center.

Here's the list of take out places. You can always go to our front page ShorelineAreaNews.com and the link to the list is in a banner headline!



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Closed: Washington state parks

This week, State Parks announced the temporary full closure of all Washington state parks for at least two weeks.

This decision follows Gov. Jay Inslee’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order issued on Tuesday. 

We want to do our part to help prevent the spread of the Coronavirus, COVID-19. The measure adds to our March 22 decision to close state parks to camping through April 30.

As of March 25, entrance gates and facilities are closed, and onsite public services, such as restrooms, are also closed. Parks staff will continue to work, and essential staff will be onsite to preserve and protect park resources.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding during this unprecedented time. Like you, we look forward to the day we can reopen parks and enjoy these wonderful outdoor spaces — together!

Get updates on our response to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Don Hoch
Director, Washington State Parks



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Bog Watcher: Blue heron at Ronald Bog

Photo by Martin DeGrazia

Blue heron at Ronald Bog, photographed by Bog Watcher and Otter Whisperer Martin DeGrazia.




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Blakely Apartments does not need food donations

Senior Center needs food donations

By Diane Hettrick

Yesterday we ran a story about the Blakely Senior Apartments needing donations for its tenant food bank.

Well, it turns out that wasn't the case.

A tenant who was formerly on the tenant board issued the statement without the knowledge or consent of the board.

The official statement from the tenants' association:
The residents of the Blakely Apartments appreciate the support that the Shoreline Community has shown during these difficult times, however, we as the residents feel that all donations should be sent to local food banks to help support those with a greater need.

The manager of the Blakely contacted me in the morning to explain the situation. I suggested that anyone bringing donations be referred to the Senior Center. It's an organization serving seniors, providing meals to dozens of shut-ins as well as those who have come to depend on the Monday - Friday community lunches.

So when readers saw the story and showed up at the Blakely with food donations, they were referred to the Senior Center. The Senior Center was surprised but delighted.

They are able to use perishables - they have a professional chef who works five days a week. He chops up the vegetables and freezes them for soups and stews. Canned goods and other shelf-stable foods are always welcome. They not only take prepared meals to their shut-ins, they take bags of food and supplies like paper towels and - yes - toilet paper.

Thanks to generous community members today and at an official food drive on Monday, the Senior Center now has their menu planned for the entire next week.

Obviously they will need more than one week of food. There are still (younger) volunteers at the Senior Center (although they can always use more) to take in your donations. Just call first to make sure someone is there. 206-365-1536.


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King County releases new health and safety guidelines to child care providers

Public Health Seattle and King County announced additional guidance for child care and early learning programs that are considered part of the essential workforce. 

In addition, King County will expand support services to providers.

New health and safety guidance for child care providers remaining open during the COVID-19 outbreak are available on a new website.

“Child care and early learning providers are among the heroes of this crisis. We must support this essential workforce with assistance and guidance, and do whatever we can for providers who want to remain open, and keep safe their staff and children in their care,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine.


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Shoreline will continue with some building and right-of-way inspections during Stay Home order

During the Stay Home, Stay Healthy order, the City of Shoreline will continue inspections for all permitted construction and development work on private property and in the right of way with the following exceptions and conditions:

Occupied residences

We will not perform building Inspections that require entry into areas occupied by residents unless inspectors can use an alternative to in-person inspection. Please contact the Building Official Ray Allshouse at 206-391-4956 or rallshouse@shorelinewa.gov if this situation applies to you to explore alternatives, such as video inspections.

Regulatory inspections for life safety issues in an occupied residence, such as a furnace replacement to resolve a no heat situation, will be evaluated on a case by case basis with the goal of finding a safe way to conduct the inspection. However, to protect the health of inspectors and customers, we may need to postpone these inspections.

New developments

The City has instituted new safety protocols to keep both inspectors and customers safe and healthy. 

Only sites that meet the following criteria will be eligible for inspections:
  • The requester of the inspection must confirm that no one on site has COVID 19 or is symptomatic of COVID 19;
  • Everyone must be able to comply with social distancing of no less than six feet at all times;
  • The immediate inspection area must be clear of all workers for at least 30 minutes prior to the inspection and remain clear so the inspector can enter, inspect, and leave without contact with job site workers; and
  • In-person communication with customers must be minimized -- unaccompanied inspections are preferred whenever possible
Information on how to request a building, development or right of way permit inspection



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Scene on the Sound: Hope is on the way

Photo by Jan Hansen


There is hope.

USNS Bob Hope, a naval logistic vessel, heading in. 



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Seattle Symphony continues online concerts

In response to requests from families and retirement communities, the Seattle Symphony expanded its online broadcast offerings to include a new program for children and a Sunday matinee concert. 


John DiCesare

This week, the orchestra will stream performances for four days: a rebroadcast of Dvořák's Symphony No. 8 led by Music Director Thomas Dausgaard and an all-new program, Meet the Tuba with Principal Tuba John DiCesare.
Meet the Tuba features Seattle Symphony Principal Tuba John DiCesare in a fun exploration of the orchestra’s largest brass instrument.

This kid-friendly program is geared toward families with young children at home during this period of school closures. 

“I was very sad that we had to cancel Meet the Tuba at Benaroya Hall,” DiCesare shared. “I wanted to give the kids an opportunity to learn about it. Hopefully this video makes people smile when they need it the most.”

Meet the Tuba will air on Friday, March 27, at 11am; viewers can tune in on Youtube and Facebook.

Rebroadcasts or livestreams will occur every Thursday at 7:30pm and Saturday at 8pm throughout March, with additional programming to be announced. Audiences can view performances on YouTube and Facebook. Programming updates will be shared weekly at seattlesymphony.org/live. Those interested can also sign up to receive email notifications about upcoming Seattle Symphony rebroadcasts and livestreams.



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Thursday's flowers


Photos by Steven H. Robinson

Sadly, but not surprising, the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival has been cancelled this year. The individual farms are also closed.


So enjoy some photos from past years - and remember that the tulips are still blooming, even if you are not there to see them in person.




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$1 million in Cultural Relief Funds available April 1 from 4Culture

As closures, cancellations, and loss of work due to COVID-19 impact the King County cultural sector, 4Culture has details to share about its Cultural Relief Fund, which will distribute $1 million over the coming months:

For Individuals

The first round of funding will be distributed beginning April 1 through May 15. Apply at any time within that time frame. Applications will be reviewed by a panel weekly and you will notified within 10 business days about the status of your application.
 
You'll apply through a simple application that will take about 15 minutes to complete.

You can apply for up to $2,000 to help alleviate financial hardship from the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus or to mobilize a creative response that will support other King County residents in this time of crisis.

For Organizations

The first round of funding will be distributed beginning April 1 through May 15. Apply at any time within that time frame. Applications will be reviewed by a panel weekly and we will notify you within 10 business days about the status of your application.

You will need a 4Culture account to apply. Once you’ve pulled together your materials, the simplified application will take about 30 minutes to complete.

Grants up to $5,000 can help cover unexpected costs or losses related to the COVID-19 virus.

Many deadlines have been extended or postponed. If you're working on an application, check here for updated information.

4Culture staff are working remotely, but still here for you! We're available by phone or email. Not sure who to reach out to? Start with hello@4culture.org, 206-296-7580, or TTY: 711.



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Senior Center makes the news with positive messages for members

KING5 did a nice segment on the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Center and its approach to positive thinking during the current pandemic. With members isolated in their homes, the Senior Center is publishing twice weekly wellness tips on its Facebook page.

They are starting an email list for people who prefer to receive information that way.If you'd like to receive these twice weekly tips, email jarrodw@soundgenerations.org



And here's a Wellness Tip:


Keep Calm and Breathe
by Heidi Mair, Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor, Yoga Teacher


While we are practicing social distancing, don’t forget to breathe fresh air. I go on dog walks every day and am surprised how empty our 350 acre park is – even with the warmer weather. It is relatively easy to maintain a safe distance in a park. If that is not possible in your situation, open the door or window.

When you are inside, follow Lilias Folan’s Nine Tips For Healthy Breathing:

  1. During your day, take a breather…. it’s the pause that refreshes.
  2. Until we breathe out fully, it is not possible to breathe in correctly.
  3. Breathe through your nose, not your mouth (unless instructed otherwise).
  4. Relax your jaw, tongue, facial muscles and shoulders.
  5. Listen to the silence of your breath.
  6. If you hear yourself inhaling, you are probably trying too hard.
  7. Exhaling should be easy, effortless, silent and deep.
  8. Leather belts and underwire bras can hinder respiration.
  9. Relax…. And open the door to breathing.

Quiz time! 

1950s TV SHOWS

1. Can you guess the name of this very funny show which started in the 50s? A young couple lived in an apartment and had neighbors Fred and Ethel Mertz. The wife was a very clumsy, accident prone woman. The show was _______________

2. This was a really popular show in the 50s. In 1951, an actor named George Reeves starred in this show. He worked at the Daily Planet as a reporter and had a girlfriend named Lois Lane. _______________

3. William Boyd starred in this TV show. It was a western and he was always dressed in black and rode a white horse named Topper. ________________

4. This was also a western TV show starring a woman named Gail Davis. Gail became a side kick to Roy Rogers later in the 50s. In the show, Gail was a rancher and her character’s first name was Annie. _________________

5. This show started in the 50s and still runs occasionally today. Allen Funt created and hosted the show which was a huge hit. He filmed unsuspecting citizens in the street wearing many disguises. His catchphrase was, Smile you're  ____________________________

6. This was also a popular western show. The star actor was Clayton Moore and the show always opened with Moore galloping along on his white stallion silver, to the music of The William Tell Overture. Then Silver would rear up and the star would shout “Hi-ho, Siver”. The show’s name was _________________________

7. A German Shepherd was the star of this show and it was based around Fort Apache. A young orphaned boy named Rusty were adopted by the Cavalry soldiers at the fort in Arizona. What was the name of the dog? ________________________

8. This western starred Michael Ansara as the Indian Cochise, Chief of the Apaches. It showed the American Indians in a positive light, fighting the renegades at the Chiricahua Reservation and dishonest white eyes who prayed on the Indians. The show was called ________________________.

9. This show was a great success with the star playing a successful criminal lawyer who always secured an in court confession from the real culprits. His secretary was Barbara Hale.
What was Barbara’s stage name? _____________________________
What was the name of the show? _____________________________

10. This long running show was on TV from 1948 – 1971. It hosted a variety of entertainers and is the longest running variety show in history. Anyone who was ‘who’s who’ of entertainment in the world would appear on this American Show.
The show was called? ________________________________

11. What was the name of the mouse puppet that visited periodically and always ended his visit with saying “Kiss me goodnight!” __________________________________


Stan’s Joke Corner
When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to youth, think of algebra. 
--Will Rogers

So far, this is the oldest I’ve been. 
--George Carlin





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Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Fetching



This cartoon was sprayed with disinfectant before posting...



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School closure information and resources for Shoreline Schools families

Shoreline Schools has created a new website section with school closure information and resources.
 
See the link for resources and supports for home learning, food service, priority childcare, health, well-being and more.




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Different interpretations of social distancing at Dick's Restaurants

Photo by Cynthia Sheridan

The Dick's restaurant in Lake City, 12325 30th Ave NE, put orange tape on the ground to show people where to stand to maintain the appropriate physical distance.

Photo courtesy MLTNews.com

The Dick's in Edmonds, 21910 Highway 99, put out a couple of orange cones and some caution tape.



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March 26 LFP City Council regular meeting to be held virtually

City Hall is closed and council meetings
will be held virtually.
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

Due to the recent closure of the LFP City Hall to the public and most City staff, and the order that meetings for civic purposes are not to be held in-person, the City has explored options for holding the March 26 and April 9 regular meetings virtually.

The March 26 meeting will be held via Zoom and public comments must be submitted electronically.

On the agenda are authorizations for the mayor to sign contracts for construction of a picnic shelter in Pfingst Animal Acres and for construction of the L60 culvert. Council will discuss contracting with Madrona Law Group for legal services.

Public Comment Procedures for Virtual Meetings:

If you wish to provide public comment virtually, you may do so by submitting a written statement to evelyn@cityoflfp.com. Any comments received by 5:00pm the day of the meeting will be read during the public comment period.

To ensure your comments are received and read at the proper meeting, your email must include:
  • The name of the group that is meeting (City Council or Planning Commission)
  • Date of the meeting your comments are intended for
  • Your name
  • Whether or not you live in the city limits of Lake Forest Park
  • Agenda Item and/or subject your comments refer to

Emails without this information may not be read at the meeting. Three minutes are allowed for comment. And, in accordance with normal procedure, messages of an overly repetitive or inappropriate (vulgarity) nature may be declined to be read at the discretion of the meeting Chair.

Check the City’s online Meetings Calendar for the most up-to-date information about individual meetings.

Questions? Email the City Clerk’s Office.

Instructions for participating in the Virtual City Council Regular meeting on March 26, at 7:00pm are HERE



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Public Health Seattle and King county case updates Mar 25, 2020

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Static view of the new Public Health dashboard

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 3/24/20.

1359 confirmed positive cases (up 82 from yesterday)
100 confirmed deaths (up 6 from yesterday)

With the launch of the new data dashboard, detailed information about demographics of those who died from COVID-19 will be available there. Click the button to filter by “positive results only” to see age and gender of deaths.

The Dashboard has not been up to the volume of traffic. It is being worked on. Here's the link


  

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Senior Center needs an experienced grant writer who would like to help their community

The Senior Center helps members
to age well


Are you an experienced grant writer and wishing you could contribute to your community during these unprecedented times? 

We have an immediate need for a grant writer to assist us in submitting applications to King County for Emergency Fund Relief and/or additional funding sources. 

The senior center is heavily engaged in providing much needed services to our communities but have exhausted our Operation Budget for 2020.
 

GRANT WRITER REQUIREMENTS:
  • Bachelor’s degree in creative writing or related field
  • 2+ years grant writing experience
  • Proficient with measuring and reaching income goals
  • Proficient with MS Office Word and Excel
  • Excellent knowledge of fundraising information sources
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Strong People skills
  • Excellent organizational skills
  • Ability to meet deadlines

Compensation is lean…. we can’t pay you but we can give you a great meal every day that you work on the grant and over 600 sincere thank-yous from members that rely on the senior center for their continued healthy living and life enrichment as they navigate the challenges of aging in place. 

These grant applications are brief and will have a quick response rate. 

Contact Theresa LaCroix at 206-365-1536 to schedule an interview.



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Fell off the back of a truck

Updated: within two hours the owner was found, identified, and picked up his stuff!

-Original story-

"Fell off the back of a truck" used to have an entirely different meaning (stolen goods) but in this case it's literal.

Reader Lisa watched these items fall off the back of a truck and caught it on video. She also stopped to pick everything up.

She will return the items to the owner if they call her, identify the contents, and show up in the same vehicle.


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Jeepers, thought Kelly as she took off,

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler


 the others watching closely, this is how Orville and Wilbur must've felt!
(Kelly the Killdeer took everything on with great enthusiasm...just that kind of bird!)

--Gloria Z Nagler



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COVID-19 Update: City of Lake Forest Park

City Hall Lake Forest Park
Photo by Steven H. Robinson
From the City of Lake Forest Park

City of Lake Forest Park staff mandated to work from home until April 6

Due to evolving Public Health – Seattle and King County recommendations and the new “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order from Governor Jay Inslee’s office, all City of Lake Forest Park staff are being mandated to work from home, unless they are needed to provide essential services, through April 6, 2020.

Effective immediately, the City will operate under the following changes to accommodate these orders:
  • City Hall will be closed to public and most City employees through April 6. Phone calls to 206- 368-5440 will be answered remotely between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Community members are encouraged to contact the City through the website for updates and general information: 
  • For emergencies, please call 9-1-1
  • Public records requests should be filed electronically online
  • Mechanical and Plumbing permit requests can be made online through the Permit Portal (Information on other types of permit request is available at that link as well.) 
All park play structures and sports courts and restrooms are currently closed. Trails and open spaces remain open to the public; however, social distancing and excellent hygiene is required while using park facilities.
The City Council meetings on March 26 and April 9 will be held fully online 

Some examples of essential services that will continue to operate normally are:
  • Police services
  • Fire and EMS services (provided by the Northshore Fire District) 
  • Roadway safety, including traffic signal maintenance
  • Limited parks maintenance to empty garbage cans and perform safety checks 

The City remains focused on keeping essential operations up and running while making employee and public safety the top priority. Many services are available online. City employees who can work remotely will continue to serve the community, will be available by email, and are on standby to be called in during this time.

Stay up to date with Lake Forest Park’s response to COVID-19 by visiting the response webpage


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COVID-19 UPDATE: City of Shoreline

Shoreline City Hall
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

From the City of Shoreline

COVID-19 UPDATE: City of Shoreline will provide only essential services during Governor’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order

To comply with the Governor’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order, all City staff have been told not to report to work except for those providing essential services. 

At this time, essential City services are those related to health and safety, emergency response, and government operations.

The Governor’s Stay Home order is necessary to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus and prevent our healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed. All Shoreline residents need to follow the Governor’s order and stay at home, unless you are:
  • Pursuing an essential activity, like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.
  • Getting takeout food. (Food deliveries also are permitted).
  • Going to work at an essential business.
  • Going outside for walks and exercise, as long as social distancing of six feet is maintained.

Examples of essential City services
  • Police services
  • Fire and EMS (provided by Shoreline Fire Department)
  • Traffic safety and emergency street maintenance
  • Limited parks maintenance
  • Emergency facilities repair and maintenance
  • Emergency utility repairs and maintenance (wastewater and surface water utilities)
  • Responding to COVID-19 event

How to contact City during this time
  • For emergencies, call 911
  • City 2700 # – For emergency issues not requiring a Police, Fire, or Medical response, call 206-801-2700.
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services

For questions regarding our parks, recreation facilities, or programming, you can email shorelineparks@shorelinewa.gov or call 206-801-2600 and leave a message. We will review messages daily and a staff member will get back to you.
Permit Counter

For permit questions, email pcd@shorelinewa.gov. You can also call 206-801-2500 and leave a message. We will review messages daily and a staff member will get back to you.

Reminder about parks and park activities
  • Use physical distancing: The most effective tool we have to slow the spread of COVID-19 is to physically distance ourselves from others. Keep at least six feet of distance between you and others.
  • Do not access off limits equipment or areas: As of this weekend, Shoreline has CLOSED all playgrounds, picnic shelters, basketball and tennis courts, ball fields, and the skate park.
  • Do not congregate in parks: This means no pick-up games, picnics, BBQs, parties, or bonfires.
  • Six feet for activities: Hiking, biking, and walking are all great ways to enjoy parks right now, just remember to keep six feet between you and your fellow residents.

MORE INFORMATION



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State ferries to remain on winter sailing schedules through April 25 due to lower demand

Photo by Mike Remarcke


As part of the state’s response to COVID-19, all state ferries will remain operating on their winter sailing schedules through at least April 25. 

Washington State Ferries’ spring season, which includes increased service on some routes, was originally scheduled to begin March 29.

The following service additions that were set to begin with the start of the spring sailing schedule will not occur:
  • Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth: Third vessel added on weekend schedule
  • Anacortes/San Juan Islands: Interisland weekend service and addition of couple of afternoon sailings
  • Anacortes/Friday Harbor/Sidney, British Columbia: Start of one round trip to Canada daily (suspended until at least April 26)

Previously made vehicle reservations for the Anacortes/San Juan Islands route from March 29 through April 25 will be canceled. 

No new spring schedule reservations will be allowed after April 25. Customers will be notified through ferry alerts when reservations will be made available on sailings during the winter schedule extension. No-show fees for vehicle reservations are waived until further notice.




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