Over 20,000 kits to be distributed locally for COVID-19 testing needs
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| From Public Health infographic |
From Public Health Seattle and King county
Testing is an essential component to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Limitations in testing supplies have hampered the response to the COVID-19 outbreak both locally and across the United States.
Thanks to donations of test kits from UW Medicine, Seattle Flu Study (SFS) and the Washington State Department of Health, Public Health – Seattle and King County will be distributing needed supplies to test for the virus that causes COVID-19.
SFS, which is executing SCAN (Greater Seattle Coronavirus Assessment Network) in partnership with Public Health, will be making an additional 2,000 self-swab kits available to healthcare workers in long-term care facilities.
UW Medicine is contributing 20,000 test kits, prioritized for first responders, health care workers and people who live and work in high-risk congregate settings, including long-term care facilities and homeless shelters.
SFS, which is executing SCAN (Greater Seattle Coronavirus Assessment Network) in partnership with Public Health, will be making an additional 2,000 self-swab kits available to healthcare workers in long-term care facilities.
These are primarily being provided as part of a study to understand coronavirus prevalence among healthcare workers, and may also inform recommendations for protecting patients.
In addition, SFS will continue to offer testing to approximately 100 homeless shelter residents and staff each week as part of a separate study.
The Washington State Department of Health is making 1,000 kits available locally for testing of emergency medical service providers through existing operations.
“These kits help address the urgency to increase testing for COVID-19 in King County. I thank our community partners who are helping to do the testing where it’s most needed at this time,” said Dr. Jeff Duchin, Health Officer for Public Health – Seattle and King County.
Learn more about testing on the Public Health Insider blog, including an infographic that explains the current testing process.
Tags:
COVID-19,
public health
Mindful and Assertive Communication: Practical Exercises and Techniques to Elevate Your Communications Skills
Would you like to feel more comfortable and confident communicating with other people in a way that leaves you feeling like you said what you needed to say?
In this fun, 2-hour class, join facilitator Megan Toney as you engage in a variety of exercises to practice mindful/ assertive communication and active listening in a positive way.
Register today at shoreline.edu/continuing-ed or contact continuing-ed@shoreline.edu for more information!
Read more...
Ferry ticket booth workers have self-swipe sticks
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| Ticket seller at ferry dock Photo courtesy WSDOT |
Thanks to the Washington State Ferries' IT team, they now have a safer way for ticket sellers and customers to complete transactions.
In just 24 hours last weekend, the IT team assembled, tested and installed new credit card readers on selfie sticks outside of ticket booth windows so customers can now self-swipe.
Read more...
Spring flowers
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| Photo by Mike Remarcke |
The spring flowers are blooming and we have a beautiful assortment locally.
The Lake Forest Park Garden Club is sad to report that they will not be holding their spring plant sale this year, but their gardens are beautiful and next year should be fantastic!
Read more...
Tags:
flowers
Handgun stolen from locked safe in vehicle
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| Window smashed, safe pried open to steal handgun Photo courtesy KCSO |
The King county sheriff's office reports that earlier this week, deputies were dispatched to a theft from a vehicle in the 1100 block of N 162nd St in Shoreline.
The victim reported that unknown suspect(s) smashed their passenger-side window, pried open the center console safe, and stole a handgun.
All thefts from vehicles are troubling. Thefts involving weapons are even more concerning because of the potential for dangerous consequences.
When possible, take firearms out of your vehicle and into your home, even if you only plan to be away from your vehicle for a short period of time.
Note your firearm's make, model, and serial #, as these essential details can help in the recovery of your property in the event that it's stolen.
Read more...
Public Health Seattle and King County case updates April 9, 2020
All King County Parks and trails are temporarily closed and City of Seattle Parks has closed many facilities and amenities. Shoreline Parks and trails are open but playground equipment, the skate park, and parking at RB Saltwater Park are all closed.
Public Health Seattle and King County is reporting the following confirmed cases and deaths due to COVID-19 through 11:59pm on 4/8/20.
- 3886 confirmed positive cases (up 198* from yesterday)
- 258 confirmed deaths (up 14 from yesterday)
* The “new confirmed positive cases” figure published each day represents all new confirmed cases reported through 11:59pm the night prior. Some of these test results were processed on days prior but were delayed in being reported.
Detailed information about demographics of those who died from COVID-19 is available on the data dashboard
52 people are currently staying in King County isolation and quarantine facilities.
Shoreline:
- 177 have positive results
- 21 have died due to illness
- 19 have positive results
- 0 have died due to illness
- 9608 (up 511 from yesterday) have positive results
- 446 have died due to illness
Read more...
Tags:
COVID-19,
public health
Facebook Seattle donates 4,000 N95 masks to KCSO
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| N95 masks from Facebook Seattle to the KCSO Photo courtesy KCSO |
N95 masks are hard to come by during the COVID-19 pandemic.
On April 3, 2020 Facebook Seattle donated 4,000 N95 masks to the Sheriff's Office and other local King County law enforcement agencies.
The donation not only allows them to supply the King County Sheriff's Office and all of their contract cities (including Shoreline and Kenmore) with masks, but we were also able to supply:
Algona PD, Auburn PD, Black Diamond PD, Bothell PD, CJTC, Clyde Hill PD, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Des Moines PD, Duvall PD, Federal way PD, Kent PD, Lake Forest Park PD, Normandy Park PD, Pacific PD, Port of Seattle PD, Redmond PD, Renton PD, Tukwila PD, University of Washington PD and Seattle PD.
Sheriff Mitzi G. Johanknecht said:
"I want to give a personal thank you to Facebook of Seattle for your extremely generous donation of 4,000 N95 masks to the King County Sheriff’s Office for distribution to law enforcement agencies in King County.
"Distribution of the national stockpile of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) uses a “tiered” system for distribution. Law enforcement is not listed on any of the four tiers, so we are on our own in search of PPE.
"King County law enforcement agency N95 face mask supplies were getting low until Facebook Seattle stepped up."
We can't thank all of the employees at Facebook Seattle enough for coming through at this time of need and providing first responders the personal protective equipment that we desperately need.
Read more...
Inslee, Department of Commerce announce support for small businesses
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| Help for businesses to weather the storm |
“We know this isn’t everything we need to recover. We know we have a long economic recovery ahead of us," Inslee said. "The work ahead remains intense, and we are going to roll out every tool at our disposal while also expecting the federal government to live up to their obligations to our state."
The new actions aim to help small businesses in Washington, and include:
- The Working Washington Small Business Grant, through the Governor’s Strategic Reserve Fund and administered by the Washington State Department of Commerce with the help of county economic development organizations. The grants will provide up to $10,000 for small businesses under 10 employees. Businesses can use this money to pay for rent, utility bills, supplies, inventory and other operating expenses. To apply for an emergency grant, visit coronavirus.wa.gov.
- Business resiliency assistance, through the Washington State Department of Commerce by partnering with organizations that serve economically disadvantaged communities across the state.
- Forgivable loans, through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Small businesses, non-profits, independent contractors or a self-employed individuals in need of financial help may be eligible for a forgivable loan from the SBA. Beginning last Friday, local banks began taking SBA applications and issuing forgivable loans. For more information go to sba.gov.
Inslee also encouraged individuals and businesses to take advantage of legal assistance through the state’s Office of Civil Legal Aid. State legal aid programs can help with unemployment compensation, eviction and foreclosure, family safety and domestic violence, debt collection, consumer protection and other issues. You can find more at ocla.wa.gov.
"These are immediate options to help small businesses weather the storm, but we know there is much more to do," Inslee said. "We will continue to find ways to support businesses and workers as we continue to battle this virus."
Tags:
business,
COVID-19,
small business
Scam of the day: Your Amazon account has been blocked
This appeared in my personal email today.
I should mention that I have been getting FedEx notices for over a week which my spam filters are only now starting to catch. The problem with the FedEx scam is that, like the post office, the real notices look more like spam than the spam message does.
Those messages all wanted me to "track my package." The clue was that the message said I had contacted them about my missing package. I hadn't ordered anything and I hadn't contacted a delivery service.
In the "Amazon" email today, the clue is in the header. Look at the gobbledygook between the carets.
I've been able to spot most scams by looking at the sender's address or the reply-to address.
I've been able to spot most scams by looking at the sender's address or the reply-to address.
If you think something might be legit - never respond to the email - contact the company or look at your account.
Tags:
fraud
Governor’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order still in effect, even on nice days
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| Skateboarders at Paramount School Park Sunday Photo by Carl Dinse |
The Governor’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order remains in effect through May 4, 2020.
Abiding by the Stay Home order is critical to stopping the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
Our frontline medical workers, vulnerable residents, and displaced workers need you to stay home.
Nice weather makes it tempting to go somewhere or do something, but now is not the time. The statewide “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order requires us to stick very close to home - your yard and your neighborhood. Help slow the spread of COVID-19 and save lives.
All Shoreline residents need to follow the Governor’s order and stay home, unless you are:
We urge everyone, even people who are young and healthy, to stay home to slow the spread of COVID-19. If you must go out, stay at least six feet apart from others.
All Shoreline residents need to follow the Governor’s order and stay home, unless you are:
- Pursuing an essential activity, like shopping for groceries or going to a medical appointment.
- Getting takeout food. (Food deliveries are also permitted). (Here's the SAN list)
- Going to work at an essential business.
- Going outside for walks and exercise in your neighborhood, as long as social distancing of six feet is maintained.
We urge everyone, even people who are young and healthy, to stay home to slow the spread of COVID-19. If you must go out, stay at least six feet apart from others.
This includes in our parks and at the beach. Staying home and avoiding all non-essential contact with others is the best way to stay healthy, keep others healthy, and prevent the new coronavirus from suddenly spreading rapidly and overwhelming our healthcare system.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is highly contagious, and each face-to-face interaction is an opportunity for it to spread.
Reminder about parks and park activities
MORE INFORMATION
The virus that causes COVID-19 is highly contagious, and each face-to-face interaction is an opportunity for it to spread.
Reminder about parks and park activities
- Enjoy the parks close to home: While it is important for all of us to get outside for exercise, enjoy the parks close to your home. Please do not crowd popular, destination parks, such as Richmond Beach Saltwater Park. They will still be there when this is all over. Now is the time to enjoy the parks close to home.
- 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: Shoreline has CLOSED all playgrounds, picnic shelters, basketball and tennis courts, ball fields, and the skate park. It may be tempting to jump a fence or ignore a “closed” sign. Please, don’t. Physical distancing only works if all of us participate. You can set a good example and help save lives by following the rules and encouraging the same of others.
- Do not congregate in parks: This means no pick-up games, picnics, BBQs, parties, or bonfires. This is not the time for beach parties.
- 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
Tags:
city of shoreline,
COVID-19
We are in this together
Thursday, April 9, 2020
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| Photo by Lee Lageschulte |
Positive messages are appearing on streets and sidewalks all over the area.
Read more...
Culvert replacement to be more “fish-friendly”
| Outflow of the creek on the downstream side of the culvert (you can see part of the steel box of the culvert). Photo by Tracy Furutani |
By Tracy Furutani
Culvert replacement in Lake Forest Park will begin with the “L60” culvert on Lyon Creek near the intersection of NE 178th St and 44th Ave NE.
This action was decided by a unanimous LFP City Council vote at their meeting March 26.
The construction is set to begin in June and be completed by September, according to the council’s resolution.
The governor’s “stay at home” order is not expected to delay the timeline, said city engineer Neil Jensen.
The L60 culvert is currently made of steel and quite narrow, whereas the replacement structure will be pre-cast concrete and 24 feet wide, specifically made to be passable by fish.
Redtail, LLC, of Snohomish will perform the construction at a cost of about $1.2 million, which was under the engineers’ estimate. The city obtained King County Flood Control District grants totaling $341,000 towards project construction. The balance is being paid for by the city.
Following a 2017 recommendation of the engineering firm Gray and Osborne, Inc., the city approved replacement of the existing culvert, which city resolutions have described as “structurally deficient” and “undersized.”
The L60 culvert is the first to be replaced along Lyon Creek because of its adjacency to previously-replaced culverts, and it also being the furthest downstream culvert that was not “fish-friendly,” according to Jensen.
In an agreement with the city, the Lake Forest Park Water District is replacing one of its aging water mains during the culvert replacement, confirmed Alan Kerley, the general manager of the water district.
| The L60 culvert is near the intersection of NE 178th St and 44th Ave NE. Photo by Tracy Furutani |
The L60 culvert is currently made of steel and quite narrow, whereas the replacement structure will be pre-cast concrete and 24 feet wide, specifically made to be passable by fish.
The original design proposed the removal of some trees in order to improve the stream itself, but that would have required heavy equipment to do excavations in the stream, which would violate the city’s tree protection ordinance.
“So we’re a community that likes our trees and likes our streams,” said councilmember Mark Phillips, “and in this case [this project] illuminated the possibility there may sometimes be conflicts between the two.”
Redtail, LLC, of Snohomish will perform the construction at a cost of about $1.2 million, which was under the engineers’ estimate. The city obtained King County Flood Control District grants totaling $341,000 towards project construction. The balance is being paid for by the city.
Roundabout completed at 10th NE and NE 185th
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| Photo by Steven H. Robinson |
By Diane Hettrick
The roundabout at 10th NE and NE 185th in the North City Neighborhood was completed start to finish in about four days.
Residents barely had time to complain about the detours when the road was reopened.
As roundabouts go, this one is extremely straightforward. Most of the traffic is west and south of the roundabout.
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| Photo by Steven H. Robinson |
Everyone seems to be navigating it without difficulty or drama. These views are from the east side of NE 185th on the residential section known as Motorcycle Hill.
The roundabout was created by Sound Transit as a way to smooth the traffic for their construction vehicles going to and from the 185th Shoreline North transit station construction site. Sound Transit projects have shut down during the epidemic. Many workers are out sick and ST does not have confidence they can guarantee the health of the rest.
Read more...
Tags:
sound transit,
traffic
Time to laugh: At home alone
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| Photo by 𝕷𝖚𝖈𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖛𝖊 on Unsplash |
- Half of us are going to come out of this quarantine as amazing cooks. The other half will come out with a drinking problem.
- I used to spin that toilet paper like I was on Wheel of Fortune. Now I turn it like I'm cracking a safe.
- I need to practice social-distancing from the refrigerator.
- Still haven't decided where to go for Easter ----- The Living Room or The Bedroom
- PSA: every few days try your jeans on just to make sure they fit. Pajamas will have you believe all is well in the kingdom.
- Homeschooling is going well. 2 students suspended for fighting and 1 teacher fired for drinking on the job.
- I don't think anyone expected that when we changed the clocks we'd go from Standard Time to the Twilight Zone
- This morning I saw a neighbor talking to her cat. It was obvious she thought her cat understood her. I came into my house, told my dog..... we laughed a lot.
- So, after this quarantine.....will the producers of My 600 Pound Life just find me or do I find them?
- Quarantine Day 5: Went to this restaurant called THE KITCHEN. You have to gather all the ingredients and make your own meal. I have no clue how this place is still in business.
- My body has absorbed so much soap and disinfectant lately that when I pee it cleans the toilet.
- Day 5 of Homeschooling: One of these little monsters called in a bomb threat.
- I'm so excited --- it's time to take out the garbage. What should I wear?
- I hope the weather is good tomorrow for my trip to Puerto Backyarda. I'm getting tired of Los Livingroom.
- Classified Ad: Single man with toilet paper seeks woman with hand sanitizer for good clean fun.
- Day 6 of Homeschooling: My child just said "I hope I don't have the same teacher next year".... I'm offended.
- Better 6 feet apart than 6 feet under!
Read more...
Tags:
humor
COVID-19 information for family members of residents in the care of DSHS
New resources provide COVID-19 information to family members of residents within the care of DSHS.
DSHS has partnered with the Department of Health and Washington 211 to add an option for callers to the COVID-19 Call Center that allows loved ones of someone in DSHS’ care to learn what is happening at various facilities around the state.
This new option provides operators at the call center the ability to field general COVID-19 questions.
The call center, which can be accessed toll-free by dialing 888-856-5691, will also have updated visitation restrictions and recommended guidelines they can share with callers.
A new DSHS FamHelp webpage also provides facility information and visitation status to friends and families of long-term care facility residents. More information HERE.
Tags:
COVID-19
Richmond Beach garden
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| Photo by Lee Lageschulte |
It's spring in Richmond Beach. The clear-cutting to preserve the water views means more sun for the flowers, which bloom a week or two earlier than in the forested central and east sections of the area.
There's color everywhere, which seems even brighter in the sunshine.
Tags:
flowers
Guidance for managers, staff and residents of apartment buildings
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| Linden Highlands is one of dozens of multifamily buildings in north King county |
Public Health Seattle/King County issued updated guidance for landlords, property managers, and residents that provides information on actions site managers, property managers, and residents can do to stay safe during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The guidance encourages the hanging educational flyers in common areas, and providing in-language materials to residents with limited English language proficiency.
Shoreline City Council Meeting April 6, 2020
| Shoreline City Hall and Council Chamber Photo by Mike Remarcke |
Shoreline City Council Meeting
April 6, 2020
Notes by Pam CrossPursuant to Governor Inslee’s Proclamation 20-28, in an effort to curtail the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the City Council’s Regular Meetings scheduled March 24 through April 23 will take place online and the public will not be allowed to attend in-person. Opportunities for public comment by submitting written comment or calling into the meeting to provide oral testimony.
Mayor Hall called the meeting to order at 7:00pm
All Councilmembers were present. City Councilmembers participated in the meeting remotely.
There was a moment of silence for the 18 members of the Shoreline Community who have lost their lives to COVID-19.
Please stay home and stay safe, and practice physical distancing.
PROCLAMATION
Mayor Hall, on behalf of the City Council, proclaimed the week of April 19 through April 25, 2020 as National Volunteer Appreciation Week in the City of Shoreline. Through the sharing of their personal time, energy, and expertise, volunteers help maintain a quality of life that a city our size could not otherwise afford to sustain.
Report of the City Manager, Debbie Tarry
COVID-19 UPDATE
Stay home, stay safe has been extended to May 4th by Governor Inslee. Limit trips for groceries, gas and other essentials. City Hall and recreation facilities are closed. Some services can be accessed online. All meetings and events have been cancelled at least through May 4, 2020.
Go to shorelinewa.gov/covid for updated information on what’s open and what’s closed.
With the Stay Home Order in place, playgrounds, sports courts, picnic shelters and ball fields are closed. Gatherings, games, and group picnics are prohibited. Parks, trails and natural areas will remain open only if physical distancing is maintained. The Richmond Beach Saltwater Park parking lots are closed, and there is no public beach access from Apple Tree Lane.
If you need help:
- Hopelink Food Bank providing food
- Statewide moratorium on evictions
- Utilities will remain on
- Expanded rules for unemployment
- Health Benefits Exchange is enrolling
- Call 2-1-1 for other resources
- Turning Point for grocery gift cards,
- Hunger Intervention Program for weekend food packs,
- Shoreline Community Care for gas, groceries, and utility assistance and
- Seattle Mongolian Youth Center for face masks and a multi-lingual tutorial.
Council Reports
Councilmember McConnell stated she and Councilmember McGlashan were pleased to see two large Shoreline projects moving forward on the federal funding of the PSRC Regional Grant Program.
Deputy Mayor Scully said the Regional Homelessness Authority is still working to complete the new executive board with individuals willing to sit on the board who are currently or have previously experienced housing instability.
Mayor Hall had a conference call with several mayors from King County. About 1/3 had already laid off staff. Shoreline has a healthy reserve available and has been working to retain staff.
Public Comment (by telephone)
Public comment on the two Action items below will follow the applicable staff report.
Melonie Fosmore, chair of Save Shoreline Trees, spoke about saving significant trees.
Approval of the Agenda adopted by unanimous consent.
The Consent Calendar adopted unanimously by roll call vote.
Action Items
8(a) Approval of Grant Requests from Sound Generations in the Amount of $50,000 and from the Center for Human Services in the Amount of $20,000 from the COVID-19 Community Emergency Response Grant Program
Fund established 3/30/2020
Grants to these two entities were briefly discussed at last week’s Council meeting. It was decided to wait until the grant applications were submitted. Applications have been received and a staff report completed.
Staff Report by Colleen Kelly, Community Services Manager
Applicants for the grants must be in or near Shoreline and support emergency response services for predominantly Shoreline residents.
There have been 13 applications so far:
- 2 are being discussed in this action item
- 3 were ineligible because they did not meet the above criteria
- 4 have been approved by the City Manager $5k each
- 4 pending additional information (these are also $5k requests)
Sound Generations submitted a request on behalf of the Shoreline/LFP Senior Center for $50k to cover projected lost revenue.
They are still providing meals (now via delivery), twice weekly outreach calls to each of their 600 members to make sure someone is checking in on them, and continuing wellness and other communications utilizing social media.
The Center for Human Services, that has lost income from multiple fundraisers, and fee based services, requested $20k in general support to assist providing current services including food, hygiene items and diapers, laptops for telehealth efforts and smart phones for connecting with clients as well as new IT expenses related to these services. They did receive $50k from the Seattle Foundation but estimated expenses for March-May to equal $67.5M.
Public Comment
Beratta Gomillion, Executive Director, Center for Human Services, lives in Shoreline. The behavioral health needs in Shoreline are being taken care of. Therapists are still working, answering phones, and providing emergency services by phone,
Joanne Donohue, Chief Operations Officer of Sound Generations, is available by telephone to answer any questions.
Motion and second to approved the two requests.
Discussion
Can we remove laptops and smartphones from this grant? Reply is yes. This was just a way to show that the money requested would be used to pay for outreach and emergency services.
People need to stay socially connected even while practicing physical distancing, so these social services have an important role during this pandemic.
The senior center has no income. How is $50k going to be spent when there is a much larger need? Reply from Ms. Donohue: They have $95k from the City annually, $80k from King County, and hope to start getting revenue in June. $600k is the annual need, $50k represents March through May loss of income. What will the funds will be used for? Reply: Majority of the expense is staff. Some is spent on food for weekend emergency groceries, chefs to prepare the delivered meals, and staff that keeps the center operating. Most of the volunteers fall within the high risk category so they are staying at home.
Motion to approve two requests as presented passes unanimously by roll call vote.
COVID-19 Community Emergency Response Grant Program will be depleted by these requests and the $5k requests, even though the amounts are modest compared to the needs.
Motion to Amend agenda to add an action to agenda and discuss tonight or delay discussion until next meeting. No objection so by unanimous consent agreed to add to agenda.
Newly added by above motion
8(b) Discussing the possible increase of the amount in the Emergency Response Fund by $50k to be drawn from general fund as previous funds were.
Motion and second to increase amount allotted by $50k.
Discussion
Should we wait until we see how many more requests come in rather than add $50k to just take care of current applications? It was broadly agreed $100k would not be enough, but we wanted to see the number of applications and amounts requested. Are we going to have to do this again next week? The City Manager needs to have the ability to move quickly on small amounts. On the other hand, if we increase by $100k, Council will need another staff report because that’s a big jump and we will need to see the effect on the total city budget.
Motion to add $50k to the fund passes unanimously by roll call vote.
8(c) Terminating Temporary Public Health Emergency Order No. 5 of the City Manager for Suspension of the Prohibition on Plastic Retail Carryout Bags During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency.
On March 31, 2020, the City Manager issued Temporary Public Health Emergency Order No. 5 which suspends the prohibition on carryout plastic bags at retail establishments in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency. Council will determine if the order was not necessary to preserve and maintain the public life, health, welfare, or peace. Staff does not recommend termination.
Staff Report by Autumn Salamack, Environmental Services Coordinator
A local grocery store requested this suspension due to worry that bags brought in by shoppers might spread COVID-19 to grocery checkers. There have been no specific studies about this type of contagion. Some jurisdictions have suspended the plastic bag ban and/or are not enforcing existing bans. This includes suspending the 5 cent pass through charges for paper bags.
Staff does not recommend terminating this emergency order due to current unknowns about the virus transmittal, and in order to provide flexibility and consistency for stores operating in multiple sites.
Public Comment
There were two written comments.
No one signed up to speak.
Motion and second to suspend the emergency order.
Discussion
This order is not necessary at this time. The science the staff report relies on does not show that fabric bags are any worse than paper or plastic. So preference for plastic bags is not supported by the science surrounding COVID-19. However, many stores already prohibit shoppers from bringing their own reusable bags. If plastic is prohibited, we are left with paper bags. That could possibly result in a supply shortage.
Rather than suspending the entire thing, a more minimal change is just to delete the paper bag fee right now. Customers could bag their own groceries. Everything is touched by the customer when taking goods off the shelf and adding it to their basket. The concern is the health of the store employees who must touch the purchases to skan them, and again to bag them. There is a concern should a grocery employee contract the virus, resulting in a temporary closing of the store and quarantine of all employees. What if we actually made it worse due to our lack of scientific data? If paper bags will do, why do we need to add plastic bags? Do we want more plastic in the environment? Why did only one Shoreline retailer ask for the suspension? This is a difficult time and we all want to do the right thing. The focus must be on the employees.
Vote on the motion to suspend the Prohibition on Plastic Retail Carryout Bags Fails 4 to 3
No: Mayor Hall, Councilmembers McGlashan, McConnell and Robertson
Yes: Deputy Mayor Scully, Councilmembers Chang and Roberts
Study Item
9(a) Discussion of the 2021-2026 Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP)
In accordance with RCW 35.77.010, cities in Washington State are required to prepare and adopt a comprehensive six-year Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP). The six- year TIP should include transportation projects, such as road and bridge improvements, as well as new or enhanced bicycle and pedestrian facilities.
Council will discuss proposed updates to the TIP. The TIP will be brought back to Council on June 1, 2020 for a Public Hearing to receive public feedback on the proposed updates and for potential Adoption of the TIP. Draft of the TIP and staff report available online.
Nytasha Walters, Transportation Services Manager, presented the staff report
The projects identified in the Transportation Improvement Plan include funded, partially funded, and unfunded. Listing projects makes them eligible for grants as part of the Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan.
Very few projects are completely funded in the next six years and many are unfunded. Several of the partially funded projects are segments of large, corridor-wide improvement projects that will require a considerable amount of grant funding to complete. The grant award process is extremely competitive and the amount of grant funds available has shrunk.
The TIP is prepared and presented to Council in advance of the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The policy direction provided through adoption of the TIP is used to identify transportation projects for inclusion in the CIP.
The City is proposing to complete the most strategic projects, or segments of these projects, in the near term.
- 145th Street Projects
- 175th Street Corridor Project
- The 185th Street Corridor Strategy
- Trail Along the Rail
- 148th Street Non-Motorized Bridge
There are multiple projects that have been re-organized or removed from this year’s TIP.
The potential effects of I-976 are discussed as they greatly impact two of the City’s programs due to the loss of the Vehicle License Fees: The Sidewalk Rehabilitation Program (Repair and Maintenance), and the Annual Road Surface Maintenance Program. New sidewalk construction is not affected by I-976.
Staff recommends that the sidewalk rehabilitation program for repair and maintenance be restored to approximately $152,000/year and that the road surface maintenance program be restored to approximately $530,000/year.
The draft of the 54 page 2021-2026 Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) is available online. It is attachment A of the staff report.
Grants and other sources of funding are being considered.
Discussion
SR523 and 145th are the two new projects that Councilmember McConnell alluded to in council reports. These are two projects that are implementing our preferred design concept for the 145th corridor. This is one of those examples of looking towards federal funds and we’re pursuing construction funds for the I-5 and 145th interchange as well as 145th between the interchange and 1st. We are very excited that we have been selected by the King County Project Evaluation Committee to proceed to a regional competition for funds. We are going for two different grant competitions where our project is considered with those of Snohomish and Pierce Counties, and a more King County focused process if we’re not successful there. These projects have been identified as regionally important.
What happens in June when we have a hearing scheduled but we are still having remote meetings? We can ask the Governor about extending the date or to waive some requirements. Such changes would apply to all jurisdictions. It is scheduled for action the same night as the public hearing but Council can always move the action to a later date.
Meeting adjourned.
Tags:
city council
Turtle tête à tête
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| Photo by Gloria Z Nagler |
(On the shores of Lake Washington the other day)
--Gloria Z Nagler
Tags:
gloria nagler,
reptiles
Public Health Seattle and King County case update April 8, 2020
- 3688 confirmed positive cases (up 202* from yesterday)
- 244 confirmed deaths (up 14 from yesterday)
* The “new confirmed positive cases” figure we publish each day represents all new confirmed cases reported to us through 11:59pm the night prior. Some of these test results were processed on days prior but were delayed in being reported to us.
Detailed information about demographics of those who died from COVID-19 is available on the data dashboard
In this Editor's opinion:
The forecasting is now predicting that we are successfully "flattening the curve" but the optimistic figures are based on our remaining at home through the end of May, at least.
After that time, those who have antibodies against the virus will be able to go out - earlier if the antibody test is widely available.
The rest of us will have to stay inside until a vaccine is available. Just one sick person and a vulnerable population could start the whole thing all over again.
Forty-seven people are currently staying in King County isolation and quarantine facilities.
Shoreline:
Shoreline:
- 171 have positive results
- 21 have died due to illness
- 18 have positive results
- 0 have died due to illness
- 9097 (+415) have positive results
- 421 have died due to illness
Updated to indicate Editorial opinion.
Tags:
COVID-19,
public health
State Board of Education approves flexibility for graduating seniors
At a special Board Meeting on Wednesday, the State Board of Education adopted emergency rules that allow school districts to apply for greater flexibility in awarding a diploma to high school seniors impacted by closures.
The new rules are effective for the Class of 2020 immediately.
They allow public school districts, charter schools, and tribal compact schools approved by the Board to waive certain state graduation requirements for individual students.
To be approved, districts must make a good faith effort to give students opportunities to complete credits for high school graduation. The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) gave districts guidance on how to offer students these opportunities. The waiver is an extra tool districts can use to make sure students graduate after the COVID-19 school building closures.
The new rules also allow private schools to waive credit-based graduation requirements for individual students and waive school day and instructional hour requirements for the 2019-20 school year.
Applications for the waiver should be available online by April 15. The Board plans to host a special meeting on April 21 to review the first round of applications.
"In this difficult time, our state's students come first." said State Board of Education Chair, Peter Maier.
"By adopting these rules, we considered the many high school students who otherwise would face great limitations due to this historic pandemic. These new rules give flexibility to let school districts support students now, while honoring the student work done before school buildings closed."
The new rules also allow private schools to waive credit-based graduation requirements for individual students and waive school day and instructional hour requirements for the 2019-20 school year.
Applications for the waiver should be available online by April 15. The Board plans to host a special meeting on April 21 to review the first round of applications.
Tags:
education
Lake Forest Park Water District - no late fees - no disconnects
Lake Forest Park Water District has declared an emergency due to the COVID-19 pandemic and we will not be charging late-fees or disconnecting water services for lack of payment for the duration of this event.
We are glad to take your call or email, but please avoid coming to the office if at all possible.
If you need to drop off a payment, our drop-box is checked regularly and open 24/7 just outside our gate.
- Front desk is closed to all non-essential inquires
- Payments should be made by mail or use of District drop box at front gate.
- Use of the District’s meeting room is cancelled until further notice.
- Essential operations and maintenance activities continue as normal.
- Direct communication by email office@lfpwd.org or phone 206-365-3211
Visit the COVID-19 page on our website for further information and updates.
Super moons
Wednesday, April 8, 2020
| Photo by Mike Remarcke |
Tonight was the SuperMoon, coming closer to the earth than at any other time in 2020. Since I'm not technical, I call these shots by Mike Remarcke the Warm Moon and the Cold Moon.
The first one is dramatic and boldly colored against the dark trees and the night sky.
| Photo by Mike Remarcke |
The Cold Moon shot just looks battered and bruised. All those craters where the poor thing got smacked around by asteroids. Thanks, Big Guy for taking it on the chin and deflecting those things away from us.
Or maybe the earth would look that bad, too, if it were naked. Let's not find out.
Tags:
moon
Third Place Books presents virtual author events: Thursday - Veronica Roth with Seanan McGuire
Thursday, April 9 at 7pm - Watch: https://www.twitch.tv/vrothbooks
Veronica Roth with Seanan McGuire
Chosen Ones Tour - “Crafting and Planning a Series”
Join Veronica Roth, bestselling author of the Divergent series, as she celebrates the release of her new standalone novel Chosen Ones with a livestream event featuring acclaimed Seattle author Seanan McGuire.
In this virtual event, which will be streamed on Twitch, Roth and McGuire will discuss Chosen Ones, the art of planning a book series, and audience questions.
This event is presented by Third Place Books, and by our friends at Village Books and Paper Dreams (Bellingham) and Copperfield’s Books (Sebastopol, CA).
No purchase is required to view this event, but attendees are encouraged to purchase Chosen Ones from Third Place Books: HERE
Fifteen years ago, five ordinary teenagers were singled out by a prophecy to take down an impossibly powerful entity wreaking havoc across North America.
He was known as the Dark One, and his weapon of choice leveled cities and claimed thousands of lives.
Chosen Ones, as the teens were known, gave everything they had to defeat him. On the tenth anniversary of the Dark One's defeat, something unthinkable happens: one of the Chosen Ones dies.
When the others gather for the funeral, they discover the Dark One's ultimate goal was much bigger than they, the government, or even prophecy could have foretold - bigger than the world itself.
No purchase is required to view this event, but attendees are encouraged to purchase Chosen Ones from Third Place Books: HERE
Tags:
author,
third place books
Humans have a Basic Need to Connect with Others
Center for Human Services in Shoreline
Stop "social distancing" but please continue to physically distance yourself from others.
We all know we must protect one another, avoid gatherings, and stay at least six feet apart. However, let’s not confuse maintaining our physical distance from each other with emotionally and socially distancing from each other.
During these unprecedented times with lots of uncertainty and fear, it is very important that you continue to use your social/support network. Social contact is a fundamental human need, and we suffer both mentally and physically without it.
Since we live in a world where digital communication is commonplace, it is somewhat easy, if one has the means, to stay in touch with people superficially through Facebook, Instant Messaging, or even email.
However, as humans, we yearn for more meaningful interactions with a few people. We can accomplish this by still using social media through free apps such as Skype, Face Time, Marco Polo, Google Duo, Zoom meetings and several others, where you can actually see each other but not be physically with each other.
We advise you to choose a few select people and turn social distancing into distant socializing. This is a way you can participate in quality conversations and meet your human need to connect with others.
By now, during this time of stay-home directives, many people are just sick of it.
Some are feeling anxiety or clinical depression for the first time and others are seeing increased symptoms of already diagnosed conditions. We are hearing more and more stories of parents being overly stressed trying to homeschool their children or just keep them occupied.
Some sources say that alcohol sales have gone up over 50% during this outbreak, but I assure you, drinking or drugging is not a healthy or safe way to deal with your stress. It is also a fact that incidences of child abuse and neglect as well domestic violence spike during crises such as what we are experiencing.
By now, most people have a better understanding of how deeply social isolation and the stress of COVID-19 impacts us. None of us are exempt from the stress of the COVID-19 outbreak and there is no shame in talking to a professional about what you are going through.
If you would like to talk to a therapist, whether it is merely to help you get through this difficult period or on a more ongoing basis, please feel free to call Center for Human Services at 206-362-7282.
We will be happy to talk with you over the phone or through video-conferencing. CHS is grateful to have received a grant from the City of Shoreline that allows us to support you at no cost to you.
Remember, you are not alone.
Tags:
health and wellness,
s,
social services
Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Self-dentistry
My dentist's office called today and I have to admit
that I was worried for a second, especially after seeing this cartoon.
But they were just rescheduling me for July.
Whew!
Read more...
Tags:
cartoon
Public Health Seattle and King County case updates April 7, 2020
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| 30% of King county residents 80+ who have contracted COVID-19 have died. Only one person younger than 40 has died of the illness |
- 3486 confirmed positive cases (up 155* from yesterday)
- 230 confirmed deaths (up 8 from yesterday)
* The “new confirmed positive cases” figure we publish each day represents all new confirmed cases reported to us through 11:59 the night prior. Some of these test results were processed on days prior but were delayed in being reported to us.
Detailed information about demographics of those who died from COVID-19 is available on the data dashboard
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| This map shows the distribution of COVID-19 cases by ZIP code. The two highest rates are Kirkland, home of the Life Care center and Issaquah. Sparsely populated areas have few or no cases. |
Shoreline:
- 166 have positive results
- 20 have died due to illness
Lake Forest Park:
- 17 have positive results
- 0 have died due to illness
See the King County COVID information site HERE
Thirty-nine people are currently staying in King County isolation and quarantine facilities.
State:
State:
- 8,682 cases of COVID-19 in Washington state
- 394 have died
Tags:
COVID-19,
public health
Back off, Harold!
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| Photo by Gloria Z Nagler |
Don't you read the headlines, Harold! Physical distancing is critical right now, so Back Off!!!
(Double-crested Cormorants on Lake Washington)
--Gloria Z Nagler
Tags:
birds,
gloria nagler
Grace period for payment of workers' comp premiums
The Department of Labor and Industries (L/I) is providing emergency relief through the Employer Assistance Program to help employers struggling to pay their workers’ compensation premiums during the coronavirus outbreak.
L/I is now offering a grace period for premium payments, along with payment plans for employers facing financial difficulties during the pandemic.
Tags:
business,
COVID-19,
finances,
small business
Pickathon Presents A Concert A Day - Helping Musicians in Need
Free streams of full concerts - 60 Days / 60 Concerts - from Pickathon’s vault
In support of MUSICARES®
Starting April 8, a new concert a day at 1pm -
Facebook premiere co-hosted by the Recording Academy® w/artists and journalists, streaming on Amazon Music’s Twitch channel, and premiering as part of YouTube’s Stay Home #WithMe Initiative
With this in mind, Pickathon is excited to present A Concert A Day starting April 8, an initiative to help musicians and artist communities through the Recording Academy’s MUSICARES® organization.
During this time of hardship, with so many artists unable to tour and so many people stuck at home, Pickathon is opening the vaults to premiere one full concert a day for 60 days, streaming for free on Facebook, Amazon Music’s Twitch channel, and on YouTube.
All donations received will go to MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund (donate HERE).
Featured artists currently confirmed include Drive By Truckers, Margo Price, Jeff Tweedy, Mac DeMarco, Tyler Childers, Charles Bradley, Tank and the Bangas,Thee Oh Sees, People Under the Stairs, Damien Jurado, The Lone Bellow, Ex Hex, Foxygen, Andrew Bird, Brownout, Divine Fits, Dakhabrakha, Vieux Farka Toure, Willie Watson, and many more!
Featured artists currently confirmed include Drive By Truckers, Margo Price, Jeff Tweedy, Mac DeMarco, Tyler Childers, Charles Bradley, Tank and the Bangas,Thee Oh Sees, People Under the Stairs, Damien Jurado, The Lone Bellow, Ex Hex, Foxygen, Andrew Bird, Brownout, Divine Fits, Dakhabrakha, Vieux Farka Toure, Willie Watson, and many more!
Each day for the next 60 days, starting April 8, Pickathon Presents A Concert A Day will premiere a full recorded concert from past festivals.
Amazon Music will stream the concert through its channel on Twitch, and the concerts will also premiere on Pickathon’s YouTube channel and be featured as part of YouTube’s Stay Home #WithMe initiative.
Pickathon Presents A Concert A Day Week 1 Schedule:
Wed, April 8 - Drive by Truckers (Mt. Hood Stage, 2017)
Thurs, April 9 - Ex Hex (Treeline Stage, 2015)
Fri, April 10 - Tyler Childers (Woods, 2019)
Sat, April 11 - Charles Bradley (Mt. Hood Stage, 2017)
Sun, April 12 - Tank and The Bangas (Woods Stage, 2017)
Mon, April 13 - Damien Jurado (Lucky Barn, 2019)
Tues, April 14 - People Under the Stairs (Woods Stage, 2014)
Wed, April 15 - DakhaBrakha (Mt. Hood, 2018)
Championing artists, fostering community, and innovating new ways of experiencing and discovering music have been the cornerstone of Pickathon’s identity for over 20 years. Now is the time to band together in support of touring musicians, to spread hope, and to enjoy A Concert A Day.
Tags:
COVID-19,
entertainment,
music
Essential electrical work continues
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| Photo by William Carver |
The pole is a regular site for this red-capped worker. The large holes may be his doing over a period of years.
He occasionally uses the metal transformer as well.
Read more...
Tags:
birds
Tips for gun owners from Public Health
| Photo by Mike Remarcke |
From Public Health Seattle and King county
Stress and anxiety is understandably high with so much upheaval in our lives. If you or your family member is a gun owner, it’s important, now more than ever, to make sure that you are practicing safe habits.
For those who own guns, the current situation with the statewide Stay Home, Stay Healthy order and closure of schools means more people — including children and youth — are home, and this has implications for household safety related to firearms.
Here are some tips to help keep ourselves and our loved ones safe during this challenging and uncertain time.
Safely store firearms and medications.
Physical distancing can be hard on those of us who already feel socially isolated. Reducing easy access to firearms and medications can help keep everyone safe. Change the combination on your gun safe, lock up medications and ammunition, or consider storing firearms that you don’t use day-to-day offsite right now. If you’re worried about a friend or loved one, offer to store their firearms with yours for now.
If you’re a new firearm owner, start building good safety habits now. For safe storage tips, check out our Lock It Up page. If you don’t have a safe or lockbox, you can order one online from many of our retail partners.
Physical distancing can be hard on those of us who already feel socially isolated. Reducing easy access to firearms and medications can help keep everyone safe. Change the combination on your gun safe, lock up medications and ammunition, or consider storing firearms that you don’t use day-to-day offsite right now. If you’re worried about a friend or loved one, offer to store their firearms with yours for now.
If you’re a new firearm owner, start building good safety habits now. For safe storage tips, check out our Lock It Up page. If you don’t have a safe or lockbox, you can order one online from many of our retail partners.
Find support and connection
At a time when people are under more stress, know the resources for help and support (like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 and King County Crisis Connections at 866-427-4747) if you or someone in your house has a crisis.
It also helps to make a plan for keeping connected to your family and friends if you can’t be together right now. Keeping connected helps us manage anxiety and feel less alone.
At a time when people are under more stress, know the resources for help and support (like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 and King County Crisis Connections at 866-427-4747) if you or someone in your house has a crisis.
It also helps to make a plan for keeping connected to your family and friends if you can’t be together right now. Keeping connected helps us manage anxiety and feel less alone.
Reduce kids’ access to family firearms as much as you can
With school closures, kids are spending more time at home. It’s normal for young children to be curious and explore in drawers, cabinets, and closets at home and for teens to be fascinated with firearms. If firearms are usually unlocked at home while your kids are at school, make sure to lock them up. Safe storage practices can reduce the risk of firearms ending up in the wrong hands.
With school closures, kids are spending more time at home. It’s normal for young children to be curious and explore in drawers, cabinets, and closets at home and for teens to be fascinated with firearms. If firearms are usually unlocked at home while your kids are at school, make sure to lock them up. Safe storage practices can reduce the risk of firearms ending up in the wrong hands.
Pay attention to how stress affects you and your family and stay safe
Stressful situations like this can put strain on our families and relationships. This is a hard time for everyone – anxiety and stress levels are high! Where this turns into domestic violence, the results can be deadly, especially where firearms are readily available.
Storing firearms locked up is a good safety measure, and so is seeking help if you feel unsafe. If you’re in need of a protection order, you can get information here and start the process here. COVID-19 will not stop people experiencing domestic violence from getting help.
Resist anxiety and fear with information from credible sources
Many people feel uneasy right now and some may be thinking they need to use firearms to protect themselves. Fortunately, people in King County are making responsible decisions and taking care of each other during this difficult time.
Many people feel uneasy right now and some may be thinking they need to use firearms to protect themselves. Fortunately, people in King County are making responsible decisions and taking care of each other during this difficult time.
To reduce fear of the unknown, follow Public Health’s COVID-19 page, which is frequently updated with the best information available. If you’re feeling overloaded with information in the media, consider reducing your media and social media exposure. It may reduce anxiety, and doesn’t mean that you won’t know what’s going on.
The best thing we can do for our communities now is to stay home to keep from catching COVID-19 or spreading it to the people at highest risk in our families and communities. We can all be part of reducing the spread of COVID-19, and we’re grateful to everyone for being part of the solution.
The best thing we can do for our communities now is to stay home to keep from catching COVID-19 or spreading it to the people at highest risk in our families and communities. We can all be part of reducing the spread of COVID-19, and we’re grateful to everyone for being part of the solution.
Tags:
COVID-19,
public health
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