Employment Security improves website in expectation of a million new claims this weekend

Saturday, April 25, 2020


The state Employment Security Department has made significant changes to its website to help workers find the information they need including:

Unemployment benefits: Nearly $1.4B in unemployment benefits paid out to Washingtonians from the Washington’s Employment Security Department with almost $900 million this week alone, the Employment Security Department announced Thursday.



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Pet supply pantry

 A new Little Free Pantry has been set up in front of the Seattle Area Feline Rescue in Shoreline at 14717 Aurora Ave N: The "Stay SAFe Pet Pantry."

We will keep replenishing the pantry, and you can take what you need for your pets, or leave supplies for others.

You can find the pantry outside our Adoption Center.

They have been added to our Pantry List.




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Public Health case updates include six employees at Kent correctional facility

Dashboard HERE


With 224 new cases reported yesterday, the state has almost 13,000 known cases of COVID-19.
  • Positive tests results for 12,977 in the state - up 224 from yesterday.
  • This includes 723 deaths.

61 people are currently staying in King County isolation, quarantine and recovery facilities, including Shoreline.

Public Health – Seattle and King County will provide free testing to staff at the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent after six staff reported testing positive for COVID-19.

Patients in custody are already being tested if symptomatic for COVID-19 and additional testing may be offered based on additional findings.

The Department of Adult and Juvenile Detention (DAJD) is thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the areas where each staff member worked, in addition to the enhanced cleaning they are conducting throughout all correctional facilities.

King County provides each staff member and person in custody at all its correctional facilities with cloth masks to help reduce the further spread of the virus in addition to providing staff with personal protective equipment. DAJD has taken other emergency actions to prevent the spread of the virus, including cancelling all public visits while making video visits available at no cost.

King county has 120 new cases for a total of 5689.
  • 387 people have died in the county, including 3 yesterday.
220 of the deaths have been King county residents over the age of 80. See the chart above.
  • In Shoreline there have been 263 known cases and 35 deaths
  • Lake Forest Park has had 26 cases and 0 deaths.


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Pink rhody

Friday, April 24, 2020

Photo by Lee Lageschulte


Rhodies are blooming everywhere right now.




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A surprising twist in the saga of Point Wells


BSRE Headed to Court Over Who Owns Point Wells Property

And Maybe Gives Up On Development??

While there has been no news yet from Snohomish County concerning BSRE's most recent development application, there have been some interesting legal actions taking place over the last few months. Much of the information below is gathered from legal filings made since February.

Point Wells


A little history

To understand the current legal action we have to go way back to May 7, 2010 when Paramount of Washington, then owner of Point Wells, entered into a purchase and development agreement with the current owner, BSRE. The purchase agreement sold the Pt. Wells property to BSRE for $19.5 million, but it also included a development agreement obligating the two parties to cooperate in the development and approval of a detailed plan for a mixed-use residential project designed to enhance the value of the property with the goal of maximizing proceeds from a future sale. BSRE was to lead the process of obtaining approval of the detailed plan including a development application and an Environmental Impact Statement. This agreement resulted in the original development application submitted by BSRE in early 2011.

The development agreement also gave Paramount a 10-year license to continue its petroleum business on the site while requiring Paramount to pay BSRE an additional $1.7 million a year to help pay for the development of the detailed plan. In return for these payments, the agreement stated that BSRE and Paramount would share in the profits if the plan was approved and the property was sold to a firm who would complete the construction. BSRE was to use its best efforts to obtain approval for the plan. If the property was finally sold, Paramount was responsible for clearing the site and cleaning up the contaminated soil using the proceeds from the sale. It should be noted here that back in 2010 both Paramount and BSRE were controlled by the same owner so it was a friendly deal.

Back to today

So here we are 10 years later. In the intervening years the former owner ran into financial trouble and had to sell off various parts to other owners, so Paramount and BSRE are now controlled by two different owners. And Paramount's 10 year license period runs out on June 1st this year.

In anticipation of this date, BSRE sent Paramount a letter in early January asking them to have the site cleared and decontaminated by the June 1 date. The two parties met to discuss this on February 4th but did not come to an agreement as to how to proceed. After another exchange of letters but still no agreement, BSRE filed suit demanding that Paramount be forced to remove their equipment and clean the site. Paramount then counter sued saying there is no detailed plan approved, there is no sale, there are no profits to share, so they can’t be forced to do any cleanup. In a further twist, Paramount claimed BSRE failed to "use its best efforts" to get the plan approved and demanded that the court invalidate the 2010 purchase agreement and return ownership of the property to Paramount.

Does BSRE finally admit defeat?

We found a very interesting allegation in Paramount’s counter suit. Paramount contends that “at the February 4th meeting, the BSRE representatives stated that BSRE did not expect to ever receive approval of a detailed plan, and that it was instead actively marketing the Property to third parties for industrial or other non-residential use". In a later reply, BSRE admitted that it stated that “it was uncertain that local government authorities would approve an economically viable detailed plan and that it was also considering other options."

Maybe BSRE has finally given up the idea of building a small city at the end of a two-lane road?? A big dose of caution here: we’ve seen multiple other instances in the long Point Wells saga where the parties did not agree on what was said in a meeting, but we can certainly hope this statement is accurate. It would be great news for the neighborhood.

The case will be heard in Snohomish County Superior Court. It should be entertaining to hear the arguments. No date has been set yet.



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Washington state Democrats shift to remote programming

In order to do our part to protect the health and safety of all Washingtonians, the Washington State Democratic Party has announced the following shifts to entirely remote programming through May 30th:

The Legislative District Caucuses used to select delegates to the state convention are now shifting to an entirely digital voting process that we will be working with our local party organizations to put in place. This process will be modeled after the procedure used to fill state legislative vacancies and will include all Precinct Committee Officers in each legislative district.

The deadline for candidates for delegate to complete their registration is Friday April 24th, so there’s still time to apply!

The Congressional District Caucuses will also be shifted to a similar remote voting process. We are still developing a digital process for the election of delegates to the national convention, but will work closely with any presidential campaign receiving delegates once they are allotted following the certification of the presidential primary election. As has always been the case, each presidential campaign retains the right of refusal over any person elected to serve as a delegate pledged to their campaign.

We have also recommended to all our county party organizations that they shift their county conventions to an entirely digital process or postpone their events originally scheduled for May 3rd. Any Legislative District Caucuses that were scheduled to take place at a county convention are included in our shift to a digital process for the April 26th Legislative District Caucuses.

Our organizing team is continuing with voter outreach, but shifting our tactics to meet voters where they are for the duration of these public health countermeasures: online, on the phones, or from a safe physical distance. Our state party has been a national innovator in organizing techniques for years, and adapting to these ever changing circumstances is just the latest challenge we’ll overcome.

“As Governor Inslee has told us, we all have a responsibility to do what we can to slow the spread of this virus that could overwhelm our healthcare system and result in thousands of deaths if we don’t all pull together and follow public health officials’ advice," said Washington State Democratic Party Chair Tina Podlodowski. 
"While we take every precaution to protect the health and safety of people across our state, our work to mobilize Democratic voters will not stop. Our team has shifted to an entirely remote organizing strategy for the duration of this difficult time, and we will not let this virus stop us from building community and empowering people to make their voices heard at the ballot box."

Washington State Democrats, 615 2nd Ave Suite 580, Seattle, WA 98104, (206) 583-0664



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Shoreline Preservation Society awarded grant to research Fircrest Chapel

Fircrest Chapel
Photo by Janet Way


The Shoreline Preservation Society is proud to announce they have been awarded a Special Projects Grant by 4Culture to research and nominate the Fircrest Chapel for Landmark Status!

The Fircrest Chapel (historically known as the Seattle Naval Hospital Chapel) was, according to U.S. Navy records, the very first freestanding Naval Hospital Chapel in America. It was built 1945 while the war still raged in the Pacific. It was designed largely by staff and situated on a peaceful hillside surrounded by fir trees.

Shoreline Preservation Society will be working closely with professional historians from Northwest Vernacular Northwest Vernacular, as well as others with expertise such as the Shoreline Historical Museum and Friends of Fircrest. They will be seeking input from the US Navy historians and members of the community who may have had family members who were staff or patients there during World War II.

The building is particularly beautiful and is largely intact from its original design. It is set off by its location amidst a lovely forest setting.

Fircrest School is now the home of many disabled people who receive services there and was also previously the TB Sanatorium after being relocated from Firlands (now CRISTA) in the late 1940's and early 1950's.

The property is owned by the the State Department of Natural Resources and Fircrest School is run by DSHS.

Shoreline Preservation Society is an all volunteer WA State Non-Profit that strives to work for preserving Shoreline's cultural and environmental assets for the benefit of current and future residents.




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Sunshine is a good reason to check out Shoreline's public art works

Interactive map here with information about each piece

If the sun isn't out, then know that Saturday April 25, 2020 is International Sculpture Day; which is also a good excuse to check out some of the 40+ public art and sculptures in the City of Shoreline. 

Some pieces are playful, some merely beautiful. Some provide deeper context and help create meaning. During the current pandemic and all its challenges, public art remains accessible.

Photo courtesy City of Shoreline
Visit John Zylstra's temporary sculpture at Town Center Park along Midvale and Aurora, "Tsunami Memorial," which has become a de facto shrine to a loved one lost to the virus, including several flower vases left at the base of the sculpture. 

Since the sculpture is a kind of ritual bell in honor of the people who died in the Tsunami disaster at Fukushima, Japan in 2011, it can double as a shrine to our collective grief.

As hard as it is to imagine the loss experienced by some in our community, it is revitalizing to see public art serves it greatest purpose, which is adoption by the community in unexpected and surprising ways that help affirm art's enduring capacity to provide solace during difficult times.

Here's the link to the map which shows the location of all the sculptures, and murals. Create your own art walk.



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Local area students to compete in virtual Destination Imagination competition

Nolan Walsh. Noah Anderson,  Dylan De Lacy, Michael  Usoltsev, and a staff member
The students toured the UW Seismology Lab


By Eilee Walsh
Photos by Natalia Usoltseva

Sixth grade students from King's Schools and Brighton Schools (Noah Anderson, Dylan Johnson De Lacy, Noah Hopkins, Michael Usoltsev, and Nolan Walsh) plan to compete in a virtual competition through Destination Imagination this May. Destination Imagination is a volunteer run, non-profit educational competition for elementary through college aged students.

Noah Hopkins finishing the painting of Soace Needle that
had been created as a prop for their presentation

In Destination Imagination, student groups choose a modern-day challenge to solve through their creativity and group collaboration. Through meeting and seeking to solve these challenges, they become prepared for success in facing 21st century challenges as citizens and professionally.

The four boys making props in the wood shop at Noah Hopkins' house


The King's/Brighton 6th grade group chose to learn about earthquakes and to focus on spreading the message about earthquake preparedness in their community. They researched the topic and toured the University of Washington seismology lab, learning about current research being done on the West Coast. Afterwards, they created a community presentation to teach what they had learned to others.

Working on props at the Hopkins' wood shop


To get the word out about a free presentation they would later give at the Edmonds Public Library, the group canvassed the town of Woodway with flyers that told about earthquakes, earthquake preparedness, and their upcoming presentation.

The boys give their presentation at the Edmonds Library


Later, during their community presentation at the library, a local insurance representative provided free emergency starter kits to attendees that included items like hand sanitizer, wind up flashlights, emergency blankets, and wet wipes. On the wave of this successful presentation, the kids presented the information to the students and staff at King's and Brighton schools.

They gave their presentation at both King's and Brighton schools


The group was set to compete earlier this spring in the Destination Imagination tournament to be held in Bellevue, but it was cancelled due to precautions around the coronavirus. Now the competition will be held virtually next month. The kids feel excited to be able to compete virtually, to show their creative solution, and all the work they put into the project.



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College wins part of $6.5 million grant to improve energy efficiency on campus

1600 building houses the Theatre
Photo courtesy SCC

Shoreline Community College will reduce its carbon dioxide emissions by the equivalent of 10,000 lbs per year thanks to a State Performance Improvement (SPI) grant awarded to the College by the State of Washington. 

The College is one of 16 state agencies and institutions that secured part of the SPI money, which is designated for projects that will result in higher efficiency and better environmental performance in state-owned buildings. 

Shoreline received $249,912 in grant funding.

Jason Francois, Director of Facilities and Capital Projects for the College, applied for the funding to help shift the College from a reliance on fossil fuels to natural gas. “Sustainability is of utmost importance to the College,” said Francois. “We’re thankful this grant will allow us to continue to make strides in our environmental stewardship.”

The College will focus its portion of the grant money on increasing energy efficiency in the 1600 building, which houses the campus theater.

“The funding will allow us to add controls, ducting, and better air distribution methods to make heating the 1600 building far more efficient,” said Francois. “Both the modern equipment and the better delivery of heated air will combine to reduce energy consumption in the 1600 building by almost 50%.”

The improvements created by the SPI grant are estimated to garner about $11 million in savings and reduce carbon emissions by 120,429 tons over the lifetime of the facility.

Learn more about Shoreline’s programs.



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Maybe I'll plant a tulip bed

Thursday, April 23, 2020

Photo by Seattle Poppy


I was going to plant a vegetable garden but maybe I'll just plant tulips instead. The edibles in my yard get eaten - by worms, raccoons, birds and squirrels - hardly ever by me.

And neither one of the deer herds (families? groups?) make it to my neighborhood, so the tulips would be safe.

I could have a mini Skagit Valley. Have to think about this....

--Diane Hettrick




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Tech Meet-up's presentation on the Epidemiology of COVID-19 available online

Marguerite Pappaioanou, DVM, PhD,
Captain USPHS (Retired)


On April 6, 2020 the North City Tech Meet-up held a virtual meeting on the epidemiology of COVID-19.

The speaker is an epidemiologist with over 35 years’ experience working to improve global and U.S.public health in the areas of disease surveillance, prevention, and control of emerging zoonotic and other infectious diseases, global health security, food safety and security, and antimicrobial resistance.

Marguerite Pappaioanou, DVM, PhD, Captain USPHS (Retired) has been volunteering her services to Public Health during this pandemic.

The recording of the meeting is on YouTube

The presentation slides can be seen HERE



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One Cup Coffee now offering delivery

One Cup Coffee on Aurora
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

One Cup Coffee at 16743 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline 98133 is now offering delivery service, so people can get their coffee fix even if they are quarantined at home, or if they are essential workers and can’t get out for a break, or whatever the circumstance. 

The delivery radius is roughly a 10-15 minute drive from the cafe (nominal delivery fee varies by distance), and there is no minimum order. 

Customers can literally order a cup of coffee and a pastry and have it delivered usually within 30-45 minutes.

Hours in the drive thru and for delivery are 7am - 3pm Mon - Sat and 7am - 1pm Sundays.

Visit www.onecupdelivers.com to place your order.



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Police activity on Burke Gilman Trail Thursday

Whispering Willow Park is a wetland
Photo by Jerry Pickard

From Lake Forest Park Police

Thursday morning there was police activity on the Burke Gilman Trail.

A concerned citizen advised that a suspicious individual was pushing a motorcycle (close to NE 165th St.)

When one of our Officers tried to make contact, the suspect dumped the motorcycle (that was later confirmed stolen) and ran toward Whispering Willow Park.

Patrol units from other police agencies assisted and a K9 track was set up. The track led through the creek area but the K9 could not locate the suspect.

The motorcycle was recovered and nobody got injured (just a couple of Officers soaked from the creek and the weather!!!).



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Case update April 23 - counts are too high to lessen social distancing



As of 11:59pm on April 22, there are 12,753 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Washington state, an increase of 259 cases in the last 24 hour period. There have been a total of 711 deaths.

Epidemiological data suggest that COVID-19 activity peaked in Washington at the end of March. While activity declined during early April, this decline may have slowed during the past week.

The public health system in Washington is currently responding to outbreaks of COVID-19 in long term care settings, homeless shelters, food processing plants and among agricultural workers.

The Department of Health has convened an expert group of modelers to analyze our epidemiologic data.

This group predicts with a high degree of confidence that relaxation of social distancing conditions to pre-covid-19 levels will result in a sharp increase in the numbers of cases after two weeks. 
The group also believes that current diagnosis counts are still too high to lessen social distancing measures within the next two weeks.

There are 19 people in the Shoreline Isolation and Recovery Center as of April 23.

Results by ZIP code


Shoreline:
  • 256 have positive results, at a rate of 454.1 per 100,000 residents
  • 35 (13.7%) have died due to illness, at a rate of 62.1 per 100,000 residents

Note that addresses are routinely updated and may change day-to-day as new information is gathered through case investigations. Total numbers may not add up since some records are missing zip-codes.

Lake Forest Park:
  • 26 have positive results, at a rate of 196.2 per 100,000 residents
  • 0 (0.0%) have died due to illness



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Fuzzy gold flower

Photo by Lee Lageschulte

Lee always manages to find beautiful things on her walks.

Jerry Pickard says they are a variety of tulip.

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Online class: Smart marketing


Register Today! Smart Marketing Online Class for Small Business Owners on 4/29

Join small business coach Maggie Karshner in this interactive 2-hour class via Zoom! Register online here or contact continuing-ed@shoreline.edu for more information.



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Ronald Commons Café still serving meals and has taken over PoPY's Café

Thursday's dinner at Ronald Commons

Ronald Commons Café (RCC) is still serving meals on Thursday Evening between 5:30pm - 6:30pm.

We are busy -- even with all the meals being “To Go” only. On April 16 we served 90 meals we prepared, and an additional 150 box-lunches supplied by the kitchens at Microsoft!

We are also making meals for Popy’s Cafe -- another community meal normally served at Prince Of Peace Lutheran Church. They closed their kitchen because of the coronavirus. 

We at RCC have picked up the 40-50 meals usually served there on Wednesday evenings.

We’re busy at RCC and we love it! Please pass the word: this mission is STILL ACTIVE! We are getting more creative with the To Go meals! April 23 menu will be Pulled Pork, Macaroni and Cheese, Salad and a fresh baked roll.

Ronald Commons Café is located behind Ronald United Methodist Church, 17839 Aurora Ave N, Shoreline, WA 98133. Entrance on Aurora.

--Bill Runte




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Rapid response in homeless shelters by public health experts




From Public Health Seattle and King County

New research details how a rapid response in homeless shelters by public health experts can help protect shelter clients and staff from COVID-19. Also, read about tips for keeping multigenerational families healthy at home.

By responding rapidly to clusters of illness in homeless shelters, Public Health—Seattle & King County is establishing a national model for containing the spread of COVID-19 illness.

Two research articles published today, April 22, by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describe how multi-disciplinary teams deployed by Public Health are helping homeless shelters to protect their residents and staff.

Public Health deploys rapid response teams to homeless service sites where there is a confirmed positive case of COVID-19 or a suspected cluster based on people with symptoms of COVID-19. These multi-disciplinary teams assess the level of current illness, assess the risk of further contagion, and connect service providers and residents with resources to identify illness and prevent further spread.

Each of these teams has an environmental health staff person who assesses the facility and provides recommendations to reduce risk, such as procedures to support adequate social distancing and infection control measures. In addition, clinical team members provide education on COVID-19, screen residents and staff for symptoms, facilitate testing of exposed residents and staff, provide access to resources such as thermometers and surgical masks, and make referrals to the county’s Isolation and Quarantine facilities and Assessment and Recovery Centers.

For additional testing, a separate Mobile Assessment Team or testing team from a partner organization is available to deploy to sites, based on the specific needs at each location. In the past month, approximately 1,500 residents and staff have been tested at facilities that have had at least one positive case of COVID-19.

Since February, Public Health has been proactively reaching out to sites without any confirmed or suspected illnesses, providing technical advice on infection control and social distancing. These assessments support facilities in accessing hygiene supplies such as wipes, masks and cleaning products through a shared warehouse ordering process.

For details on King County’s coordinated response to limit the harm of COVID-19 among people living homeless, see “Action Steps: Supporting King County residents experiencing homelessness.”




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Podcasts for Earth Day

Kathleen Scheier
Kathleen Scheier,VP, Standards and Practices—and the A+E Green Team Co-Chairwoman—recommends these podcasts for Earth Day.

Green Dreamer
Host Kamea Chayne interviews inspiring sustainability leaders, many of whom focus on restoring the health of our planet through ecological regeneration and intersectional sustainability.

Urban Farm
Offers information on urban farming topics like seed saving, composting, beekeeping and more through interviews with regenerative farmers and home gardeners from around the world.

The Energy Gang
Hosted by Greentech's Stephen Lacy, Katherine Hamilton and Jigar Shah, this is a weekly discussion about the latest news and trends in energy, clean tech, renewables and the environment.




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Free Course from Yale University “The Science of Well Being”

By Donna Hawkey

Yale University is offering the public a free online course, “The Science of Well Being,” through Coursera. 

The course was first taught at Yale in 2018 by Professor Dr. Laurie Santos. It has been so successful that it is the most popular course in their three-century history. With the COVID-19 virus, the interest in the class has skyrocketed while people try to navigate the many unknowns surrounding the pandemic.

This well-being approach not only informs through science based evidence, it also provides ways to implement this work into your daily life to make changes. It’s a 20-hour course, and there is no required homework, unless you want a certificate of completion.

It seems we should be preparing ourselves for a new “normal” way of life that will emerge from this crisis. Dr. Santos also has a popular podcast “The Happiness Lab,” and currently, she has added topics about dealing with COVID; such as how to help others, to sharing her own personal tips about keeping optimistic during this challenging time.

The Science of Well Being Course

The Happiness Lab




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Cosplay Costume Contest



Cosplay Costume Contest (All Virtual)
Call for Unique Cosplay Costumes

Submit your entries online, now through May 8th


Buff up those sewing machines, and heat up those hot glue guns - get creative at home. Design a unique cosplay costume, and be in to win prizes.

The Cosplay Costume Contest is an online contest where you can create your own unique cosplay costume. Whether you have been creating costumes for years, or this is something you are interested in beginning now, there is something for everyone. There are seven categories you can submit your costume in, and the final designs are judged to win 1st Prize, Runner-Up and an online crowd sourced People's Choice Award. Ages 13+ to enter.

Categories include: TV/Film, Comics/Video Games, Art History, Musician, Make-Up Design, Unconventional, and Recycled Material.

This needs to be a new costume that hasn't been submitted in any events previously.

Our judges will rate/review the submissions over the weekend of May 9-10. We need YOUR vote for the People's Choice Awards - voting will open online from 8am Saturday, May 9th, to 3pm, Sunday, May 10th. 

We will announce the winners via a live stream Sunday, May 10th, at 5pm PST across multiple platforms (winners will be posted afterwards).

Register online by Friday May 8th at 10pm PST, 2020. FREE to register.

Posting/sharing to social media? You can use #CosplayCostumeContest to help get the word out.

2020 jurors include Joell Posey Grager, Founder of the Seattle International Fashion Film Festival, Shane Dzicek, Special Effects Technician in Hollywood (Top Gun: Maverick, TENET), Mellicia Marx, Personal Stylist and Founder at Poplin Style Direction. More jurors to be announced!

Thank you to our sponsors for helping make this event possible: Recology and Emerald City Comic Con

The Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to cultivate creativity and inspire our community through the arts.



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Case updates April 22, 2020



Be careful with cleaning products: The Washington Poison Center (WAPC) urges people to be cautious with cleaning products during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to WAPC, the number of exposures to household cleaning products (bleach, soaps, detergents, and antiseptics) increased by 23% over the same time last year. Never mix cleaning products. You can easily create a toxic substance or gas.

Case updates as of April 22, 2020 

State
As of 11:59pm on April 21, there are 12,494 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Washington state, an increase of 212 cases in the last 24 hours.

A total of 692 deaths in the state.

King county
  • 70 new cases for a total of 5449 to date
  • 7 people died in King county in the past 24 hour period, bringing the total deaths to 379
  • 74 people currently staying in King County isolation, quarantine and recovery facilities.
Shoreline
  • 251 have positive results, at a rate of 445.3 per 100,000 residents
  • 34 (13.5%) have died due to illness, at a rate of 60.3 per 100,000 residents
Lake Forest Park
  • 24 have positive results, at a rate of 181.1 per 100,000 residents
  • 0 (0.0%) have died due to illness, at a rate of 0.0 per 100,000 residents
Note that addresses are routinely updated and may change day-to-day as new information is gathered through case investigations. Total numbers may not add up since some records are missing zip-codes.

Rates may not be representative due to the small numbers of people tested to date. The rates will change as more people are tested.



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Jobs at Shoreline Community College

Shoreline Community College is recruiting for the following positions:

Administrative Assistant 4 – HO/PE
Date of first consideration: May 4, 2020
https://bit.ly/3cz1rzd

Fiscal Analyst 3 – Financial Services/Budget
Date of first consideration: May 13, 2020
https://bit.ly/2znscs4


Interested applicants may apply at www.shoreline.edu/hr for our full-time and part-time positions. It’s easy to search for open positions using the search bar and filtering tools.



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Shoreline council to discuss Sustainability Report at Monday's meeting

Shoreline City Hall
Photo by Steven H. Robinson

The Shoreline City Council meeting for Monday, April 27, 2020 includes one study item:

Study Item 8(a) 2019 Sustainability Report

Council will discuss the first annual sustainability report that was released in March 2020. The core focus areas include: Climate, Water and Energy; Materials, Food and Waste; Transportation and Mobility; Trees, Parks and Ecosystems; and Resilient Communities.

A copy of the report is available HERE

The dinner meeting has been cancelled. The regular meeting at 7pm is virtual. Instructions for viewing and commenting here.

--Pam Cross



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Inslee and Ferguson joint statement on some public officials disregard of "Stay Home, Stay Healthy"

UPDATE: Franklin County Commissioners rescind resolution: After meeting with legal counsel in a Thursday morning meeting, Franklin County Commissioners rescinded their resolution from earlier that had said the county would not enforce the Governor’s Stay Home, Stay Health proclamation

Original story:

After the Snohomish county sheriff proclaimed that the Governor's Stay Home Stay Healthy order was unconstitutional and he wouldn't enforce it (see Seattle Times) and Franklin county (Pasco) commissioners voted to reopen businesses, Gov. Jay Inslee and Attorney General Bob Ferguson released a joint statement Wednesday.

“It is disappointing when elected officials promote illegal activity that puts their community’s well-being at risk. 
“People’s lives are deeply impacted by this crisis. We are working hard to turn the tide on COVID-19 and begin lifting restrictions. These decisions are guided by science. Our priority is keeping Washingtonians healthy. 
“The Governor’s Office sent a letter to Franklin County commissioners this morning making clear their action on Tuesday does not change the fact that businesses and residents in their county must follow the state’s emergency orders to keep everyone healthy. 
“We have discussed the statements made by the Snohomish County sheriff, and the Attorney General’s Office will be reaching out to Sheriff Fortney directly. 
“In both Franklin and Snohomish counties, the prosecutors have informed our office they agree the state’s orders are legal. The Snohomish County sheriff and the Franklin County Commission are misleading business owners and individuals in their jurisdictions, putting people’s health at risk and potentially putting them on the wrong side of the law. 
“These orders are legal, and they are working. Do not be misled by local officials who encourage you to risk your health and violate the law. Please continue to take care of yourself, your family and your neighbors.”

As of Tuesday, the Benton-Franklin Health District is reporting 220 positive cases of COVID-19 with three deaths in Franklin County.



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Sustainability and the City of Shoreline

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

From the City of Shoreline

As we navigate these unprecedented and uncertain times in our lives and as a community, we invite you to stay engaged in sustainability efforts.
In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day, the City of Shoreline recently released its first Sustainability Report with information on how the City is addressing sustainability and how you can do your part!

The report provides an overview of the City’s 2019 achievements for five core focus areas, and associated indicators, as outlined in the City’s Sustainable Shoreline program. The focus areas include:
  • Climate, Water and Energy;
  • Materials, Food and Waste;
  • Transportation and Mobility;
  • Trees, Parks and Ecosystems; and
  • Resilient Communities.

The City has a long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability. Programs related to waste reduction, green building, pollution prevention, and natural habitat have helped establish Shoreline as a regional leader in sustainability and climate action.

You can view the report and learn more about actions you can take in support of a Sustainable Shoreline at shorelinewa.gov/sustainability.



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Wildlife among us: Dinner for 5

Deer in North City
Photo by Cynthia Sheridan


This is the second photo I've received of this family group this week. They are obviously part of the 'happy the humans are gone' contingent who are partying in the woods!

I don't know what the deer population is but I know there are two groups. This one ranges from Lake Forest Park to I-5 and the other lives in The Highlands and wanders the streets of Innis Arden and areas inbetween, munching tulips as they go.

What's unusual is to see this entire herd out together. All previous sighting have been single animals.

Keep your cameras at the ready. I'm still waiting for bears. Your warning will be your dogs, who will go into a complete, barking frenzy like nothing you've ever heard before.

--Diane Hettrick



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Case updates April 21, 2020


Washington state

As of 11:59 p.m. on April 20, there are 12,282 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Washington state, an increase of 197 cases in the last 24 hours.

Visit the Department of Health's website for cases by county, demographics, and more.

A total of 682 deaths in the state, to date.

King county reports 86 new cases and 12 deaths.

  • 5379 positive results
  • 372 deaths

Shoreline

  • 245 positive results
  • 34 deaths

Lake Forest Park

  • 24 positive results
  • 0 deaths


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Kiwanis Youth Law Enforcement Career Camp cancelled

Due to the current circumstances and with the health and safety of those involved being the biggest priority, the 43rd Annual Kiwanis Camp scheduled for August has been cancelled. 

This decision was not made easily and the staff and volunteers who make this event happen every year are disappointed, but understand the need for social distancing and reducing the spread of Covid-19.

Kiwanis Camp is an opportunity for Washington State high school juniors and seniors with an interest in law enforcement as a career to have an opportunity to spend a week during the summer learning about the roles and job opportunities within law enforcement.

The purpose of the camp is to provide selected high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to explore various job opportunities in the law enforcement field. Students are given a hands-on experience on the WSP drive-course and tactical firing range and will get to work with forensics, SWAT, communications, K-9 and many other police functions. 

Additionally, students will have exposure to law enforcement problems and challenges officers encounter on a daily basis and to show how to successfully handle situations in a professional manner.

Police departments from around the state provide officers as staff members to instruct and serve as counselors. Guest speakers from various agencies provide first-hand information to the students. This gives the students a variety of experiences and exposure to federal, state, county and local law enforcement as a possible career path. Many students who attend this week-long camp go on to have careers in the criminal justice field.

The organizers are excited to begin planning for next year’s event.



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The Y offers full day child care at two Shoreline locations with no cost to first responders

YMCA child care in Shoreline
The Y has been working in partnership with King County Public Health, Department of Children Youth and Families, and local school districts to find ways to support working families who need child care.

The Y is offering full-day camps at the Dale Turner Family YMCA and Ridgecrest Elementary School. 

There are a limited number of slots available at each location.

It is the intention of The Y to prioritize care for families of first responders, health care providers of direct services, and parents/guardians who need to work.

The City of Shoreline has just approved a $15,000 grant to help the Y with the program costs. The Y is also taking donations.

TO REGISTER

Use the links below to register for programs by location:

A page with Visual Instructions will assist with registration. This is a NEW process to allow flexibility for families by providing daily options. If you have any questions, email registration@seattleymca.org.

FEE
Daily fee is $45 and includes full-day programming, AM and PM snack and lunch, swimming (pending). Financial assistance is available. First payment is required at the time of registration.

First responders and health care providers of direct services will have $0 fees for this program. Send an email to registration@seattleymca.org before registering to receive your special coupon code.

PREVENTATIVE HEALTH PRACTICES
  • Anyone who is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 will be required to remain home.
  • Wellness check will be conducted for all staff and youth before attending program, including a temperature check. Anyone with 100.0F degree or higher will not be allowed to remain.
  • Ongoing cleaning will be scheduled during the day, especially in common areas.
  • Frequent handwashing and use of hand sanitizers.
  • Nightly disinfectant cleaning will be done as an additional measure.
  • During the program hours, youth will be organized in small groups (9 youth and 1 staff) and rotate for activities as part of social distancing and meet the developmental needs of youth.
  • Parents/Guardians will be dropping off and picking up at the entrance and not allowed to access the program space.

The Y is located at south Echo Lake on Aurora near N 192nd.

Ridgecrest Elementary is located at 16516 10th Ave NE, Shoreline

Both facilities are closed for their regular activities during the COVID-19 response.


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I can understand closing restaurants, thought Phoebe,

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler


but did they have to shutter the nail salons? Crikey, look at these!

--Gloria Z Nagler




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Two Shoreline transportation construction projects considered essential and will continue

The City of Shoreline is currently working on two transportation construction projects that are at critical stages with weather-dependent construction schedules.

Contractors are required to ensure appropriate COVID-19 protection measures are in place for workers and the general public.

These projects are exempt from the Governor's Stay Home, Stay Healthy order because they further a public purpose. The projects are: Westminster Way N and N 155th Street intersection project and the 15th Avenue overlay project.

See previous article on the 15th Avenue overlay project and on the Westminster Way project



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Westminster Way and N 155th intersection improvements



The City has begun construction of the Westminster Way N and N 155th Street Intersection Improvements Project. 

The project will reconstruct the intersection of Westminster Way N and N 155th Street, adding a new traffic signal, new lane configuration, new pedestrian facilities and utility work. 

Improvements are required to provide a safer intersection for all users and to support redevelopment of the Shoreline Place Community Renewal Area (CRA) and adjacent properties. 

An increased number of pedestrians and bicyclists are expected in this area and the improved intersection will help everyone move through safely. The improved intersection will also enhance the flow of traffic and support projected traffic volumes.

Project Scope:
  • New traffic signal
  • Revised intersection geometry and lane configuration
  • New asphalt roadway surface
  • New pedestrian facilities (sidewalks, curb ramps, crosswalks)
  • New roadway illumination system
  • New landscaping
  • New storm drain system
  • New sanitary sewer line
  • Extension of existing water main
  • New water service connections to existing water main
  • Other dry utility work (Joint Utility Trench (JUT) work)


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Supplemental weekend food support for Shoreline residents

Are you a Shoreline resident in need of weekend food support? 


If your family needs additional food that you are unable to access elsewhere, some weekend food bags are available for home delivery. Food bags will not have all ingredients for complete meals, but will include non perishable items for the weekend such as pasta, canned foods, jar of peanut butter, box of cereal, or similar items.

Call 206-385-9385 by 5:00pm on Wednesdays to request a free home food bag delivery. Deliveries will be made on Friday afternoons between 12:30pm and 4pm.

The phone line is available Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm. Requests made after 5pm on Wednesdays will be scheduled for the following weekend.

If you would like to volunteer to deliver meals email shorelineptapres@gmail.com

This program is provided in partnership with Hunger Intervention Program, Hopelink, Sound Generations, Shoreline PTA Council, and the City of Shoreline.



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Photo: Salmonberry flower

Photo by Jo Simmons


Jo Simmons photographed a salmonberry flower on the Hidden Lake Trail




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Gov. Inslee discusses recovery plan

Screenshot from Gov. Inslee's presentation


Gov. Jay Inslee spoke directly to Washingtonians Tuesday evening to lay out his vision for the eventual safe return to public life amid the COVID-19 outbreak.

Inslee said it is unlikely many restrictions under the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order will be modified before May 4. Rather, this plan is intended to be a framework for the loosening of restrictions contingent on a steady decrease of the spread of COVID-19.

“It will look more like a turn of the dial than a flip of the switch,” Inslee said in the address. “We’re going to take steps and then monitor to see whether they work or if we must continue to adapt.”

Depending on health projections for the spread of the virus, some distancing restrictions may be in place for weeks or months to come.

“In the coming days, we will receive additional health modeling projecting the course of this virus,” Inslee said. “We hope it will give us cause to begin lifting certain restrictions.”

The return to public life will occur in measured steps. It will be guided by science and informed by our public health needs, our ability to mitigate impacts, and the response of Washington communities.

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




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