Cartoon by Whitney Potter: Annual check up

Wednesday, May 13, 2020



Cartoons by Whitney Potter can be seen by clicking
on "cartoon" in the features list on the front page



Read more...

LFP City Council Thursday


City of Lake Forest Park
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING

Thursday, May 14, 2020
7:00 p.m.

Meeting to be Held Virtually

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/94495365380
Meeting ID: 944 9536 5380

City Hall is Closed to the Public


Resolution 1772
Authorizing Mayor to Sign Water Works Program Grant Agreement with King County for $45,000 in Funding to Conduct Riparian Restoration along a Section of McAleer Creek.

The City Administrator reports that Chuck Fisher has retired as of April 30; he was a 14 Year member of the Public Works team. With the hiring freeze, we will not be filling the position until it has lifted which means that some repair work may not be accomplished this year. 



Read more...

Pramila Jayapal online town hall Wednesday 5pm


From Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal
U.S. Representative (WA-07)

The impacts of this pandemic have been devastating: more than 17,000 confirmed cases and 945 deaths here in Washington, and more than 33 million unemployed across the nation.

In recent weeks, it has become clear that communities of color have been among the hardest hit, experiencing higher rates of infection and unemployment as well as significant challenges accessing federal relief programs like the Paycheck Protection Plan (PPP).

And, like you, I have been heartbroken by the spike of hate and violence directed at our Asian American and Pacific Islander neighbors.

That’s why my next online briefing on the coronavirus will focus specifically on its impact on communities of color. I hope you will join me for this important conversation tomorrow (Wednesday, May 13th) at 5 pm PT.

I will be joined by three special guests:
  • Michael Byun, Executive Director of Asian Counseling and Referral Service
  • Glenn Harris, President of Race Forward
  • Dr. Leo Morales, Professor and Chief Diversity Officer, UW School of Medicine

Please join us. You can watch live at facebook.com/repjayapal or dial in at (929) 205-6099, passcode 849-1875-3964#



Read more...

Jobs: Shoreline Community College

Shoreline Community College is recruiting for the following positions:

Fiscal Analyst 3 – Financial Services/Budget

Date of first consideration: May 18, 2020

Description and application


Fiscal Specialist Supervisor – Financial Services/Budget

Date of first consideration: June 1, 2020

Description and application


Interested applicants may apply HERE for our full-time and part-time positions. It’s easy to search for open positions using the search bar and filtering tools.




Read more...

Poster contest: We are Puget Sound


In partnership with Seattle-based independent publisher Mountaineers Books, KCLS has launched the all-ages We Are Puget Sound poster contest, which runs from May 11-June 12.

The contest is open to all ages, with three categories:
  • Kids (ages 5-12).
  • Teens (ages 13-18).
  • Adults (19 and up).
Rules:
  • Three winners will be chosen in each category.
  • One entry per person.
  • Open to King County residents only.
  • Winners will be announced on June 26.


Read more...

Flags at half-staff May 15

Flag Lowering - 5/15/20 (Peace Officers Memorial Day)

Governor Inslee hereby directs that Washington State and United States flags at all state agency facilities be lowered to half-staff on Friday, May 15, 2020, in recognition of the annual Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Flags should remain at half-staff until close of business or sunset on May 15, 2020.

Other government entities, citizens and businesses are encouraged to join this recognition.

Please call 360-902-0383 if you have any questions about this flag lowering.




Read more...

FedEx Flash Sale for businesses planning their reopening



The FedEx Office in Aurora Village has a sale this week on signage for businesses planning their reopenings under the new COVID-19 rules.

Store manager Marc Orozco says they have outdoor/indoor banners that are usually $99 marked down to $30. They have yard signs, business cards, and flyers that are all on sale.

We can even make social distancing floor stickers and all kinds of other products to help local businesses get started up again.

See a team member for details, either in-store or online. Valid to 5/18.

FedEx Office Print and Ship Center
1145 N 205th St, Shoreline, WA 98133. 206-546-7600






Read more...

Case update May 12, 2020 - Governor announces contact tracing initiative

Cases by county

17,330 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Washington state, an increase of 208 cases in the last 24 hours.

Contact tracing initiative: Gov. Jay Inslee announced the launch of a statewide contact tracing plan today that will allow more businesses to open and more people to be active in public while helping to slow and prevent the spread of COVID-19. This is another tool in the toolbox for tackling COVID-19 in Washington. Local health departments will lead these efforts while the state Department of Health and its partners will support this work.

The information collected is only used by public health professionals and is confidential. It will not be shared. Contacts will not be told the name of the person who may have exposed them to COVID-19. Read the rest of the story on the governor's Medium page.

Case updates

United States
  • 1,342,594 includes 18,106 new Cases since yesterday
  • 80,820 deaths includes 1,064 deaths since yesterday
Washington state
  • 17,330 known cases
  • 962 deaths
King county
  • 7,179 known cases
  • 511 deaths
Shoreline
  • 327 known cases
  • 51 deaths
Lake Forest Park
  • 30 known cases
  • 0 deaths


Read more...

And some are born (well, o.k., hatched) to lead!

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler


Baby mallards follow the leader





Read more...

Get tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms or have been exposed

COVID-19 testing is a key strategy for reducing the spread of the virus in our community.

Public Health – Seattle and King County is now recommending that anyone who has COVID-19 symptoms or close contact with someone who has COVID-19 be tested right away.

Testing as soon as possible after symptoms appear is important to prevent COVID-19 from spreading to family, friends, and the community.

Previously, due to supply shortages, Washington state prioritized testing for people most at risk for severe illness, healthcare providers and first responders. 

Now, Washington State Department of Health has expanded the criteria for who should be tested, and supplies of testing kits and personal protective equipment are increasing.

According to Dr. Puneet Dewan who is coordinating the COVID-19 testing efforts for Public Health, anyone who is experiencing even mild COVID-like symptoms should isolate themselves away from others and call their healthcare provider. 

Getting tested as soon as possible is important to help stop the spread of COVID-19. The most concerning symptoms are cough or shortness of breath. But if you have two or more of the following symptoms, you should also call to be evaluated for a test: Fever, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell

It is important to isolate yourself as soon as you develop symptoms, even before you are tested, because if you have COVID-19, you are already contagious.

If you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, it’s important to take action quickly and follow the instructions on the “What to do” factsheet. People who live in the same household or are in close contact with anyone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 should also be tested, even if they don’t have symptoms.

Most testing is completed through healthcare providers. You should call your healthcare provider if you feel sick, live in the same household as someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, or have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19. 

If you need to be tested and don’t have a provider who can do the test, please don’t delay. Call the King County COVID-19 call center, which is open 7 days a week 8 AM – 7 PM, at 206-477-3977.

Additional testing sites are becoming available for people who do not have access. Currently this includes:

If you don’t have a healthcare provider or insurance, it’s good to get connected before you get sick. You can call Public Health’s access line (1-800-756-5437) for help, or learn more online at Washington Healthplanfinder

Enrollment is open any time if you lose your job or experience other major life events.

More information about testing HERE



Read more...

Notes from Shoreline City Council meeting May 11, 2020

Pam Cross, Reporter

Shoreline City Council Meeting
May 11, 2020
Notes by Pam Cross

Pursuant to Governor Inslee’s Proclamation 20-28, in an effort to curtail the spread of the COVID-19 virus, Shoreline City Council Meetings will take place online using the Zoom platform and the public will not be allowed to attend in-person. You may watch a live feed of the Meeting online; join the Meeting via Zoom Webinar; or listen to the Meeting over the telephone.

Mayor Hall called the meeting to order at 7:00pm

Roll call. City Councilmembers participated in the meeting remotely by calling into an online video conference. Councilmember Chang was excused for personal reasons.

Proclamation

On behalf of the City Council, the Mayor declared May 16, 2020 Armed Services Appreciation Day in the City of Shoreline. This proclamation acknowledges the important sacrifices that members of the United States military and their families make to our City and nation to ensure freedom and liberty for all citizens.

Proclamation

On behalf of the City Council, the Mayor declared May 2020 as Mental Health Awareness Month. This proclamation recognizes the prevalence of mental illness and the significant impact it has on many individuals and families. The City of Shoreline provides support for individuals experiencing mental health impacts by providing funding to the Center for Human Services Behavioral Health Program which provides services on a sliding fee scale.

Report of the City Manager Debbie Tarry

Governor Inslee’s Stay Home, Stay Safe order has been extended to May 31st. No gatherings are allowed and City Hall and recreation facilities remain closed to the public. All public and private gatherings are prohibited. Playgrounds, sports courts, picnic shelters, and ball fields remain closed. The Richmond Beach Saltwater Park parking lot also remains closed. Continue to practice social distancing while walking or visiting city parks.

Governor Inslee has announced the start of Phase 1 Reopening. This phase allows retail with outside pickup, car washes, auto sales, landscaping, and current construction. This allows construction work which can be performed only by meeting social distancing requirements.

If you need help:
  • Hopelink Food Bank and Supplemental Weekend Food Support are food resources
  • Statewide moratorium on evictions
  • Utilities will remain on
  • Unemployment benefits have been expanded
  • Health Benefits Exchange is enrolling
  • Call 211 for other resources
  • You can sign up for email alerts at shorelinewa.gov/alerts
  • There is a dedicated COVID-19 webpage: shorelinewa.gov/covid also shorelinewa.gov/c19bizresponse
  • City Social Media Facebook@shorelinewa and Twitter@shorelinewagov

Safety Alert! Railroad Tracks are off limits!
Because of the closure of the parking lot at Richmond Beach Saltwater Park, some people are crossing the tracks for easier access. It is extremely dangerous and against the law to cross the tracks on foot. Trains travel in both directions and take about a mile to stop. Use ONLY allowed crossings. Police are conducting emphasis patrols.

Due to health and safety guidelines, summer celebrations, neighborhood events, and recreation classes have been cancelled. The City is working to create new events.

Summer camps are being redesigned for a limited number of participants. The current camp registrations will be cancelled and refunded, and new registration will be offered.

Growing a Healthy Lawn: Free Virtual Class

This interactive free class will be offered Wednesday May 13th at 7:00pm and Saturday May16th at 11:00am. Learn how to create and maintain a healthy, environmentally friendly lawn. Registration is required. Go to shorelinewa.gov/calendar

Council Reports

Deputy Mayor Scully -The Continuum of Care Advisory Board has unanimously seated three members to the newly formed Executive Board. Two alternates were also selected. These members currently are or have previously experienced housing instability.

Councilmember McConnell is on the Association of Washington Cities’ (AWC) nominating committee for new board members. Current COVID-19 concerns could have slowed the process but video conferencing allows AWC to continue to have meetings.

The National League of Cities has launched the Cities are Essential campaign calling for $500 billion in direct federal aid and economic relief from the COVID-19 pandemic over the next two years to help our cities respond, recover, and reopen.

Public Comment (remotely)

General Raymond W. Coffey
General Coffey, as a Major General in the United States Army Volunteer Reserve, on behalf of the United States Armed Forces, thanked the Mayor and Council for the proclamation for Armed Forces Day.

Kara Pomeroy
Save Shoreline Trees. Requested saving trees on N 155th and N 160th off of Dayton Ave N.

Kathleen Russell
Save Shoreline Trees. Requested saving trees on N 155th and N 160th off of Dayton Ave N.

The agenda was approved unanimously

The Consent Calendar was adopted, without discussion, unanimously.

8(a)1 Discussion of the 2019 Police Service Report

A copy will soon be available on the City of Shoreline’s website. This annual report contains information on goals, crime statistics, police data and other information relevant to public safety.

Police Chief Shawn Ledford did the presentation.

Chief Ledford provided a summary of the data available in the report, beginning with the PD organizational chart. He went on to talk about the number of dispatch calls and average response times.

He talked about North Sound RADAR (Risk Awareness, De-escalation and Referral). Shoreline partners with the cities of Bothell, Lake Forest Park, Kirkland and Kenmore. This program is designed to meet the needs of individuals with behavioral health issues, substance abuse, and/or housing instability. It has been shown to be effective in reducing use of force and in better connecting individuals with services.

The police department continues to focus on safety in the schools and in the parks. Emphasis patrols have been started in RB Salt Water Park, Echo Lake, and the Interurban Trail using regular and motorized bikes. Traffic safety is another focus, with attention to high speed areas, high collision areas, and school zones.

In compliance with new FBI regulations, the department is converting the way property crimes are measured. When there is a single incident, multiple crimes may have been committed. With prior reporting, only the most serious crime was recorded as the incident. New statistics will include all crimes committed in a single incident. This will have the result of better capturing the actual crimes committed, but in the short-run, will artificially inflate the total number of crimes.

The Chief provided the following example: if someone breaks into a house, assaults the homeowner, takes a wallet from somebody else in the residence, and then steals a car from the garage, the old system would have recorded it as robbery (the most serious offense). The new system will include burglary, assault, robbery, and auto theft.

7 of the 10 top locations making repeat calls are retailers reporting shoplifting and trespassing. The police department is working with retailers to address this frequency by encouraging stores to call the police before the suspect leaves the store (and the actual crime is committed), and suggesting the use of safeguards to make it more difficult for the suspect to leave the store. (An example that came up in the discussion is Fred Meyer putting alcoholic beverages in a location with limited access and a separate cashier.)

Finally, hiring and retaining police officers is difficult. The department is working to connect officers with services if needed. They are also getting away from the thinking that getting help is a weakness.

Discussion

The department has offered Nurturing Trust workshops in order to reach out to the community. They should consider contacting the Shoreline School District as well as working with the PTA in order to reach a broader audience.

The new reporting system is a laudable. There appears to be an increase in aggravated assault. Is this a trend or a reporting issue?

Response: probably a reporting issue because in the past, an incident would have been reported as a robbery without including the assault.

How has Stay Home, Stay Safe affected crime?

Response: there has been no significant change in Shoreline. This includes domestic violence and trespass.


8(b)2 Discussing 2020 City Sponsored Summer Events and Programs
Eric Friedli, Director of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services, did the presentation

The bad news: City sponsored events have been cancelled for the summer.
The good news: the City will be able to offer at least something this summer.

Washington’s phased approach to re-opening limits the activities that can be offered. The state is currently under Phase 1 which provides limited allowances for fishing, golf, and boating. The hope is to get to Phase 2 soon. But it will permit outdoor recreation and gatherings of fewer than 5 people outside a household.

As a result, the City has cancelled all normal neighborhood events and camps. We are working on a different approach based on guidelines for social distancing and other limitations of the Stay Home, Stay Healthy order.

We have brainstormed several new events including a bingo game involving locating things in the City, a “can castle” event in front yards (the canned food would be picked up for donation), theme days, yard signs, and a virtual scavenger hunt. We want to begin activities in the next two weeks and continue throughout the summer.

Currently we hope to begin camp events June 22 and run through the second or third week of August. Right now we are planning groups of 8 campers with 2 staff. We are trying to be as creative as we can within the limitations of Stay Home, Stay Healthy.

Discussion

It was disappointing that the camps had to be cancelled because they are so important to the community. There are currently 2,600 enrollees. What is the capacity of the new camps? Who will be given priority for registration?

Response: the capacity will be a little under 1,000. The registered-on- scholarships will be first, followed by the registered, then Shoreline residents, then Lake Forest Park residents, and finally the general public

What if the restrictions lift. Can we increase the camp activities?

Response: It would be a challenge. There is a lot involved in getting the equipment, making the commitments, ongoing sanitizing and so forth. Employees tried thinking of different activities but most were not realistic.

The City will work with the Council of Neighborhoods to identify possible neighborhood activities.

Another consideration was movie nights viewed from your car. But they need to consider technical aspects, selecting a movie, permission to show it, location and other costs involved. It remains a possibility.

This is a conservative approach. But it is also the responsible approach. If we weigh maximum risk versus maximum safety, safety has to prevail.

Meeting adjourned.



Read more...

Poem: Photo The Rhodora

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

The Rhodora
Rhododendron canadensePhoto by Wayne Pridemore


On being asked, Whence the flower ? 


In May, when sea-winds pierce our solitudes,

I found the fresh Rhodora in the woods,

spreading its leafless blooms in damp nook,

to please the desert and sluggish brook.


by Ralph Waldo Emerson 1834

Rhododendron canadense
Photo by Wayne Pridemore




Read more...

Monday's sunrise

Photo by Mike Remarcke


A spectacular sunrise over the Cascades Monday morning. Happy there was a photographer awake at 5:30am to capture it.




Read more...

Deer touring Ridgecrest - last seen in Northcrest Park

Screenshot from video of deer in Ridgecrest
Video by Patty Hale



If your browser will not allow you to see the video, go to Facebook and the Ridgecrest Neighborhood Association.


The Lake Forest Park deer family -  A buck, a doe and a set of last years fawns - have managed to get safely across 15th NE and have been touring Ridgecrest.

Ridgecrest resident Patty Hale got excellent footage of them when they browsed through her yard early Monday morning.

These area residents (dad, mom and set of 1 year old twins) came into my yard this morning at about 7:45am for a short visit. Since they did not have face masks, they followed 6 foot physical distancing rule and did not get too close to me. 
I had heard that this family was making the rounds in the neighborhood. So glad I was out doing early garden chores and had my phone with me. 
I live in the Ridgecrest Neighborhood on 8th Ave NE and my yard abuts Northcrest Park on 2 sides. My property has been registered with Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife as a Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary for 35 years. I normally see lots of birds, some raccoons, an opossum or two and an occasional coyote - but this was a first!

Correction - last seen in Northcrest Park in Shoreline. Northacres Park is in north Seattle.

Read more...

Candidate forum sponsored by 46th District Democrats on Zoom Wednesday

Wednesday, May 13, Candidates Forum 
5:30 pm (please note time!!)
Sponsored by 46th District Democrats

This Wednesday's event kicks off with Hilary Franz, Commissioner of Public Lands.

We will then move into the Candidates Forum where we have invited the three declared candidates running for Lieutenant Governor (US Representative Denny Heck, and State Senators, Steve Hobbs and Marko Liias).

After that we will hear from candidates who wish to speak to us for the other statewide offices, judicial candidates, and state legislative candidates.

Great opportunity to meet and hear from the candidates.

The Zoom link for 5-13-2020 is below:

Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/948880220

Meeting ID: 948 880 220



Read more...

Harbinger of summer

Flower and Photo by Jan Hansen


This beautiful orange rose may be a harbinger of summer - or a sign that it quickly took advantage of a couple of days of heat and summer is over and done with.

Yet to be determined but this rose is beautiful while it lasts.




Read more...

Firefighters in trees

Simulation of someone needing to be rescued from a tree

First of all, if your cat is stuck in a tree, don't call the fire department. Not their job. Instead call Canopy Cat Rescue.



However, if your arborist, child, husband or any other human gets stuck in a tree, call the fire department.



Shoreline Fire department is training for the latter scenario all this week on the CRISTA campus on Fremont Ave N.

Photos courtesy Shoreline Fire



Read more...

Dembowski: King county residents will be directed to wear face coverings in most public settings.

Face masks
Photo and masks by S Betnel


From County councilmember Rod Dembowski

Our local public health officials in King County just announced that beginning next Monday (May 18, 2020) most residents will be directed to wear face coverings in most public settings.

This means we must wear a face covering at any indoor or outdoor public space where we may be within 6 feet of someone who does not live in our homes. 

A face covering is not needed if we are outside walking, exercising, or otherwise outdoors and able to maintain the six-foot distancing guidelines.

Here are some of the places where we are being strongly urged to wear face coverings:
  • Buses, light rail, and other forms of public transportation.
  • Stores that sell food and beverages, including: grocery stores, pharmacies, corner stores, convenience stores, liquor stores, farmers’ markets, food banks, farm and produce stands, supermarkets, and big box stores that sell groceries.
  • Retail stores, including: convenience stores, pet supply stores, auto supplies and repair shops, hardware and home improvement stores, garden stores that sell supplies for growing food, office supply stores, and home appliance stores.
  • Restaurant take-out and food businesses. Employees who prepare, carry out, and deliver food must wear masks.
  • Cannabis, tobacco, and vapor shops and stores that sell dietary supplements. 

Health officers want to stress that they are asking us to wear face coverings. Wear fabric face coverings, such as cloth face masks, scarves, and bandanas. It is important to save medical-grade surgical masks and N95 respirators for healthcare workers and people who have special health needs.

Some people do not need to follow this directive, including:
  • Children ages 2 years and younger. Babies and toddlers under age two should never wear cloth face coverings. Children between 2 and 12 should only wear a face covering if a parent or caregiver supervises to make sure it’s worn safely.
  • Anyone with a disability that makes it hard for them to wear or remove a face covering.
  • Anyone who is deaf and moves their face and mouth to communicate.
  • Anyone who has been advised by a medical professional to not wear a face covering because of personal health issues.
  • Anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, or unable to remove the face covering without help. 

Individuals are strongly urged to comply with this Directive. There is no criminal, civil, or financial penalty for failing to wear a face covering in these settings.

Businesses and individuals must continue to follow all existing COVID-19 orders from the Local Health Officer, Governor, or other local, state, or federal regulatory agencies, and any other relevant local, state, or federal civil rights laws. 

In addition, businesses are required to post signage advising individuals to wear face coverings on the premises. Businesses can download a sign that can be used for this purpose HERE

Let’s all continue to do our part. We are literally saving lives.




Read more...

Purple posies #1

Photo by Steven H. Robinson


Centaurea montana (Mountain Cornflower)
From Steve Robinson's yard






Read more...

Shoreline gardener finds arrowhead

Photo courtesy Heather

Shoreline resident Heather and her son were digging in their back yard Sunday evening when Heather made an unexpected find: an arrowhead!

Heather says, "I'm waiting to hear back from the Burke Museum about its potential history but in the meantime is a pretty neat local find, right in my own backyard!"

We'll keep you posted.


Read more...

Governor approves three more counties to move to Phase 2


Governor Jay Inslee has approved three more counties to move to Phase 2. 

They are:
  • Stevens
  • Wahkiakum
  • Skamania 

Phase 2 guidelines will be released soon. At that point, Phase 2 businesses and activities can resume in approved counties. 

More on phases HERE 



Read more...

Case updates May 11, 2020

COVID-19 deaths in Washington state, by county


United States
  • 1,324,488 known cases
  • 79,756 deaths
Washington state
  • 17,122 known cases
  • 945 deaths
King county
  • 7,115 known cases
  • 505 deaths
Shoreline
  • 324 known cases
  • 50 deaths
Lake Forest Park
  • 29 known cases
  • 0 deaths



Read more...

Be the Light car parade honors King's Class of 2020

On Friday, May 8, 2020 at 20:20 military time, parents, grandparents, friends, and graduates of the King's High School graduating class of 2020 lined up for a car parade.

The celebratory parade honored three very special groups that have been deeply affected by the Covid 19 pandemic:

  1. The King’s Senior Class of 2020
  2. The participants, coaches, advisors and families of spring programs cut short by closures and cancellations. These include King’s Soccer, CyberKnights Robotics, Golf, Speech and Debate, Orchestra, Tennis, Baseball, Track and Field, DECA, Mock Trial, Living Faith, Musical and KHS Live.
  3. Residents and staff of CRISTA Senior Living – our campus neighbors who are at an elevated risk due to the coronavirus and the heroes that are serving and supporting our residents.

Highlights of the parade included:
King's graduation parade
Photo by Pam Cross


  • Drive by of CRISTA Rehab and Skilled Care to greet and encourage the residents there.
  • Drive down 190th Ave. past the stadium and around Mike Martin Gym greeting some of your teachers along with spring coaches and advisors.
  • The stadium lights and scoreboard will be lit in honor of our three honored groups.

Throughout the parade there were signs honoring and recognizing the 105 graduates of the King’s Class of 2020 as well as all the spring programs.


 
The parade finished with a lap around Cristwood Park to greet and encourage the residents there. 



Read more...

Inslee issues guidance for partially resuming the dine-in restaurant and tavern industry in Phase 2

Gov. Jay Inslee issued guidance today for partially resuming the dine-in restaurant and tavern industry for counties granted variance under the Safe Start Phase 2 recovery plan laid out last week.

Through the Washington "Safe Start" plan, more businesses and activities will re-open in subsequent phases with adequate safety and health standards in place. 

Each phase will be at least three weeks — metrics and data will guide when the state can move from one phase to another.

Through the Safe Start approach, counties with a population of less than 75,000 that have not had a new case of COVID-19 in the past three weeks can apply for a variance to move to Phase 2 of “Safe Start” before other parts of the state. 

County variance applications will be approved or denied by the secretary of the Department of Health. Eight counties have received the variance.

For counties granted variance to move to Phase 2, restaurant operations may resume with limitations after meeting specific criteria, effective May 11, 2020.

"No restaurant or tavern may operate indoor or sit-down services until they can meet and maintain all requirements, including providing materials, schedules and equipment required to comply," the guidance states.

Guidance documents:


Read more...

How to file for precinct committee officer

Candidates for Republican and Democratic precinct committee officer in each of the dozens of precincts around Shoreline and Lake Forest Park can file for positions on the August primary ballot through the King County election office in Renton. 

King County offers information for PCO candidates HERE

Candidates can file online through Friday, May 15, at 4pm or by mail that must reach the county elections office by 4pm Friday.

There is no filing fee for PCO candidates.

Candidates for PCO can file online at this site

PCO candidates can file by mail with this Declaration of Candidacy

With the King County elections office closed this week, there is no in-person filing.

--Evan Smith



Read more...

No sweat garden box

Monday, May 11, 2020

Photo by Steven H. Robinson


Garden box on NE 170th




Read more...

Local restaurant serves hot dinners to tent city residents

Thea Wright of Jersey's Great Food with a table
of hot dinners for Camp United We Stand residents


Story and photos by Cynthia Knox

On Saturday night, Jersey's Great Food and Spirits restaurant cosponsored and delivered individually boxed full hot dinners to the residents at Camp United We Stand tent city, currently located at St. Dunstan's Church in Shoreline.

Husband and wife Brian Patneaude and Thea Wright
own Jersey's Great Food and Spirits


The event came about when unnamed local donors contacted wife and husband owners Thea Wright and Brian Patneaude and proposed a partnership to provide a Mother's Day weekend meal to local folks living outdoors without reliable access to a kitchen.

Despite the hardship of reduced sales due to current stay-at-home orders, Brian and Thea were delighted to be invited to participate, and offered to significantly subsidize the cost of the menu items to be served.

Thea sets out the condiments


These days all around Shoreline there are many signs of residents and businesses nurturing neighbors and essential workers, and it is heartwarming to witness a community taking care of each other.

The private donors mentioned above are planning a catered lunch or dinner for frontline medical workers in the Shoreline area and are looking for individual donors and restaurants to join them in making it happen, as well finding the workers and site to receive the meal.



If you are a Shoreline resident or restaurant owner and want more info on partnering on this upcoming event, or to nominate a medical team to receive food, please email LoveShoreline@protonmail.com




Read more...

Case updates May 10, 2020


United States
  • 24 states report more than 10,000 cases of COVID-19.
  • 1,300,696
  • 78,771
Washington state:
  • 16,674 known cases
  • 921 deaths
King county:
  • 7046 known cases
  • 498 deaths
Shoreline:
  • 320 known cases
  • 51 deaths
Lake Forest Park
  • 29 known cases
  • 0 deaths


Read more...

Tips for accessing unemployment benefits



From 46th District Reps. Javier Valdez and Gerry Pollet


The state’s Employment Security Department (ESD) is experiencing historically high volumes of people desperately applying for unemployment benefits. ESD is working hard to improve capacity and update technology, but their web pages are loading slowly, and call wait times are long. Here are some tips for minimizing delays and successfully applying for benefits.

First, be assured that everyone who is eligible will get their money. It is not going to run out, and it will be paid retroactive to the date of eligibility.

Prepare: Carefully read the instructions,watch ESD’s training videos, and use ESD’s checklist to help gather all the necessary documents to avoid delays.

Try the website first: If you have a problem that can only be solved over the phone, please keep trying. Thousands of people are getting through to ESD by phone every day.

Timing: Apply during off-peak hours, generally 9:00pm to 7:00am. Use a laptop or desktop if you can, and only try reloading twice in 10 minutes. If you don’t get through after that, wait two hours before trying again.

Keep in touch: Subscribe to receive email updates from ESD about their COVID-19 response.

Find answers to frequently asked questions here. 



Read more...

Sunday's Sunset: Pretty in pink

Photo by Mary Igl


Pretty in Pink Sunset




Read more...

Video book review: The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek


Aarene Storms' video book review

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek
by Kim Michele Richardson


Listen to the review HERE - 3 minutes


This is Aarene Storm's view as she reviews 
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek.




Read more...

Even in a pandemic, kids need their shots

Sunday, May 10, 2020

The number of immunizations given to children is dropping during the COVID-19 pandemic, both in Washington and nationally. This leaves children and communities at risk. 

The Washington State Department of Health and its partners are concerned that children aren’t getting all the vaccines they need to protect them. 

Slowing or stopping access to immunizations increases the risk that we could see an outbreak of a vaccine-preventable disease. Adding more outbreaks on top of COVID-19 not only would put more people’s health at risk, it also could overload the health care system.

For more information, visit the CDC website



Read more...

GiveBIG extended to May 15

EXTENDED TO MAY 15


GiveBIG, the annual community fundraising drive, has been extended to Friday, May 15. There are many deserving local organizations. Here are a few:

Lake City Partners Endling Homelessness  - (Prince of Peace church in Shoreline is part of the partnership) Goal $20k, raised $18k

Seattle Choral Company - raised $9,832.00 and $1,400 in matching gifts

Mary's Place met the Amazon $1 million challenge and raised $2,376,557. They have two shelters in Shoreline.

Compass Housing Alliance - qualified for matching funds to raise a total of $54,700

The Shoreline LFP Senior Center has provided essential services to our community during the COVID-19 pandemic. To help continue this mission donate on our website here!

If you love the Lake Forest Park Farmers market, consider making a gift today here or at ThirdPlaceCommons.org.




Read more...

Yeah, sure, Hannah preferred a plump, juicy mouse,

Photo by Gloria Z Nagler


but she wasn't above snacking on a tasty grub now and again...

(Red-tailed Hawk in Skagit County this Spring)

--Gloria Z Nagler




Read more...

Physical distance at the LFP Farmers Market Sunday

20 booths instead of 40-50

Story and photos by Cynthia Sheridan

Lake Forest Park farmers market kicked off the season with a Mother's Day opening of their venue.

Twenty stalls were available as opposed to the usual 40 and sometimes 50 vendors.

Hand washing stations

No prepared food was allowed, by order of King County market restrictions.

Shoppers lined up to enter - only 40 at a time allowed

A snake-like line-up enabled shoppers to browse safely, with a limit of no more than forty people in the open air space.

Many booths were selling flowers and plenty of buyers walked away with a Mother's Day bouquet.



Read more...

Online classes - Open Read and Critique writing workshop at Shoreline CC




Online Class! Open Read and Critique Writing Workshop


Writing is a process, and no two authors have the same one!

In this 2-session class, you’ll have the opportunity to receive and provide constructive feedback on each other’s stories and works-in-progress in a safe, creative, and supportive environment. 

Share your prepared stories or excerpts and leave with a better understanding of your current writing project!

Register today at shoreline.edu/continuing-ed or contact continuing-ed@shoreline.edu for more information!



Read more...

Candidates filing for office through Friday

Filing for positions on 2020 ballots is going on at the secretary of state’s office in Olympia and through the King County election office in Renton.

Local positions on this year’s ballots include the 32nd Legislative District positions held by Democratic State Reps. Lauren Davis and Cindy Ryu in the 32nd Legislative District and Reps. Gerry Pollet and Javier Valdez in the 46th District.

Not on this year’s ballot are Democratic State Sens. Jesse Salomon in the 32nd District and David Frockt in the 46th.

Candidates for Democratic and Republican precinct committee officer in every precinct in King County file at the county elections office.

Candidates can file online from Monday, May 11, at 8am through Friday, May 15 at 4pm or by mail that must reach the state or county elections office by 4pm Friday. While the county elections office is closed this week, the secretary of state’s office is open for in-person filing.

--Evan Smith



Read more...

Mothers Day Greeting at Paramount Open Space

Photo by Janet Way


From Janet Way

My Daughter-in-law Tina Worthington and Granddaughter Ivy are greeting visitors for Sunday.

Paramount Open Space is popular now as a place for nature walks and contemplation, especially for families.

The park is located at 946 NE 147th Street, Shoreline, WA 98155



Read more...

Update on King County's Isolation /Quarantine and Assessment /Recovery Centers

Shoreline Isolation and Recovery Center
Aerial photography, copyright Marc Weinberg


From King County

As of Friday, five Isolation/Quarantine and Assessment/Recovery centers are currently open, including in Kent, North Seattle/Aurora, Issaquah, Harborview Hall and Shoreline.

Locations in Top Hat (IQ) and Eastgate (AC/RC) remain ready to open when needed, for example, if demand grows or we experience a second surge.

King County is working to bring current operational facilities up to full capacity before opening new sites for isolation, quarantine, or recovery.

Current Capacity: We saw the number of guests at the IQs and AC/RC peak about two weeks ago at 74, and have seen demand trend downward -- in the 60s last week, and 50s this week.

This decline aligns with flattening the curve and means we have plenty of capacity at the open sites today.

We are now in a position of readiness should case counts and resulting demand rise again, as these sites are part of the county's longer term response to the pandemic.






Read more...
ShorelineAreaNews.com
Facebook: Shoreline Area News
Twitter: @ShorelineArea
Daily Email edition (don't forget to respond to the Follow.it email)

  © Blogger template The Professional Template II by Ourblogtemplates.com 2009

Back to TOP