Category: Neighborhood

CONTENTS 4/27/2020
May Day Neighborhood Art On Display
Masks + Nylon Stockings
Disinfectants
Fishing Industry Surveys
Bellingham Makerspace Sews 12,000 Masks For Frontline Workers
End Of Life Planning
    Ask The Doctor
    Realities Of Advanced Medical Interventions Video
    Realities Powerpoint Slides
    Realities Of Advanced Medical Interventions – Glossary
Fl!p’s Pix For Music
Cascadia Women’s Film Festival
Piano Wanted
Columbia Neighborhood
Package Mixup
Masks At Goods
Survey Assistance For Students
Editor’s Corner
Resilience Block By Block
Spare Instant-Pot

Wow! This is long. I took the weekend off. You can go to columbianeighborhood.org directly and look at this there if it’s easier for you. All the past posts are there too.

MAY DAY NEIGHBORHOOD ART DISPLAY
May Day, Friday, May 1, 2020, 9am-9pm,
Hello Columbia neighbors,

The Columbia Neighborhood Association Board would like you to know about an upcoming activity for all neighbors, in hopes of  bringing the community joy while maintaining the distancing guidelines put in place during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Columbia Share Shack will provide a place for kids to hang up art to display. Also, art could be hung in the windows of homes or businesses, or be done with chalk on the sidewalks! On May 1st, let’s all take a walk through the neighborhood and enjoy some art to celebrate May Day, which has a history of many different celebrations in different cultures around the world, from welcoming spring to International Workers’ Day. Your art can reflect the theme that you choose. This is an opportunity to share our cultural diversity through our art on display at the Share Shack or from our windows or on our sidewalks!

The wires and clothespins are installed at the Share Shack at the corner of W. Connecticut St and Henry St, ready for children’s pictures!  Have fun!

If you have questions, please send them to columbianeighborhoodassociation@protonmail.com

MASKS + NYLON STOCKINGS
On the NPR website there is an article about combining nylon stockings with a cloth mask. Adding an outer layer made from nylon stockings to a homemade face covering can boost its ability to filter out small particles in the air by creating a tighter seal between the mask and the wearer’s face.
https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2020/04/22/840146830/adding-a-nylon-stocking-layer-could-boost-protection-from-cloth-masks-study-find?fbclid=IwAR3PzYqphDL8etCYrsx8Q_nkpkGgfTPtXE87ma-HsdBSWMD_U1yabNQ8ck0

DISINFECTANTS
This article from NY Times discusses different kinds of disinfectants and when/where/how to use them. Since we use a bleach solution at our home, I appreciated that this article discusses recommended concentrations, what surfaces they’re good (and bad) on, how many minutes they require in order to kill coronavirus, recommendations for rinsing, health precautions, and shelf life (just a couple of days once you mix bleach with water!).
https://www.nytimes.com/article/disinfectant-coronavirus.html
~ Marc Hoffman

FISHING INDUSTRY SURVEYS
Whatcom Unified Command’s Economic Impact task Force has developed three unique surveys to measure the impacts of COVID-19 on our commercial fishing industry. If you, or anyone you know is in the commercial fishing industry, please fill out this survey. The survey is voluntary, all questions are optional, and many are open ended. The survey does not ask for your business name or any other identifying information unless you choose to provide information in order to be contacted for a follow up. It is open to anyone in this industry in Whatcom County, and will close for analyses at 5pm on Wednesday, May 6. If you are in the commercial fishing industry, please select the survey most relevant to your specific operations – fishing, tendering, or processing.

• Commercial fishing survey
• Tendering survey
• Seafood processing survey

BELLINGHAM MAKERSPACE SEWS 12,000 MASKS FOR FRONTLINE WORKERS
https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article242124691.html

END OF LIFE PLANNING
Making your own choices, and letting both your family and your medical providers know your choices, is a huge gift to others, and is a way of taking charge of your own life during these uncertain times. What better time than the present?

ASK THE DOCTOR
Question:
Dr. Lombard,
Our two adult kids and their spouses hounded us to get our advance directives done. The tables are turned now, we started hounding them to do theirs with the coronavirus upending even young lives. Your video helped us understand the whys and the whats of choosing and has brought our family to common ground that we should all prepare in advance of a crisis. We watched your talk in our separate homes, then met on Zoom to discuss our choices.

One son-in-law needed to be convinced in this time of Covid-19 to do his advance directive. But, we did it, thanks to your talk. My Ask the Doctor questions are, do you plan to continue Realities of Advanced Medical Interventions in the future in person? And, could you edit the video a little and have it shown at The Pickford or The Limelight once there is some normalcy in our daily lives? I can see it up there on the big screen. You and your team could be there “live” for Q&A.

Answer:
That’s a great story of your family taking the risk of COVID-19 seriously and working together to be appropriately prepared. I’m very impressed!

Also, really good questions. Our expectation is to return to live presentations of the Realities program when it is safe and permissible. At this point, I don’t know when that will be possible. It could conceivably be late summer or early fall, recognizing that the window may be small if there is a significant recurrence of the epidemic. 

I never thought about playing it (appropriately edited) for a live audience but it’s an intriguing idea worth exploring. Zoom presentations are another consideration and may represent an easier way to get to a larger audience. 

Thanks for your story and suggestions,
Bill Lombard

Realities Of Advanced Medical Interventions Video:
https://vimeo.com/398065453

Dr. Lombard’s Realities Powerpoint Slides
https://tinyurl.com/sxq22em 

The Realities Of Advanced Medical Interventions – Glossary
https://tinyurl.com/texoxcf

After reviewing this info, if you need clarification on an aspect of a medical intervention before you tackle completing your Advance Directive, email micki98226@aol.com and she will contact Dr. Lombard, who has agreed to clarify wherever possible. Please DO NOT ask for personal medical advice.

FL!P’S PIX FOR MUSIC

CASCADIA WOMEN’S FILM FESTIVAL
CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival
On-line festival, May 14-17. Passes for CASCADIA International Women’s Film Festival’s on-line 2020 festival are on sale now through the festival’s website at:  www.cascadiafilmfest.org.  CASCADIA scrambled to move its films on-line after the ‘live’ festival in April was cancelled due to COVID-19. All access passes are only $19.95 and give pass-holders access to all the films during the four-day festival to watch whenever they want from anywhere they want.  In addition, passholders can watch interviews and panel discussions with the directors and take part in ‘live’ Q&As.  Student passes are available for $4.95 for students with an .edu e-mail address. Pass purchases help to support the festival and its women filmmakers to help insure that festival and films will survives the COVID crises. Three short films will be available for free this upcoming weekend.  For that showcase click here starting Friday, May 1 through next Sunday, May 3.

PIANO WANTED
I am in charge of the Senior Singers at the Senior Center. Since we can’t sing together right now, I thought it would be a good time to search for a replacement piano for the Senior Center. Our current piano is just not very good anymore. Ideally we would like to get a good piano as a donation, but we might be able to raise some money among the singers, etc. We welcome any ideas for finding a piano. ~ Maggie Malone, Eldridge Ave. 425-747-8684   or  malonemaggie1@gmail.com

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

PHONE & WALLET SAFELY HOME!
It’s been found and delivered! Thank you so much, everybody!    ~ Anita Harker, Williams St

PACKAGE MIXUP
We received an Amazon Prime package with our address, but a different name.  It’s addressed to Eddie Blakely.  Please call or text if that’s you, or you know where he lives!  We thought we’d try the blog before we return to sender. ~ Miriam Ban, Park Street, 831-359-3720

MASKS AT GOODS
Thanks to all who got Masks at GOODS! They were all gone in 5 hours!  I plan on making another batch of 20+ to be ready there on Tuesday morning.  ~ Sarah Guenther, Peabody street

SURVEY ASSISTANCE FOR STUDENTS
I teach PR and journalism at WWU.  As part of their capstone projects, my students typically conduct in-person surveys in the community (Haggen, Farmers Market etc.) to help develop strategic communications plans for local organizations.

Obviously, that isn’t happening this year. Instead, the students developed short, online surveys, and I’ve been recruiting people to help me disseminate those links. The surveys are completely anonymous and will not be published anywhere. They are only used to assist students in creating a plan (and, therefore, assist the organization as well). 

Survey 1 (media related):  https://wwu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0oExCfnDXNPRKPH

Survey 2 (local nonprofit related):  https://wwu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eOJ22bXgbZgk2KV

~ Jennifer Keller, Chair & Associate Professor, Dept. of Journalism, Victor Street

EDITOR’S CORNER

RESILIENCE BLOCK BY BLOCK
I still want to help us gather as neighbors, one block at a time, to figure out how to best care for one another. I’d love to know what information you all think would be most useful. If I can create a questionnaire for neighbors to fill out in advance it could actually speed the meeting, or at least leave room at it for the most important things. Before we meet, we need to figure out mentors to get each neighbor onto zoom if possible. And if they can only come by phone, we get to figure out how to be thoughtful about them. There is such an economic and electronic divide! If you have thoughts about this, I’d love to hear from you. flip@columbianeighborhood.org ~  Love/Fl!p

SPARE INSTANT-POT
It’s actually some other brand. It works fine. 6 quart. The inner pot is lined instead of stainless, and some of the lining has worn away. The silicone ring smells like onions, because I cook a lot with onions. Anyway, if someone wants it, let me know. You’re welcome: text 360-671-4511

CONTENTS 4/23/2020
How Not To Say The Wrong Thing To Health-Care Workers
Pulse Oximeter Article
No-Barrier Cash Assistance
Restaurant Take Out And Delivery
Masks For Sale
  At Goods: Four Sizes
  Masks & Button Straps
  Zip Jelineo
  Mask Tree
Micro Droplets
Common Threads
Salish Current News
Dog Foster Or Adoption
Columbia Neighborhood
  Stolen Shoes & Tools
Fl!p’s Pix For Music
  Robert Sarazin Blake:From The Kitchen Table
  The Beatles – Yellow Submarine Sing-A-Long Watch Party
Editor’s Corner
  Seeking New Tech Support
  Deep Gratitude!
  Bean Seeds

HOW NOT TO SAY THE WRONG THING TO HEALTH-CARE WORKERS
By Dorothy R. Novick, The Washington Post
April 17, 2020 at 5:00 a.m. PDT|
Dorothy R. Novick is a pediatrician in Philadelphia.
One of my friends grew so concerned about my safety during the novel coronavirus outbreak that she began sending articles. First, about why health-care providers get sicker than others. Then about how the virus might penetrate my mask. Then a map of the United States, with my city enveloped in a giant red circle.

These are things I have read before. I spend most days calming my nerves in the face of them, so I can be a guiding force for my patients. I know my friend sends these articles because she’s worried and wants me to stay safe. But with each one, a freezing chill seeps in through my pores and I am shaking again.

As a pediatrician during the greatest pandemic of our time, I understand that it’s hard to find the right words. Some of my friends and family process their fears for my safety with me, as we’ve always processed everything together. Others ask whether I also worry after each trip to the grocery store. Or whether I’ve picked up new hobbies.

I know they are frightened — for themselves, for their families, for me. And I know everyone is wrestling with the quarantines. These struggles are real. But what can be difficult for my loved ones to realize is that, although this is a collective plight, we are not sharing the same experience.

Years ago, my friend Margi watched her husband die in a car crash. They were caravanning home from vacation, he in the lead and she with their children behind. Her pain felt unbearable. As soon as we had a moment alone, I asked what had happened at the scene of the crash. I shared my shock and devastation. We had always talked like that — no holds barred. But this conversation changed our friendship for years to come. Everything I said seemed to worsen her agony. I was heartbroken. I couldn’t figure out how to reach and support her.

Finally, I came across an article about “Ring Theory,” written by Susan Silk and Barry Goldman. In this construct, we imagine a person who is suffering, like Margi, sitting in a small circle surrounded by concentric rings. Her dearest relatives sit in the circle closest to her. Best friends sit in the next larger circle. More friends and colleagues occupy the next one. And so on.

According to Ring Theory, a person in any given circle should send love and compassion inward, to those in smaller circles, and process personal grief outward, to those in larger circles. To Margi and her mother, I should have said, “I love you, and I’ll do everything I can to support you.” And only when talking to others should I have said, “Her suffering feels impossible to bear.”

Comfort in, grief out.

Ring Theory works for supporting health-care providers during the trauma of covid-19. We are grappling with a complex duality of mission plus terror. We are proud of what we can contribute and passionate about our patients’ well-being. But we are frightened — for our safety, for our patients, for the spouses and children we might expose.

When I imagine the covid-19 Ring Theory, I picture my emergency room colleagues in the center circle. Their spouses occupy the ring closest to them. Next come their parents. Then their friends like me, who work in lower-risk fields. Then my family. And then everyone else who is worried but is not tying back their hair and putting on scrubs each morning.

I may want to tell my ER friends how scared I feel for them. But as close as I am to the battleground, they are closer. So instead I say, “If you take no risks, you will stay safe. I am here for you, every step of the way.”

If you care about a health-care worker on the front lines of this crisis, imagine the circles and decide where you land. Then send your love in. Tell us you are proud and you believe in our mission. It’s fine to say you are worried. We feel loved when you ask about our days and remind us to be careful. But if you are having a dark moment full of doomsday predictions, if you are crying for fear we will die, please know this increases our anxieties. Please process your worst nightmares with others. And please, don’t forget to call us once you feel better.

Yesterday I received this message from a relative:

I am holding you in my heart being on the front lines of these difficult times. The professional skill, kindness, support and tenacity you give your patients and your medical community I am sure is a comfort in this darkness. Sending much love, appreciation and admiration.

My heart rate slowed and my skin warmed over as I read the message. Then I pulled my mask over my face and opened the door to the next patient room.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2020/04/17/how-not-say-wrong-thing-health-care-workers/?utm_campaign=wp_week_in_ideas&utm_medium=email&utm_source=newsletter&wpisrc=nl_ideas

PULSE OXIMETER ARTICLE:
The Infection That’s Silently Killing Coronavirus Patients
By Richard Levitan
Dr. Levitan is an emergency doctor.

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/20/opinion/coronavirus-testing-pneumonia.html?smid=fb-share

A pulse oximeter can provide early warning of the kinds of breathing problems associated with Covid-19 pneumonia, which behaves very differently from the usual pneumonia. Here are excerpts from the article. The whole article is linked at the end. ~Fl!p “Patients can have dangerously low oxygen without feeling short of breath… There is a way we could identify more patients who have Covid pneumonia sooner and treat them more effectively — and it would not require waiting for a coronavirus test at a hospital or doctor’s office. It requires detecting silent hypoxia early through a common medical device that can be purchased without a prescription at most pharmacies: a pulse oximeter. Pulse oximetry is no more complicated than using a thermometer. These small devices turn on with one button and are placed on a fingertip. In a few seconds, two numbers are displayed: oxygen saturation and pulse rate… Pulse oximeters are extremely reliable in detecting oxygenation problems and elevated heart rates… People using the devices at home would want to consult with their doctors to reduce the number of people who come to the E.R. unnecessarily because they misinterpret their device… All patients who have tested positive for the coronavirus should have pulse oximetry monitoring for two weeks, the period during which Covid pneumonia typically develops. All persons with cough, fatigue and fevers should also have pulse oximeter monitoring even if they have not had virus testing, or even if their swab test was negative, because those tests are only about 70 percent accurate. A vast majority of Americans who have been exposed to the virus don’t know it.”

NO-BARRIER CASH ASSISTANCE
By Josephine Peterson, BellinghamHerald.com
As of Friday, people not eligible for other COVID-19 assistance programs can apply to the Disaster Cash Assistance Program. Money is available to those who meet income and resource thresholds. Single individuals can claim up to $383, and the amount increases depending on the household size up to $1,121 for eight or more in a home. Applicants receive a one-time payment in a 12-month period, DSHS spokesperson Norah West said. The department estimates more than 175,000 households might be eligible. “Having access to this emergency aid is critically important to helping people meet their immediate, basic needs, like shelter costs, utilities, clothing, minor medical care, household supplies and transportation costs for work,” said Babs Roberts, director of DSHS’ Community Services Division. Those approved will be issued an Electronic Benefit Transfer card by mail. People living in Washington can apply online at  WashingtonConnection.org and call the Customer Service Contact Center at 877-501-2233 to complete the required interview. They also can call the same number and complete the entire application over the phone.

RESTAURANT TAKE OUT AND DELIVERY
From the Bellingham Herald: https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article241240791.html

MASKS FOR SALE

FOUR SIZES, AT GOODS
I am making masks: 4 sizes including ones that fit small children.  I bring a new batch to Goods on Saturdays for donations and they are there until they’re gone. The money helps me pay for the overhead on my mobile salon that is parked there (little bird salon). Thanks, ~ Sarah Guenther of Little Bird Salon and Peabody street💜

MASKS & BUTTON STRAPS
My friend Kate makes masks with ties. Here’s the link to her Etsy shop:  https://www.etsy.com/shop/SmartSafeStylish?ref=search_shop_redirect
https://www.christasbathdesigns.com/my-shop

ZIP JELINEO
Cell phone for texting only: 360-778-9744
Home phone for discussing details concerning style, number needed, price: 360-734-0157
[Zip made those wonderful flags and banners for sale at the farmer’s market for years.]

MASK TREE
If you’d like to know the location of the Mask Tree, email me – flip@columbianeighborhood.org. I assume you could add masks as well as adopt them.

MICRO DROPLETS VIDEO
https://vimeo.com/402577241?fbclid=IwAR3aVm1QvdNBcnSXg7wdLlGDyAqxLejBelKG32oLuLA5RVoyK-xe9taj4sM

COMMON THREADS
Connecting kids to healthy food, seed to table
We’re proud to have been the boots on the ground to help launch the Bellingham Public School’s emergency food distribution efforts and we’re busy now making sure school gardens are more robust and productive than ever. This week we harvested 13.5 pounds of leafy greens and delivered them to the BPS’ Central Kitchen to be included in food bank boxes. Need access to food? Check out Bellingham Public Schools’ food delivery or Bellingham Food Bank’s new distribution plan. You can also text “FOOD” (or “COMIDA” for information in Spanish) to 877-877 to find a free meal site year you!
https://commonthreadsfarm.org/

SALISH CURRENT
The Salish Current website and newsletter are the result of a grassroots initiative to launch a nonpartisan, nonprofit, online local news organization serving Whatcom, San Juan and Skagit counties by filling gaps in news coverage of our area. Our mission is to strengthen democracy by reporting local news with independence and strict journalistic integrity. We bear witness to the life of the community, to give residents the information they need to make informed choices about public life. We adhere to the Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics. Our website is accessible to all, and our lists of donors, board members and staff are open to the public. Our news reporting is separate from our revenue sources. In addition to the website, we are producing a weekly email newsletter with links to news published on other sites. The newsletters are archived on the website, and include subscription (free, of course) information.

DOG FOSTER OR ADOPTION
Do you know of a dog that needs looking after? If you or anyone you knows is worried about caring for a dog during these trying times, I might be able to help. I’ve had dogs most of my life, but not recently. I would love to foster or adopt a small to medium sized dog to accompany me for walks and snuggle with me at home. I live alone in a condo and would love to hear the patter of little feet again. If interested, contact Debbie Brosten at 209-329-4479. Thanks!

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

STOLEN SHOES & TOOLS
A heads up to the neighborhood that my Solomon running shoes were stolen off of my back porch Tuesday night. They replaced my shoes with their blue Adidas. Then last night, Wednesday, tools were stolen from Sean’s garage, two doors up.
~ Michael Price, 2700 block of Walnut Street on the west side

FL!P’S PIX FOR MUSIC

ROBERT SARAZIN BLAKE:FROM THE KITCHEN TABLE
Sundays 5-7pm
With Guests: April 26th Meg Yates, May 3rd Petunia
LIVE STREAM http:///www.robertsarazinblake.com
or https://www.facebook.com/robertsarazinblake/live
All Viewers Welcome! Digital Tip Jar
A weekly broadcast concert and song swap
‘Lets sit around the table together’

THE BEATLES – YELLOW SUBMARINE SING-A-LONG
Saturday morning April 25, 9 AM, watch party with lyrics streaming with the movie.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8W5qJYFWOM&feature=youtu.be

EDITOR’S CORNER

SEEKING NEW TECH SUPPORT
Michael Kelberer helped me shift platforms to this blog, to keep up with changing needs for the list in the pandemic. He’s been marvelous, helpful, and kind! At this point, he needs me to find someone else to take over. I have about 3000 subscribers on WordPress. There is a chance we’ll have to add MailChimp, but I’m hoping to avoid that. Are any of you knowledgeable? Please contact Fl!p at 360-671-4511 or flip@columbianeighborhood.org

DEEP GRATITUDE!
To all the neighbors who helped with groceries and garden supplies this week. We are set for a while. I feel so connected! Thank you!!!!

BEAN SEEDS
I have extra Blue Lake Pole Beans I’d be glad to share. Would anyone like some? 360-671-4511 or flip@columbianeighborhood.org

Love/Fl!p

CONTENTS 4/21/2020
Unemployment Eligibility
End Of Life Planning
   Ask The Doctor
RE-Sources Moves K-12 Classroom Education Online
Seeing Eye Dogs
Neighborhood Masks
No-Sew Mask
Scam Warning
Columbia Neighborhood
Found Keys
Pappenspiel
Hard Worker Recommendation
Need Saws-All And Operator
For Sale: Electric Bicycle, Brand New From Holland
Ongoing Neighborhood Treasure Hunt
Housing Follow-Up
Columbia/Cornwall Park Home For Rent
Pix For Music
Zoom Settings For Music
Music Postings
Editor’s Corner
How To Request A Post
Email Delays
Haggens And/Or Cenex?

UNEMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY
[From Beth McGinty]  There are additional unemployment benefits available. New legislation has expanded benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Avoid these common mistakes that delay benefits. The only way to fix these issues is over the phone, and our phone lines are slammed. We’ve increased hours, added days, and we’re hiring hundreds of new people. But wait times are still long and we know too many customers can’t get through. Following these tips will help you apply without needing to call us.

1. Avoid manually entering your employer’s information. You may not recognize your employer’s name in the application. Before manually entering your employer’s info, find out your employer’s legal business name or look up their Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) – this can usually be found on your pay stub or W-2.

2. Able and available? It depends, but here’s some guidance. This question is about YOU, not the current situation. If you would be available to work if it weren’t for COVID-19, a layoff or if your kids were in school, answer “yes.” Download the eligibility checker on the unemployment page of our website to learn more.

3. Select “no” on the standby question. Being on standby means you don’t have to look for work while on unemployment, but that requirement is currently optional anyway. At this time, you don’t need to request standby. You can select “no” to this question.

4. Workers’ compensation (weekly claim). Unless you are currently receiving workers’ compensation from the Department of Labor & Industries, do not answer yes to the workers’ compensation question. (Even if you were receiving it but no longer are, do not answer “yes.”)

5. Select “no” on the job search question (weekly claim). Job search is currently optional as a result of the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” initiative. We still encourage you to look for work during this time if you have been laid off, but it is not required, so selecting no is the best option. Changes to job search requirements will be posted on our website at esd.wa.gov.
https://esdorchardstorage.blob.core.windows.net/esdwa/Default/ESDWAGOV/Unemployment/UIEligibilityChecker.pdf

END OF LIFE PLANNING
Making your own choices, and letting both your family and your medical providers know your choices, is a huge gift to others, and is a way of taking charge of your own life during these uncertain times. What better time than the present?

DR. BILL LOMBARD’S REALITIES OF ADVANCED MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS VIDEO:
https://vimeo.com/398065453

DR. LOMBARD’S REALITIES POWERPOINT SLIDES
https://tinyurl.com/sxq22em 

THE REALITIES OF ADVANCED MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS – glossary
https://tinyurl.com/texoxcf

After reviewing this info, if you need clarification on an aspect of a medical intervention before you tackle completing your Advance Directive, email micki98226@aol.com and she will contact Dr. Lombard, who has agreed to clarify wherever possible. Please DO NOT ask for personal medical advice.

ASK THE DOCTOR
Dr. Lombard, thank you for your video and slides, which is a big help as I finally work on my advance directive. I see you are a nephrologist. I have Stage Two kidney disease but I am doing fine. I read a New York Times article that Covid-19 can damage the kidneys. The article reported that many of the most seriously ill Covid patients who are on ventilators would also require dialysis.

I don’t ever want to be on dialysis, so my question isn’t about me, it is from curiosity. The article claims that there is a shortage of dialysis machines and necessary supplies in many areas of the country. Is that the case in Whatcom and Skagit Counties? Or could it become the case?  I know you don’t have a crystal ball, but any insight would be welcome. Even though I’d never check the box choosing dialysis for my care, others would. Thank you.

RESPONSE:
The occurrence of acute kidney failure associated with COVID19 has been increasingly reported, the first reports having focused on respiratory failure. The ways in which the infection causes kidney failure include dehydration, acute tubular injury due to inflammation and decreased blood flow and actual injury caused by the virus directly damaging the kidney cells. The more severe the disease, the more likely kidney failure will occur. 

With the current relatively low hospitalization rate in Whatcom County, it is unlikely that we will experience a shortage of dialysis machines or supplies. If we were to see anything like the number of patients in New York, however, there is no question that we would suffer the same inability to provide adequate dialysis care.  Assuming we do not stop the containment efforts prematurely, I think it is unlikely we will get to that dire place.

Stay well ~ Bill Lombard 

RE-SOURCES MOVES K-12 CLASSROOM EDUCATION ONLINE
Online lessons and hands-on activities offered for out-of-school students: RE Sources’ 38-year-old education program, Sustainable Schools, is making its curriculum available for all area students online. Lessons vary for learners from kindergarten to high school, and can take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours to complete, depending on the student’s curiosity. “During school closures and stay-at-home orders, we’ve transformed our curriculum so kids (and their parents, if they want) can enjoy learning from home!” according to Sustainable Schools Program Manager, Priscilla Brotherton. The content is interactive and place-based to help students ground their learning in their surroundings. Lessons cover environmentally-relevant topics like the water cycle, stormwater, waste management, upcycling, and more. Lessons include a little history and background information, an in-depth look at a specific environmental issue, hands-on projects students can do at home to deepen their understanding (or just have fun), videos, and action projects. According to RE Sources’ website, “Each lesson is centered around an action project, or ways students can apply their learning, take action to benefit their community, and build their confidence as contributing members of society.” Students and parents can visit RE Sources website, re-sources.org/onlinelearning and start anywhere. Each lesson is stand alone and can be followed in any order. New lessons will be uploaded each week. “Parents and educators in our community are under a lot of strain right now to find new ways to entertain and educate their kids,” says Brotherton. “RE Sources’ role is to offer creative solutions and education opportunities to help our communities thrive. We’ll continue that work and look for more ways to support those who are heavily impacted by the COVID-19 health crisis.” Brotherton added, “We hope students will get to know the natural world a little better, experiment with some do-it-yourself projects at home, and have fun learning online!”

SEEING EYE DOGS
5 Tips: When You Meet a Seeing Eye Dog always remember, distracting a Seeing Eye dog can make its owner vulnerable to harm. 1. Guide dogs don’t understand social distancing. Please help keep a safe distance by staying 6 feet away. 2. Please don’t let your pet near a guide dog, even if your pet is leashed. Even allowing your pet to visit or “say hi”, for just a moment can cause the guide dog to lose focus on the important job he has to do. 3. It’s helpful to let a person who is blind know that you are nearby and tell them if you have a dog with you. 4. Do not pet the guide dog, call the dog’s name, make eye contact, feed or talk to the dog. It’s always best to treat the dog as if he is not there. 5. Do not shout directions, take the person by the arm or interrupt them, especially when they are crossing the street. Always ask the person if they need help first.

NEIGHBORHOOD MASKS
I am putting together a list of neighbors sewing masks for sale to the public. Please let me know if you would like to be on that list. Include contact info. And if you’re looking for masks, I’ll share that list with you. I can also tell you the location of the neighborhood Mask Tree, though I don’t plan to post the tree’s location publicly.

NO-SEW MASK
This “no-sew” mask might be helpful for some folks. In harmony, ~ Laurie Rotecki
https://twitter.com/imfabulous13/status/1245700192298467329

SCAM WARNING
I’ve received a couple emails now telling me my Bank of American credit card has been frozen and to go to an address to verify my credentials. I do not have a Bank of America credit card. It is a scam to get your info. Might be good to put out  warning to folks. ~ Dennis A. DeWitt

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

FOUND KEYS
April 18th on the trail above the Squalicum Park Baseball fields. Bellingham Senior Activity Center card. Please call to identify the keys on the ring. ~ Christine Woodward. 360-661-6336

PAPPENSPIEL
Hi Friends and Neighbors – This little folksy puppetry gathering and staging took place in the living room of my place on Victor Street during this past week of our shared, but separate sequestrations. Performed by my pair of hands, it introduces the whole cast of characters of “Hans im Glück”. That’s a german “zen” story written down by the Grimm Brothers 200 years ago and dear to my heart. As “Pappenspiel”, the name of my puppet, mask and story theater, it is my pleasure to continue here in the tradition of the central European “papier theater” of 200 years ago while I am adding a fresh, simple, gravity based movement to the now more marionette-like, flat paper cut and hand-painted figures. The song sprang to mind when I was filled with longing for the circle of hands, so much a symbol for comfort in stressful times … but also of Spring!!! 

Spring brings the joining of hands again in the fieldwork, the growing of food into the new season. Traditionally in many cultures, with new growth also comes the circle friends, families, neighbors and elders outside, under a tree, considering new ideas. For the documentation of this complete low tech and spontaneous inspiration (and in no way was it ever even aimed at being polished)…I want to express my gratitude for a congenial collaboration, aptly recording and kind use of platform  to my housemate Nathan, a “magnificent brother”!  Enjoy ~ Max Eberhard
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-Dod7h2-97J5rzUZB5_AfyQKzrUPGaYM

HARD WORKER RECOMMENDATION
Need an extra hard worker? We have used Alberto for three projects around our home, and have been very pleased with his work ethic. A painter by trade, he painted two rooms inside our house and we just hired him to dig up and lay a gravel and sand foundation for a patio which he completed in a timely manner. He is prompt, reliable, hardworking and takes direction very well. He can be reached through his wife, Nelva at (360) 927-8907. Highly recommended!!! ~ Mike and Mary Kimmich, Henry Street. Questions please call me at 360-303-4460.

SAWS-ALL NEEDED, AND OPERATOR
I would like to hire someone who can saw into pieces (a foot or two in length) some of the Aspen roots that are roaming around on the surface of my lawn. And maybe some that are not quite on the surface.  iIm trying to dig in new plantings but the roots are in the way. Some are 3 – 4 inches in diameter.. most are smaller. Please contact me at saraswati.todd@gmail.com. Thank you, Sara Todd, Henry street

FOR SALE: ELECTRIC BICYCLE, BRAND NEW FROM HOLLAND
Smart, battery powered for long rides through town or the highlands  – upwards of 90 miles. Light weight for women or serious riders. Bought locally with one year warranty guarantee. Only 50 miles ridden.  Paid $3100.00. Guarantee is transferred. I hope to get $26 or 2700.00. Great bike and will negotiate best price. Win win for both parties. ~ Contact Analeise Volpe, merriumvolpe@gmail.com, Victor Street, Bellingham 98225

ONGOING NEIGHBORHOOD TREASURE HUNT
The goal of this treasure hunt is to add fun to our travels around the ‘hood. Neighbors are displaying items such as flags, animal yard art, posters in windows, stuffed animals in trees, Christmas lights and more. If you’d like to display your own treasure or get a list of participating addresses, please contact me at  evans4kids@comcast.net ~ Claire Evans, 3028 Tulip Street

HOUSING FOLLOW-UP
The Emergency Medical Housing Needed post? They were able to find a place!

COLUMBIA/CORNWALL PARK HOME FOR RENT
Our rental will be available by May 1st. Details on Craigslist:
https://bellingham.craigslist.org/apa/d/bellingham-columbia-cornwall-park-1/7111200963.html
Thanks much,
Becca Steinkamp
Todd Peed
3024 Elm St.

PIX FOR MUSIC

ZOOM SETTINGS FOR MUSIC
In advanced settings, disable “Suppress persistent background noise” and “Suppress intermittent background noise,” and set Echo Cancellation to Auto. Zoom has a tendency to treat musical instruments as background noise, so disabling those helps a lot.

MUSIC POSTINGS
Musicians and other artists, please send me links for your local live-stream gigs, and for teaching online lessons. I’ll be happy to send out one or two gigs a month for you. Try to give me fresh language for each gig, and plenty of notice because of the delays we’re wrestling with.

EDITOR’S CORNER

HOW TO REQUEST A POST
Email flip@Columbianeighborhood.org with the headline for the post as the subject so I can find it more easily, later. Please just send text. I cannot get information out of attachments. Other than that, I will try to take information almost any way people manage to get it to me, but this would be easiest for me.

Be aware that I’m having time-lag problems at the moment. It can take several days between when I post, and when subscribers actually receive the email notification.

EMAIL DELAYS
Email delays are ongoing, and some folks seem to be getting notices up to four days after I send them. I’m still trying to get help to figure this out. Meanwhile, you can go to the blog at any time and read all the postings in a timely way at columbianeighborhood.org.

HAGGENS AND/OR CENEX?
Is anybody going to Haggens or Cenex on Meridian? There are some items I need. Thank you! ~ Fl!p

CONTENTS 4/17/2020
Fake COVID-19 Text Messages
Cloth Vs Medical Masks In Heathcare Workers
Corona Myth Busters
Roommate Cafe
Columbia Neighborhood
Two Farmer’s Markets
Community Supported Agriculture
Homemade Masks
Housing Rental Emergency for Medical Treatment
Single Mom Seeks House Share
Fl!p’s Pix For Music
Whatcom Arts Project Radio Interview
Whatcom Sings Project

FAKE COVID-19 TEXT MESSAGES
Police are warning the public about a new coronavirus-related scam. The scam involves a text message that tells people they’ve come in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. The text urges people to self-isolate and click a link for more information. “DO NOT click the link!” the Thomaston (Maine) Police Department warned. “It is not a message from any official agency. It is however a gateway for bad actors to find their way into your world.”

CLOTH VS MEDICAL MASKS IN HEATH CARE WORKERS
There is a study being widely circulated showing medical masks are better. The study was about influenza not coronavirus. The only conclusion is that healthcare workers, who have a different level of exposure (aerosols), should not use cloth masks. For the public they reduce risk not through filtration but by keeping you from touching your nose and mouth when out and about, by far for COVID the main way the public gets infected is by touching a droplet that has landed on an object and then touching their nose, mouth or eyes.. I believe they reduce risk of getting the disease as well as reduce the risk of transmitting it in pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic patients significantly. ~ Frank James, former Whatcom County Health Officer

CORONA MYTH BUSTERS
World Heath Organization
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/myth-busters

ROOMMATE CAFE
The Opportunity Council has a new program which began in February as part of Generations Housing Project (GHP), a home sharing program that reduces elder homelessness by identifying opportunities for shared housing. The roommate-matching service can bring people together to find housing options. Senior residents are finding options to share housing through “Roommate Café” at the OC’s Housing Lab located at 625 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham. The Roommate Café hours are Thursdays, 10-11:30 am. The Housing Lab is open Tuesdays, 10-12 am.

https://www.oppco.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/OC-News-spring-2019-1.pdf

COLUMBIAN NEIGHBORHOOD

FARMER’S MARKETS SATURDAY
We have two! One at Depot Market downtown (check their facebook page for which vendors will be there, and details on safe shopping), and another mini-market here in the neighborhood. Once again this Saturday April 18th 9:00-1:00 is an opportunity for local and organic produce lovingly grown and bagged by Rabbit Field Farms. Social distancing is encouraged and enforced. Bags are in increments of 5-25 dollars. Cash is preferred but cards can be taken. I hope to see you there!
  2526 Kulshan St.
  Thank you. ~ Heather Fitzstrawn

COMMUNITY SUPPORTED AGRICULTURE
CSA delivery/pick up in Columbia
If you are interested in supporting a local farm and would like to join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture), Moondance Farm will have a weekly pick up spot in Columbia.
More info at moondancefarm.net
~ Jill MacIntyre Witt,  Walnut Street

HOMEMADE MASKS
Who is making masks that tie? Is anyone selling them? I also heard that there’s a Mask Tree in the neighborhood, but I’ve misplaced the email.  Love/Fl!p

HOUSING RENTAL EMERGENCY FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT
My wife Robin and I are hoping to find a small home to rent for the next 6-12 months here in the Bellingham area. We currently own a home and live in Puerto Vallarta however have returned to Bellingham for treatment of Robin’s breast cancer. Preferably we would like to find a home with one or two bedrooms, one and a half bathrooms and laundry facilities. Prior to moving to Mexico we lived in and owned a business in Anacortes. We also have a very well behaved 10 year old Cockapoo named Toby.
  I am staying in Alison’ Kutz’s Hobbit House (I am self-quarantining for another week as I just drove up from Vallarta). Robin is staying at another friend’s house until we find a suitable home to rent.
 Charlie Barefield,  360-661-3119

SINGLE MOM SEEKS HOUSE SHARE
My name is Sarah, I am 27 years old and I am a single mum and full time student. We are looking for a place to rent in the Columbia neighborhood. Covid has changed our lives temporarily but typically we have full time schedules and live a very active lifestyle! We are used to community based living and sharing small spaces. No smoking, no pets, sober living (for me, totally fine with others who consume, just not partiers), clean record and can pass a background check, clean, responsible, and respectful. I also have the ability to contribute with groceries and meals. I loooooove to cook and share meals!! I have cash up front for deposits and such. I have excellent personal, professional, and rental references.
  At WWU I am studying Philosophy as my major and Law/Diversity/Justice as my minor. This is my primary source of income. I am on track to graduate Fall 2020 or Winter 2021 and then ideally I will be moving on to law school somewhere in the PNW or Texas. If I do not go off to law school I have job offers in Whatcom County contingent on graduation. My number for calling or texting, anytime, is 360-969-9669 and my email is boschs@wwu.edu  Cheers!  ~ Sarah Bosch
https://bellingham.craigslist.org/roo/d/bellingham-looking-for-1-female-roomate/7108251057.html

FL!P’S PIX FOR MUSIC

WHATCOM ARTS PROJECT RADIO INTERVIEW
More than 30 local performing and visual arts organizations have collaborated to form the Whatcom Arts Project — a campaign to inform, entertain, educate, inspire, collaborate, support, promote, and uplift each other daily and remain socially close while physically distanced. Here’s a radio interview about the new project. It will show three times this week.
Fri, Apr 17: Noon and 6pm
Sat, Apr 18: 8am and 4pm
Sun, Apr 19: Noon and 7pm
KMRE can be heard at 102.3FM in Bellingham, also streaming at kmre.org (don’t use Chrome as a browser right now), via TuneIn, or ask your smart speaker at home to play KMRE.
https://www.facebook.com/whatcomartsproject/

WHATCOM SINGS PROJECT
Dear Whatcom County Singers and Choir Directors,
  You, your choir members and students, and singing friends, are cordially invited to participate in Whatcom Sings, a one-time virtual choir project on the song “Bright Morning Stars.” We are creating this virtual choir in order to sing together and inspire one another somehow, while keeping our social distance, to bring a musical message of hope to our county in these difficult times, and to support the Interfaith Coalition, which provides services for Whatcom County residents experiencing homelessness.
  All the information that you need to participate, including a score, instructional and recording videos, helpful links and contacts for assistance, can be found on this website:

https://www.choirofthesalishsea.com/virtual-choir-information

  Participant videos are due three weeks from today, on Friday, May 8. We have lined up professional soloists, accompanists and video editors to create a slick, moving, multi-dimensional film, which we hope to post on YouTube by mid-May. Please spread the word among Whatcom County singers and encourage them to join you in this inspiring and worthy endeavor.   Sincerely,  Kevin Allen-Schmid, kevinallenschmid@gmail.com

Love/Fl!p

CONTENTS 4/13
Western States Covid Pact
Social Distancing In 30 Seconds
How To Grocery Shop
3-D Face Mask Federally Approved
Columbia Neighborhood
Sew Gowns?
Goods Nursery And Produce And Goods Local Brews
Editor’s Corner

WESTERN STATES COVID PACT
https://www.governor.wa.gov/news-media/washington-oregon-and-california-announce-western-states-pact

SOCIAL DISTANCING IN 30 SECONDS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cURFFnyEhfI

HOW TO GROCERY SHOP
https://vimeo.com/406575958

3-D FACE MASK FEDERALLY APPROVED
https://www.seattletimes.com/business/as-3d-printing-of-protective-gear-ramps-up-a-free-mask-designed-in-seattle-is-the-first-of-its-kind-to-get-federal-approval/

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

SEW GOWNS?
Shuksan Healthcare workers are in need of isolation gowns. They have asked for the community to make gowns.  Old sheets are an acceptable fabric.  A free pattern is available at 

https://www.peekaboopatternshop.com/isolation-gown/. The pattern calls for ribbing at the cuffs but elastic works as well. People can bring to my house and I will pass them on. (Gowns can also be dropped off at Shuksan if that is easier for you.)
  Kathy Piscitello
  2725 Utter St,
  201-956-7544

GOODS NURSERY AND PRODUCE AND GOODS LOCAL BREWS
Goods Nursery and Produce at the corner of Northwest & Elm is open with all your gardening essentials. We have local honey, Joe’s veggie and strawberry starts, herbs, pansies, compost and more! We are sanitizing all surfaces, enforcing social distancing among shoppers and disinfecting constantly. Cory is there daily from 9-4PM.
    Goods Local Brews is offering a growler exchange. Bring in your own growler and we will exchange it with a clean, sanitized one with a new cap. Check in with Cory from 9-4PM at the produce stand and he can fill your growler for you. Thank you all for your continued support through this very difficult time. We look forward to when we can open our doors again to the community! Stay safe and healthy!
  Cory’s cell: 360-303-9115

EDITOR’S CORNER
I have learned that some of our essential workers in Whatcom County pay taxes but will get no stimulus check. The people who work the fields to raise and harvest the food we eat are often among them. Many hundreds are out of work till the strawberries are ready for harvest. I heard about a national campaign inviting people, if they can afford it, to donate part of their stimulus check to help those families. I want to donate to local families, so I will donate to Community to Community. You’re welcome to join me.

Make checks payable to
Community to Community or C2C and mail to –
203 W. Holly, Suite 311,
Bellingham, WA 98225

or go to

www.foodjustice.org

and use the PayPal donation button – but there will be a percentage taken from the amount you donate. There are other organizations also helping with this issue nationally, but I focused on Whatcom County, where we live.

Love/Fl!p

CONTENTS
Parks And Physical Distancing
Vigorous Exercise And Covid
Two More Deaths
Columbia Neighborhood
Subject: Liam’s Birthday Parade
Lost Cat Is Home
Found Keys Are Home
Fl!p’s Pix For Music
Wonderful New Song
Miles & Karina
Editor’s Corner
Some Folks Won’t Get Checks

PARKS AND PHYSICAL DISTANCING
From Millie Johnson, an except about local parks use from the Unified Command: “I know our Communications Team had meetings this week to talk about how to discourage the gathering of folks in parks to keep to the social distancing orders.  Many parts of the parks have been closed to make them less appealing to folks, but we know how nice weather brings people out. I think there is an effort to try and do as much prevention of folks gathering in parks as possible.  In some parks law enforcement has been working to close the roads, but I think right now that focus has been on Clarks Point and Birch bay area where there was already some congregating.”

VIGOROUS EXERCISE AND COVID
It looks like exercise that makes you sweat and breathe hard spreads lots more virus. Six feet is nowhere near enough distance during such exercise, which also leaves droplets hanging in the air in the slip stream of hard pumping runners and cyclists. Please use the middle of our nice empty roads for exercising hard. And if you’re walking, stay away from where the hard runners have just passed by.

https://medium.com/@jurgenthoelen/belgian-dutch-study-why-in-times-of-covid-19-you-can-not-walk-run-bike-close-to-each-other-a5df19c77d08

TWO MORE DEATHS
Bringing the Whatcom County total to 23. Please keep staying home.

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

SUBJECT: LIAM’S BIRTHDAY PARADE
Tomorrow Saturday
April 11th @4pm
2602 Park St Bellingham Wa

Hi 4th Grade Families!!
We would like to invite you all to help us shout out birthday wishes to Liam for his 10th birthday with a drive-by birthday parade. Short stops but please stay in your vehicles:) THE MORE CARS, THE BETTER!!!! We have made a Covid-19 cell piñata that Liam will be batting at on our lawn! Making the best of these weird times:) Please join us for a quick drive by. Honks are welcomed!!! Please use W Connecticut St to make a turn on Park St to keep traffic flowing in the same direction. Hope to see you there, Tricia and Ryan Ferry

LOST CAT IS HOME
Thanks Everyone!

FOUND KEYS ARE HOME
Thanks everyone else!

FL!P’S PIX FOR MUSIC
I have music buddies posting videos of songs for these times. These two are really different from one another, and both really sweet.

WONDERFUL NEW SONG
Gorgeous new song, as of yesterday, from the inimitable Susan Ellenton of Victoria BC. So tender, yet so uncompromising.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lI1AMGb07ps

MILES & KARINA
Friends from Seattle singing cappella beautifully.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=owb0XCGuT44&feature=share

EDITOR’S CORNER

SOME FOLKS WON’T GET CHECKS
Some of our neighbors in Whatcom County pay taxes but will get no stimulus check. The people who work the fields to raise and harvest  the food we eat are often among them. Around here, many hundreds are out of work till the strawberries are ready for harvest. I heard about a national campaign inviting people who can afford it, to donate part of their stimulus check to help those families. I thought I’d like to donate to local families, so I checked around for an organization that knows the local farmworker families personally. Here is where I will donate: Community to Community. You’re welcome to join me.

Make checks payable to Community to Community or C2C and mail to – 203 W. Holly, Suite 311, Bellingham, WA  98225 or go to www.foodjustice.org  and use the PayPal donation button – but there will be a % taken from the amount you donate.

Love/Fl!p