Connecting, Survey, Zoom, Much More

CONTENTS

  Connecting With Your Neighbors

  Economic Impact Survey

  Food Shortages? Not Exactly.

  Zoom Meeting Security

  Volunteer Opportunities

  Virtual Repair Cafe

  Virtual Tulip Festival

Columbia Neighborhood

  Rental Available

  Thanks For Manischewitz! And Groceries!

Fl!p’s Pix For Music 

  Zoom Security And Sound Settings For Music

  New Lost City Ramblers

  Seattle 1918 Flu History

CONNECTING WITH YOUR NEIGHBORS

I think what my opportunity with this list is, at this time, is getting neighbors in good contact with the people on their own block for mutual support. If you can help me on that project with your own block, I would love it! There is a great deal going on to be upset and even panicked about. But there are things we can do, as well. Opportunities in this moment. Building solidarity with the people with whom we live side by side, we begin to re-knit the bonds of real community. ~ Love/Fl!p

ECONOMIC IMPACT SURVEY

Don Goldberg (Port of Bellingham Economic Development Director) is leading an economic recovery task force under Unified Command.  They will be coordinating countywide initiatives with the broader agency group. They are distributing a Economic Impact Survey to assess the impacts of COVID-19 on the county economy. Please distribute the survey as broadly as possible to city contractors, consultants, businesses, gig workers, freelancers, artists etc. The survey is due April 8.  Here’s the link to the survey: https://form.responster.com/EsA58H

FOOD SHORTAGES? NOT EXACTLY.

https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2020/04/03/826006362/food-shortages-nope-too-much-food-in-the-wrong-places

ZOOM MEETING SECURITY

https://security.berkeley.edu/resources/cybersecurity-and-covid-19/settings-preventing-zoom-bombing?fbclid=IwAR3ucl6eeXSF3tNjqrZ_Wkf-QcfY95tb8J-bmhvcCjWujy0S-QkFPr-A5jQ

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Don’t know if you have seen the Volunteer Center’s Hot Sheet (below), but there are several opportunities for those wanting to help out. Also, for the time being, the Bellingham Food Bank is sticking with the distribution system they have set up, but they are taking applications for volunteers. (They want people to apply apparently.) I’ll try to get more updates over the weekend, but if Columbia residents want to get involved, it seems like these are the best opportunities at the moment.  ~ Jennifer Moon

VIRTUAL REPAIR CAFE

We’re going to try something different this month.  We’ll have a virtual repair cafe, 3-5pm this Sunday like usual. You can either call in: (360) 562-0546 or join us on zoom: https://zoom.us/j/407034925

You do not need to create an account for zoom.  You don’t even need to install the software if you don’t want to. Even if you don’t have anything that needs repairing, feel free to stop by and say hello  If you want some repair help, but can’t make it on Sunday, let us know by email or phone and we’ll see if we can do another one soon. Hope you are doing well in these interesting times ~ .Josh.

VIRTUAL TULIP FESTIVAL

Take a virtual tour of the tulip festival. Anytime! 

TULIPFESTIVAL.ORG

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

RENTAL

1909 craftsman home, 2314 Utter Street, Bellingham, near Elizabeth Park. 4 bedroom, 2.5 baths, gas heat with electric heat in three of the bedrooms.  Preparing multiple spaces for vegetable gardens with quality soil.  $1,800/month.  Tenant pays for utilities. Possible pet(s) by negotiation and with deposit.  Available May 1st or possibly earlier. (206) 909-3300. ~ Gary Gill

THANKS FOR MANISCHEWITZ! AND GROCERIES!

Thanks to Anna & Ellen Blick for the generous gift of Manischewitz wine early this morning! I can now finish one key Passover dish tomorrow. And thanks to Reisa LaTorra for repeated grocery rescues for me & Zeke, and for Vortex The Cat! And thanks to you all for your support…

FL!P’S PIX FOR MUSIC

ZOOM SECURITY AND SOUND SETTINGS FOR MUSIC

My friend Bruce Baker sent me a pdf with settings from the UW for security, and from David Perazzo for music. I figure the musicians among us will really appreciate the latter. Request a copy and I’ll email it to you.

NEW LOST CITY RAMBLERS

This hour-long documentary celebrates fifty years of the New Lost City Ramblers (Mike Seeger, John Cohen, Tracy Schwarz, and Tom Paley). We’re making this acclaimed film available for free on YouTube for a limited time. Produced by the Arhoolie Foundation. Directed by Yasha Aginsky. https://arhoolie.org/new-lost-city-ramblers-dvd/

SEATTLE 1918 FLU HISTORY

Everything About Masks

CONTENTS: EVERYTHING ABOUT MASKS

  More Homemade Mask Details

  Donate Masks & Goggles

  Comparisons Of Mask Materials

  Mask Design Matters

  No Hepa Vacuum Bags

  N95 vs N95S Masks

  Vented Mask Dangers

  Request For Fabric

Some of these I’ve run before, but I thought I’d put everything in one place. Key sections are new. We now want everyone wearing masks in public. So we need lots more of them homemade. But design matters. It’s a bitter shame when healthcare workers throw away masks because they are unusable. Read “Design Matters” below for guidance. And please spread the word about exhalation valve dangers. Thank you! (Second post about everything else will follow.)

MORE HOMEMADE MASK DETAILS

Please wear masks and bandanas in public! Testing is now showing that people are often contagious without symptoms, that people can be contagious a long time after symptoms resolve, and that simple masks and even bandanas offer significant protection, especially when used in combination with physical distancing and great hygiene measures. Homemade masks should fit snugly and be washed after each use. If reuse is needed masks can have a contrasting inside and outside fabric so you can be careful to not let the outside ever touch the inside of your mask or your face. Wash your hands before and after touching your mask and if possible only touch the ties, not the fabric.

DONATE MASKS & GOGGLES

Many neighbors have done Map Your Neighborhood on their blocks. Most groups that did, received at least one orange backpack with emergency supplies at that meeting. I had forgotten that among those supplies were one or two N95 masks and a pair of clear goggles that fit over a pair of glasses. Hospital workers really need both of those items right now. Ummm… really, really need them. Can you donate yours? Contact me to set it up. Even if your stash didn’t come from Map Your Neighborhood.

COMPARISONS OF MASK MATERIALS

Making DIY Masks with Household Materials

Bottom line: Test data shows that the best choices for DIY masks are cotton t-shirts, pillowcases, or other cotton materials. These materials filter out approximately 50% of 0.2 micron particles, similar in size to the coronavirus. They are also as easy to breathe through as surgical masks, which makes them more comfortable, enough to wear for several hours. DOUBLING THE LAYERS OF MATERIAL FOR YOUR DIY MASK GIVES A VERY SMALL INCREASE IN FILTRATION EFFECTIVENESS, BUT MAKES THE MASK MUCH MORE DIFFICULT TO BREATHE THROUGH. (Paper towels are less than half as effective.) https://smartairfilters.com/en/blog/best-materials-make-diy-face-mask-virus/   

MASK DESIGN MATTERS

Bria Schurke

March 29 at 11:12 AM

Anything is NOT better than nothing, particularly if masks become vectors themselves. Design is just as important as fabric for DIY masks.

Hi all, I am a public health practitioner, medical provider, and my family has a large scale clothing production company. I am working with about 250 people making homemade masks for various organizations and hospitals that I am involved with. I am finding that MANY of the DIY donated masks DO NOT WORK and we are unfortunately having to throw them away. This is what I have learned so far and suggestions I have for people who want to mass produce DIY masks designed to reduce droplet distribution. Disclaimer: masks I am discussing are NOT designed to reduce inhalation of COVID-19, they only reduce droplet distribution by someone who has a cough.

I’d much prefer if we could all use medical grade N95 masks, but that is simply not a reality and we are forced to mass produce DIY masks as a community.

There is a lot of emphasis put on the fabric and materials used for the masks..and less emphasis on the design. Currently the Minnesota Department of Health has no recommendation for mask design, per recent guidelines issued yesterday.. As a medical provider, this is a huge concern.

Masks with elastic ear loops do not accommodate for different head sizes, the tend to fall off, and wearers tend to touch their face to readjust them. Ear loops also cause sore ears after hours of use. I watched my own triage nurse holding her DIY mask on her face as she swabbed COVID-19 patients. The mask would simply not stay on and we do not have any masks in our clinic or ER.  This is a problem then, if people are now touching their face more, then touching public counters, door knobs etc. The CDC recommends that symptomatic people wear the DIY 2 layer 100% cotton masks to reduce the spread of droplets. It seems like the fabric recommendations are changing daily and there is still ample research needed to be done on best practices for DIY home masks.

Cute masks with designs, thick/stiff fabric, are difficult to wash and difficult to breath in. Even if we use the correct recommended fabric, if the masks don’t fit well, are unbearable to wear for at least an hour, and can’t be washed easily, then they are pointless.  Also elastic breaks down in cleaning solutions and heat. Once elastic is stretched out it renders the mask useless.

If we really want effective masks that reduce the spread of droplets that are mass produced by the general public then I strongly recommend designing masks with these standards:

1) ties behind head (reduces face touching, stays on face). Ear loops are causing people ears to become sore and even bleed after hours of use.

2) Easy to wash (using light colored monotone or pure white fabric, ink bleeds when washed sometimes) *Edit: MDH guidelines now recommend washing in hot water and detergent after every use. This is IMPORTANT! Otherwise you just have another disease vector. COVID-19 “lives” in the mouth.

3) covers brim of nose to under chin and expands well across the face

4)accommodates different head sizes with same pattern size.

5)wearable for a long period of time (does not irritate face, somewhat breathable, stays on face)

6) meets CDC standards (2 layer 100% cotton) Seems to be changing daily!

7) accommodates shrinkage when washed

8) minimal materials and easy to make for mass production

9) uses a pattern that accommodates for different sewing skills. some masks do not fit at all if the cut or straight stitch is off.

10) uses straight cut for mass production and less waste of fabric (vs mask design with rounded edges that wastes fabric).

The time is now for Minnesota to prepare and get this right. People are putting a ton of effort into making masks to donate. It is a waste of their time, resources, and effort if they are making masks that either are intolerable to wear and/or become vectors for disease because they force people to touch their face more. I hate to keep throwing away donated masks because they simply do not cover the face well, fall off, or can’t be washed.

Everyone who makes DIY masks should fit test them for at least 5-10 min prior to making more..and ensure the recommendations listed above. Have someone with a different sized head try them on for a while too.

Attached is a design that is:

1)easily mass produced (cuts production by 1/3 from pleated design)

2)made with washable white fabric

3) ties behind the head, similar to masks we wear in surgery

4) accommodates a wide variety sewing skills

5) is secure, stays on the face and doesn’t need to be adjusted

6) can be worn for a long period of time.

This pattern is simple, reduces waste and only uses 2 10″ x 8″ pieces of 100% cotton (straight up rectangle, no rounded edges!) and 2 38″ strips of twill tape (can also use shoelace material or whatever material will tie securely, but can also be untied). Designed to be worn by the general public and not necessarily as a cover over an N95 (but can also be used for a cover as well.)

Here is a link to a google drive with instruction video and pattern:

[https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Cwtp0FxhCHIAmC2NvTKNr8AacXwvfDEa]

I’d love to continue brainstorming with folks. I have been working on prototypes and fit testing many different designs and fabrics for the last 3 weeks. I really believe we need to get this right and make sure the public is well informed. Design truly matters!!!(Design from Good Clothing Company, not my own.)

NO HEPA VACUUM BAGS

A quick warning : Do not use HEPA rated vacuum bags if you are making masks from vacuum cleaner bags. I searched a lot of sites to find any issues and I found two sites that warn that the HEPA rated vacuum bags are made with glass fibers and some are sprayed with chemicals. This is not the case for the paper and cloth bags of the kind we are using. While they do not filter as tightly as the HEPA specification, they are adequate for most uses except front line medical workers who need m95 or m99 masks. So don’t try to improve them by using HEPA bags. Interestingly, I stumbled across a site that was actually warning about the contents found in used vacuum bags. Of course do not make masks from used bags. They must be new and clean and not HEPA. ~Paul Eisenberg

N95 VS N95S MASKS

From my big brother: Flip, do not use N95s as a plural form. Use “N95 masks.” It confuses the issue in a very serious way. In fact, go through your posts and make sure you have not used N95S as a plural and if you have, replace it. [Done.]

  N95s is a designation for masks that are intended and allowed to be used in sterile fields, masks that are treated with antimicrobials and hydrophobic surface treatments.

   An N95S is a completely different animal from an N95, though they “look” pretty much the same. The N designation means it can be worn for a shift. 95 means only 5% of the 0.3 micron test particles get through (so it protects you from 95%) …

VENTED MASK DANGERS

   N95 masks with exhalation valves were designed only to protect the wearer, and not other people. They not only release unfiltered air, they propel it, like putting your thumb over the end of a garden hose. We can fix this! But we need to do so.

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/disp_part/respsource3healthcare.html

   “Respirators with exhalation valves can be used in a healthcare setting when it is not important to maintain a sterile field (an example of an acceptable practice would be when taking the temperature or blood pressure of a patient). Respirators with exhalation valves should not be used in situations where a sterile field is required (e.g., during an invasive procedure in an operating or procedure room) because THE EXHALATION VALVE ALLOWS UNFILTERED EXHALED AIR TO ESCAPE into the sterile field.” [Quote from CDC, emphasis mine.]

   We’re trying to avoid infecting each other. Prior to this pandemic, it was rare for there to be concern about infecting others through the outflow valve except during surgery. We are now in a new situation in which we all need to be concerned. At the choral rehearsal in Skagit Valley, 45 of the 60 participants came down with the virus, and two died. That group was not touching, and was sitting spaced apart. Singing appears to add power and range to exhalations. And unfortunately, masks with valves appear to do the same. So, put strong tape over the valve intake, on the inside, while touching the mask as little as possible. Wash your hands first.

  Please help spread this word, because it hasn’t yet gotten out in the world.

REQUEST FOR FABRIC

A friend wants to make masks with her new sewing machine. She’s in the at-risk population so can’t really go out & shop for the things she needs: 100% cotton fabric & 1/4″ elastic. Does anyone have some to share? I will be glad to pick up from your porch/steps & deliver to her porch. 

Jennifer Dannenberg 510-604-5279, Lynn St

Extension to May 4, Donations, Farmer’s Market, Online Concerts & Events, More

CONTENTS

   Extension Of Governor’s Order To May 4

   New Whatcom Unified Command Covid Donations Page

   Modified Farmer’s Market To Re-open April 11

   New Trail & Sidewalk Etiquette

   Yes To Regular Vaccines Now

 Columbia Neighborhood

   Grocery / Pharmacy Delivery 

   Looking For Garden Pots

   Manischewitz?

Fl!p’s Pix For Music

   Whatcom Arts Project

   Rainy Day Band

   JP Falcon Grady

   Moving Body – Moving Image

   John Prine Update

WHATCOM UNIFIED COMMAND RESPONSE TO EXTENSION OF GOVERNOR’S ORDER ‘STAY HOME, STAY HEALTHY’ ESSENTIAL TO PROTECT COMMUNITY

This evening Governor Jay Inslee extended his “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order through May 4 in order to further slow the spread of COVID-19. Since the Governor announced his original order two weeks ago, Washington’s trend for infection is lower than other states, but still points to an expected 1000 deaths in this state.

Gov. Inslee said extending the order is not only justified, it is “morally necessary” in order to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. He said future action on the virus will be data-driven and science-based, as previous actions have been.

At Whatcom Unified Command, we agree. Our objectives are to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, provide for our community’s most vulnerable, maintain essential services and support first responders. We are also committed to mitigating the impact of this virus on our local economy.

Every single one of us can make a difference. The more people who maintain social distance for this next month, the more likely we are to stunt the growth of this new virus, ensure hospitals and healthcare facilities are ready, and get our businesses back to work. Staying home is the best choice you can make for your loved ones and our community.

For more information on community resources or the work of Whatcom Unified Command, please check WhatcomCOVID.com or the Whatcom Unified Command COVID-19 Facebook page. For more information on the Governor’s orders and plans to prepare the state for recovery, visit the Washington State COVID-19 website.

WHATCOM UNIFIED COMMAND COVID DONATIONS PAGE

This has a new donations tab, linked below, and lots more. It’s a trusted source.

https://whatcomcovid.com/donations/

WHATCOM UNIFIED COMMAND SITUATON REPORT

This one was from March 31. I haven’t been able to find more recent reports posted.

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article241686001.html

MODIFIED FARMER’S MARKET TO RE-OPEN APRIL 11

With really major modifications for safety.

https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article241719226.html

NEW TRAIL & SIDEWALK ETIQUETTE

During our newish and extended Stay Home, Stay Safe Order, I have delighted in seeing more people on the trail. However, we are using old etiquette methods which no longer serve this time and must adapt. In order to be safe for ourselves and for others here are some new walking/riding/running guidelines: If you are walking side-by-side and are approaching other people that you need to pass, please position yourself in a single fashion line on the opposite side of the path or trail. If you are walking and come upon others that you want to talk to, by all means, please do! However, the new protocol is to stagger distance on the same side of the street, path or trail. By doing so, you’re keeping everyone in your group safe while allowing others to pass safely on the opposite side. And finally, if you are on a bike, would you please call out and give notice well in advance, especially for those walking together side by side at 6 feet apart? This will allow the group that is separated at width to rearrange and separate in a single file fashion.  The reason this is important, even outside, is that breathing at exertion spreads more germs. Additionally, those that are prone to anxiety can feel increased fear when space is diminished. During this time, we can practice courteous, kind and simple modifications to ensure everyone’s well-being in body, mind and spirit. ~ Andrea Zikakis

YES TO REGULAR VACCINES NOW

Should your child receive their regular vaccines during this pandemic? Former Whatcom County Public Health Officer, Dr Frank James, says an emphatic Yes!

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

RECOMMENDATION FOR GROCERY / PHARMACY DELIVERY

 I highly recommend Dawson Allan for his grocery / pharmacy delivery service. Dawson is the owner of Bulldog Landscaping Pros. His company is postponing current landscaping operations due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Under these stay-at-home conditions, Dawson is available to make grocery / pharmacy deliveries to the doorsteps of people who want to avoid going out to shop.

 Contact Information: Dawson Allan, (425) 286-5181 (call or text); dawson@bulldoglandscapingpros.com (email).

I have been very happy with Dawson’s service shopping and delivering groceries for me. He is reliable, efficient, informed about best safety practices, and an excellent communicator. I also recommend Bulldog Landscaping Pros for excellent yard and garden care, when such work can resume. ~ Marilyn Stoops, Utter Street

LOOKING FOR GARDEN POTS

In need of:

21” x 11” garden flats

8” x 8” square pots

4” x 4” square pots

If you have any extras lying around we’d love to get them from you! Let us know and we’ll pick them up from where ever you set them out for us. ~ Harriet and Rob Holmgren, 2212 Victor Street, 360-303-6821 text

MANISCHEWITZ?

I just discovered I’m out of Manischewitz! Ooops… I’ve been slowly going through the same bottle for years, and I must have finished it last year. If you’re going to the store anyway, might you pick me up a bottle of Concord Grape? I use it once a year when I cook for Passover. (Check with me first to make sure I don’t get too many!) I have cash or PayPal. Thank you!!!  Love/Fl!p 360-671-4511, 2518 Cherry Street

FL!P’S PIX FOR MUSIC

WHATCOM ARTS PROJECT

The Whatcom Arts Project, launched earlier this week, was created as a gift to the community during Washington State’s Stay Home – Stay Safe Order, from Bellingham and Whatcom County’s artists, musicians, actors, storytellers, dancers, filmmakers, performers, and arts supporters. Free, daily online content is available through this campaign to uplift, educate, and inspire during these difficult times, while we socially distance to slow the spread of COVID-19.  https://www.bellingham.org/whatcom-arts-project/

RAINY DAY BAND

Linda Allen, Jim Zito, Laura Smith, and Guest Larry Hanks. A vintage concert was posted online yesterday. This was recorded live in 1980 on the day Mt St Helen’s erupted.

https://www.lindasongs.com/the-rainy-day-band

JP FALCON GRADY 

From Blackfeet Nation, a local treasure. He’s streaming live Saturday April 4, 7 pm from his facebook page. You can go to his facebook page and scroll down to other streaming sessions.  His has a virtual tip jar but he is also doing this as a contribution from his huge heart.  Live From The Falcon Lair at Facebook.com/JPFalconGrady

MOVING BODY — MOVING IMAGE

Saturday April 4th (12-6 PM EST)  Tickets are free. ScreenDance film festival focused on giving voice to social and social justice themes. The short we made in Bellingham a few years ago titled “Ellis won’t be dancing today” is a part of the additional program as the “Surprise Short.”  https://www.movingbodymovingimage.com/ ~ Pam Kuntz

JOHN PRINE UPDATE

This is John’s 8th day in ICU . He is receiving excellent medical care and being treated with kindness and compassion by the entire team looking after him day and night. I cannot be with him which makes this nightmare all the more distressing for me.
As you know, John was put on a ventilator last Saturday. He still needs quite a bit of help with his breathing. Like many patients currently in ICU beds all around the world, John has pneumonia in both lungs. He has also developed some peripheral issues that are being treated with meds, including antibiotics.
He is very ill and yet I remain hopeful that he can continue to fight this devastating virus and come home where we can care for him.
I don’t have the words to adequately Thank You all for the outpouring of love and prayers that John and our family has received this last week. It means the world to us to have your love and support at this difficult time.
On behalf of me and our boys- Jody Jack and Tommy – please know that we are keeping you all in our hearts with a prayer that you stay safe and healthy. Please continue to send Love, Prayers and Positive Energy to John. He needs us now more than ever. John loves you and I love you too. ~ Fiona Prine, Thursday evening

Love/Fl!p

Everybody Mask Up, Fixable Mask Problem, Sew Gowns, Covid Needs, More

CONTENTS

April 2 2020

  Mask Problem

  Everybody Mask Up In Public

  Sew PPE Gowns

Request PPE

  Covid Needs

  Reality

  Whatcom Talk

  Foodstamps & WIC Correction

Columbia Neighborhood

  Garden Cardboard

Fl!p’s Pix For Music

  Somewhere To Begin

  Tony Trischka & Bruce Molskey

MASK PROBLEM

  N95 masks with exhalation valves were designed only to protect the wearer, and not other people. They not only release unfiltered air, they propel it, like putting your thumb over the end of a garden hose. We can fix this! But we need to do so. Here’s a quote (and link) from the CDC:

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/disp_part/respsource3healthcare.html

   “Respirators with exhalation valves can be used in a healthcare setting when it is not important to maintain a sterile field (an example of an acceptable practice would be when taking the temperature or blood pressure of a patient). Respirators with exhalation valves should not be used in situations where a sterile field is required (e.g., during an invasive procedure in an operating or procedure room) because THE EXHALATION VALVE ALLOWS UNFILTERED EXHALED AIR TO ESCAPE into thesterile field.” [Quote from CDC, emphasis mine.]

   We’re trying to avoid infecting each other. Prior to this pandemic, it was rare for there to be concern about infecting others through the outflow valve except during surgery. We are now in a new situation in which we all need to be concerned. At the choral rehearsal in Skagit Valley, 45 of the 60 participants came down with the virus, and two died. That group was not touching, and was sitting spaced apart. Singing appears to add power and range to exhalations. And unfortunately, masks with valves appear to do the same. So, put strong tape over the valve intake, on the inside, while touching the mask as little as possible. Wash your hands first.

  Please help spread this word, because it hasn’t yet gotten out in the world.

EVERYBODY MASK UP IN PUBLIC

As of today, the recommendations are changing since once we have even homemade masks, it is better to wear one than not.  It has become clear that the big deal is that a significant part of our population is infected  and don’t know it and so the docs including the surgeon general have changed their minds. See PBS Newshour today.  Better to wear a homemade mask than nothing.  https://www.pbs.org/newshour/   April 1, 2020  ~ John Egbert

SEW PPE GOWNS

Shortages of Personal Protective Equipment, like masks and gowns, put our medical workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic at greater risk. Join Bellingham Makerspace and RE Sources to help make DIY gowns in the coming weeks — or donate supplies.

On April 1st, federal officials reported that the national stockpile of equipment for healthcare workers is nearly gone. We’re tackling the problem locally with a volunteer-run production facility to make protective gowns out of Tyvek construction wrap for PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center workers. PeaceHealth has approved this effort, and the workspace is following all social distancing and sanitation rules.

Sign up to assemble Tyvek gowns at Bellingham Makerspace. This form includes the option to get a do-it-yourself kit to make gowns from home if you are strictly limiting your outings. If you can donate supplies, let us know in the form as well! 

Reach out to Eddy Ury with any questions: EddyU@re-sources.org

REQUEST PPE

Here is a link from Makerspace that can be shared with anyone who is requesting cloth masks and such.  They can fill this out and then we can begin distributing things in an organized fashion.  Should speed things up a bit too.

https://tinyurl.com/PPEMakerRequest

COVID NEEDS 

Here’s a wishlist from the Whatcom Covid Command – https://whatcomcovid.com/

http://columbianeighborhood.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Whatcom-COVID-NEEDS-List.pdf

[Thank you to Michael Kelberer for getting this link, and so many other things on this blog, to work!]

REALITY

“We would all be dead if not for the grocery-store stockers. The farm workers. The maintenance staff. The nurses, the intake staff at hospitals and doctors’ offices. Without the tech support people. The novel coronavirus has cast the mighty from their offices and lifted up the dignity and irreplaceability of those we thought were lowly workers.”  ~ Natalia Imperatori-Lee, National Catholic Reporter, April 2, 2020

WHATCOM TALK

This is a cool local publication, with relevant information. WhatcomTalk.com

FOODSTAMPS & WIC CORRECTION

Long ago I worked for WIC. I believe this statement in your newsletter may conflate WIC-approved foods with Food-Stamp approved products: “When you shop for groceries, avoid items with a shelf tag that says WIC. For folks on food stamps, those are the only options they can purchase.” This needs checking, but I’m pretty certain food-stamp recipients can buy the vast majority of food products (just not alcohol and some other excluded items), whereas WIC vouchers are good only for a very small subset of food products, all of which which enhance health for infants, children, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding–foods such as milk, cheese, eggs, and iron-fortified cereals.  ~ Marc Hoffman [Marc has been helping me with this blog, and taught me Flatworld, my favorite tune for many years.]

COLUMBIA NEIGBOROOD

GARDEN CARDBOARD

In search of cardboard boxes, the larger the better, for sheet mulching around my new veggie garden I’ve been digging to ward off cabin fever. I’ll pick up, just text me. Thanks! ~Kendall Scoboria on Victor St  (360) 223-0839

FL!P’S PIX FOR MUSIC

SOMEWHERE TO BEGIN

TR Richie spent his last years in Bellingham. I need this song of his from time to time.

TONY TRISCHKA & BRUCE MOLSKEY 

Today, Thursday April 2, 4 PM 

I’m not sure if a donation is required to access this concert, but I have hosted local concerts over the years for each of these world-class musicians and I’m looking forward to seeing an archived video of them performing together, not that long ago, at the historic Cafe Lena in upstate New York.

https://youtu.be/103Evssa

Stay Home, Mask PSA, Food Safety, Lots More

CONTENTS

April 1 2020

  Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Strong Whatcom County

  N95 Mask Exhalation Valve Safety PSA

  Food Safety: Groceries & Restaurants

  Safely Sterilizing Home Masks

  Reassuring Doctor In Writing

  Stay Home Please

  Stone Soup Project

  Economic Impact Survey

Columbia Neighborhood

  Zoofari

  Free Japanese Anemone Flower Starts 

  Truck And Driver Needed

Whatcom Unified Command
Stay home, Stay healthy, Stay Strong Whatcom County Way to go, Whatcom County! Every time you choose to stay home, you are doing your part to protect your neighbors, friends, and family. Staying home isn’t easy for everyone in Whatcom County. Staying home may mean we don’t get paid, we can’t go to school, or we can’t pay rent. Not all of us have the same access to resources like medical care, sick leave, jobs, food, or housing that keep us going and cushion us in these tough times. This puts some of us at greater risk of getting sick, going without basic necessities, losing our income, or even our home. It means some kids can easily access online learning to keep up their education while others can’t. And it means some of us will get COVID-19, and some of us won’t. That’s why it’s so important we stay in this together. Because we can all take action every day to care for our neighbors, our friends, our families, and even the strangers we’ll never see.

Here are ways that you can give back to your community: Check on neighbors. Some may feel isolated, or their home may be unsafe. Consider dropping off a care package to a neighbor, using safe social distancing, or help with getting groceries. If you or someone you know feels unsafe at home, the following resources are here to help. Brigid Collins Family Support Center offers individualized support and resources to families in Whatcom and Skagit counties. To speak to staff in the Whatcom County office call 360-734-4616. Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services offers support to adults experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault and sexual exploitation.  To speak to staff call the 24-hour phone hotline at 360-715-1563. Lummi Victims of Crime offers a variety of support for adults and adolescents who have been affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse and other violent crimes.  To speak to staff call the 24-hour phone hotline at (360) 312-2015. National Domestic Violence Hotline offers support through the chat feature on the website or over the phone at 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY). API Chaya specializes in supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking with people from or affiliated with Asian, Pacific Islander, and Middle Eastern communities. If at any time you are questioning the safety of adults or children, Adult Protective Services and Child Protective Services may be the appropriate and necessary option.

If you can contribute financially, these local organizations are accepting funds and other types of donations to help Whatcom county residents meet their needs. Local Food Banks: Ferndale Food BankFoothills Food BankBellingham Food Bank are some options. Chuckanut Health Foundation: COVID-19 Relief and Response Fund. Lhaq’temish Foundation and Whatcom Community Foundation: Resilience Fund. United Way of Whatcom County: Emergency Recovery Fund: COVID-19. Support a local business Buy a gift card, shop online, call-in orders, or get delivery if it is offered. Strengthen local farms by signing up for a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Box.

The more we can all stay home, the sooner we can get back to business as usual. Reducing our in-person contact with one another is our best tool to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Most of us are doing our part to keep our community healthy: we are staying home. It’s tough. It’s inconvenient. But it will make a difference.

N95 MASK EXHALATION VALVE SAFETY PSA

I hate to be alarmist, but I think we have a genuine problem, and it’s one we can do something about.

We wear masks not just to protect ourselves, but even more, to protect those around us, since we can be infectious without symptoms. It turns out masks with valves make things more dangerous for those around us instead of less. I think this info needs to get spread really fast. Can you help? 

I got an urgent response to my post yesterday about exhalation valve problems on N95 masks. 

I went looking on the web, and found this from the CDC about filtering of exhalations:

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/disp_part/respsource3healthcare.html

Respirators with exhalation valves can be used in a healthcare setting when it is not important to maintain a sterile field (an example of an acceptable practice would be when taking the temperature or blood pressure of a patient). Respirators with exhalation valves should not be used in situations where a sterile field is required (e.g., during an invasive procedure in an operating or procedure room) because THE EXHALATION VALVE ALLOWS UNFILTERED EXHALED AIR TO ESCAPE into the sterile field.

We’re trying not to infect each other. Prior to this pandemic, it was rare for there to be concern about infecting others through the outflow valve except during surgery. We are now in a new situation in which we all need to be concerned. At a choral rehearsal in Skagit Valley, 45 of the 60 participants came down with the virus, and two died. That group was not touching, and was sitting spaced apart. Singing appears to add power and range to exhalations. And unfortunately, masks with valves appear to do the same, like putting your thumb over the end of a garden hose. So, tape over the valve intake on the inside, while touching the mask as little as possible. Wash your hands first. Let’s stay safe, and especially keep each other safe.

FOOD SAFETY: GROCERIES & RESTAURANTS

This is a very detailed and thoughtful guide. He thinks we’re generally safe and says why.

https://www.seriouseats.com/2020/03/food-safety-and-coronavirus-a-comprehensive-guide.html

SAFELY STERILIZING HOME MASKS

Please be careful not to use hot water and bleach at the same time! Too-hot water can release toxic chlorine gas. Also be sure not to mix bleach with anything other than water as the combinations can also produce toxic gases.  ~Margie Katz

REASSURING DOCTOR IN WRITING

Here is a written article that corresponds to the video of the NYC doctor I shared a few days ago. Thank you, Morgan Franklin, for sending it to me.

https://medium.com/@paulanderson_73765/nyc-lung-doctor-tells-his-family-how-to-protect-themselves-from-covid-19-fb0b117b3472

STAY HOME PLEASE

This is a response to the comments from the doctor on your last post. I’m a little concerned with her information saying that people at risk, if wearing a mask could get out in the world again. All the experts are saying stay home, stay home, stay home. It’s great that masks will help with cutting down the spread but I personally wouldn’t want to be giving a sense of false hope. And some to people’s interpretation of this statement.

 I do agree that people who are having to get out for essential shopping should definitely start wearing masks.  But being a very high risk patient I will continue to heed the warnings and suggestions from the experts not to go out.

I do get out in my yard for fresh air but no further. ~Tami Crawford

ECONOMIC IMPACT SURVEY

Don Goldberg (Port of Bellingham Economic Development Director) is leading an economic recovery task force under Unified Command.  They will be coordinating countywide initiatives with the broader agency group. They are distributing a Economic Impact Survey to assess the impacts of COVID 10 on the county economy. I’ve included a link to the survey below. Please distribute the survey as broadly as possible to City contractors, consultants, businesses, gig workers, freelancers, artists etc. The survey is due April 8.  Here’s the link to the survey: https://form.responster.com/EsA58H

STONE SOUP PROJECT

Checks may be sent to:

Fellowship of Messengers

1770 Front St. #204

Lynden WA 98264

Paypal to: fellowship98225@gmail.com

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

ZOOFARI

My neighbor talked to a family biking down our street today, and they had only seen six or so stuffed animals. I put mine in the house in my picture window, facing my neighbors’ big bear in their window. It will add interest to walks and rides through the neighborhoods. ~Zip Jelino

FREE JAPANESE ANEMONE FLOWER STARTS

Free pink Japanese anemone flower starts in a box in front of 2628 Williams Street. ~ Laura Todd, Williams Street

TRUCK AND DRIVER NEEDED FOR 5 YARDS of COMPOST FOR TWO NON-PROFITS

I am helping Animals as Natural Therapy get 5 yards of Compost to Common Threads (school gardens).  If you have a truck and time to support the movement of compost between these two organizations, we would LOVE your help.  You can contact me and I will get you in touch with folks of the organizations.  THANK YOU! ~ Laura Todd, Williams Street, 360-224-0116

Love/Fl!p flip@columbianeighborhood.org

Donate Masks & Goggles, Mask Exhaust Valve Problem, Arts Project, Homeless Teen Help, More

CONTENTS

  Donate Masks & Goggles

  Problem With Masks With Exhaust Valves!

  Whatcom Arts Project!

  Help Homeless Teens

  New Cases: 14; One Additional Death

  Scammer Alert

  Masks, From Betsy Brown Md

  Mask Material Comparisons

  Wic: Women, Infants, Children

Fl!p’s Pix For Music

  Robert Sarazin Blake:From The Kitchen Table

  Poem: The Word

DONATE MASKS & GOGGLES

Many neighbors have done Map Your Neighborhood on their blocks. Most groups that did, received at least one orange backpack with emergency supplies at that meeting. I had forgotten that among those supplies were one or two N95 masks and a pair of clear goggles that fit over a pair of glasses. Hospital workers really need both of those items right now. Ummm… really, really need them. Can you donate yours? Contact me to set it up, or drop them by Makerspace. Even if your stash didn’t come from Map Your Neighborhood.

PROBLEM WITH MASKS WITH EXHAUST VALVES!

[From my big brother Joe Breskin, who is worth listening to. Some N95 masks come with an exhaust valve. If you have one of those, it is crucial to cover the valve intake on the inside with strong tape. Here’s why:]

To visualize the exhaust valve issue clearly, imagine a hose, and how much farther the water squirts when you obstruct the opening with your thumb. Velocity increases as the area of the opening is reduced, and it works the same with air, increasing velocity and making stuff exhaled through the valve go farther.

And this

https://edhub.ama-assn.org/jn-learning/video-player/18357411

“This video demonstrates the phenomena in human sneezes visualized by light scattering toward the camera from multiple optical sources and at different distances. It illustrates how mucosalivary liquid emissions, in the form of droplets of a continuous size range, are coupled with the hot, moist, and high momentum gas cloud, which traps and carries them forward up to 7 to 8 m (26 ft). This newer understanding of respiratory emission dynamics has implications for mask and respiratory design, social distancing recommendations, and other public health interventions during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. ” [Did I say Joe is a scientist?]

WHATCOM ARTS PROJECT

Staying Together While Apart  New Whatcom Arts Project Created!
As a gift to the community, during Washington State’s Stay Home – Stay Safe Order, Bellingham and Whatcom County artists, musicians, actors, storytellers, dancers, filmmakers, performers and arts supporters, including museums and libraries have come together to create the Whatcom Arts Project. Free, daily online content is available through this campaign to uplift, educate, and inspire during these difficult times, while we socially distance to slow the spread of COVID-19. All arts and heritage organizations in Whatcom County are welcome to join this effort! If your organization would like to provide content contact media@bellingham.org

HELP HOMELESS TEENS

We have over 100 unaccompanied homeless kids in town.  Roxana Parise is the homeless liaison for the school district, which documents over 400 total homeless kids. Roxana has two young women who are now going out to check on the teens on their roles and providing food and gift cards from Fred Meyer and Haggen.  Our small women’s group are their major funding source…Here is the website where neighbors may make donations.  Our goal is to keep a supply going to these kids until this is over: BellinghamGivingCircle.org

(All donations are tax-deductible. Bellingham Giving Circle is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, a registered Washington State charity and holds Federal Tax ID# 36-4750525)  ~ Carole Hanaway, 3051 Eldridge Avenue

NEW CASES: 14; ONE ADDITIONAL DEATHS

The newest numbers increase the total confirmed cases in Whatcom County to 139. Eight people who tested positive have died, including another elder from Shuksan Nursing Home.

See BellinghamHerald.com

SCAMMER ALERT

[From the Bellingham Herald] The federal government will not ask anyone to confirm personal or banking details by email, phone or text message. It also won’t demand a “processing fee” to obtain or expedite your stimulus payment. Do not click on links in email or text messages relating to the stimulus checks and do not provide your personal information.

MASKS, FROM BETSY BROWN MD

[One of my most trusted sources. I await her updates every night. Just got this.]

https://betsybrownmd.substack.com/

When I started writing this about a month ago, I realized that this virus was so new that our understanding of it would evolve. I expected to change my advice frequently based on new data. I try to read and stay abreast of updates, but things are moving swiftly. We have to remember that this virus infected it’s first human host in mid November. And here we are 4 1/2 months later (is that all?) and we know amazing amounts of things about, but we still don’t understand it completely.

Sometimes, the theory and directives are vague and not so clear. Data and more information help to clarify. My big shift now is thinking about face masks. At first I thought only health care workers and infected patients needed them. I worried, as many experts do, including the CDC and WHO, that people who wore a mask for their own protection were risking letting down their guard with hand washing, physical distancing, trying not to touch their face, not always wearing them correctly. Worries were real that if everyone used them, health care workers would have none. Next, I thought people, who have been exposed but did not have symptoms, should wear one to protect from transmitting to others. These were reasonable concerns, when it was thought that the virus was in respiratory droplets and not aerosolized.

But the evidence is not so clear anymore about transmission. The risk of asymptomatic transmission is real. Now some evidence shows wearing a mask can protect an uninfected person from the virus. Compelling to my friends who love to sing, is this sad tale out of Mt. Vernon, Washington regarding choir practice. My friends are worried, want to do the right thing, and be safe. So now, my thinking has evolved that wearing a mask can be protective from infection, if done well, when shopping or going into stores, or talking with friends across an enclosed space. For people that have risk factors, this can be a gift of being out in the world with a little less fear. And I know there will be some fancy glamour, if I know my creative friends.

We are in this for the long haul and what we are doing is making a difference. Don’t be discouraged. A Seattle Times story today shows the progress being made, new and old treatments are in trials. People are donating their time and plasma for these efforts. People are following “physical distancing”- such a better description than “social distancing”. Yes, a few outliers, but generally people show they care by following the guidelines. And there are opportunities to help those that are suffering. I know of many ways here where I live and you can find ways wherever you live. We are all in this together.

Wash your hands.

And finally, my caveat is that this is my experience and my opinions, which are subject to change as more information is available, and not related to the organization I work for. Thanks for reading. ~Betsy Brown, MD

MASK MATERIAL COMPARISONS

Here, perhaps biased since from air purifier company, but interesting:

Making DIY Masks with Household Materials

Bottom line: Test data shows that the best choices for DIY masks are cotton t-shirts, pillowcases, or other cotton materials. These materials filter out approximately 50% of 0.2 micron particles, similar in size to the coronavirus. They are also as easy to breathe through as surgical masks, which makes them more comfortable, enough to wear for several hours. Doubling the layers of material for your DIY mask gives a very small increase in filtration effectiveness, but makes the mask much more difficult to breathe through. (Paper towels are less than half as effective.) https://smartairfilters.com/en/blog/best-materials-make-diy-face-mask-virus/   ~Millie Johnson

WIC: WOMEN, INFANTS, CHILDREN

  • When you shop for groceries, avoid items with a shelf tag that says WIC. For folks on food stamps, those are the only options they can purchase. With shelves pretty bare already, please leave those items for neighbors who have no alternative if you possibly can. In some areas, WIC cards are renewed on the first of the month so there is an early surge and bare shelves have an even bigger impact. Here, recipients cards renew on whatever day of the month they signed up on. So all month long, if you buy the last WIC bag of macaroni, someone’s kids may have no alternative. Please be kind.

FL!P’S PIX FOR MUSIC

ROBERT SARAZIN BLAKE:FROM THE KITCHEN TABLE

Sunday April 5th, 5-7pm

 LIVE STEAM http:///www.robertsarazinblake.com

or https://www.facebook.com/robertsarazinblake/

All Viewers Welcome: Digital Tip Jar

Paypal: paypal.me/RobertSarazinBlake

Venmo: @RobertSarazinBlake

A weekly broadcast concert and song swap

‘Lets sit around the table together’

April 5th Guest Caleb Klauder & Reeb Willms

https://calebklauder.com/

THE WORD 

Poem by Tony Hoagland

Down near the bottom

of the crossed-out list

of things you have to do today, 

between “green thread”

and “broccoli” you find

that you have penciled “sunlight.” 

Resting on the page, the word

is beautiful, it touches you

as if you had a friend 

and sunlight were a present

he had sent you from some place distant

as this morning—to cheer you up, 

and to remind you that,

among your duties, pleasure

is a thing

that also needs accomplishing.

Do you remember?

that time and light are kinds 

of love, and love

is no less practical

than a coffee grinder 

or a safe spare tire?

Tomorrow you may be utterly

without a clue 

but today you get a telegram,

from the heart in exile

proclaiming that the kingdom 

still exists,

the king and queen alive,

still speaking to their children, 

—to any one among them

who can find the time,

to sit out in the sun and listen.

 ~ Sent by Mardi Solomon

Love/Fl!p

Expired N95 Masks! Pets, Box Spring?, Coaching, More

CONTENTS

3/30/2020 8:45 PM #2

  Expired N95 Masks Wanted!

  Makerspace Donations Location

  Covid Projections From UW

  Caring For Our Pets

  Food Co-Op Update

  Delivery Folks & Tipping

  M.A.S.H. And Corona Virus

Columbia Neighborhood

  Box Spring Needed

  Backpack Reunited

Editor’s Corner

  Coaching Help?

Poem:  My Shoulder Misses You

EXPIRED N95 MASKS WANTED!

I just got word that in Whatcom County, we can donate expired N95 masks! The only thing that wears out is the elastic. I’m so excited, because years ago I organized a group buy for cases of those masks for earthquake preparedness. Our front entry was stacked with big cartons for weeks. I’m hoping a bunch of folks who got them from me back then still have some. I just checked my stash, and I have 3 boxes of 10 3M 8511 N95 masks. Makerspace folks will seal the exhale valves on these ones so they are safe for this use. I am SO excited that we can donate them! If you have an earthquake stash, or sheetrock or construction or whatever stash, of unused N95 masks, you can donate them! If you’re not going out, check in with me tomorrow. I’ll organize to get the masks where they need to go. Or if you’re going out, just take them by Makerspace. See the next post.

MAKERSPACE DONATIONS LOCATION

12 – 5, Mon -Fri

Someone will be available to receive donations at Bellingham Makerspace which is located at the Bellis Fair Mall. If you are in the parking lot and driving toward Dick’s Sporting Goods, there is a loading cu-lde-sac on the right. That’s where.

COVID PROJECTIONS FROM UW

National and state-by-state detailed projections. Click on the home page where it says USA to get the state listings.

https://covid19.healthdata.org/projections

CARING FOR OUR PETS

Have you made arrangements for your pets if you should contract the virus and be unable to care for them yourself? It’s not a likely scenario, but not one we’d like to see ever. Please talk with your neighbors and set up care just in case.

FOOD CO-OP UPDATE

The Co-op is open, and has posted senior hours and procedures for bulk foods on their website, which is updated often. They are not accepting any returns, including glass milk bottles at this time. It will make the workers lives easier if you check the website before you go, or before you phone. Please make only essential food runs wherever you shop. [And if you really have to go anyway, please check with me. I’ve got some items I could use a re-stock on sometime this week.] https://communityfood.coop/

DELIVERY FOLKS & TIPPING

I heard yesterday that tips have fallen dramatically for pizza delivery folks, and worry that it’s true for other workers as well. I wonder if it has to do with so many people getting laid off. If you can afford to tip extra well, please do!

M.A.S.H. AND CORONA VIRUS

Sorry, I couldn’t find this except on Facebook. But I loved it!

I have sincerely believed for a long time that whatever issue life puts in front of us M*A*S*H had a solution. I had some pent up creative energy today, so I did this while you were all cleaning your closets and such…lol

Posted by Frank Vaccariello on Saturday, March 28, 2020

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

BOX SPRING NEEDED

My daughter has had to move out unexpectedly and is in need of a full-size box spring. We could pick it up as soon as possible if someone offered. ~ Christy Raper 360-441-5905

BACKPACK REUNITED

The backpack left outside our house has been claimed. ~ Sue Hodges

EDITOR’S CORNER

COACHING HELP?

We’re way hunkered down. It’s now been over 2 weeks, so we’re likely to be fine. Friends and neighbors drop off groceries (and I adore them for it – talking about YOU Reisa, Jamie, Heather & Ellen!). Everything joins the 3-day queue unless it needs refrigeration, in which case Zeke deals with it. He’s got a nodding acquaintance with laboratory decontamination from his university days, half a century ago but procedures haven’t changed all that much. Mostly he just washes things. We’re planting our own salad greens (thank you Carol Brach!) and have a bunch of frozen beans and broccoli to tide us over. Starting to figure out how to host Passover Over The Internet this year. Starting to learn Zoom. Crazy busy! If you’re bored, you’re invited to help me transition to a different email program, or figure out break-out rooms on Zoom, or help me learn to do a better layout job on my new virus blog: columbianeighborhood.org.

POEM: MY SHOULDER MISSES YOU

© Karen Motan

My shoulder misses you, dear stranger,
how we would brush by each other on the crowded street,
unaware of the gift of this barely noticed moment of intimacy.

How could we have guessed that we would be asked next time
to give each other such a wide berth,
to cross to the other side of the street,
to avoid each other like the plague;
our shoulders now pulled in imperceptibly towards our own center,
as if the whole world were out to get us, could be the death of us.

Who would’ve thought I would miss so many people I did not even know;
the sweating panting crowd I would push my way through
to get to the stage, to hear the music closer, closer to the band.

How could I have known how much I would miss you,
the ones who barely registered as a blur, how we would all move together like one living organism, this crowd of bodies.

How could I not have known how much I would miss you;
the hand that would touch my arm lightly,
then reach around me with a smile to grab a pint of milk at the grocery store.

How could I have missed the exquisite beauty of that moment?

If I had known what I know now,
perhaps I would’ve turned around and embraced you,
breathed in the smell of your perfume,
or the sweet-sour scent that your baby left on your blouse
after her mornings feeding.

Of course, if I did so, you would have thought I was a lunatic,
because, at the time, you did not have a crystal ball to see
all that would be suddenly taken from us.
You would not have any idea how, in the blink of an eye,
the same grocery isle would be like a ghost town,
and a lonely box of produce would be sitting on your front door,
ready to be washed, and then washed again, and again.

I did not know I would miss the handyman who came to fix the leak;
I did not know I would miss the simple warmth of his knuckles as I passed him a glass of water,
or how he would laugh hearty and full, just inches from me,
when my child came running in asking if the handyman could join us for our lunch of SpaghettiOs,
if he could be her friend.

How could I have known I would miss the promiscuous pen,
passed casually by the bank teller into my waiting hand,
while I thought of nothing else but how bright red her nails were,
and how I liked the way she smiled?
I could not know what a gift it was to linger with her for a few seconds,
to find her eyes, and to tell her that I hoped that she had nice day,
to have her offer me the same.

When we find each other again, and we will,
let us not go back to sleep;
let us take every chance to pull close, to pat each other’s backs, shake each others hands, embrace.
When all of this is done,
let us crowd into the smallest church, or temple, we can find,
until there is barely enough room to move, or breathe–
And then let us lift all our voices in one cacophonous chorus;
let us sing songs of gratitude for this sacred moment of flesh to flesh,
breath to breath–
as if we were Adam and Eve, dropped down from the heavens,
seeing each other for the first time.

© Karen Motan

Love/Fl!p

Reassurance, More Nursing Homes, Hospital, Covid Helpers, History, John Prine Stable, Lots More

CONTENTS

  Reassurance From A Doc In NYC

  More Nursing Home Spread

  Hospital Controversy

  Ways To Support Our Hospital

  Covid Helpers Phone Line 360-778-2762

  Stone Soup Project

  More Details On Mask Safety

  Deep Discussion Of Current Issues

  Financial Resources

  Freebies For First Responders

  1919 Bellingham Pandemic History

Columbia Neighborhood

  Show Our Solidarity

  Abandoned Back Pack

  Scavenger Hunt!

  Scratch Paper Offered For Kids’ Drawings

Fl!p’s Pix For Music

  Streets Of London

  John Prine’s Condition Now Stable

REASSURANCE FROM A DOC IN NYC

It’s an hour long video, but he looks both credible and calm. He says we should only wear masks to keep us from touching our faces. I took a few notes as best I could, but there’s more here. 

1. Wash your hands! Know where your hands are; have sanitizer with you when you leave home and use it constantly, every time you touch anything. 2. Learn to stop touching your face – wear a mask to keep you from touching your face when you’re not at home. Not a medical mask – just a training mask. 3. Stay at least six feet apart. 4. Shrink your social circle down to 2 – 4 people. None of your immediate circle should see anyone else at all.

Most transmission is within families. If you develop a fever and are otherwise fine, isolate yourself, just like in the list above. Use a separate room if you’re able, and your own bathroom if possible. If you have to come out, wash hands and wear a mask. Don’t be scared to stay home with your family, but stay in your room. After you’ve been feeling better for 7 days, you can come back out, but keep wearing the mask and keep washing your hands. You can avoid passing it on. With one exception: Elders & frail, vulnerable family members. Move them or isolate them. No physical interaction at all. Don’t go in the same room. Transmission is still from touching a surface or person. So don’t touch vulnerable folks at all.

If you do get Covid, only go to the hospital if you’re short of breath. Of those who go to hospital, lots of them will be checked out and sent home; some will go onto the floor and be short of breath for 5 – 7 days and then go home. Of everybody who gets it, maybe 10% need to go to the hospital because they are short of breath. Of folks who are admitted to the hospital, 1 – 3% need care in the ICU with a ventilator. Most people who are on a ventilator survive and come back off in 7 – 10 days. Going to the hospital is not a death sentence. There’s lots more here as well. Please don’t assume my notes are good enough. I wrote them in part because I remember better when I take notes.

https://vimeo.com/399733860

MORE NURSING HOME SPREAD

Confirmed Cases Yesterday 116, Deaths 7. Covid is now reported at four area nursing homes. The County Health Department website just announced that they will be unable to update numbers by their regular noon update time. Read the Bellingham Herald for details and updates on numbers when they become available.

HOSPITAL CONTROVERSY

Update: If you tweet, write, or call about this issue, please keep the focus on getting safe practices and adequate PPE for the hospital, per Dr. Lin. “I want to REMIND people that in a time of National Emergency its important to stay focused on being Civil and Positive and helpful to each other. Despite its flaws, Peacehealth St Joseph Hospital has many Staff and Colleagues who have my respect and are doing their best to provide care to the community. I hold no animosity toward Peacehealth St Joseph as I enter my next chapter in my life. Thank you for working together as a community.”

WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR HOSPITAL

Supplies, masks, food, and money.

https://www.peacehealth.org/bellinghamdonations

COVID HELPERS PHONE LINE 360-778-2762

From the Whatcom County Covid-19 Community Helpers: 

If you know someone who is not on Facebook but wants to request help, here is a multi-lingual Hotline phone number people can call to make a request. This phone number is not just for the Columbia neighborhood. Follow instructions to leave a voicemail and they have a team of dispatchers who will get back to you. Nina LaMetterey spearheaded the entire project- dealing with Comcast, bringing on board a solid team of dispatchers and interpreters covering 34 languages and getting each of them trained on the processes we have set up for dispatching incoming calls. 

STONE SOUP PROJECT

Covid Helpers have joined forces with the Fellowship of Messengers, a registered 501(c)3 non profit organization, to raise emergency funds for food and medication to help our most vulnerable Neighbors in Need. 100% of donations go to the Bellingham COVID-19 Community Helper network.

The Fellowship of Messengers, an interfaith registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and the Bellingham COVID-19 Community Helpers, are joining forces to carry out The Stone Soup Project. The “Stone Soup” has been practiced all over the world, by many different faiths. With a Stone Soup – many people of a town come together to each share a small amount of their food in order to make a meal that everyone enjoys. With the community coming together for this appropriately-named initiative, we will be able to provide immediate assistance to many of our neighbors in need (NINs). All donations made to The Stone Soup Project will be distributed through The Bellingham COVID-19 Community Helper network. [I’m trying to find a non-facebook way for folks to donate.]

While the health realties of the COVID-19 pandemic are changing daily, there is also a growing silent pandemic emerging: people are going without essential food and medicine in our community. Since Governor Inslee’s mandate to close all “non-essential” businesses, the numbers of those facing critical poverty and vital food insecurity are multiplying.

With government systems overburdened and struggling, it is now up to our own communities to provide for our most vulnerable citizens. Washington State is receiving national recognition for independently saving as many lives as possible, through joint efforts by community groups and Non-profits who are working together to provide direct assistance to the vulnerable.

MORE DETAILS ON MASK SAFETY

Some masks do not protect others. From my big brother, Joe Breskin: There are situations where social distancing is not going to cut it, like grocery shopping when other people may not be thinking. There are two issues that are NOT the same. 1) Protecting oneself and 2) protecting others. Ultimately, they are connected, but the form of mask you wear reflects design decisions made by people considering lots of factors. Surgical masks are designed to protect both parties. Particle masks are designed to protect the wearer. Particle masks with exhaust valves were designed for conditions like sanding sheetrock or installing insulation. They do not protect other people. A turtleneck pulled up over the bridge of your nose will do it, or one of these: https://benchmarkfr.com/collections/fr-accessories/products/fr-face-muffler-gaiter. (Free shipping.) The following link is good too. Really clear and old enough to not be seen as government PR .

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/pdfs/UnderstandDifferenceInfographic-508.pdf

DEEP DISCUSSION OF CURRENT ISSUES

I’ve received this article from a surprising number of friends and neighbors. I found it interesting.

https://charleseisenstein.org/essays/the-coronation/

FINANCIAL RESOURCES

From Dr Frank James: This pandemic is causing financial hardship and uncertainty for many of us. Let’s look at some of the resources that might help.

The federal stimulus bill has just passed, and Employment Security Department Commissioner Suzi LeVine has a brief video on YouTube to explain some of the changes that benefit Washingtonians. Go to esd.wa.gov to sign up for COVID-19 action alerts so you can take action as things change and apply for benefits you are eligible for.
The state’s coronavirus website has information to help sort through other benefits that may be available to you, such as paid family leave, workers compensation, and resources for small businesses (https://coronavirus.wa.gov/business-workers).
Department of Financial Institutions (DFI)has developed a list of resources that might help address the financial impacts of the coronavirus, including mortgage assistance, financial resources, and financial scams.
The federal stimulus package included about $1,200 per person. This money has not been distributed yet, but some scammers are trying to take advantage of people. Remember—the government will not ask you to pay anything up front to get this money. No fees. No charges. No nothing. The government will not call to ask for your Social Security number, bank account, or credit card number. Anyone who does is a scammer. 

https://coronavirus.wa.gov/business-workers

FREEBIES FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

The Firehouse Cafe at the corner of 12th & McKenzie in Fairhaven is giving out free drinks (coffee etc) to healthcare workers and other emergency responders at their walk up window. Spread the word! 

1919 BELLINGHAM PANDEMIC HISTORY

I found this very interesting! There are definite parallels. Thanks Matt Benoit at Whatcom Talk!

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

SHOW OUR SOLIDARITY 

I was reading on FB on how people were putting out their American Flags. I thought this was a great idea on how to bring the community and country together. ~ Dave Lind, Lorraine Ellis Court 

ABANDONED BACK PACK

A new Outdoor Products black back pack has been left in front of our home up against a tree by our driveway.  It still has tags on it.

  Sue Hodges, 2418 Williams Street, bellinghamsue@aol.com

SCAVENGER HUNT!

My teenage boys walked the neighborhood and made up a scavenger hunt for anyone who might be looking for things to do. The items with the stars are challenge items.

Birdhouse

Flag

Kayak

Wreath

Garden Gnome

Old truck

Yellow flowers

Halloween decorations

Hose

Solar panels

Treehouse

Little Lending Library

Seahawks sign

Monkey bars

New house being built

Traffic cone

Green door

Statue of an animal

Chicken coop

Christmas lights

Red car

Metal sun

Stars

Tire swing

Wind chimes

Pinwheel

Pink house

Slow down sign

Barking dog

Camper trailer

Painted gingko leaves

Fox pillow

Bike in a tree

Pig on a pole in a tree

Metal hummingbird

Blue metal horse

Green and blue lizards on a house

  Thank you, Kim Ragsdale, Lynn Street

SCRATCH PAPER OFFERED FOR KIDS’ DRAWINGS

I have a few colored pencils and lots of scratch paper (printed on one side but clean on the other) for cooped up kids to draw on. I’ve been “organizing” (funny what an apocalypse will do toward spring cleaning) and I hate to just throw it away… We don’t have a free library or anywhere to just leave it out, but if you want it, e-mail me and I’ll leave it in a paper bag outside our house. We are very isolated and have worn gloves every time we’ve left the house, washing hands frequently. If you want this paper and pencils, the paper bag it will be in will be safe to carry home by the handles, especially if you wear gloves. Any concerns (and best practice just now anyway) is to leave it sitting somewhere when you get it home (on a shelf where kids can’t get it, in the garage, etc.) for three days, after which it would be safe to handle. Any corrections to that practice and I’m happy to know about it myself… ~ Leslie Glen, Elizabeth Street, bhamscot@gmail.com

FL!P’S PIX FOR MUSIC

STREETS OF LONDON

I learned this Ralph McTell song back in the 1970s. He has written a new verse. Here is a link with him singing the original, and another with him singing just the new verse. We’re all in this together.

In shop doorways, under bridges, in all our towns and cities / You can glimpse the makeshift bedding from the corner of your eye / Remember what you’re seeing barely hides a human being / We’re all in this together, brother, sister, you and I.

https://slippedisc.com/2020/03/how-can-you-tell-me-youre-lonely-ralph-mctell-adds-new-verse/

https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-52046893

JOHN PRINE’S CONDITION NOW STABLE

John Prine was reported in critical condition with Covid yesterday. News just came in that he is now considered stable. I’m in tears. If there a folks on this list who don’t know his music, go look him up. His songs have been a profound gift to our world.

Love/Fl!p

Donation Locations, Revisting Masks, Hospital Controversy, Lots More

CONTENTS

  Confirmed Cases 116, Deaths 7

  MakerSpace Donations Location & Times

  Whatcom Unified Command Donations Location & Times

  Revisiting Masks

  Hospital Controversy

    From Dr Ming Lin

    From A Local Health Care Worker

Columbia Neighborhood

  Bread Subscription With Local Pickup

  Repost Request: Zoofari

  Need Emergency Plumber

  Rental Needed

Flip’s Pix For Music

  Video Lag

Editor’s Corner: Yawning

CONFIRMED CASES 116 DEATHS 7

Whatcom county reports 116 positive tests as of Sunday noon. More Shuksan residents have died, and more nursing homes are now involved. Because there are so few tests available, we have no clear picture of how widespread the virus is in our community. The Whatcom County Health Department posts new numbers around noon daily. Check the Bellingham Herald for more details.

MAKERSPACE DONATIONS LOCATION

12 – 5, Mon -Friday: Someone will be available to receive donations at Bellingham Makerspace which is located at the Bellis Fair Mall. If you are in the parking lot and driving toward Dick’s Sporting Goods, there is a loading cu-lde-sac on the right. That’s where.

WHATCOM UNIFIED COMMAND DONATIONS LOCATION

4-6 pm Monday – Friday: You mentioned Friday that WUC is out by the airport. I just dropped off supplies to them today Saturday, and they are now behind the mattress place on Meridian, 4233 Guide Meridian. Because of the street barriers, if you are driving on the northbound side of The Guide, you have to turn left on Kellogg and turn around so that you are heading south. Then take the first right to go along the side of the mattress store towards back of building. Here is the contact info. [from Caryn Friedlander]

Rud Browne, Donations Branch Director, Whatcom Unified Command: 360-820-9494  WUC_Donations@co.whatcom.wa.us

REVISITING MASKS

It has been widely shared (including by me) that wearing masks in this pandemic isn’t a good idea. Of course people in the general public should not be wearing masks specifically made for healthcare workers, because supplies are so low. But apparently, we should be wearing something else – anything else. Why? Because even ones made from two t-shirts, work. Here is a link to an article from the Washington Post. I found it convincing. If you can’t get at it, email me at flip@columbianeighborhood.org and I will send you the text.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/outlook/2020/03/28/masks-all-coronavirus/

On the other hand, my cousin Alex Breskin is an epidemiologist. I wrote him about masks, this morning. Here’s his reply: Transmission in closed spaces is way higher than open spaces. If you are maintaining your 6 foot distance from others when outside then a mask is not needed. It’s not going to hurt to cover your mouth and nose when indoors with others, but I haven’t seen any meaningful evidence that cotton fabric will help much.

HOSPITAL CONTROVERSY

DR MING LIN SPEAKS

I want to be sure that Dr Lin gets the first word:

  “It has been obvious from my contact with the media that the story of my firing has distracted from my message of providing optimal safety for the healthcare staff.

  I am touched at what people have been doing on my behalf.

  But we are in a National Emergency of unprecedented times. PLEASE NO PETITIONS, NO PROTESTING , and please realize ANY NEGATIVE ACTION MAY HARM patients who need care from the hospital.

  We need to channel our energy toward preparing for a potential pandemic. Wash your hands, keep your distance and put on a mask.

LETTER FROM A LOCAL NURSE

  Many of you know that Dr. Ming Lin, a 17-year veteran emergency department physician at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, was fired for speaking out publicly pertaining to his concerns about the lack of proper safety protections and protocols for frontline doctors and nurses at our community’s only hospital, and what that means for their health and the health of patients and the greater community.  Dr. Lin has been a physician for over 30 years. He worked at St. Vincent’s Hospital in New York City when 9/11 happened — he has experience in health and community crisis situations.

  COVID-19 eclipses every other story in the news. The public is understandably desperate for accurate, honest, transparent information, clarity and guidance. That is why it is essential that PeaceHealth re-evaluate how they have (mis)handled their communications and preparedness to date. Some may say, this is not a time for recriminations. This isn’t about recriminations, it’s about reminding PeaceHealth — during this pandemic — that they must be honest, going forward. The truth will always emerge, so why not be transparent and sensibly proactive — and admit fault where needed? Admitting you haven’t done some things right is never easy, but it is a sign of strength and leadership.

  I am a nurse and a former PeaceHealth employee, so I have some knowledge of the “culture of intimidation” that can occur within the organization; a fear of consequences if one points out short-falls or failings — ranging from embarrassment and isolation to low performance ratings, lost promotions, even firing, as happened to Dr. Lin.

Nurses at St. Joe’s have filed complaints with the Washington State Nurses Association pertaining to PeaceHealth’s actions and inaction. WSNA’s complaint was filed with the Washington state Depart­ment of Labor and Indus­tries Division of Occupa­tional Safety and Health over what they believe is the hospital’s failure to provide a safe work environment.  Also, the American Academy of Emergency Medicine issued their position and statement on Dr. Lin’s firing. AAEM, stating in part,

  “…It is an essential duty of a physician to advocate for the health of others. Dr. Lin, as a member of the medical staff, is entitled to full due process and a fair hearing from his peers on the medical staff. TeamHealth, a lay corporation owned by the private equity company the Blackstone Group, should not be the employer of Dr. Lin according to the laws of the state of Washington. Their hand in this termination is not only inexcusable but likely impermissible. We call on the WA state Attorney General and the State Board of Medicine to investigate this circumstance….”

https://www.wsna.org/news/2020/statement-on-firing-of-dr-ming-lin-and-silencing-of-nurses-and-doctors

https://www.aaem.org/resources/statements/position/firing-of-dr-ming-lin

  A foundational principle of safety, that must be adhered to by all hospi­tals and health systems is,  “If you see something, say something.” That’s precisely what Dr. Lin did.

  I urge you to join me in support of Dr. Lin. Please contact Bev Mathew, local communications/PR for PeaceHealth, bmayhew@peacehealth.org. I don’t know if Dr. Lin would want to be reinstated, or not, but tell them their actions are not congruent with PeaceHealth’s mission statement. Their actions are detrimental to not only St. Joe’s frontline providers, but to patients, the community and our future. Be polite, but let them know, they are ethically obligated to tell us the truth and adequately support the dedicated staff at St. Joe’s.   

  Thank you, Rebecca Cutler, Broadway Street

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

BREAD SUBSCRIPTION WITH LOCAL PICKUP

Local baker, Sophie Williams, owns Raven Breads and primarily sells to individuals through the Farmer’s Market. To continue operations during the stay-at-home situation, Raven Breads will be running an April Bread Subscription with local self-pickup location in Columbia Neighborhood (on our porch)! Her website does a much better job of describing her amazing bread and business.  Check it out and sign up at https://squareup.com/store/raven-breads/ (signup deadline is today, 3.29) Best, Dan Stone

REPOST REQUEST: ZOOFARI

Could you please re-post the March 23 suggestion from Maureen Standish titled “Zoofari”? My neighbor talked to a family biking down our street today, and they had only seen six or so stuffed animals. I put mine in the house in my picture window, facing my neighbors’ big bear in their window.  It will add interest to walks and rides through the neighborhoods. Thanks ~ Zip Jelino

Place a stuffed animal, statue of animal, or plastic animal somewhere in your front yard. Or draw an animal and tape it to a window. When families are walking or biking they can try and find as many animals as possible. You might use binoculars! [My Velveteen Rabbit is now in my front window! ~Fl!p]

NEED EMERGENCY PLUMBER

Can I get a shout-out for an emergency plumber? I’m at 2415 Williams St and my water is turned off, but that is not a viable long term solution. ~ Lynne Pendleton 360-738-2780 360-220-4075

RENTAL NEEDED

I absolutely vouch for how responsible & kind Anna is. She would be a wonderful tenant or housemate. ~ Oona Sherman

$850 (incl. utilities) Single musician/full time employed woman+dog seek housing by 6/1/2020

We have been living in a wonderful mother-in-law in the Puget neighborhood for the past couple of years, but due to our current economic crisis, the people I rent from lost their income and need to move into our rental property. I work full-time at a very successful and reputable cannabis grow called SubX, and feel confident that my job will remain secure. I am also a songwriter/performer/cellist, and play all around the PNW but mainly Bellingham and Seattle. This community is my home, and I am invested in staying here and making it a better place. Bluebelle is my sweet 8 year old pit bull, and we go on 2 or more walks/hikes every day. She is very well-behaved and I am in the habit of cleaning up all her poops right away! I am a non-smoker, neat, quiet, happy to help with yard work etc. Because I write music,I would prefer to live in my own space with a decent amount of privacy. I can move any time between May 1 and June 1. Thank you very much!! ~ Anna Arvin (360) 685-3634 anna.arvan@gmail.com

FLIP’S PIX FOR MUSIC

VIDEO LAG

Hello musician friends! If you see any video where people are singing or playing music all together with no lag issues-that is a separate recordings edited together. There are no online platforms without lag. It is not something wrong with your computer or your internet..it’s just impossible to not have lag for technical reasons that are really smart and convincing. I am being asked this many times a day. If there was an online platform without lag-we would all be using it! Just try calling your friend on the phone and sing a song at the same time..it also won’t sync up. So back to zooming and doing the best we can or have everyone record their parts and develop some mad editing skills. From Karla Mundy, choir director, Vancouver BC

[I have been getting helpful suggestions from other musicians, but haven’t been able to get any of them to feel like live jamming. If I’m wrong, and I’d love to be, please let me know.]

  If you are experiencing major lag with Zoom or any platform like that it’s worth it to really make sure there are no other streaming devices in the house. For me, that has meant putting Other devices right on to airplane mode not just making sure any apps are closed. From Emily Villavicencio

EDITOR’S CORNER

YAWNING TO RELIEVE STRESS

Every creature that has a spine yawns. Every one. Not just dogs, cats & horses, but birds, fish, snakes… It’s a built-in repair circuit which triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms everything down in your body. Particularly useful when your body is stressed, injured, ill, or when you’re scared or upset. Try for at least three minutes of non-stop yawns, including very gentle stretching, making little noises, gently rubbing anything that itches. If you’re doing it well, your eyes should water and you may get little strings of saliva between your teeth. If you’re doing it really well, your stomach may growl. Twenty to forty minutes of non-stop yawning can also decommission stage fright. Do it until just before you walk out on stage. These days I even yawn between songs when I’m onstage, and invite my audience to yawn with me. Enjoy!

Love/Fl!p

Hospital Controversy, PPE Delivery, More

CONTENTS

  Hospital Controversy

  PPE Delivery: New Location

  Confirmed Cases 102 Deaths 3

  Dr Fauci On Coronavirus

  Support Shuksan & Hospital Workers

Columbia Neighborhood

  Chuck-It? 

HOSPITAL CONTROVERSY

A 17-year veteran Emergency Room doctor in town was fired yesterday and escorted off campus. The situation is being covered regionally and nationally today, including AP and Washington Post.

There seem to be two aspects to this controversy: Whether PeaceHealth has done everything in its power to protect our health care workers, and whether they have leveled with us as a community about the situation at our hospital. Workers’ concerns are being raised, and our community deserves clear, complete answers. The Washington State Nurses Association issued a statement that they are “appalled” and have filed a complaint with the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. 

 Today’s Bellingham Herald covered it this way:
https://www.bellinghamherald.com/news/coronavirus/article241590146.html

  Seattle Times follow-article yesterday 3.27.2020

  • https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/health/er-doctor-who-criticized-bellingham-hospitals-coronavirus-protections-has-been-fired/

  NWCitizen article yesterday and today. They originally broke the story.

  • https://nwcitizen.com/

  An interview with Dr Ming Lin

PPE DELIVERY: NEW LOCATION

Home sewn masks, gowns, printed face shields can be delivered to Bellingham MakerSpace 12 – 5 Monday through Friday. (They can also be delivered to the Unified Command out near the airport, from 4 – 6 PM only Monday – Friday.) The Grabow Center asks people now to deliver to these two spaces. They were happily overwhelmed with our community’s generosity, but were unable to keep up with the largess in order to properly sanitize the gifts prior to delivery.  Bellingham Makerspace will now coordinate county efforts for providing medical professionals with the protective equipment they need. Bring them by Bellingham Makerspace which is located at the Bellis Fair Mall.  If you are in the parking lot and driving toward Dick’s Sporting Goods, there is a loading culdesac on the right.  We will have someone available to receive donations between 12 – 5, Mon -Fri. 

CONFIRMED CASES 102 DEATHS 3

Whatcom county now has 102 positive tests. Another Shuksan resident has died, bringing the total there to three. Five deaths in the county. More nursing homes are now involved. Check the Bellingham Herald for more details.

DR FAUCI ON CORONAVIRUS

https://news.avclub.com/trevor-noah-gets-13-minutes-with-the-one-guy-you-want-t-1842521786?utm_medium=sharefromsite

SUPPORT SHUKSAN & HOSPITAL WORKERS

Shuksan health care workers (and likely hospital workers) could use the following:

1. Cases of Gatorade and vitamin water

2. Coffee (starbucks sells cartons of hot coffee with cups, creamer, etc)

3. Also thinking they may like cases of energy drinks

MAP YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

I heard from three different blocks today that they are working on connecting or re-connecting! I could be more delighted!!! Here’s a report from Walnut Street. If you’re trying to figure out how to get started, this is a great description:

  Just want to let you know that I did a round of updates to our MYN 2700-2800 Walnut St. contact list and the Skills/Knowledge & Stuff to Share in an Emergency list as well. I started by emailing everyone I had on the list since our last update 8/18. One of my neighbors I then went door to door reaching out to all the folks who hadn’t updated via email. We left a note at the households who didn’t answer the door asking them to call/email me with any changes to their info. Next step was updating the lists and sending the info out to everyone via email so they could check for accuracy. Gene & I then got copies of the final version made at CopySource, and then Lynne & I left one at each person’s house. Feeling good to have that done and to have met my new neighbors, even if only from a distance. ~Mardi S

COLUMBIA NEIGHBORHOOD

CHUCK-IT?

My dog finally found tennis balls are fun.

Anyone have a “chuck-it” they no longer want or use?

  Lindsay Hertz

  Kulshan st

  360-920-2688

Love/Fl!p