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Vol. 13 No. 32 n
May 27, 2020 - June 9, 2020
MARYSVILLE • ARLINGTON • SMOKEY POINT • LAKEWOOD • TULALIP • QUIL CEDA VILLAGE
Arlington Police help ASD distribute meals to children
By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com
was to the North County Regional Fire Authority and was for $300,000 meant to support their operations as well. Oso Fire Chief Willy Harper accepted the donation at a ceremony on May 15.
Members of the Arlington Police Department helped the Arlington School District hand out food as part of their meals program on May 13. The district, like all districts in the state, is providing lunch meals to all kids during the stay-at-home order. Arlington School District is using designated drop sites such as at Kent Prairie Elementary, where Arlington police officers helped out recently. "I'm the School Resource Officer so I'm the police officer designated for the entire school district. So I'm used to seeing these kids and they're used to seeing
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PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER ANDERSSON
Oso Fire District Chief Willy Harper, left, talks about a recent donation from the Stillaguamish Tribe on May 15. Stillaguamish Tribe board of directors secretary Trisha Pecor, and council operations coordinator Rebecca Shannon, hold the donation as chairman Shawn Yanity, right, looks on.
Stillaguamish Tribe donates to Oso Fire District By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com The Stillaguamish Tribe made two donations to local fire districts recently, including a $180,000 donation to the Oso Fire District that will completely fund a new ambulance. The second donation
PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER ANDERSSON
Arlington Police Department detective Stephanie Ambrose, carries some lunches for the Arlington School District's meal distribution program with help from School Resource Officer Justin Olson, left, on May 13.
Strawberry Festival Royalty helps out at food bank By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com
PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER ANDERSSON
Strawberry Festival Royalty Queen Jimena Yanez, right, and Princess Grace Kyser help with food distribution at the Marysville Community Food Bank.
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The Strawberry Festival Royalty made their first public appearance since being crowned by volunteering at the Marysville Community Food Bank on May 15. It's been a little more than two months since the Strawberry Festival's pageant and the coronavirus has upended the normal festival schedule this year, causing the cancellation of festivals across the Puget Sound, including the Marysville Strawberry Festival. "I'm feeling pretty excited to be able to go
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out," said Queen Jimena Yanez. "Especially during this [time of COVID-19]. It feels good to be able to go out and do stuff," said Princess Grace Kyser. Many of the Royalty members have volunteered at the food bank in the past. "I used to volunteer every Friday here, and I loved to give people food or help them out and you just get to see how grateful they are or they will share their experiences of why they're out here. It's a really cool experience overall," said Kyser. Princess Katelyn Leary served at the food
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me on a daily basis," said officer Justin Olson. "It's been hard on everybody and they've been kind of locked away in their house, so it's nice to have them come to a familiar place and see familiar people," he said. Every year the Arlington Police Department and K-9 unit partner with a sponsor school that supports the local K-9 program. This year Kent Prairie was the sponsor school, however all of the usual K-9 events had to be canceled. Police officers still wanted to come out to support the school. Olson said it was a good opportunity to see the kids again as well. "To show them that we are still there for them even though we don't get to see them every day," he said. The lunch program helps kids who normally rely on school lunches for their dietary needs. "As a School Resource
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Officer I do see a lot of kids in need. The school district takes up a good portion of helping them out," said Olson. He said he is at the schools not just for when kids are in trouble, but to support students. "I'm here to see them succeed just like everyone else is," he said. The district's lunch program has been operating since March 16, originally at just two elementary school locations, but has now greatly expanded. "This week we've expanded again and now we're up to 23 sites total at which we're feeding students," said Brian Lewis, director of operations with the Arlington School District. Recent drop-off sites have been targeted at distant areas such as Silvana and Sisco Heights. "We want areas where kids can't reach our schools by foot," said Lewis. In recent weeks the program has been giving out about 2,300 meals per day and has involved 120 workers helping with the process,
PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER ANDERSSON
Arlington school resource officer Justin Olson puts out some of the food for Arlington School District's lunch meals program on May 13. including bus drivers, food service workers, custodians and district administrators. The program may continue into the summer in a limited capacity, or may continue as it is right now if regulations are changed. "We can't provide meals the way we are right now, although things may change," said Lewis. The district is planning
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to provide meals at Haller Middle School right now, which has the required cafeteria for students to eat at, but the drop-off sites would not work under current rules. "My guess is that those rules may change," said Lewis. He wanted to thank staff members and volunteers who are helping make the meals program a reality. "We are so impressed with the courage of our people as they are going out every day to help feel these kids," said Lewis.
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M'ville City Council sends letter to Governor By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com The Marysville City Council voted unanimously on May 11 to send a letter to Washington Gov. Jay Inslee asking for a more consideration of the economic impacts of the current stay-athome orders. The letter said many residents and businesses are struggling and highlighted three areas the City Council asked the Governor to follow. Those included factoring economic impact more heavily in the consideration. "Equally factor economic impacts in your data-driven decision making. Disclose the actual numerical measurements of the metrics you are watching," the letter asked. The Council also asked for the timeline between the current planned phases to be accelerated, "to allow people to return to work and businesses to recover." Finally, the Council requested church services to again be opened to the public. "Churches and other private groups have a unique and vital role to play in these trying times and should not be hindered," the Council wrote in the letter. Council members said that COVID-19 is real and serious, however the current stay-at-home order did not take into account other impacts. "We don't disagree that
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We don't disagree that there are important health issues to consider. What we are hoping for is just a more balanced approach.
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Kamille Norton
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there are important health issues to consider," said Council member Kamille Norton. "What we were hoping for is just a more balanced approach." Council member Kelly Richards agreed the coronavirus is something the community needs to take measures against. "We are not saying that COVID is not serious or not critical, it is," he said. "Originally, the Stay Home, Stay Healthy order was meant to flatten the curve," said Richards, who noted it has since March when the state went through the peak of their cases. Council members said the current stay-at-home order is causing problems for local small-business owners. "We're very concerned about some of the economic impacts this prolonged shutdown is having," said Norton. "Most small businesses cannot stand another month
of being locked down," said Richards, who added there are many people behind these businesses that are being affected. "Most of these businesses will be smart enough to come up with a plan for social distancing," if they were to re-open, said Richards. Community members have reached out to many on the Council, said Norton. "We've been contacted by a number of small-business owners who are very scared and frustrated," she said. "They feel they're being treated unfairly." Richards said he has heard similar concerns from residents, who see large stores open but most small businesses closed. "Is it fair that Fred Meyer can be open and sell everything while some mom and pop store can't," said Richards. Council members were also concerned about the emotional well-being of their community.
"There's also the social and emotional parts of it. People need to get out to be healthy," said Richards. Norton noted that isolation can have serious detrimental effects for those suf-
fering from depression or those who are dealing with domestic violence. "So, we really wanted to express our concerns about those effects," she said. Norton was happy the
entire City Council was able to get behind the proposed letter. "The fact that our Council could come together unanimously to support this is important," she said.
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Larsen holds telephone town hall ____ By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com
U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen talked with community members about COVID-19, unemployment insurance and other concerns during a telephone town hall on May 20. Larsen represents Washington's 2nd Congressional District, which includes a majority of Marysville, Arlington and Tulalip. Nick Demerice, public affairs director with the Washington state Employment Security Department, joined Larsen for the telephone town hall. For COVID-19 the biggest priority for the state government remains testing and contact tracing, said Larsen.
"The capacity to evaluate tests is about 22,000 a day," in the state, he said. "It could probably increase beyond that with a little pushing." However, for testing the state still needs to figure out how to procure the supplies and set up the labor to implement those tests. "The number one impediment to expanding testing is the number of available sterile swabs," said Larsen. "This is something we can't solve," at the state level. Larsen said he and others are pushing the Trump administration to implement the Defense Protection Act, which would allow the federal government to compel companies to produce those materials. Support for businesses
and workers is also a big concern for this time. "In one of the earlier CARES packages we included money for local states and governments," said Larsen, and a second bill that would improve those financial aid measures is in the works. Larsen said the current House of Representatives bill is trying to target more money toward cities, although what exactly will be coming is being worked through. Through the former bill and Washington state's own funds, the local Employment Security Department, which runs unemployment insurance and similar programs, has been working through an unprecedented time, said Demerice.
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The number one impediment to expanding testing is the number of available sterile swabs.
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Rep. Rick Larsen
"It's really a humbling experience and it has been difficult throughout the process," he said. "We know there are many people who are still experiencing issues with their claims," he said. Despite a large amount of hiring of new workers, there is still an overload of claims which has caused a backlog of problems that department workers are going through. "Many people are go-
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ing on 9 or 10 weeks being unemployed since the crisis began," said Demerice. "Working with them to make sure they can start their benefits is a priority." Demerice said the department recognizes that this is a difficult time for many. "We know that still creates a lot of difficulties for individuals. We hear you and the entire agency is working as much as possible to get benefits out to
Rep. Rick Larsen
COURTESY PHOTO
you," he said. As the National Guard support may be pulled soon from states, Larsen said that many in Congress are trying to change the pulling of troops. "We're trying to get that activation extended," said Larsen, who added many are hoping they can keep the National Guard activated until June 30 at least and possibly further into the summer. Those troops are currently helping with food distribution and other urgent needs. At issue is that National Guard troops qualify for specific benefits such as certain retirement and GI bill benefits if they are federally deployed for 90 days or more. "It is now an issue because the administration is choosing to limit the deployment to 89 days," said Larsen. "The Pentagon does not like paying out benefits," said Larsen, who noted this has been a problem with the previous two presidential administrations as well. One Post Office worker reached out during the town hall to express worry for his job as well, as funding to keep the Postal Service going has become a political fight in recent weeks. "I hear your concern. It is very real," said Larsen. "Many of us are pushing back on the Trump administration's effort to undermine the Postal Service ‌ it is a necessary and essential service," he said. Larsen said he believes support for the Postal Service will be included in the next House bill for COVID-19.
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Mayor holds online coffee klatch By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com Marysville Mayor Jon Nehring talked with local residents during a May 11 coffee klatch to answer questions from citizens. The city usually holds a meeting every few months to provide a casual question and answer with local officials. With the stay-at-home order going on the city had to hold an online meeting this time. COVID-19 and the stay-at-home order were big topics of the day as many had questions about the city's response and what the future holds for Marysville. The city currently has rental protections in line with the state. "The Governor has given a statewide order that provides eviction protection, which covers Marysville and every other city," said Nehring. "There's a few additional things we're doing, which may not directly address with rent but can help people stay in their homes," he said. Nehring pointed to suspending shutoffs and late fees for utility payments and directing Community Development Block Grant funds to organizations that plan to support tenants-in-need. To support small businesses Nehring recently sent a letter to the governor, along with nine other mayors. The letter explained their concern with the current phased plan. "In Marysville, we're almost entirely made up of small and medium sized businesses, and these people are suffering
greatly. There are people who have put their life savings into these businesses," said Nehring. "If there were some restrictions many of these businesses could open safer than these large entities [that are already open]," said Nehring. Many small businesses are concerned about how much longer the stay-at-home order will go on. "When they get hit with another four weeks, it may be just too much, a lot of them are telling us," said Nehring. The city does not have the power to make less restrictive rules than the governor. "I've had our city attorney look carefully at this and I know other mayors have as well," said Nehring. "It's been very carefully stated by attorneys that a mayor can enact more restrictive measures, but not less restrictive measures," he said. Which means that other in-person activities, such as worship services, will return once the governor decides to lift the restriction. "All of us are eager to get back to inperson worship services and it is hard sometimes to understand why the restrictions are the way they are. I understand that and sympathize with it," said Nehring. Marysville officials have been keeping on an eye on various criminal activity as well. Nehring said there was been a significant decrease in crime overall. "Part of that could be that people are at home. It's harder to break into a garage with people at home," he said.
Although some crimes have seen an increase, such as a slight uptick in assaults. "Part of that could sadly be domestic violence assaults," said Nehring. Vandalism from graffiti has also seen an increase during the stay-at-home order. "The graffiti did spike and we are aware of that. We've got the crews back full staffed and the public works and police departments are working in tandem to find the graffiti and eradicate it," said Police Chief Jeff Goldman. Officers, such as School Resource Officers who no longer have school to attend, are frequently going out to problem hotspots. Marysville officials encourage individuals to call 911 or the Marysville police non-emergency number, 425-407-3999, if they see graffiti. "We really need citizens' help in locating and identifying it so that we can get rid of it in a 24-hour period," said Kevin Nielsen, public works director for the city of Marysville. "If we get rid of it expeditiously it won't happen as much," he said. Police are also aware there is an increase in speeding. "Like any other jurisdiction we're seeing a bit of an uptick," said Goldman. "I don't know the numbers but we are aware of it." The department is sending officers and speed sign trailers out to hotspots. "We can't have someone out there all the time, but we are aware," said Goldman. More information about future coffee klatches is available at marysvillewa.gov.
May 27, 2020 - June 9, 2020 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK
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News Briefs City Council approves Marysville summer roadwork contract
The Marysville City Council has awarded a $1.18 million contract to Reese Construction, the low bidder, for the city’s 2020 Pavement Preservation program. Funding is from the Marysville voterapproved Transportation Benefit District. Work includes pavement repair and asphalt overlay, sidewalk ramp replacement to meet ADA standards, utility adjustments, channelization, restoration and more. These streets will be improved: n Grove Street: from 67th Street NE to 83rd Avenue NE n 67th Place NE: from 67th Drive NE to 71st Avenue NE n 67th Street NE: from 71st Avenue NE to 76th Drive NE n 67th Avenue NE: from 47th Place NE to 44th Street NE at 83rd Avenue NE Contractor crews are expected to begin sidewalk work in mid-June, paving in July and complete the project in August.
Arlington School District seeks feedback from families and community members
Arlington Public Schools seeks feedback via a survey from families and community members about the district and its schools. Results from the 2020 Family and Community Survey will be used by schools in developing School Improvement Plans and help schools and the district improve communications with families and community members. The survey is available on the front of the district website at asd.wednet.edu and at https://www.asd. wednet.edu/communications/surveys/2020_family_and_community_survey. The survey will only take a few minutes to complete. Families with more than one child in the district should complete a survey for each child. The survey will be available through June 8.
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Arlington Rotary hands out scholarships By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com The Rotary Club of Arlington gave away $60,000 in scholarships this year to local graduating students and announced the winners on May 11. The recipients included students from Arlington High School, Lakewood High School and Darrington High School. In total 12 students were chosen to receive $5,000 scholarships out of 40 applications. "They're all outstanding students," said Rotary
Scholarship Chair Narda Schulz. "It was very difficult to bring it down to 12 students." The local students were awarded for their academics, school participation and a variety of other considerations. "We just see some really amazing students," said A.J. Chippendale, public relations director with the Rotary Club of Arlington. "They were chosen not just for their academics or their involvement in sports, but for their leadership and their community to service."
Rotary is an international service club and the students are chosen to reflect that spirit of giving back to the community. "We want to choose students we believe will make the word a better place," said Chippendale. The scholarships are one way that the local club gives back to Arlington and the surrounding areas. "Every year there are always many exemplary students and it gets harder each year because of that," said Schulz. "It's a huge priority for us to give back to the com-
Thank You... For Your Service, We Salute You
munity," she said, and they often give to students who will at some point return to the community and continue giving. "Every year the scholarship committee raves about the students that they see and their hope for the future," said Chippendale. "We really enjoy the process, interviewing the students and getting to know them and their achievements." Schulz said she enjoyed being part of the process. "I love to be a part of this each year," she said. She also appreciates how much the Rotary has made their scholarships a priority. A couple of years ago
the club only gave out three $2,500 scholarships, one to each of the Darrington, Lakewood and Arlington high schools. "That was our decision last year, that the Duck Dash would raise money that we could give toward scholarships," said Chippendale. "We had always done about three of them and we just wanted to make a bigger impact this year," she said. The club wants to keep their scholarship giveaways up to the level they are at now. "Even though we don't have a Duck Dash this
year, we are still planning to make these scholarships a priority again next year," said Chippendale. The 2020 Duck Dash was canceled because of COVID-19 uncertainty, but the club expects the annual fundraiser to return in 2021. Last year's Duck Dash was funded by numerous local businesses including Dwayne Lane's, Symmetry Chiropractic Wellness Center, Eagle Family Dental Center and McCarthy General Contractor. For this year, the Rotary Club is currently planning some additional fundraising efforts.
Master Gardeners offer free online classes “Growing a Vegetable Garden in a Pot” is one of six informative and concise vegetable gardening classes being offered online free by WSU — Snohomish County Extension Master Gardeners this June. “Interest in vegetable gardening has skyrocketed this year,” said Master Gardener Volunteer Jackie Trimble. “But we are seeing a lot of mistakes by novice gardeners and want to help them be successful. So, this series is focused on giving new gardeners the basics although experienced gardeners will probably learn
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something, too.” Trimble, who is the Educational Outreach Coordinator, said the line-up includes “Grow Your Own Salad Greens,” “Growing Vegetable Basics,” “Western Washington Vegetable Gardeners’ Calendar,” “Growing Vegetables in Raised Beds,” and “Growing Heat Loving Vegetables in the Chilly Northwest.” Each Zoom online class lasts no more than 45 minutes, including plenty of time for questions. They will start promptly at 7 p.m. and will be held on Tuesday and Thursday evenings
starting June 2 and ending on June 18. Advance registration is required for these free classes, which will be recorded, so that those who register but are not able to attend should be able to watch them later. For more information and to register, visit https:// tinyurl.com/y9qw9ok8. Master Gardener volunteers are also available to answer plant problem questions by calling 425357-6010, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays, or through email at snocomg@gmail. com.
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Harper had been in contact with Stillaguamish Tribe officials before and had asked for any help to replace their aging aid car. "We had asked for anything they could do to help and they called us and told us 'we're going to fully fund it,' and we couldn't be more excited," he said. Their aid car was originally purchased as a used model that had been driven since the '90s and had a lot of miles on it. "It is the last apparatus in our fleet that is a used apparatus," said Harper. The district received a grant last year that provided a new fire engine, and with this donation from the Stillaguamish Tribe they will be able to get a new ambulance as well. "This will cover the whole cost and any other options we want to add to it," he said. The fire district is currently looking at models for their aid car, said Harper. Stillaguamish Tribe board of directors chairman Shawn Yanity said the Tribe hopes to
support local organizations, including fire districts. "We have a long-standing relationship with our fire departments all the way from Stanwood to Darrington," he said. "As our Tribe grows, and we're able to do it, we're going to wrap our arms around the community. Our fire departments are a part of our communities and we're happy to support them," he said. Yanity also wanted to thank the firefighters and paramedics who support their community. "We want to give recognition to these guys and gals for the work they do for our communities," he said. "They put themselves out there in all different weathers and time of the day. We're very grateful to have this crew out there protecting us." Harper was also appreciative of the donation from the local Tribe. "Thank you to the Stillaguamish Tribe. They're very supportive of our community and our mutual aid communities. We have a small tax base so these donations really help us," he said.
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bank with her NJROTC unit at her school. "With ROTC we normally volunteer and give food for community service and that's usually really fun, so I'm glad we can come back, especially during these tough times where we can come together as a community," she said. She said she enjoyed helping people out in their time of need. "I just like to see the look on some people's faces. They feel good and I feel good, so I'm just glad for that," said Leary. Yanez has done volunteer activities before but the food bank is a new experience for her. "I haven't done this before, but I'm super excited to help," she said. "I think in this new environment that we're in the community is just really important, and it helps to have morale and a sense that we're in this together."
May 27, 2020 - June 9, 2020 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK
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I just like to see the look on some people's faces. They feel good and I feel good, so I'm just glad for that.
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Katelyn Leary
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The Marysville Community Food Bank, like most food banks in the region and country, is seeing increased demand at this time. The stay-at-home order from Gov. Jay Inslee has interrupted work for many individuals and families and the food banks are seeing increased demand in a variety of ways. "There are so many people right now that are going through a really hard time and I think it's important to show unity in the community and just really help one another out," said Kyser.
PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER ANDERSSON
Strawberry Festival Royalty Princess Katelyn Leary puts together some bags of food at the Marysville Community Food Bank to help with food distribution on May 15. Officials from Maryfest, the nonprofit organization that runs the Strawberry Festival, said although this year's festival has been canceled the Royalty will still be going out into the community to volunteer when there are opportuni-
ties to do so safely. Regardless of what happens this summer, Royalty members will still retain their pageant scholarships. Maryfest officials hope they can featured in parades later in the year or next year as well.
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Stolen personal info used for unemployment claims By Christopher Andersson christopher@northcountyoutlook.com
Hundreds of residents around the county are finding fraudulent unemployment claims made in their names over the last month. "We have seen a dramatic, enormous increase in unemployment fraud calls for service here," said Commander Mark Thomas of the Marysville Police Department. "Before we would get about one call a month, and now there's about 25 to 30 calls per day," he said. The biggest problem is individuals who have gained access to Social Security numbers and other personal information. "It appears that indi-
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viduals of a criminal element are accessing people's names and Social Security numbers and applying for unemployment benefits under those people's names," said Thomas. "Individuals are pulling information from multiple information breaches that have happened over the last few years, Equifax for example," said Employment Security Department public affairs director Nick Demerice in a May 20 telephone town hall. Demerice said individuals are using that information to build profiles of real people and falsely applying under those names. "Our state has been hit particularly hard, partially
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Buttercup is a 9 year old female Bassett Hound Mix AVAILABLE BY APPT. Buttercup’s owner recently passed away and she’s having a hard time adjusting. She will need a patient adopter willing to give her time to warm up. We have learned that food is a way to her heart (which explains why she’s a little on the chunky side.) Buttercup would love a quiet place to call home for her golden years. She does have a few old lady lumps and bumps but nothing we’re too concerned about. She does have misaligned teeth which causes more tartar build up so regular dental check ups will be important. If you’re interested in giving Buttercup a quiet home to spend her golden years surrounded in love, please call us here at The NOAH Center at 360-629-7055. Open Monday - Friday, 11-6 and weekends from 11-5. 31300 Brandstrom Road • Stanwood • 360-629-7055 Visit us on the web at www.thenoahcenter.org email: adopt@thenoahcenter.org
because we have a generous unemployment benefit," he said. Because businesses and the ESD have had a heavy workload, those applying fraudulently have had an easier time. "If the employers are doing their due diligence it doesn't necessarily equal a loss in money for the state," said Thomas. "Employers need to be doing their due diligence and not just rubber stamping claims," he said. Thomas recommends businesses make sure that the claim is coming from their employee or ex-employee and working with the Employment Security Department. The fraudulent claims combined with the un-
precedented number of legitimate claims coming in have caused a lot of trouble for many residents. "What can happen is a claim gets filed fraudulently and then that person is actually laid off later," said Thomas. The actual person now has to wait for the Employment Security Department to clear up the fraud. "It delays the benefits for the legitimate person. What should have been a week is turning into a four- to six-week wait," said Thomas. The department delayed millions of dollars of payments in May for about two days to prevent more fraud. "If you are who you say
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you are, you're going to keep your benefits," said Demerice. "Our goal is to avoid paying more money to these criminals." Victims of fraud will not have to repay benefits taken out in their name and this kind of fraudulent activity will not affect future eligibility of unemployment benefits, said Demerice. Those who have been the victim of fraudulent claims can report to the Marysville Police Department online at mycrimereport.us. "Because of the high volume of calls, we're encouraging citizens that are a victim to report from our online system," said Thomas. "Also, they should get a hold of the Employment Security Department to file
a claim as well." Even those who are still employed can sign up for an account with their name and Social Security number at the Employment Security Department to deter any fraudulent claims under their name, said Thomas. Those who wish to create an account can go to esd.wa.gov. The people filing fraudulent claims are making hundreds of claims a day and if they try and create an account that already exists it will bounce back, said Thomas. "If they get a bounce back they'll likely focus on the ones that went through," and not those that already had an account, he said.
Community Transit seeks public input During the state’s Stay Home, Stay Healthy order Community Transit’s bus ridership has decreased approximately 70%. On May 19, the agency launched a survey to learn more about how riders and others view transit since the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, and their priorities for the future. The survey is open to all Community Transit customers and community members who may not have been frequent riders before the pandemic, but would
like to provide feedback. While the agency has reduced its weekday service levels by 30% in response to decreased ridership, it continues to provide essential travel to approximately 12,500 riders each weekday. As part of the survey, the agency is seeking feedback on the updated service measures that have been implemented for customer safety. The survey, accessible at Bit.ly/CTSpringSurvey2020, is available now through Friday, May 29. Results of the survey will influence decisions the agency will make over the next few months.
LEGAL NOTICE SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE ADOPTION You are hereby notified that on May 18, 2020, the City Council of the City of Arlington, Washington, did adopt Ordinance No. 2020-011 entitled, “AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ARLINGTON, WASHINGTON AMENDING AND REPEALING CERTAIN SECTIONS OF THE ARLINGTON MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 15.16 PERTAINING TO FIREWORKS” This ordinance is effective five days from passage and publication, except as otherwise specified in the ordinances. The full text of the ordinances are available to interested persons and will be mailed upon request. Wendy Van Der Meersche, City Clerk, City of Arlington
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n GUEST OPINION
Mayor invites business leaders to join Economic Recovery task force
Arlington Mayor Barb Tolbert has invited a group of diverse business leaders to join an Arlington Economic Recovery task force to create a framework to reestablish the economy and work force in Arlington, and to identify any obstacles. This committee is part of a city-wide effort to identify strategies and resource needs to kick start the local economy, following the disruption caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. The group will meet with video conferencing to share needs, ideas, and requests, to begin the long economic recovery effort ahead. There are similar advisory boards at the county and state level. The Arlington task force will feed ideas and information to the countywide economic recovery task force, chaired by County Councilmember Nate Nehring, which Mayor Tolbert is a member. The first meeting was Friday, April 24. The task force includes management from small businesses (Flowers by George, Olympic Escrow, Moe’s, Stilly Diner, Centennial Bar and Grill), manufacturers (Elemental Cider, CAI), construction (SMARTCAP, Coast Construction), large retail (Walmart, Grocery Outlet, Rairdon Auto), and professional services (Coastal Community Bank, State Farm, Edward Jones). A member of the Arlington Ministerial Association will also be joining the team. Mayor Tolbert discussed the possibility of creating draft standards to present to the county and governor
Mayor Barb Tolbert so that they feel more comfortable allowing businesses sectors to open. Tim Shoultz with SMARTCAP commented, “We need a plan as we move forward with the ability to look forward at least two weeks. Lack of information makes it difficult.” Social distancing protocol is a factor in allowing businesses to open. Is there a way to formulate analytics and best practices for social distancing? Mike Simpson, of Grocery Outlet, volunteered to share their operational best practices and guidelines, such as customer per hour count. The group discussed the supply chain for personal protective equipment, and how Arlington can band together to create a buying cooperative. Mandy Kruger, with the Stilly Valley Chamber of Commerce, offered to help by collecting data from businesses and create a survey to identify obstacles businesses may face. Businesses are encouraged to complete the survey here. Mandy said, "Being a part of the Economic Task Force is an opportunity for our chamber to act as a voice for our business community
while they are planning to transition back to business as usual. Many of our members are looking forward to clear guidance and an action plan, and the Stilly Valley Chamber is proud to be playing a role (along with many other community leaders) to help kick-start the economy, and assist our businesses in recovery efforts – post the Covid-19 pandemic." Lisa Cisneros, the President of the Downtown Arlington Business Association is participating in the task force. She said, “Being on the task force is a great opportunity to give the downtown a voice on safely reopening. I was impressed with the number of ideas shared and the willingness to cooperate together to get us moving and keep us safe.” This task force has begun working on plans to present to the larger county/state task force. Mayor Tolbert is confident that Arlington’s input is integral to the rapid recovery of Arlington’s businesses. “We know that this pandemic has caused rapid adaptability and innovation. This type of innovation will help all our businesses.” The Mayor is also thinking about the consumer side of re-opening and wants the public to be safe and ready to integrate back into the marketplace. Wearing masks in public is now recommended. The “Masks for Arlington” volunteers have partnered with the Arlington Community Food bank to distribute masks for citizens. For more information on masks, go to http://arlingtonwa.gov/664/ Masks-for-Arlington.
May 27, 2020 - June 9, 2020 NORTH COUNTY OUTLOOK
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Our Favorite Quotes "Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger to a friend." Author — Melody Beattie
Submitted by North County Outlook editor Scott Frank.
&
RAVE RAVE: A big shout out to all the local high school seniors who won't be having a formal graduation ceremony this year due to the pandemic. We appreciate and applaud your hard work and effort, and wish you the best in whatever comes next for you. RAVE: Thank you to everyone who wears a mask/face covering while out in public. It's a great way to show support for others in the community and that you understand that wearing a mask isn't for your
own safety but, rather, for the safety of those around you (just in case the ones wearing the mask are presymptomatic or asymptomatic). It's not about protecting you, it's about protecting those you come in contact with. RAVE: While this time has been hard on everyone, there are many in our community that have been particularly hard hit. So, if you can, please donate to the local food bank. Food, money or your time as a volunteer are all needed and gladly accepted.
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n NATURAL MEDICINE DOCTORS
Ways to protect personal safety while cleaning The COVID-19 crisis has heightened attentiveness to maintain a clean and hygienic environment. The focus on cleanliness and it’s correlation to health has never been more emphasized. The barren shelves from a surge in cleaning product sales since the onset of COVID-19 is evidence enough. As people focus on keeping homes and offices clean, it would appear that a compulsive cleaning disorder is an under-reported side effect of the virus. All joking aside, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reported a 20% increase in the amount of calls to poison control centers related to household cleaner and disinfectant exposures compared to the same time period 1 year prior. To put that into perspective, consumers made 45,500 calls to poison control centers during the months of January through March 2020, with specific concerns related to the use of common cleaning agents and disinfectants. While these calls cannot be directly tracked as COVID-19 related cleaning mishaps, the timing of this uptick correlates with increased cleaning efforts to decrease spread of the virus. Regular cleaning is important to help slow disease transmission. However, it is imperative to perform in ways that both decrease the spread of germs and protect personal safety. Practice selective and effective cleaning
with products. Concentrate on cleaning common points of contact in shared spaces, like countertops, tables, light switches, handrails, door knobs, faucets, toilets, phones and electronics. It is not necessary to wipe down groceries or packages. And please remember: cleaning products and disinfectants should never be used on humans. The CDC lists over 400 products with the ability to inactivate the COVID-19 virus. Many of these products contain volatile organic compounds (vocs), fragrances or other harsh chemicals that impact indoor air quality. Common symptoms associated with alterations in indoor air quality from cleaning and disinfectant products include eye irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, upper respiratory irritation and asthma. Poor indoor air quality is associated with both the development and progression of asthma symptoms. Recently published research has demonstrated adverse effects on respiratory health from common indoor air pollutants beginning in infancy. This new research points to an increase in the development of asthma in children who resided in households where higher amounts of household cleaners were used. Other research has demonstrated links to cleaners and disinfectants with impairments in respiratory health among
workers in medical and hospitality industries. Some of the ingredients found in cleaners and disinfectants also contain carcinogenic compounds that increase risk for cancer. Manufacturers in the United States are not required to list all the ingredients in household cleaning products; sometimes, products even labeled as “natural” or “green” do not necessarily mean a safer product. Consumers can choose safer cleaning products by looking for the Safer Choice label. This label is certified through the Environmental Protection Agency. Products bearing this label are effective and formulated using the safest chemicals. In addition, the Environmental Working Group has cross-referenced the products listed as effective against COVID-19 virus to help determine the most safe and effective products to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. Their recommendations include: n Clorox Commercial Solutions Disinfecting Bio Stain & Odor Remover n Clorox Pet Solutions Advanced Disinfecting Stain & Odor Remover n Lysol Hydrogen Peroxide Action Multi-Purpose Cleaner, Oxygen Splash n Lysol Hydrogen Peroxide Bathroom Cleaner, Cool Spring Breeze n Lysol Hydrogen Peroxide Multi-Purpose Cleaner, Citrus Sparkle Zest n Lysol Hydrogen Per-
oxide Multi-Purpose Cleaning Wipes, Oxygen Splash n Lysol Power Bathroom Cleaner, Island Breeze n Purell Multi Surface Disinfectant, Fragrance Free n Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray, Eucalyptus, Spearmint & Thyme n Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray, Fresh Citrus & Thyme n Seventh Generation Disinfectant Spray, Lavender Vanilla & Thyme n Seventh Generation Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner, Lemongrass Citrus Scent vSeventh Generation Disinfecting Multi-Surface Cleaner, Lemongrass Citrus Scent n Seventh Generation Disinfecting Wipes, Lem-
ongrass Citrus Scent n Windex Multi Surface Disinfectant Cleaner n Windex Multi Surface Disinfectant Cleaner, Glade Rainshower In addition, keep cleaning efforts safe by using cleaning products in a well-ventilated environment. Open windows and doors. Never use cleaning products in small, enclosed spaces. Read labels carefully, follow directions and apply as directed. Wear gloves and any other personal protective equipment if needed. Never mix cleaning products and disinfectants together. Find out other important steps to take to reduce your risks for COVID-19 by talking with a naturopathic doctor.
Dr. Stacie Wells Dr. Stacie Wells, ND, FAAEM is a Naturopathic Doctor & Fellow of the American Academy of Environmental Medicine. She practices at the Northwest Center for Optimal Health in Marysville, WA. Contact her at 360-651-9355 or info@ ncoh.net.
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n WHISTLING GARDENER
Long-blooming perennials for the northwest Gardening geraniums (also with perenknown as cranesnials can be bills) that grow tricky. Unlike well in full sun annuals that and range in color will bloom all from white to dark purple and you can summer long, By Steve Smith perennials have find them on sun their own specific bloom- loving perennial tables in ing seasons — ranging the garden center this time from late winter to early of year. ‘Rozanne’ came spring, early summer, late out a few years back as a summer, and even fall and replacement for ‘Johnson’s winter. For the most part, Blue’ and it is a huge imperennials have a bloom provement. The violet blue period that lasts around 5 flowers are almost 3 inches to 6 weeks and then they across and continually are done for the year. But bloom for over 3 months. like every rule in life, there ‘Rozanne’ will spread out are some exceptions. There in the garden and cover an are some perennials that area 4 feet around and 2 have very long blooming feet high by the end of the seasons and will give you summer. Cut it back to the a lot more bang for your crown in spring and it will buck. Here are some to try do it all over again. Coreopsis ‘Moonbeam’ that will bloom for several months, instead of just sev- — Commonly known as tickseed or thread-leaf eral weeks. Geranium ‘Rozanne’ — tickseed, ‘Moonbeam’ was This is a true or hardy ge- introduced way back in ranium, not to be confused 1992. I planted a clump with the annual one that we at my church in Marysput in containers for sum- ville over 25 years ago and mer long blooms (those are it blooms all summer long technically Pelargoniums). with minimal attention There are oodles of hardy needed. ‘Moonbeam’ has
Answers from page 9
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buttery yellow blooms on 12” to 18” upright stems clothed with narrow linear leaves. Since ‘Moonbeam’ was introduced, there has been a whole slew of new hybrids with bigger flowers and a broader range of warmer colors. Other than watching for coreopsis beetles, these plants are virtually maintenance free. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) — This is an extremely drought tolerant perennial that some tend to confuse with lavender. Its spires of sky-blue flowers can reach 4 feet high and will continue to bloom for 10 weeks, no matter how hot or dry the garden gets. When I traveled to Colorado last August for my son’s wedding it was one of the only perennials still in bloom, unless you count the ornamental grass ‘Karl Forester’ (which is also a long blooming perennial). Jupiter’s Beard (aka Red Valerian) — Centranthus ruber is one of my alltime favorite perennials. I grew up with it in Califor-
nia where it tended to selfsow freely, in colors ranging from white to shades of pink to red. If you deadhead the flowers it will keep blooming all summer long. While some gardeners might consider this plant a weed, I look forward every season to finding new seedlings to nurture and bring into bloom. It never ceases to bring me enjoyment. Allium ‘Millenium’ — This is a flowering onion that literally blooms all summer long. I tried one out last year and it bloomed throughout the summer with two-inch diameter, rounded flower clusters in a cheerful shade of lavender-purple. The flowers attracted every bee, butterfly, and beneficial insect for miles around. After the blooms faded, I left them up all winter long for added interest. There are of course other long blooming perennials to experiment with as we move head long into the planting season. Plan on visiting the garden center
COURTESY PHOTO
The Allium 'Millenium' is a great addition to your garden . several times this month so you don’t miss out on any of the goodies. In the meantime, stay safe and keep on gardening.
Steve Smith is the owner of Sunnyside Nursery in Marysville and can be reached at info@sunnysidenursery.net.
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