Community Connections

Key Peninsula Community Organizations

Food Backbacks 4 Kids
Key Pen Parks
Key Pen Parks and Recreation Foundation
​Key Peninsula Bischoff Food Bank
Key Peninsula Business Association 
Key Peninsula Family Resource Center and Children's Home Society
Key Peninsula Free Clinic 
​Key Peninsula Civic Center Association
Key Peninsula Community Services
Key Peninsula Historical Society and Museum
Key Center Pierce County Library
Key Peninsula Little League
​Key Peninsula Lions Club
Key Peninsula News
​Key Peninsula Veterans
Longbranch Improvement Club
Peninsula Athletic Association
Pierce County Fire District 16
​Pierce County Sheriff's Department
Red Barn Youth Facility 
Safe Streets 
​Soundview Camp  
The Mustard Seed Project
​Two Waters Arts Alliance
VIA Unlimited
​Washington State Parks
YMCA Camp Colman
YMCA Camp Seymour

Key Peninsula Community Office​
9013 Key Peninsula Hwy NW Suite D
Lakebay, WA 98349
(Located in the heart of Key Center KC Corral)
​
​253 432 4948 M-F 10-2
​Email us! keypencouncil@gmail.com


2020 KPC Executive Board​
President Don Swensen,
Vice President-Irene Torres
Treasurer-Robert McCrossin
Executive Secretary-Marcia Harris
Executive Liaison-Danna Webster
KPC Ofrice Manager- Lisa Larson


​


 
Covid-19 Updates
Friday, May 29th, 2020
These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations
 
Timely News
 
Lots of buzz about Pierce County going to Phase 2.  It is not happening yet.  For more insight and information, visit:
Tacoma News: https://www.thenewstribune.com/news/coronavirus/article243076146.html?
My Northwest: https://mynorthwest.com/1898859/pierce-county-at-odds-phase-2-reopening/?fbclid=IwAR21QGODxHAt0HXIe3sdaHW21CazeY0VrAOlhdDTImlVAFGucGR-FwwZRKs
KOMO: https://komonews.com/news/coronavirus/larger-counties-face-uphill-battle-in-reaching-phase-2-of-re-opening-plan
 
KP Business & Organization Info
 
The Mustard Seed Project has an on-line Senior Resource Guide, you can find it here: http://themustardseedproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/2019-Resource-Guide-FINAL_May-2019.pdf
 
KP Bischoff Food Bank announced they could use “ready-eat” food suitable for kids, meaning foods that do not need to be cooked such as yogurt, cereal, fruit, etc.  To learn how to donate to them visit: http://www.kpbischofffoodbank.org/

Links 
 
Are you interested in space?  The next launch window for the SpaceX Falcon 9 manned mission (Demo-2) is tomorrow starting at 12:22 pm our time.  You can live stream the launch and/or get more information here: https://www.spacex.com/launches/
 
And since we’re on technology, today’s cultural link is from the National Museum of the US Air Force (we’re a bit partial to the AF): https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Virtual-Tour/
 
The Tacoma Pierce County Opioid Task Force will be holding 3 data review sessions regarding its work and resources on the subject.  Each session will cover the same information. Families, community groups, non-profit service organizations, students, etc. are encouraged to attend. Data will be presented in a “user-friendly” way. 
The 3 sessions will be:

Session One: Tuesday June 9, 2020--- 10:00-11:30 AM,
Session Two: Wednesday June 10, 2020---10-11:30 AM,
Session Three: Thursday June 18, 2020---2:00-3:30 PM

For questions or comments or to reserve a place, please contact Trevor Higgins at: thiggins@tpchd.org  

FAQ’s
I’m hearing about fraud more; can you give us any insight?

Yes, a bit.  State Attorney General Bob Ferguson spoke this morning to the Gig Harbor Rotary Club.  He said his office is seeing 3 main types of fraud right now.

Unemployment Fraud – as reported in the news, this is big and goes far beyond Washington State borders.  According to Mr. Ferguson, the State Attorney General’s (AGO) office has helped recover over $300 million of these funds.

Fraud using grandparents – this is still happening in large numbers. Grandparents get a call purportedly from a grandchild who is “in trouble”. The voice is often muffled, and the fraudsters are very good at getting information from you.  If you get one of these calls, chances are it is NOT your grandchild.

Selling fake things, especially “cures” for Covid-19.  The AOG’s office has gone after websites and charlatans selling fake or non-existent Covid vaccines and hand sanitizer at $400 for a tiny bottle Visit the AOG’s office for more information: https://www.atg.wa.gov/       or for specific scam information: https://www.atg.wa.gov/scam-alerts

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Covid-19 Updates
Thursday, May 28th, 2020
These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations
 
Timely News
 
Gov. Inslee has updated guidance on religious gatherings for those counties in Phases 1 & 2, including funerals and weddings. 
Beginning today, religious and faith-based organizations in Phase 1 counties may host up to 100 people for outdoor services.

In Phase 2, they can host up to 25% of their capacity or 50 individuals, whichever is less, as well as conduct in-home services of five people.
To read more on this visit: https://medium.com/@WAStateGov/inslee-announces-religious-and-faith-based-services-guidance-5a305c23b94d
 
Stay tuned for more: Chapel Hill Church in Gig Harbor will be a drive-thru Covid-19 testing site on June 17th, 18th, and 19th.  More specific details will be here as the dates draw nearer.
 
KP Business & Organization Info
 
Key Produce Express (not a business, but people helping farmers and community members alike) does trips to Eastern WA to pick up fresh produce, but only if they have enough orders. They drop off at Lakebay.  To see what is being offered this week (asparagus) and to order, visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Key-Pen-Produce-Express-109556680741978/
 
Harbor Hope Center runs two homes (one for boys and one for girls) for homeless or displaced teens in our area.  The one for girls just recently opened and has residents.  The organization could use help in securing/replacing fencing, some dirt and seed for grass, and seed for a garden.  To find out more or donate, please contact: info@harborhopecenter.org   or visit their website at: https://harborhopecenter.org/

Links 
 
The Tacoma Pierce County Coalition to End Homelessness meets weekly on Fridays at 9:00 am.  To see agendas or find out how to attend meetings, visit: http://pchomeless.org/
 
Worth another mention: Coordinated Care Volunteer Hub is still up and running and can help match volunteers to opportunities.  To sign-up visit: https://hcctoday.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/407618
 
FAQ’s
Part of feeling cut off from everything is that I don’t know what local groups and agencies are doing and sometimes it feels like nothing is being done.  What is happening out there?
When we don’t have our personal “catch-up” sessions with people while running errands or working, it is easy to feel out of the loop.

There is A LOT going on! I just got out of a meeting that happens every two weeks and here are just a few of the things being worked on that were discussed:

Senior meals are being delivered weekly and there is cooperation between organizations such as Children’s Home Society and the Gig Harbor Senior Center to create pen pals

Groups are coming together to provide housing, supplies, food and other necessities to people in need
Efforts continue to pinpoint internet issues on the KP and work towards fixing those issues
Greater Gig Harbor Foundation is working with the City of Gig Harbor to explore ways to help local small businesses

State and county representatives are actively searching out ways to listen to needs and get help
Local churches are creating and distributing resource guides and actively working on being shelters for homeless or those in need

Peninsula School District has and is reaching out to all students to check on them

Other organizations work together to do wellness checks

Volunteers continue to step up where needed

The list goes on – much is happening!

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Covid-19 Updates
Tuesday, May 26th, 2020
These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations
 
Timely News
 
Tomorrow - Wednesday, May 27th at 4:30 via Zoom - A Town Hall for Dist. 7 with Derek Young and others to discuss Pierce County’s use of Federal Stimulus Funds and current news on Covid-19. To access:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84668233138?pwd=dFhaNmdzSXhsSUQvbUxmWm9YZU9qUT09
Meeting ID: 846 6823 3138
Password: 268267
Call in number: (253) 215-8782
 
For Thursday May 28th,  Coordinated Community Care will be holding its normal meeting at 2:00 via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82819638223?pwd=OExEWDhhcTFqWmRwZUQxMFdaTGpSQT09
Meeting ID: 828 1963 8223
Password: 968949
 
Also from Coordinated Community Care – an opportunity to use the “Serve253” system to hold a ‘virtual drive’.  Any non-profit organization that is part of the Coordinated Community Care effort can list a “drive” for money or needed supplies and people can donate.  The organizers will either buy the supplies or give the raised funds to the requesting non-profit.  For more information contact Caryn Bel-Palo at: HCC Office <office@hcctoday.org>
 
Tomorrow, Wednesday May 27th from 1:00 to 1:30 Sen. Emily Randall will hold her weekly “Live Chat”, visit her FB page for more details: https://www.facebook.com/senatoremilyrandall/
 
KP Business & Organization Info
 
The Peninsula Violence Prevention Coalition will be holding their monthly meeting tomorrow, May 27th at 9:30 am.  This is a Webex meeting, meeting number (access code): 965 495 135, meeting password: pCyrCu49vN2
To dial in: 415-655-0003
 

Links 
 
The VA offers a weekly podcast called “Borne the Battle” which covers a wide range of topics related to Veterans.  You can find it on most podcast apps including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and iHeartRADIO.  For more information visit: https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/borne-the-battle-podcast/
 
FAQ’s
There has been a lot in the news lately about changing Covid-19 numbers.  Is there a way to figure out some truth to it all? Ahh, the old phrase, “Lies, Damned Lies, and Statistics” seems appropriate here.  Statistics are not inherently wrong or meant to be misleading.  In fact, they are extremely useful in seeing trends and making sense out of large amounts of data.  However, since they are, in their most basic sense, a representation of the numbers used to build them, if those numbers are not clearly defined or the gathering of the data inconsistent, then the statistics can easily be muddied. In addition to muddied numbers is the fast-changing situation.  Until a few weeks ago, everyone thought the first US case of Covid-19 case was here in Washington.  Experts now know that we had cases in the US prior to February and in other places besides Washington.  It is unrealistic to think that data will not change as we learn more about the disease and its spread. Take testing – knowing who has the disease, who has had it, and who has been exposed are pivotal pieces of information.  Yet, as we know, not everyone has been tested for Covid-19.  Testing is still mainly reserved for those experiencing symptoms, those who have been exposed, health care workers, and first responders. That leaves a lot of untested people out there. We know (because of how Covid-19 has spread) that there are many people who have had it, or have been exposed, but since we have not or cannot yet test everyone, we don’t have a “true” number of people who have had Covid-19.  This is unfortunate, because this is the number used when figuring out death rates, transmission rates, cases per capita, etc.  Because there is not a “true” tested number, experts either use the numbers they have (actual tests) or they estimate the “true” number.  Either way, there is room for error. So, you are saying numbers/statistics will change due to changing or better information?  Yes.  We will continue to see changing numbers as we get a better handle on the disease and how to combat it, as well as when we start to test more people.  Some people will continue to question all of the data and put a political spin on it, one way or another.  The fact is, we’re still learning which means we don’t have all the answers, and possibly never will. Quick note on the above quote: Funny enough, the phrase “Lies, Damned Lies, and Statistics” is generally attributed to Mark Twain, however, that is because he wrote in his autobiography that he had heard it from Benjamin Disraeli (a former British Prime Minister).  Dig a bit and one can find that there is no written record (other than Mark Twain’s claim) that Disraeli ever wrote that.  It was a variation on a phrase that was in vogue during the 1800s both in the US and in the UK.  So, matching the theme of this FAQ, even famous quotes sometimes have fuzzy origins!*********************************************************************************** 
Covid-19 Updates
Thursday, May 21st, 2020
These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations
 
Timely News
 
Tomorrow at 11:00 am is the next installment of the Covid-19 Business Info Series hosted by the Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber, the Economic Development Board of Tacoma-Pierce County, and the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance.  To get details on tomorrow’s installment or access previous ones, visit:  https://www.tacomachamber.org/business-info-series.html
 
The Washington State Dept of Veteran’s Affairs has canceled all Memorial Day activities for this year. 
 
KP Business & Organization Info
 
The Suicide Prevention Coalition will now be meeting (virtually) every two weeks in order to better share resources and give support during this time.  The next meeting will be on June 3rd at 6:30 pm.  Stay tuned for more meeting information.
 
Reminder: The Key Peninsula Veterans' Aisle of Honor on Memorial Day at the Vaughn Cemetery has been cancelled.
 
A virtual memorial has been set up for Ted Ralston & Joanna Gormly, you can find it at: https://www.kpciviccenter.org/ted--joanna-memorial.html?fbclid=IwAR3jF5ymyrbXf7LuzBAk5IT6lRgBEz3LSD6iBqepRiNLh9MSXCVzKflsrRo

Links 
 
Pierce County has a page dedicated to Business resources for dealing with Covid-19.  You can find it here: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/6754/COVID-19-Business-Updates
 
There is also a page with a number of “Back to Work” guides for businesses: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/CivicSend/ViewMessage/Message/111992
 
FAQ’s
Do you have anything different and happy for me?
Ask and ye shall receive, here are just a few fun and happy facts from:  https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/did-you-know/if-youre-in-need-of-a-pick-me-up-these-100-happy-facts-might-do-the-trick/ss-AAHrca8?li=BBnb7Kz#image=

​1 Herring Fish communicate by passing gas, yes, as in farting
Captain Crunch of sweet cereal fame has a first name and it’s Horatio
Abraham Lincoln spent time as a bartender (well, he co-owned a store that had a license to serve alcohol…bartender sounds cooler)
Sperm whales have best friends
There is someone who has the world’s largest collection of small versions of the world’s largest things

Goats have accents
Looking at old photos can improve your mood
There is actually a shell station shaped like a cell (Winston-Salem, NC)
Octopuses gather shiny things and make gardens out of them
A group of porcupines is called a “prickle”
The inventor of Pringles is buried in a Pringles can. Original flavor.
There’s a bridge just for squirrels in Longview, WA called the “Nutty Narrows”  
 

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Covid-19 Updates
Wednesday, May 20th, 2020
These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations
 
Timely News
 
Tonight! The Suicide Prevention Coalition will be holding its regular meeting at 6:30 pm using Zoom.  To access: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7330131103  Meeting password: 12345
 
KP Business & Organization Info
 
Vaughn Elementary School will be hosting a “Kindergarten Round-up” for next year’s kindergarten families tomorrow, Thursday, May 21st, at 4:00 pm.  To join or get details, email: ramirezk@psd401.net
 

Links 
 
The unemployment fraud we wrote about a few weeks ago has turned out to be an even larger issue than imagined.  It seems that there are well-organized groups with our information that are making large-scale efforts to commit fraud.  To read more about Washington State’s response, read: https://esd.wa.gov/newsroom/update-on-imposter-fraud
If you feel you have been a victim of this fraud, more directions on what to do about it can be found here: https://esd.wa.gov/unemployment/unemployment-benefits-fraud
 
Here’s another website devoted to Suicide Prevention and support.  It has quick drop-down menus that link to a great number of resources: http://www.suicidesupportnow.com/home.html
 
FAQ’s
OK, stupid question, but what is Zoom? And zoom bombing?  It seems that everyone gets it but me. Oh, once again, you are not alone! ZOOM is one of many internet applications that allow for real-time, video communication. Other flatforms (applications) you may have heard about are Go To Meetings and Microsoft Teams. Each of these services have bells and whistles that they like to sell their customers, such as call-in services, chats, recording options, etc. The way they make their money is when companies or school systems buy licenses, generally through subscriptions. Many, many school systems have bought subscriptions from Zoom in order to teach virtually. Some of these applications, like Zoom, offer some aspects for free In general, all of them allow people who are not paying customers to join meetings for free. “Zoom Bombing” is when someone who isn’t supposed to be in the meeting is able to hack or trick their way in and cause issues.  Zoom increased their security after this started happening and now most meetings require an invite and a meeting password or code. How are these platforms different from Skype? Skype was an early version of face-to-face real time communication which is still in use.  It is not designed to be a substitute for in-person meetings, so it lacks many of the bells and whistles that Zoom includes. Do I have to have a special computer set-up to use these meeting platforms? Not necessarily, it depends on how you want (or are able) to join the meeting. If you just have a phone, you can call in and it is like a big conference call If you have an old computer without a camera, you can join without video If you don’t have a microphone on your computer, you can join and just listen but not talk You can use your smart phone, if you have one, to join a meeting with full video and audio capabilities I’m still really nervous about using these platforms, how can I learn? If you are nervous and want to learn, ask a friend or family member (who knows about one of these platforms) to start a meeting and walk you through it.  I did this with my Dad so our whole family could do a Mother’s Day meeting.  It worked well, but we definitely needed the practice run to make sure my Dad was up to speed on it!  


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Covid-19 Updates
Tuesday, May 19th, 2020
These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations
 
Timely News
 
Tomorrow: Join State Senator Emily Randall during her weekly Live Chat at 1:00 to 1:45 pm.  This week’s chat will have a representative from the Kitsap Pandemic Coalition and yours truly! Join by visiting Sen. Randall’s FB page at: https://www.facebook.com/senatoremilyrandall/
Or directly through Zoom at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87537263050
Or call in: (253) 215-8782   meeting id: 875 3726 3050
 
KP Business & Organization Info
 
Vaughn Elementary School will be hosting a “Kindergarten Round-up” for next year’s kindergarten families this Thursday, May 21st, at 4:00 pm.  To join or get details, email: ramirezk@psd401.net
 
The Suicide Prevention Coalition will be holding its regular meeting tomorrow, Wednesday May 20th at 6:30 pm using Zoom.  To access: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/7330131103
 

Links 
 
Northwest Trek will now be allowing visitors to DRIVE their own cars through the reserve.  To find out more or make reservations visit: https://www.nwtrek.org/visit/tours/wild-drive/
 
Do you need to register a child for kindergarten in Peninsula School District?  Visit the school district website to start the process:  https://www.psd401.net/about-us/registration
 
 
FAQ’s
I know life is ok, but I still feel so out of control and frustrated and any other hosts of feelings.  Do you have any thoughts on how to deal with these feelings? This bears repeating: if you are experiencing feelings like this, YOU ARE NOT ALONE!! Our world has been turned topsy-turvy in so many ways that it is often hard to identify what it is that is getting to us. Conversely, some things are the same such as our homes that still stand and roads that still work.  There are few obvious signs of a pandemic and it is hard for our brains to process an unseen virus when we’re used to seeing or thinking about “disasters” in terms of destruction (like earthquakes or hurricanes).  Overall, the experience(s) we are all dealing with are traumatic in some way.  Pat Vivian from the Community Consulting Project wrote a blog which touches on this.  The following are a few things she mentioned that are helpful to keep in mind.  To read the full blog, visit: https://washingtonnonprofits.org/staying-sane/ Understand what you and others are feeling is normal.  Because this is new to all of us, we are building the roadmap as we go along and learning as we go. Accept that with no roadmap available, we will make mistakes. Being able to reflect on and learn from our mistakes and successes allows us to move forward Share experiences and feelings with others.  The enforced isolation means we need to communicate in order to connect and share Celebrate unity, caring for each other, and coming together.  These are the things that will let us get through this experience and thrive again.


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Covid-19 Updates
Monday, May 18th, 2020
These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations

Timely News
Washington Non-profits will be hosting a free webinar about the rules surrounding loan forgiveness with PPP.  It’s on Thursday, May 21 from noon to 1:30 pm.  To register, see:   https://washingtonnonprofits.secure.nonprofitsoapbox.com/2020-05-21-covid-forgiveness

KP Business & Organization Info   
​Thank you to our KP Fire and Pierce County Sheriff Departments as they responded to a sad and exceptionally tragic fire in Vaughn last night.      

Links
Among the many questions surrounding PPP loans is the one about proving “need”.  The Small Business Administration has clarified this and has issued a “Safe Harbor Provision” which you can read here:

https://washingtonnonprofits.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=b98650ebcf9f04e6615b76080&id=ef6825702e&e=3efb80f2fe

In a nutshell, "Any borrower that, together with its affiliates, received PPP loans with an original principal amount of less than $2 million will be deemed to have made the required certification concerning the necessity of the loan request in good faith."   Since most non-profits borrow less than that, this is a welcome provision
.
Washington Non-Profits has an amazing number of resources, some free, some for members only.  Visit them at: https://washingtonnonprofits.org/     

FAQ’s

Are there similarities to the Mt. St. Helens explosion and the Covid-19 crisis?
Yes, actually, there are! It was traumatic for the state and shut down commerce on the east side for some time. Schools were closed – according to remembrances from people living in Moses Lake at the time, school was done until September after the eruption.

Masks!!  If you lived anywhere where there was ash (and there were smaller explosions that sent ash west a few weeks after the big one) you had to wear a mask for a while.

Where can I learn more about the eruption of 40 years ago?
Lots of places – here’s some quick links to both information and look-back articles about the eruption:

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/2020/05/mount-st-helens-isnt-where-should-be-scientists-may-finally-know-why/?fbclid=IwAR0W6oAnlg5q2bZLHNTiHk3eEGLcNZum5TGrsG0Yg8w3fyNM8ef-jMwu1jU https://komonews.com/news/local/relive-komo-news-coverage-as-mt-st-helens-blew-its-top-40-years-ago https://www.npr.org/2020/05/18/854829288/it-seemed-apocalyptic-40-years-ago-when-mount-st-helens-erupted https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/18/us/mount-st-helens-facts-eruption-trnd/index.html   
 
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Covid-19 Updates

Friday, May 15th, 2020
These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations
 
Timely News
 
Today and every Friday – Nourish PC has a food truck which stops on the KP and serves anyone in need.  The truck will be at
Lake Katherine Village from 1:00 to 3:00 pm Church of the Latter-Day Saints, 12521 134th Ave. from 4:30 to 6:30 pm For more information see: https://nourishpc.org/
 
 
KP Business & Organization Info
 
The KP Partnership/MTI/KP Community Services dental van clinic originally scheduled for March will take place once MTI is allowed to do procedures again.  We hope for later in the summer and will keep signed-up patients posted.
 
Thank you to Two Waters Arts Alliance for donating art projects to local families! https://twowaters.org/
 
Food Backpacks 4 Kids has seen a 54% increase in new families and has distributed over 23,000 pounds of food this last month.  To find out more, visit their FB page at: https://www.facebook.com/foodbackpacks4kids/

Links 
 
Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church in Gig Harbor offers lay counseling (for a suggested donation). Call (253) 853-0291 to discuss options. 
The church also hosts “Mental Health Monday” videos at 12:00 on Mondays https://www.facebook.com/ChapelHillPC
 
Washington State has a Family Mental Health and Well Being page, to find helpful links visit: https://coronavirus.wa.gov/you-and-your-family/mental-and-emotional-well-being
 
Today’s virtual tour is from the MET in New York City.  They have a number of on-line “stories” and exhibits, including gone on Coco Chanel, visit: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/the-metropolitan-museum-of-art?hl=en
 
FAQ’s
You wrote about masks a few weeks ago, now people are angry about them.  Why all the drama? The masks are being worn, and being advised to be worn, in order to help stop the spread of illness.  Although some debate to what extent masks work, most health officials agree that they are 1 aspect of keeping ourselves and others safe, especially when used alongside social distancing, washing hands, and similar measures. The drama happens when masks become a symbol of how people are feeling and dealing with this crisis. Some people feel it is over-reach of government and is too controlling Some people feel it is a social duty and makes total sense Many people feel somewhere in the middle. Do I have to wear one? No, you do not; however: Some businesses have instituted policies regarding masks, such as Costco.  Just like the old, “No shirt, no shoes, no service” signs of the past, businesses have the right to refuse service in certain cases.  If you chose not to wear a mask, they can choose not to let you in. Some localities (like King County) have directed people to wear masks in public places.  Although there is no enforcement of this on a personal level, there is at a business level.  https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/health/covid-19/care/masks.aspx I feel I can’t win – people will be angry if I wear one and angry if I don’t. Ultimately, we each need to make the mask choice based on our own reasons and hope that choice will be treated respectfully. Know that you are not alone if you are feeling confused, frustrated, and/or out of control. If these feeling get to be too much, you can call the Pierce County Crisis line: 1-800-576-7764   
​Covid-19 Updates 

Thursday, May 14th, 2020 

These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations   

Timely News    Tomorrow and every Friday – Nourish PC has a food truck which stops on the KP and serves anyone in need.  The truck will be at Lake Katherine Village from 1:00 to 3:00 pm  

Church of the Latter-Day Saints, 12521 134th Ave. from 4:30 to 6:30 pm 
For more information see: https://nourishpc.org/   

The KP News is the go-to space for up-to-date information regarding Covid-19 and the Key Peninsula, please visit: https://keypennews.com/  To go straight to their Covid-19 resource page, visit: https://keypennews.com/covid-19-resources/    

KP Business & Organization Info    

The KP Civic Center has announced that this year’s Livable Fair, originally scheduled for May 9th, has been canceled as opposed to postponed.  If your organization paid for a booth, you can either donate the cost or ask for a refund by calling Stephanie Warren at: (253) 884-3456 or emailing: office@kpciviccenter.org   

Worth another mention:
​There is a Prompt Care option on the Key Peninsula. To find out more, please call: (253) 884-9221  ﷟HYPERLINK "http://themustardseedproject.org/get-involved-2/get-involved/?fbclid=IwAR0lsQTNW3ES7XujAN-oCo7r8mGxVs3hxFh3lEXJZw8EbR0lQT9u8vIsAeU"  Links      Business owners or operators who have questions for the state regarding reopening, general financial assistance, or other Covid-19 related questions can submit those questions using the following on-line form: https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/2562f1caf5814c46a6bf163762263aa5    Worth another mention: The Pierce County Library has expanded their audio book library among other things.  To find out more, visit: https://www.piercecountylibrary.org/     

FAQ’s    How are families on the KP dealing with this crisis?  It depends.  Each household has its own challenges and deals with things in its own way.  What we do know is that it is impacting everyone.    We are hearing more stories about stress and anxiety and fear.

  We are also hearing more stories of generosity, graciousness, and caring.    A word often used in community health circles is “resiliency”.  Simply put, “resiliency” is the ability to weather the challenges in life.  It is used broadly, as the following examples show:  Economic resiliency is the ability to keep paying bills in times of financial turmoil  Health resiliency is the ability to bounce back from an illness or not get sick in the first place  Emotional resiliency is the ability to handle new or ongoing challenges  Community resiliency is a community’s ability to work together through pain, changes, and hard times  It is fair to say that everyone is being challenged right now, and that means existing resiliency may not be enough for some families.  What can I do to help?  The KP is a resilient community, it is filled with caring and generous people.  Things that help are:  Volunteering when able (https://serve253.com/)  Giving financially when able (Longbranch Foundation has giving options for area non-profits: https://www.longbranchfoundation.org/ )  Checking in on neighbors, family, friends, and colleagues.  Many people are more isolated than ever before and social contact, even if virtual or waving across a yard, is important.  Be patient with your fellow humans, this is a time of unprecedented stress.          

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Monday, May 11th, 2020
These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations

Timely News
Organizations wishing to request National Guard help for June must do so by Friday, May 15th. To do so, fill out form 213RR (attached to email) and send to pceoc@piercecountywa.gov. Be sure to fill out areas 1,2,4,7, & 8. The National Guard also has a liaison desk which can be reached at: (253) 512-1369

KP Business & Organization Info
On Wednesday at 7:00 pm, the KP Community Council will be holding a virtual meeting through Zoom. Access can be through Zoom or dial in.
https://us04web.zoom.us/j/7659294088
Phone in: (253) 215-8782
meeting ID: 765 9294 0887
meeting password: 254467

The KP Business Association is creating a Word Art in honor of Scott Gallacher. If you would like to add to this memorial piece, please take the word survey by May 13th at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/B3KVZ73"


Links
Mental Health America is offering free mental health screening tests at their website: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools

FAQ’s
Our household is using a lot more cleaning stuff to make sure we’re killing any Corona virus germs. Could this hurt our septic system? Most septic systems are pretty robust, but all of them depend on helpful bacteria which can be killed if not taken care of correctly. Things that can cause problems include harsh cleaning agents and using more water than the system can process in a short timeframe, both of which may be happening now during the Covid-19 crisis when we’re all home. Is there any way to find out if we are harming our septic system? One way would be to talk to the experts. The Tacoma Pierce County Health Department can answer those questions at their webinar happening Thursday, May 14th at 4:00 pm https://zoom.us/j/92411814591 So what if I’m harming my septic system, doesn’t all the stuff go in the ground anyway? Your septic system does not work alone. It feeds into the groundwater of the local area. When working correctly, this is not a problem. If not working correctly, harmful things may get into the surrounding groundwater which can cause issues with near-by wells and other water ways, including creeks, rivers, and ultimately, the Puget Sound. A bad septic system damages a lot more than your yard.​

Brought to you by the KP Partnership, the KP Council and numerous other local organizations


Covid-19 Updates

Friday, May 8th, 2020

Today! Between 12:30 and 1:00 pm look up to see a fly-over by the USAF C-17 Demonstration team.

KP Business & Organization Info
A need for Volunteers! From the Mustard Seed Project-

“Be a hero for a local senior!” · For many of our older neighbors, the frailties of age get in the way of outdoor chores. When their yards are untidy, elders feel deeply embarrassed while neighbors worry about safety. The Mustard Seed Project's yard & garden volunteers make a difference for Key Peninsula seniors by mowing, raking, weeding, trimming, and planting. Imagine the huge difference you could make for elders just by mowing a lawn! · For more information on becoming a Yard & Garden Hero, contact Heather Anthony, Program Manager, at 253-884-9814 or email programs@themustardseedproject.org.

· Download the "Community Volunteer Network" application and submit via email or mail to PO Box 182, Vaughn, WA 98394: http://themustardseedproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Updated-Volunteer-Application-7-5-18.pdf

Links

This weekend’s virtual tour is in honor of the 75th anniversary of VE day, or Victory Europe day at the end of WWII. The National WWII Museum in New Orleans has some interesting exhibits/articles/podcasts about the time: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/

Worth another mention:

Comcast is offering “free” (for a few months anyway) service for certain people: https://www.internetessentials.com/


FAQ’s ·

Tests, more tests, no tests….can you please help make sense out of what is available in terms of Covid-19 testing?

o We’ll do our best, accurate information about tests and how many are available is difficult to get.

The following are things we do know:
o There are two main types of tests, one that tests for an active infection (viral test) and one that tests to see if a person has had the infection (antibody test)
o Depending on what type of test you get (there are variations such as blood, nasal swab, etc.) results can be same day or in 3-5 days.
o There are still not enough tests and/or test processing facilities for everyone to get tested ·

Are there still limits on who can be tested?

o Yes, there are, and the limits are placed by the US Center for Disease Control (CDC) and our own WA Dept of Health.

o The CDC guidelines have a priority list which was recently updated. Priority cases are listed below, but more information about the CDC guidelines can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/hcp/clinical-criteria.html

· Priorities for Covid-19 Testing (as per CDC)

o High Priority
§ Hospitalized patients with symptoms
§ Healthcare facility workers, workers in congregate living settings, and first responders with symptoms
§ Residents in long-term care facilities or other congregate living settings, including prisons and shelters, with symptoms o Priority
§ Persons with symptoms of potential Covid-19 infection, including: fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, new loss of taste or smell, vomiting or diarrhea, and/or sore throat.
§ Persons without symptoms who are prioritized by health departments or clinicians, for any reason, including but not limited to: public health monitoring, sentinel surveillance, or screening of other asymptomatic individuals according to state and local plans.

· Is there guidance from local Health Care Providers?
o Yes. The following was just released by CHI Franciscan and gives a decent run-down of how they are handling testing: "COVID-19 testing is on everyone’s mind and CHI Franciscan wants to help you stay informed".

A few things to remember about the general types of COVID-19 tests in use:

1. “Nasal/Throat Swab Test”– tests for ONGOING infection. Results within 3 days. Per CDC guidelines, testing is limited to symptomatic patients due to limited availability of test kits. Offered at FMG Triage Centers and other locations.

2. “Rapid Test” – tests for ONGOING infection. A nasal swab. Results same day. Testing is limited to symptomatic patients and pre-operative patients due to very limited availability of test kits. Not currently offered to general patients.

3. “Home Test” – tests for ONGOING infection. A nasal swab (self-administered). Results available within 3 days.

kits are only available ONLINE for healthcare workers and first responders. These tests are not available through CHI Franciscan.

4. “Antibody Test” (e.g. UW, Labcorp) – tests for PAST EXPOSURE. Blood test. Results in about 3 days. Very limited availability. Current use – research studies. Possible future use for plasma donor determination. Test is not FDA approved at this time.

5. Other “Rapid Antibody Tests” – local labs are offering rapid blood tests. These tests have not been approved by the FDA so accuracy is uncertain. We are not recommending this for our patients at this time. ·

Are other people frustrated by all of this?

Yes. Healthcare workers and non-healthcare workers alike are frustrated by testing limitations and lack of tests. Once again, we are not alone in the confusion caused by Covid-19. ·

Is there good news?

Yes! There is a lot happening that looks beyond individual testing, including looking at sewage and wastewater for evidence of the virus.

A recent Washington Post/Seattle Times article talks about work being done here in Pierce County: https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/an-early-warning-system-for-coronavirus-infections-could-be-found-in-your-toilet/

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Thursday, May 7th, 2020 These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations

Timely News

The Washington State Dept of Health and Gov. Inslee’s office have created and updated a “Risk Assessment Dashboard” which measures Washington’s Covid-19 risk in 5 areas. It will be updated every Wednesday.

To see information about the Dashboard: https://medium.com/wagovernor/first-risk-assessment-dashboard-update-6e5a41226eca

To see the Dashboard: https://coronavirus.wa.gov/what-you-need-know/covid-19-risk-assessment-dashboard

Tomorrow from 10:30 to 11:00 am the Oregon Zoo will be hosting a live webinar on turtle hatchlings https://www.facebook.com/events/267447654431787/

KP Business & Organization Info

A new and original story time series is here!

Presented by The Mustard Seed Project and Two Waters’ Art Alliance and read by our own Robert McCrossin, owner of Bayside Animal Lodge, “Life as a Dog” is available for viewing (and listening) on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ads-Eya37o8&feature=youtu.be

Links
The Economic Development Board of Tacoma/Pierce County has a page full of information and helpful links for businesses and dealing with Covid-19, including a “Back to Work Toolkit” https://www.edbtacomapierce.org/covid-19/

For WSU families (like ours) here are some Cougar-themed kid activities: https://alumni.wsu.edu/s/1613/18/interior.aspx?sid=1613&gid=2&pgid=6403

FAQ’s
Murder Hornets?! Are they real? No and yes. Don’t you just love ambiguous answers like that? Read on for clarification:

There are no “murder hornets” out to murder you or those you love. There are Asian giant hornets. They are big (up to 2 inches long), aggressive (they will aggressively protect their territory and handily take out European honeybee hives), and their sting has a powerful neurotoxin which can cause extreme pain and, if there are a lot of stings, death. Oh, and their stinger can go through most bee suits.

Are they here?
According to the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) there were 2 confirmed sightings in December of 2019 near Blaine, WA and 2 probable sightings near Custer, WA. These were the first ever sightings of Asian giant hornets in the United States.

British Columbia also had 2 confirmed sightings in fall of 2019. This means they are here, but hopefully, not in large numbers yet. It is imperative that we stop their advance before their numbers increase. This is why we are hearing about them now.

I want to emphasize, the sightings are north, near the Canadian border and the WSDA is focusing their trapping efforts in the northern counties of Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan, and Island.

The hornets are not yet in Pierce county that we know of.

How can we stop huge, murderous, hornets? By reporting them and letting the WSDA experts take them out.

Because the threat to our agricultural economy is huge, the WSDA is making a full-out effort to find, identify, and eradicate any colonies that are starting in our state. To do this they need the help of people to report sightings.

You can do this by:

​Downloading the Washington Invasive Species smart phone app: https://invasivespecies.wa.gov/report-a-sighting/invasive-insects/ Contacting the pestprogram@agr.wa.gov or agr.wa.gov/hornets

​ How do we know what they look like? To see what they look like and what they DON’T look like, visit: https://agr.wa.gov/departments/insects-pests-and-weeds/insects/hornets

Also, a quick read with some good descriptors: https://news.wsu.edu/2020/04/06/wsu-scientists-enlist-citizens-hunt-giant-bee-killing-hornet/

I have beehives? Is there anywhere I can go for information on how to protect them? Yes, contact WSU Extension scientist Tim Lawrence at: (360) 639-6061 or timothy.lawreence@wsu.edu

-Key Peninsula Partnership for a Healthy Community
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Covid-19 Updates
Wednesday, May 6th, 2020
These updates are a joint effort by the KP Partnership, The KP Council, and numerous other local organizations

Timely News

Kitsap Economic Development Alliance holds a weekly business webinar. This week’s topic is: “The New Market Place: Meeting Your Customer Where They’re At”. Thursday, May 7th at 10:00 am. The webinar is free but does require registration. To find out more and register, see: http://kitsapeda.org/media-center/covid-your-business-webinars-archive/

KP Business & Organization Info

Be on the look-out for a new electronic reader board to be installed soon at the Key Center Fire Station!
Links
The “Stem for All” Video Showcase is an opportunity to see what sort of STEM learning is being developed around the country. Take a look at the programs and vote for those you like through May 12th! To see, learn more, and vote visit: https://stemforall2020.videohall.com/


Add to your calendar – Tacoma Pierce County Health Dept will be doing a Zoom conference on Septic System Basics next week on May 14th. To take part, access Zoom at: https://zoom.us/j/92411814591

A .pdf of Frequently Asked Questions about the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is available at: https://www.sba.gov/document/support--faq-lenders-borrowers

FAQ’s
•\\tWhat are Covid Parties and why are they in the news?
o\\t
Covid parties are where people go to parties with others that have been exposed to the virus in the belief that they will get exposed and therefore, build immunity. The goal is to build a “herd immunity” by getting lots of people exposed at once.
o\\tThey are in the news because some of these parties have happened in our state, the most recent confirmed one being in Walla Walla.

•\\tDoes it work? Can someone build immunity by being exposed?
o\\tMaybe? But, this a dodgy gamble because:
o\\tScientists and medical experts do not yet know if this virus is a “one and done” like Chicken Pox or similar sicknesses. There is not yet enough evidence to say that being exposed to or having Covid-19 provides future immunity.
o\\tIt’s a big risk. If you are exposed, you stand a chance of getting extremely sick, as does anyone you come into contact with for the next few weeks.