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Clark County Health Leaders: COVID-19 Case Numbers ‘Exploding’


Vancouver, WA — Multiple Clark County health leaders are urging local residents to mask up, physical distance, and follow COVID-19 guidelines to slow down the present virus “explosion” in Southwest Washington.

“The COVID-19 case numbers are exploding,” said Dr. Alan Melnick, Director of Clark County Public Health. “They are going up at an alarming rate.”

Eight weeks ago, the county averaged 28 cases per day, last week it averaged 120 cases per day, and Monday the health department reported Clark County added 310 new virus cases from the last three days. Melnick said this is the highest weekend number reported since the pandemic began.

The county reports that 42 percent of COVID-19 infections trace back to households, while small intimate gatherings make up 18 percent of the infection total.

At Monday’s press briefing, Melnick, along with Dr. Ray Lee, Medical Chief of Staff at PeaceHealth, and Dr. Hoa Ly, Medical Director at Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center, said they are calling on citizens to take personal responsibility to stop the virus spread.

Lee said “the stakes of our personal decisions before us right now cannot be higher” while Ly said his hospital is postponing some elective procedures to ensure more beds are available for the expected uptick in virus-related hospitalizations.

The health department said 50 people are currently hospitalized for COVID-19, and 76 percent of licensed hospital beds are currently occupied, which is four percent below the state’s desired 80 percent target.

“We are fully capable of making sacrifices for a higher calling,” Ly said. “We are capable of making difference for ourselves and our loved ones. The virus can only do what we allow it to do. This is in our power to defeat this virus if we choose to work together.”

COVID-19
www.acreativetwistcorp.com

Clark County by the numbers — to-date:


Confirmed positive COVID-19 cases to-date: 6,470
Total negative tests to date: 89,681
Hospitalizations to-date: 432
Deaths to-date: 80
% of Deaths: 1.7%

Clark County Public Health’s Monday COVID-19 update: 

  • 6,470 cases to date
  • 1 new death (80 to date) — a woman in her 80s with underlying conditions
  • 482 active cases
  • 50 COVID-19 patients hospitalized
  • 6 persons under investigation (PUIs) for COVID-19 hospitalized 
COVID-19
Dr. Alan Melnick, Director, Clark County Public Health

A reminder about active cases: This reflects the number of confirmed cases who are currently in their isolation period. For most people, isolation is based on when symptoms began, not when they received the positive test result. Some individuals learn they are COVID-19 positive and only have a few days of isolation remaining.

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Governor Inslee Issues Sweeping New COVID-19 Restrictions, Effective Monday Night

Olympia, WA — Governor Jay Inslee issued broad new statewide restrictions and shutdowns for restaurants, gyms, theaters and all indoor gatherings during a Sunday morning address. 

Most of the orders are effective at 11:59 pm Monday, with the exception of restaurants and bars, which go into effect at 11:59 pm on Tuesday. The order expires on December 14.

“In order to slow the spread of rapidly increasing COVID cases in our state, and ensure that hospital and medical systems are not overwhelmed, we are taking the very difficult but necessary steps to protect public health,” Inslee said. “We recognize this will cause financial hardship for many businesses and we are exploring ways to mitigate the impacts.”

He ordered restaurants and bars to shutdown indoor service and to limit outdoor service to parties of five or less. Indoor gyms and fitness centers must also shutdown, along with movie theaters, bowling alleys and museums. Indoor gatherings with people outside your household will be prohibited unless participants have quarantined for 14 days, tested negative and quarantine for seven days prior or receive a negative COVID-19 test within two days of the planned gathering.

“Indoor social gatherings from people outside your home are prohibited unless they have been quarantined for 14 days,” Inslee said. “You can get the virus in your own home.”

This is the most extensive mandate since Inslee’s March emergency stay at home order. The new orders do not apply to K-12 schools or the court system. They also do not apply to child care.

“Today, Sunday, November 15, 2020, is the most dangerous public health day in the last 100 years of our state’s history,” Inslee said. “A pandemic is raging in our state. Left unchecked, it will assuredly result in grossly overburdened hospitals and morgues; and keep people from obtaining routine but necessary medical treatment for non-COVID conditions.”

Despite a statewide mask mandate, which was issued in June, and current restrictions on businesses, the pandemic has been rapidly spreading in Washington. The state, for the last two weeks, has been breaking previous infection records almost daily. 

“We need to preserve our well being,” said Inslee. “I share your frustration, but we need to hold the pandemic down until the calvary arrives (referring to a vaccine).”

Two weeks ago, the state recorded a then-record 1,469 coronavirus infections. By Nov. 14, daily infections had increased more than 50 percent and stood at 2,233 infections, according to Dr. Kathy Lofy, State Health Officer. The day Inslee issued his stay-home order in March, there were 225 confirmed infections.

Inslee
www.artfuljuxtaposition.com

Outdoor social gatherings should be limited to no more than five people from outside your household, Inslee said. Religious services can continue, but must limit indoor attendance to 25 percent of capacity, or 200 people, whatever is less. Masks must be worn at all times and choirs, bands and congregational singing will be prohibited. Wedding and funeral ceremonies will be limited to 30 people. Receptions are prohibited.

Retail stores, including grocery stores, and malls must limit occupancy to 25 percent and must close food court seating.

Offices are required to mandate employees work from home, if possible, and must limit occupancy to 25 percent if they remain open. They must be closed to the public.

Long-term care facilities can accept visitors only in outdoor settings, with limited exceptions for end-of-life care and essential support personnel.

Personal services, such as barber shops and salons, are limited to 25 percent capacity. Real estate open houses are prohibited. Youth and adult sports are limited to outdoor only intrateam practices and athletes must wear masks.

Inslee acknowledged the financial hardship this will bring to businesses already suffering from existing mandates. He said the state has issued $25 million in grants, and there is an additional $50 million coming to help mitigate business challenges.

“This is not enough,” Inslee said. “We need the federal government to step up to the plate. Congress needs to help. And, we are looking at alternatives.”

Lofy is fearful of getting to 4,000 cases per day, which she said would overwhelm hospitals. 

Clint Wallace, an ICU nurse also spoke.

“We are exhausted, we are tired,” said Wallace. “It’s about adequate staffing, and COVID patients require more than normal patients. We are all close to burning out.”

Inslee
Latest daily statewide COVID-19 case numbers.
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Oregon Governor Brown Puts State on Two-Week ‘Freeze’ Effective Wednesday

Salem, OR — Oregon Gov. Kate Brown on Friday ordered a statewide two-week “freeze,” which restricts social gatherings and closes many businesses in an effort to help curb this third wave of COVID-19.

Beginning Wednesday, November 18, bars and restaurants will become takeout only. Indoor facilities such as gyms, museums and skating rinks are mandated to close entirely until the order is lifted in early December.

Her orders Friday are some of the most stringent in Oregon since her March stay-at-home order.

Under Brown’s latest order indoor and outdoor gatherings will be limited to no more than six people from two separate households. Grocery stores and pharmacies will also be required to limit their capacities, and churches are allotted indoor crowds no larger than 25 people.

Anyone traveling to Oregon is also required to quarantine for 14 days upon the arrival.

“I want to be honest,” Brown said Friday. “We are trying to stop this ferocious virus from spreading even more quickly and far wide, and to save lives.”

Brown said that some counties could remain in the freeze longer than two weeks, noting that Multnomah county’s orders are to last four weeks.

Brown
www.acreativetwistcorp.com
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Inslee Urges Washington Residents to Hold Virtual Thanksgiving Gatherings


Olympia, WA — Washington Governor Jay Inslee, with First Lady, Trudi Inslee, at his side, briefly addressed the state Thursday night about upcoming holiday gatherings.

Citing the third wave of COVID-19 throughout Washington, the Governor said “we need to rethink the holidays” and how families and friends gather.

“We knew these are treasured parts of our family traditions, but we will pause on gatherings this year and recommend a virtual Thanksgiving holiday,” Inslee said. “It’s simply too dangerous to gather together indoors.”

He understands this is a challenging request, and added “you are doing this as an act of love.”

“Please don’t gather with people outside your home, it’s just too dangerous,” he emphasized. “This period is as dangerous as March. We have done good work, and we have put our state in a better position than other states. What is urgent is what we do in our homes.”

The First Lady said “every social gathering is dangerous in our homes, and we implore you to rethink spending time with people outside your home.”

Inslee called it “the end of a tumultuous year and we hope to keep our families safe.” 

He also added that given corona virus spikes statewide that more restrictions are coming next week. 

“This is a temporary situation,” Inslee said. “And, things will get back to normal.”

The First Lady also thanked front line and essential workers as the address came near a close.

COVID-19
www.artfuljuxtaposition.com
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Camas Schools Superintendent Q&A: 9% In Classroom; 5% Permanently Pulled; More

Camas, WA — Given the dynamic situation that COVID-19 presents to school districts, Lacamas Magazine asked Dr. Jeff Snell, Camas School District Superintendent, several questions about how the district is managing operations.

Question #1: Local teacher’s unions recently wrote a letter stating they refuse to go into the classroom until Clark County gets into moderate range for COVID-19. What have you heard from CEA? What is your position as the administration?

Snell: We meet weekly with our teacher association to discuss remote learning challenges and opportunities and increasing in-person learning experiences.  Our staff has been amazing at continuing to evolve our remote learning instruction, identifying students who need a little more support, and then coming up with ways to provide that support.  Their creativity and problem solving is a tremendous asset for our district and community.  They recognize how important it is to provide every service possible for students and families.

Question #2: When will first and second grade start going into the classroom?

Snell: We have been methodically increasing the number of students served in person through small groups.  In-person services, in small groups, align with the WA Department of Health recommendations during high COVID-19 activity levels.  We will monitor how well kindergarten goes and work with Clark County Public Health before consideration of adding any additional grade levels.  Obviously case rates have been increasing in our region so we want to be thoughtful about next steps.

Camas

Question #3: How many students in CSD have been permanently pulled from being in public school?

Snell: We track enrollment, a measurement of new students, and students leaving the district.  This fall, our enrollment has been down by about 5%.  

Editor’s Note: With enrollment at about 7,000, approximately 350 students have been pulled.

Question #4: What is the financial, per-student impact when a Camas student is pulled?

Snell: Each student generates about $11,500 in state funding. 

Question #5: Is Camas School District doing anything to help students who are having major mental/emotional problems?

Snell: This year in particular we are focusing much of our work on supporting systemic social emotional learning.  Teachers, counselors and other district staff are providing intentional opportunities for students to grow their emotional capacity.  We do this by highlighting topics such as self-awareness, stress management, and social awareness. In addition, our staff is focused on creating safety and belonging along with positive teacher student connections. When needed, our staff will connect students and families with community resources to assist students that are struggling emotionally.  

In addition to the direct support to students, we also take a whole system view on wellness.  We have a Parent Wellness program that offers parents a variety of opportunities to learn and connect with others in our community. This year we started a Parent Podcast and continue to provide workshops and book studies on a variety of topics.  We are about to host two virtual books studies that are free and open to everyone, “Grown and Flown” and  “The Financial Aid Handbook”. In addition, we have an upcoming Parent Wellness virtual workshop, “Brain Based Sensory Supports for Remote Learners”. Whenever possible, we record our workshops and archive them on our All-Student Wellness page on the district website.  This site has a host of information, articles, community resources and archived workshop videos. 

Camas
www.clarkcountyrelocations.com

Question #6: Many parents are asking why is CSD so focused on equity and diversity education right now? They say shouldn’t general education be the focus given how many students are falling behind? And, wouldn’t it make more sense to focus on equity and diversity once the kids are back in school?

Snell: Our focus over the past five years has been on seeing and serving EACH student.  Creating a community where every student feels like they belong is critical for any learning to happen.  This is the goal of our equity work.  

It continues to be the responsibility of public schools to serve each and every student who enters our doors. To serve students requires that we create conditions of safety and belonging for all students, with heightened attention to students from marginalized or underserved groups. Our ultimate goal of instilling in each student a love of learning and achievement that opens doors to their futures cannot happen until a student feels seen, safe, and cared for as they are. The pandemic presents many challenges, one of which is widening already existing disparities. Our continued learning about and attention to equity and social emotional learning will ensure that we don’t lose sight of creating more equitable outcomes. This is at the heart of our focus to see and serve each student.  

Question #7: Public records state that half of Union High School students are failing right now. What percentage of students are failing in Camas High School right now? I personally know about 20 of them.

Snell: At the progress report time, about 500 students had a failing grade or near failing grade.  Last year at this time, there were about 300 students. This is a significant change.  Our staff is working to support students across our system who are struggling.  Sometimes that means finding ways to connect with these students in ways beyond remote learning. 

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Camas Schools: 6 Staff Members COVID-19 Positive; No Outbreaks At Schools

Camas, WA — Camas School District (CSD) Superintendent Dr. Jeff Snell confirms that six staff members have been infected with COVID-19, but “there have been no outbreaks at schools or other facilities.” 

He said the district provides an updated dashboard, which is emailed to parents.

“… It references our COVID-19 dashboard which shows any cases we’ve had and resulting quarantines,” he said.

The latest update says that district currently serves 600 students in-person.

UPDATE: Transition to Increased, In-Person Learning Experiences

Camas School District has issued the following statement:

Our trend of high COVID-19 activity levels has continued which is extremely frustrating as it delays our full-hybrid transition.  Despite the trends, we have been able to safely and successfully grow the number of small group learning experiences for students this fall.  These small groups have focused on students who receive special services, our youngest learners, and students with significant struggles in the remote learning model for various reasons.  Serving small groups of students on campus aligns with the Washington Department of Health (WA DOH) recommendations for high COVID-19 activity level.  An important reason for our success has been the ability of staff to implement the five mitigation strategies from the CDC that include the following.

  • Consistent and correct use of masks
  • Social distancing to the largest extent possible
  • Hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette
  • Cleaning and disinfection
  • Contact tracing in collaboration with the local health department
COVID-19
www.resultsfitnesstraining.com

With the scheduled start of kindergarten in small groups next week CSD will continue to expand the number of students experiencing some type of in-person learning experience. The plan is to build on this success and continue to increase in-person experiences cautiously and thoughtfully through small groups of students.  

Approximate # of Students Served Through In-Person ExperiencesPercentage of Total Enrollment
Summer 20202003%
September 20203004%
October 20206009%

The CSD statement continues:

Current guidelines recommend to wait to transition to a full hybrid learning model (in-person and remote learning experiences for K5 and secondary students) until our COVID-19 activity level is in the moderate range.  Given the current rates, the soonest this could be possible is the week of 11/30 for our elementary students.  As we get further into the 2020-21 school year more data is becoming available about transmission rates in schools.  In a recent article from the Seattle Times (Early data suggests some schools can safely reopen, Washington state health officials say) the WA DOH was cited in reference to this data and in-person learning experiences.  We recognize how important these experiences are for our students and will consider adjustments to our reopening plans to align with any updated guidance from public health.  

This has been such a challenging time for students, staff and families to navigate. We understand and appreciate all of the concerns that come up in managing risks and making decisions as to the best course for each student, their families, staff, and our entire community.  We have scheduled another Town Hall for November 16th from 6 – 7 PM to share updates and answer questions.  ZOOM Information to come.

The public can view all details of their transition plan including timelines, resources, past notifications, presentations, and a COVID-19 dashboard that tracks COVID-19 cases in Camas School District at http://www.camas.wednet.edu/covid-19/2020-reopening/. 

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POLITICS 2020: 3rd Congressional Candidate Carolyn Long Concedes Race

VANCOUVER, WA — Carolyn Long released a statement, conceding the race for Washington’s 3rd Congressional District, following the announcement of the general election results showing Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler (R) with a commanding lead: 202,996 votes, or 55 percent, to Long’s 165,072 votes, or 44 percent.

“I am so incredibly proud of the strength of this grassroots campaign,” Long said. “Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this incredible effort and those who have supported us with their vote.

“From reaching out to friends, family, and neighbors all across Southwest Washington to speak about the campaign, to asking me questions and letting me know about the issues that are on your mind, to chipping in with a few bucks here and there—you were there for me and I deeply appreciate it.

“I’m proud we ran a campaign based on facts, policy, and the truth. I am someone who believes in running on the issues and leading a campaign based on integrity and trust. It’s why I didn’t take a dime of corporate PAC money. At the end of each day, I reminded myself that how one runs a campaign is a reflection of who they are as a person.

“Thank you, again, to everyone who has supported us and been a part of this effort. I am proud of everything we have accomplished.”

The Herrera Beutler campaign issued this statement: “We’re just grateful to the voters for putting their faith in Jaime yet again. In prior elections the Republican vote usually grows, and we think that trend will hold this election as well.”

Long
Carolyn with her husband, Kevin, and daughter, Tennyson.
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COVID-19: Clark County Public Health Releases Latest Numbers

Vancouver, WA — Clark County Public Health released the latest COVID-19 data this week. Here’s what is happening:

Wednesday COVID-19 update: Another 81 people have tested positive for COVID-19. To date, 5,164 Clark County residents have tested positive for COVID-19.

Currently, Clark County has 267 active cases. The number of active cases reflects the number of confirmed cases who are currently in their isolation period. For most people, isolation is based on when symptoms began, not when they received the positive test result. Some individuals learn they are COVID-19 positive and only have a few days of isolation remaining.

There are 33 COVID-19 patients and 17 persons under investigation (PUIs) for COVID-19 hospitalized. These cases and PUIs are occupying 8% of local hospital beds.

More than 5% of COVID-19 tests came back positive during the most recent week for which Clark County has testing data (Oct. 11-17). For the most recent eight weeks for which they have data, the percent of tests coming back positive has ranged from 3.41% to 5.63% — well above the goal of 2% or less.

The number of COVID-19 tests administered in Clark County increased in late September and early October, reaching as high as 7,022 tests administered in one week (Oct. 4-10). But the percent of tests coming back positive that week was among the highest in that timeframe at nearly 4.5% (311 positive tests).

Our rising case numbers cannot be attributed solely to increased testing. The virus is spreading throughout Clark County.

Please take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones and help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community. Wear face coverings anytime you’re around people who don’t live with (even in private settings), maintain physical distancing from others, wash hands frequently and stay home when sick.

COVID-19
www.clarkcountyrelocations.com
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POLITICS 2020: Inslee, Biden Win Statewide; Herrera Beutler Re-elected

Vancouver, WA — Unofficial election results for Washington statewide and local races are in, according to Clark County Elections and the Secretary of State’s Office.

Governor Jay Inslee won a record-tying third term, handily defeating Republican challenger, Loren Culp. 

Culp, police chief of the small town of Republic, campaigned in part against Inslee’s coronavirus restrictions like mandatory masks, saying they infringe on people’s constitutional rights.

Nationally, the presidential race is still to early to call at this writing. President Donald Trump currently has 213 electoral votes, while former Vice President Joe Biden has 238 electoral votes. There are currently several states that are undecided or haven’t been called: Georgia, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Alaska, and Nevada. 

The House of Representatives remains in Democratic control, and Democrats have picked up one Senate seat, but need four to take control of the upper chamber. At this hour, Republicans likely will maintain control of the Senate.

President

Joe Biden (D): 2,015,633 or 61 percent 

Donald Trump (R): 1,214,894 or 36 percent

3rd Congressional District

Jaime Herrera Beutler (R): 179,838 or 54 percent

Carolyn Long (D): 151,961 or 45.6 percent

“Thank you, Southwest Washington,” Herrera said in a statement. “I am grateful for the overwhelming support I’ve received in this race and am ready to keep working for this region in Congress. My first priority has always been standing up for the people of my home region and solving problems on their behalf, and my approach won’t change. I’ve worked to make health care and prescription drugs more affordable, battled to keep our small businesses afloat and employees on the payrolls during this pandemic, and delivered vital relief to families and during this challenging year.

“We have our work cut out for us in the next two years to get through this challenging time and return our lives back to normal, but I know we can do it. My sleeves are already rolled up, and I’m ready to support our communities to get it done.

“The results show that folks in Southwest Washington want an effective solver representing them in Congress. You have my word: I will continue working to keep this region as the greatest in the country to raise a family, earn a living and spend your retirement.

“Again, I’m so incredibly grateful to the voters of Southwest Washington for entrusting me to be their voice in Congress.”

Inslee
Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler.

Governor

Jay Inslee (D): 1,936,773 or 59.5 percent

Loren Culp (R): 1,305,236 or 40 percent

Lt. Governor 

Denny Heck (D): 88,164 or 46 percent

Marko Liilas (R): 63,062 or 33 percent

17th Legislative District Senator

Lynda Wilson (R) 38,822 or 51.9 percent

Daniel Smith (D) 31,277 or 47.99 percent

17th Legislative District Representative, Position 1

Tanisha Harris (D) 33,387 or 51.9 percent

Vicki Kraft (R) 31,775 or 48.7 percent

17th Legislative District Representative, Position 2

Paul Harris (R) 38,658 or 68 percent

Bryan White (R) 15,344 or 27 percent

18th Legislative District Senator

Ann Rivers (R) 40,975 or 53.5 percent

Rick Bell (D) 33,317 or 43.5 percent

18th Legislative District Representative, Position 1

Brandon Vick (R) 44,178 or 58 percent

Kassandra Bessert (D) 31,810 or 41 percent 

18th Legislative District Representative, Position 2

Larry Hoff (R) 41,039 or 53 percent

Donna Sinclair (D) 35,173 or 46 percent

“I’m grateful to represent this district for another two years,” said Hoff. “I think the lead will grow, and Donna sent a text this evening conceding. We will get together soon and discuss campaign points. I look forward to it.”

Inslee
Representative Larry Hoff.

49th Legislative District Senator

Annette Cleveland (D) 35,573 or 59.5 percent

Rey Reynolds (R) 24,119 or 40 percent.

49th Legislative District Representative, Position 1

Sharon Wylie (D) 38,853 or 65 percent

Justin Forsman (R) 20,293 or 34 percent

49th Legislative District Representative, Position 2

Monica Stonier (D) 38,743 or 65 percent

Paul Llafet (R) 20,630 or 34 percent

Secretary of State

Kim Wyman (R) 1,639,752 or 51.6 percent

Gael Tarleton (D) 1,534,022 or 48 percent

State Auditor

Mike Pellicciotti (D) 1,758,266 or 55 percent

Duane Davidson (R) 1,391,321 or 44 percent

State Attorney General

Bob Ferguson (D) 1,878,349 or 59 percent

Matt Larkin (R) 1,299,547 or 40 percent

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POLITICS 2020: Clark County Voters Can Check on Ballot Status Using Online Tool

For voters who wish to check on the status of their mailed in ballot, the Clark County Elections Office has an online tool.

Status Tool

With the ballot status tool in VoteWA, you can track your ballot for each election from the time we mail it to you to the time we receive and accept it for counting!

Tracking Tool StatusMeaning
SentYour ballot has been mailed to you.
ReceivedYour ballot has been received by Clark County Elections.
AcceptedYour ballot has been accepted and will be counted.
RejectedYour ballot has an issue, likely with the signature on the envelope.

If your tracking status is “rejected,” Clark County Elections will contact you by mail to inform you of the specific issue and how to resolve it. Please respond quickly to correct the situation so your vote can be counted.

Signature Challenges

Signature challenges occur when a voter does not sign the envelope which contains the voted ballot or when the signature on the return envelope does not match the signature the Clark County Elections Office has on file. If your signature is challenged, you will receive a letter from Clark County Elections.

To fix any signature challenge issues, carefully follow the instructions on the form you receive and return the form to Clark County Elections. All signature challenge forms must be received by our office no later than 5 pm the day before the election is certified. For this election, the date of certification is November 24th. So, the signature form must be received no later than 5 pm on November 23rd. Return your completed form in the envelope provided or drop it off in person to ensure your form is received before the deadline.

Ballots
www.arktana.com
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