4/17: Brent Mason, Foss Waterway Seaport Director

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Brent Mason introduces us to a museum that celebrates our maritime heritage, a building that’s survived all odds, environmental stewardship and remediation, and one butt-kicking lady.

Interview begins at 9:00.

GENERAL

  • Individuals who qualify for the federal tax rebate via direct deposit should have seen money added to their bank accounts this week.
    • If the money isn’t there, starting tomorrow consumers can visit the “Get My Payment” section of the IRS website at irs.gov/coronavirus, where people can check the status of their rebate.
    • Some individuals have reported getting verification that a stimulus check has been deposited to an account not owned or accessed by the individual. Calling the IRS will currently result in hearing a recorded message that states they are “unable to provide live assistance due to staff levels.”
    • The IRS says it’s working through people’s questions and working to post answers on its FAQ page.

WASHINGTON STATE PARKS

  • The Washington State Park Foundation invites all Washingtonians experiencing cabin fever to attend the Great Washington Camp-In at 6:30pm today, April 17, streaming live on YouTube
    • Activities include talks from the Parks Commissioner and interpreters, celebrity chefs who will share favorite camping recipes, musicians hosting a campfire sing-along, cultural performances, and poetry readings.
    • Campers can tune in online at WaParks.org, or call 360.701.7923 in advance to request accessibility accommodations.

WASHINGTON STATE GOVERNORS OFFICE

  • The state is expanding unemployment benefits to previously ineligible individuals.
    • Private contractors will qualify, as will those who worked fewer than 680 hours in the previous year, and the weekly benefit will increase by $600.
    • The Employment Security Department website esd.wa.gov will be unavailable on Saturday while updates are being made, but should be up and running by Sunday, and individuals may call 1-833-572-8400.
  • The governor has extended a statewide eviction moratorium through June 4 and expanded certain provisions.
    • There is a ban on the collection of late fees from February 29th until June 4th. Already paid late fees must be returned.
    • Landlords are also now prohibited from increasing rents or deposits for residential tenants.
    • Additionally, the ban extends to commercial tennants who have been impacted by COVID-19 or the stay-at-home order.
    • Protections from residential eviction have been expanded to individuals residing on leased lots or parcels, transitional housing, and public camp grounds.
    • Landlords may not charge for housing where tenants’ access was prevented due to COVID-19, such as college housing, delayed move-ins, or those displaced due to COVID-19 isolation or quarantine.
    • Rent payments delayed through June 4th will still be owed but a landlord must offer tenants a reasonable repayment plan to enforce any collection of that debt.
    • The updated proclamation can be found by going to governor.wa.gov and clicking on the “news & media” section.

OTHER WASHINGTON STATE PROGRAMS

  • Some Washington residents can apply for the Disaster Cash Assistance Program, or DCAP, for emergency funds to help meet immediate needs.
    • The assistance is available to Washington residents who are not eligible for other cash assistance programs and who meet income limits, regardless of citizenship status.
    • People can apply for DCAP by calling 877-501-2233 to complete the application and required interview.
    • People are encouraged to call before 11 a.m. and to keep in mind that the busiest call times are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • WIC, the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, has been identified as an essential service during the stay-at-home order.
    • People seeking WIC services do not need to visit a WIC clinic.
    • WIC services are available by phone or video chat even when physical buildings are closed.
    • Customers can call 1-800-322-2588, text “W-I-C” to 96859, or visit ParentHelp123.org online

TACOMA

  • Just before air time, the Tacoma City Council was holding a special virtual meeting discussing the city’s small business stabilization loan program. The meeting is available to watch and listen to on teh City of Tacoma’s facebook page.

REGIONAL

  • King County Metro will reduce weekend bus service beginning tomorrow, April 18, and further reduce weekday bus service starting Monday, April 20.
    • Details can be found by following links at KingCounty.gov or by calling 206-553-3000