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Wednesday, Nov. 24

Thanks to vaccines, Thanksgiving 2021 is closer to normal
Leading up to the holiday season last year, Gov. Jay Inslee imposed sweeping restrictions on indoor gatherings. Health officials urged people to celebrate only with their immediate household, and COVID-19 tests were largely limited to those with symptoms. Now, shots mean health officials are giving the OK on some get-togethers. But not without some caveats. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (Andy Bronson)

Washington launches QR codes to verify COVID-19 vaccination
Washington state launched Tuesday a new way to verify COVID-19 vaccination – QR codes. Using the online tool WA Verify, the state will generate a digital vaccination record card that includes a QR code that can be scanned to prove if you’re fully vaccinated, according to the Washington State Department of Health. The new tool comes as more businesses require proof of vaccination to enter. Continue reading at KING 5.

Whatcom County flood losses could reach $50 million from last week’s atmospheric river
Damages from flooding in Whatcom County could reach as high as $50 million, Whatcom County officials said at an online briefing Tuesday, Nov. 23., at the Whatcom Unified Emergency Operations Center. John Gargett, deputy director of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management, said he wouldn’t be surprised if public and private damages and economic losses reach that mark. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald.

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Associated Press
King County executive names new interim sheriff
US to require vaccines for all border crossers in January

Aberdeen Daily World
Port gets grant for marina modernization project

Auburn Reporter
King County proposes redistricting map, asks for feedback from public
Services at Auburn senior center slowly return to pre-pandemic levels

Bellingham Herald
Two Whatcom County regions see large drops in their COVID-19 infection rates last week
Three bridges are out, but Bellingham saw some success stories as Pineapple Express hit
Whatcom County official makes early estimates on flooding cost
Whatcom County flood losses could reach $50 million from last week’s atmospheric river
Bellingham obtains ‘incredible asset’ to develop as ‘unprecedented waterfront experience’
Bellingham hospital reports it’s treating its fewest COVID-related patients in a month

Capital Press
New grant to expand Washington state’s farm-to-school programs
13 Western meat, poultry processors receive USDA grants to scale up
EPA gets international calls to not ban chlorpyrifos
Timber groups can’t intervene in red tree vole lawsuit

Columbian
Around 2 dozen inmates test positive for COVID-19 at the Clark County Jail
Opinion: In Our View: Secretary of state should be nonpartisan position

Everett Herald
Thanks to vaccines, Thanksgiving 2021 is closer to normal
Recounts in Mill Creek, Stanwood as 2021 election is certified
Thanksgiving traffic forecast is heavier than pre-pandemic
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: This Thanksgiving, thank farmers, too, for the meal
Bloomberg Comment: Even during labor shortage, you can’t ‘just get a job’
WaPo Comment: Biden breaks pledge to stem drilling on public lands
WaPo Comment: Elon Musk’s billions can’t solve world hunger on own
Editorial: Small Business Saturday a focus for local economy

The Facts Newspaper
DOH launches WA Verify: State’s new Digital COVID-19 Verification Record system
New rule opens door to widespread testing for harsh chemicals in drinking water
K C seeks to collaborate with residents in urban unincorporated areas to Reimagine Public Safety
As Cases Surge Across the Country, Seattle Prepares to Protect Against COVID-19 During Holidays

High Country News
Salmon need better infrastructure, too

The Inlander
Gov. Jay Inslee says he wants to eventually get rid of his COVID mandates, but even he doesn’t yet know when

Kent Reporter
Sound Transit nears decision for light rail maintenance facility

News Tribune
Editorial: Talk is cheap. Pierce County must fix sheriff’s department use-of-force disparities

New York Times
G.O.P. Fights Covid Mandates, Then Blames Biden as Cases Rise
See Where U.S. Covid Cases and Hospitalizations Are Surging

Olympian
Thurston County COVID-19 case rate already matches 2020’s peak winter rate
I-5 will close overnight in Tacoma next week. Here’s how to avoid construction
Maximum avoidance or anything goes? Disease expert says find happy medium for holidays
Longview paper mill fined nearly $140,000 after failing to report COVID-19 infections, death

Puget Sound Business Journal
Shippers say supply chain crisis highlights need for smarter communication
More workers are returning to the office, but there’s a catch
Small Business Saturday is critical in 2021. Consumers are on board.
Businesses have new way to confirm vaccine status with launch of digital tool
Amazon agrees to pay $2.5M after Washington state investigation into pesticide sales
Report: FAA memo flags more 787 Dreamliner issues

Seattle Times
Republican lawmakers sue over COVID requirements at Washington Capitol building (Jinkins)
Prosecutors can photograph tattoos of Auburn officer charged with murder, judge rules
Patti Cole-Tindall to become King County interim sheriff; department workers, new hires could get bonuses up to $15K

South Whidbey Record
Bipartisan commission fails to draw new political boundaries
South Whidbey vaccine clinic thrives without electricity
Virtual field trips increase park accessibility
Nearly all Whidbey school staff fully vaccinated, data shows
Infrastructure bill will help ferry system stay afloat

Tri-City Herald
20 years in the making, massive nuclear plant takes final steps to treating Hanford waste

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Walla Walla County commissioners approve levy increases for 2022 property taxes
Oregon drops outdoor mask mandate; Walla Walla Valley sees decreasing COVID-19 cases

Yakima Herald-Republic
Rod’s House unveils plans for permanent emergency youth shelter in Yakima
Yakima Valley Memorial still nearly full even as COVID cases decline
Letter: Rittenhouse verdict shows justice system protects white people at all costs
Letter: Rittenhouse verdict is proof that white privilege exists in America

Broadcast

KING 5 TV (NBC)
Claim that Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day needs context
After Covington sting, King County Sheriff’s Office warns of brazen shoplifters
75-year-old woman attacked in downtown Seattle hate crime
Supply chain issues at West Coast ports impact everyday shopping and seasonal items
Washington launches QR codes to verify COVID-19 vaccination
More than 90 infected during COVID-19 outbreak at Cedar Creek Correctional Center

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
Thanksgiving travel forecast to be back at pre-pandemic levels, but with higher gas prices
Five students expelled after protesting Bellevue School District’s handling of assault reports
Redmond-based company involved in NASA asteroid-impact mission
Ferndale Food Bank loses delivery trucks in flood right before Thanksgiving

KOMO 4 TV (ABC)
Timeline to move homeless encampment behind K-8 school sped up several weeks
Bellevue’s downtown unit aims to limit retail theft during holiday shopping
Seattle approves expanded programs for people living in RVs
State sued after girl leaves foster care with 20 teeth in need of repair or extraction
Suspect sought in alleged hate crime attack on Black Seattle community activist
King County appoints first person of color to sheriff position

Q13 TV (FOX)
Whatcom County plans to request federal assistance for Noocksack River flood damage recovery

Web

Crosscut
Critics call for reform of WA redistricting process after commission failure
A look at last-minute deal-making in WA redistricting negotiations

MyNorthwest
Lake Washington Boulevard closing to pass-through traffic Nov. 25-28
Most Seattle-area trains, buses, ferries on holiday schedules for Thanksgiving
Seattle mayor urges caution at holiday gatherings as COVID surges in parts of US
Long-term care tax exemption applicants told not to worry about latest email
King County looks for feedback on plans to expand 911 alternatives, ‘reimagine public safety’
Washington Department of Health launches digital alternative to vaccine card
State BLM group calls for investigation after report detailing biased policing in Pierce County

The Stranger
Council Uses JumpStart Payroll Tax to Fuel Big Affordable Housing Investments in 2022 Budget

Tuesday, Nov. 23

Steve Hobbs sworn in as Washington’s 16th secretary of state
Steve Hobbs was sworn in Monday as Washington’s 16th secretary of state, the first person of color to head the office and the first Democrat to hold the position in 56 years. Hobbs, who is of Japanese descent, is leaving his Senate seat representing the 44th legislative district to replace Republican Secretary of State Kim Wyman. Wyman — the fifth consecutive GOP secretary of state in Washington dating back to 1965 — is taking a key election security job in the Biden administration. Continue reading at The Associated Press. (Ted S. Warren)

221 homeless people have died in Seattle since last winter, one of the highest numbers on record
Ten months into the calendar year, the coronavirus pandemic, drug epidemic, record-breaking heat wave, and customary cold and wet snaps had killed at least 159 homeless people, which is higher than normal. The county medical examiner’s office, who investigate violent and sudden deaths, doesn’t expect 2021 homeless deaths to pass the previous high of 194 in 2018, but they’re likely to pass the two years since. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Alan Berner)

Canadians won’t need COVID test to enter Canada after Nov. 30, but what about Americans?
Vaccinated Canadians making short trips to the U.S. and back will be the only ones getting a pass from the Canadian government’s requirement of a molecular test to cross the border, Canadian health officials told The Bellingham Herald. Vaccinated Americans still must produce a negative COVID-19 test result in order to enter Canada, even if it’s just a trip for a weekend or a day. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald.

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Associated Press
Steve Hobbs sworn in as Washington’s 16th secretary of state
US to release 50 million barrels of oil to ease energy costs
City Council cuts Seattle police budget, drawing criticism
Wolf killed in Washington state for preying on cattle

Bainbridge Island Review
Quarantine due to COVID case at Sakai
Your best COVID defense during the holidays

Bellingham Herald
As Whatcom begins flood recovery work, dairy farms need help getting feed to cows
WSDOT evaluating damaged I-5 overpass in Whatcom County after Sunday’s closure
Here’s your risk of being exposed to COVID in Whatcom at Thanksgiving dinner or shopping
Canadians won’t need COVID test to enter Canada after Nov. 30, but what about Americans?
More rain headed toward Whatcom County, as flood damage assessment begins from last storm

Capital Press
Washington Supreme Court labels Manifest Destiny ‘stealing’
Thanksgiving dinner cost up 14%, Farm Bureau survey finds
WDFW kills one wolf in southeast Washington
Washington dairies struggle amid flood-caused feed crisis

Columbian
Around 2 dozen inmates test positive for COVID-19 at the Clark County Jail

Courier-Herald
Farewell, “Cafeterianasium”
The vaccine transportation helpline can help you get a COVID vaccine

The Daily News
Kelso, Woodland join state Test to Stay program
WestRock fined $140,000 for failing to protect workers from COVID-19
Kelso extends transitional kindergarten application deadline

Everett Herald
Steve Hobbs sworn in as Washington’s 16th secretary of state
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: A tax on vaping may send smokers back to cigarettes
WaPo Comment: Poll finds most in U.S. don’t want guns at protests
Editorial: Train red-light cameras on problem intersections
Letter: No shame in changing your mind and getting vaccine

Federal Way Mirror
Residents, city officials say ‘Not in Federal Way’ to Sound Transit’s OMF site selection

Mercer Island Reporter
City council discusses diversity, equity and inclusion at meeting

News Tribune
Juneteenth will be a day off for many next year. Why doesn’t the law apply to WA schools?
The money was meant for needy kids. Ex-director of Sumner food bank stole it, charges say

New York Times
Covid Live Updates: Cases in U.S. Children Are Surging, Doctors Say

Puget Sound Business Journal
Digital technologies emerge as top priority for aerospace manufacturers in 2022
Former Tacoma motel acquired for use as temporary homeless shelter
Companies love to buy back their stock. A tax could deter them.
Lawmakers target SBA direct lending, EIDL program
For lenders, the classic American mall is becoming a ‘four-letter word’
Biden will tap into U.S. oil reserves in concert with other nations
Affordable housing developer breaks ground on 50 units near Seattle U

Seattle Medium
WA BLM Meets With Justice Dept Over Pierce Co. Sheriff Dept
King County Fire Chiefs Association To launch Diversity And Recruitment Workshop Program
Mayor Durkan Announces Municipal Match Partnership With Washington State Opportunity Scholarship For Seattle Promise Scholars

Seattle Times
Quarter shortage creates a two-bit black market in coin-operated Seattle
221 homeless people have died in Seattle since last winter, one of the highest numbers on record
Seattle City Council passes a 2022 budget that emphasizes funding for homelessness, affordable housing
Looking to give? Here’s which items are needed to serve Seattle area’s homeless people
Washington to pay $3 million settlement in alleged prison slaying after DOC ignored warnings about violent cellmate
So you can’t afford a house in Seattle. Are investors to blame?
Opinion: Washington’s moment to shine in offshore wind energy

Skagit Valley Herald
County to close COVID testing and vaccine site in January
Rate of new COVID-19 cases in county continues to drop

Snoqualmie Valley Record
Lack of transit, housing crisis and pandemic fuel local labor shortage

Sol De Yakima
Aumentarán tarifas en el servicio de recolección de basura en Yakima
Invitan a residentes de Yakima a reunión sobre seguridad en el vecindario

South Seattle Emerald
Highline Indigenous Voices celebration features art, education, stories
‘Interrupting Privilege’ celebrates radical listening of BIPOC experiences
Ask a Therapist: Putting ‘care’ and ‘health’ at the center of mental health care
Opinion: Which side are you on?

Tri-City Herald
More changes on the COVID vaccine mandate for 11,000 Hanford workers
1st of kind project near Tri-Cities may pave way for global greenhouse solutions
CBC students must declare COVID vaccine status before heading back to winter classes

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Voters in Walla Walla, Columbia counties may have new representation if proposed maps are approved
Traffic, weather could challenge Walla Walla Valley Thanksgiving travelers
Umatilla County reaches COVID-19 death count of 170

Washington Post
Biden authorizes use of strategic oil reserves to combat high U.S. gasoline prices
Under Trump, ICE aggressively recruited sheriffs as partners to question and detain undocumented immigrants
Justice Dept. asks court to reinstate Biden’s vaccination policy for businesses
Treatments will change the pandemic, but they can’t end it alone
Greenland ice sheet experiences record loss to calving of glaciers and ocean melt over the past year
Climate change fuels a water rights conflict built on over a century of broken promises

Yakima Herald-Republic
Yakima health officials urge caution ahead of holiday gatherings as COVID pandemic persists
Opinion: Other Views: Challenge other Inslee abuses of veto power

Broadcast

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
‘Pivot away from unreasonable activism’: Seattle law enforcement officials applaud 2022 budget
TSA: 93% of workers comply with vaccine mandate
SPD’s budget shrinks a little more after final vote from City Council
Tumwater paper mill fined $140,000 for failing to protect workers from COVID-19
King County to skip annual homeless count in 2022, cites concerns over ‘harmful’ methodology

Q13 TV (FOX)
About 25 inmates COVID-19 positive at SW Washington jail
Clallam County asking residents to report damage from flooding for federal assistance
Amazon fined $2.5M for sales of industrial pesticides without license
$3.3M in funding awarded to Washington counties aiming to modernize, expand internet access

Web

Why Black therapists are hard to find in WA
Last week’s redistricting drama is exactly why journalists are vital

MyNorthwest
Longview paper mill fined for failing to protect workers from COVID
After months of fraught negotiation, Seattle council fully funds SPD’s staffing plan
King County to skip annual homeless count in 2022, cites concerns over ‘harmful’ methodology
Washington State Ferries hits early snags as it works toward return to normal service
King County Executive to reveal choice for new interim sheriff this week
New details reveal how last-second vote, technical glitches fueled missed redistricting deadline
First Democrat to serve as Washington Sec. of State in decades swears in as ‘radical moderate’

The Stranger
Proposed Initiative Would Let Seattle Vote for as Many Primary Candidates as They’d Like
New Maritime High School Could Make Seattle a Hub for Oceanic Jobs

Monday, Nov. 22

State reports: COVID hit communities of color harder; Yakima Valley groups press outreach efforts
It’s been a stubborn data set during the pandemic: Rates of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths are generally higher in communities of color than among white Washingtonians, according to the state Department of Health. Advocates say outreach efforts remain important, and vaccination rates among Latinos in Washington are improving. The state has looked at discrepancies in the age-adjusted rates of COVID cases, hospitalizations and deaths based on racial and ethnic groups since the start of the pandemic, with reports issued twice a month. Continue reading at The Yakima Herald-Republic. (Evan Abell)

How to make Washington State Ferries shipshape again
Unless leaders at Washington State Ferries can generate a tidal wave of new money and staffing ideas, the fleet could remain in dire straits through 2022 and beyond. The nation’s largest ferry system, which traditionally completes 99% of scheduled sailings, slid to 90% this summer and 70% by early October, mainly because of crew shortages. WSF then retreated to what it calls an “alternative schedule,” which removed one vessel from most routes, slashing capacity one-third. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Steve Ringman)

Vaccine mandate for federal workers goes into effect Monday
Monday marks a key deadline for part of President Joe Biden’s federal COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Back in September, Biden signed Executive Order 14043, requiring 3.5 million federal employees to show they are fully vaccinated by Nov. 22, in order to be considered compliant. According to one U.S. official, “more than 90% of federal workers” have had at least one shot by today’s deadline. Continue reading at The Associated Press.

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Associated Press
Washington gets another positive state revenue forecast
Republican answers ‘call of duty’ with Biden election job
Interior secretary seeks to rid US of derogatory place names
Vaccine mandate for federal workers goes into effect Monday

Auburn Reporter
What the history of homelessness in our region can teach us about our current crisis

Bellingham Herald
With the help of a donor, Whatcom Hospice makes this significant land purchase
What toll did recent flooding take on Whatcom’s salmon?
Flood damage inspectors coming to Whatcom Monday; county opens debris collection site
Recent flooding isolated Lummi Nation. Here’s how the Tribe continued to provide services
‘It feels like a family, not just a place you live’ Whatcom resident says after flood aid
Cleanup, assessing damage begins in Whatcom cities hit hard by flooding

Capital Press
Inslee waives driver rule to get feed to dairies
Washington plots war on invasive Japanese beetle
EPA ditches Navigable Waters Protection Rule
Legislation would halt imports of Brazilian beef

Columbian
Wylie, Hoff support Washington redistricting process (Wylie)
Proposed legislative maps call for big changes for Clark County
State Supreme Court orders redistricting panel chair to detail actions (Billig)
Opinion: In Our View: State redistricting commission disappoints (Wylie)
Opinion: In Our View: Cheers & Jeers: New Cougs; avoiding the flu (anti-vaxxers)

Everett Herald
‘I definitely don’t feel safe’: Monroe High family pushes for action
Where should Everett Link light rail line and stations go?
Everett considers red light cameras, mostly south of 41st
After county redistricting, you might have a new councilmember
Port of Everett to get $350K for its costs in soil clean-up
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Financial audit urges training at Snohomish Health District
New construction fee approved to help fund Everett parks
At former Everett landfill, mudslide stalls housing project, briefly
Comment: Plan with dams’ removal provides best hope for salmon
Comment: Costly dam removal won’t fix Puget Sound salmon needs
Comment: What got done in Glasgow? 5 things to track in 2022
Bloomberg Comment: Democrats’ plan to tax rich will miss wealth of most
WaPo Comment: Inconsistent mask policies aren’t helping anyone
WaPo Comment: Exceptions may be key to kids’ covid vaccine mandate
Editorial: Finish state’s redistricting work out in the open

High Country News
How heat waves warp ecosystems

The Inlander
11 reasons the Washington State Redistricting Commission turned into a deadline-botching fiasco

News Tribune
New Gig Harbor food bank to cost $7.5 million. Here’s what’s needed, when it opens

New York Times
As Thanksgiving Approaches, U.S. Virus Cases Tick Upward Once More
Rittenhouse Case Highlights the Nation’s Deep Division Over Gun Rights
As Gerrymanders Get Worse, Legal Options to Overturn Them Dwindle
Everything in the House Democrats’ Budget Bill

North American Post
Bellevue College Japan Week Post-Event Report

Olympian
Applicant behind Up Castle proposal in south Thurston County will appeal need for EIS
Nisqually Land Trust acquires more property along Ohop Creek for restoration efforts

Puget Sound Business Journal
Seattle area sees slight uptick in Q3 tech job postings
Here’s how to head off customer tantrums over Covid measures, expert says
Op-Ed: Viewpoint: Reflections on becoming a U.S. citizen
Opinion: Seattle is still progressive — but voters demand results
Opinion: Seattle voters have spoken. Now it’s time to get to work.
Opinion: Our decarbonization efforts are being compromised, but that can change

Seattle Times
It’s shaping up to be a very busy Thanksgiving travel week in the Greater Seattle area
2 Seattle School Board members violated policy on harassment and bullying, investigation finds
As Seattle’s homeless budget grew, officials knew of financial issues years before fraud hit
How to make Washington State Ferries shipshape again (Lovelett, Ramel, Lekanoff, Fey, Hobbs, Saldana, Paul)
How to protect your mental health during the stressful holiday season
UW to pay nearly $100K to The Seattle Times in public records settlement
King County Prosecutor Dan Satterberg’s office cut deal to head off ethics probe into nepotism claims
Verdict in Kyle Rittenhouse case pulls back curtain on racial bias in our legal system
Opinion: Insurance industry should listen to seniors and abolish use of credit scores

South Seattle Emerald
Youth activists demand Amazon do more to combat climate change
Virtual town hall highlights legal efforts to further protect survivors of domestic violence
Weekend Long Reads: COVID-19 and the flu
In reversal, council keeps Durkan’s expanded police budget mostly intact
Opinion: Could a Rittenhouse happen in Seattle?
Opinion: Washington’s punitive system of fines and fees must be dismantled

South Whidbey Record
Wharf, other structures damaged in Monday’s windstorm

Tribal Tribune
Colville Tribe works with group leaders to relocate Lynx from Canada

Tri-City Herald
More changes on the COVID vaccine mandate for 11,000 Hanford workers
Homeless Pasco man dies after being found unconscious in his Franklin jail cell
Columbia River shoreline finally clear of toxic algae in Tri-Cities. But will it return?
Here are the latest Tri-Cities COVID deaths, new cases and vaccine news
1 Tri-Cities school to keep its Native American mascot for now. Another school must change
Free Thanksgiving dinner and turkeys in Tri-Cities. Where to find them and how to help

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Free Thanksgiving meals available for Walla Walla area residents in need
Illegal horse racing investigation in Walla Walla County continues, as many as six face potential felony charges
Supply shortages strike Walla Walla Valley wineries

Washington Post
U.S. listed as a ‘backsliding’ democracy for first time in report by European think tank
Americans should get vaccine boosters ahead of possibly ‘dangerous’ winter spike, Fauci says
Closing arguments underway in trial for Ahmaud Arbery’s killing
You asked: How should I handle holiday visits to unvaccinated households?
Biden to nominate Jerome Powell for second term as Fed chair, signaling continuity amid heavy economic head winds
Cloud seeding gains steam as West faces worsening droughts
More Americans say they’re not planning to have a child, new poll says, as U.S. birthrate declines

Yakima Herald-Republic
State reports: COVID hit communities of color harder; Yakima Valley groups press outreach efforts
More changes on the COVID vaccine mandate for 11,000 Hanford workers
Selah giving police, union a chance to block release of report on harassment within department
Sales tax revenue largely remained strong through pandemic in Yakima County, area cities
Opinion: Calls for book-burning a logical next step in the right’s classroom hysteria
Column: Paul Gosar’s anime video of killing AOC is not a joke. It displays the new GOP’s violent extremist turn

Broadcast

KING 5 TV (NBC)
Your paycheck will be smaller in January due to the Washington Cares Fund (Macri)
Snohomish County teen uses TikTok fame to advocate for Black, trans rights

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
Federal employee vaccine mandate takes effect Monday
Possible removal of South Sound homeless encampment after crimes found linked to it
Hundreds volunteer to help clean up once-flooded Everson
Crews take next step in testing East Link light rail extension
‘Vigilantes will be emboldened,’ Seattle attorney says after Rittenhouse verdict
Students walk out of class, protest school leaders in Bellevue

KOMO 4 TV (ABC)
TSA employees face vaccine mandate Monday during busy Thanksgiving travel week
Western State Workgroup recommends COVID-19 boosters for all adults
Ballard residents frustrated city is not enforcing 72-hour parking rule
Swastika etched on park sculpture on Bainbridge Island

NW Public Radio
More Than 600 Days And Counting. When Will Inslee’s State Of Emergency End?

Web

Crosscut
Measuring the toll of a broken child care system

MyNorthwest
Inslee updates severe weather emergency proclamation as cleanup continues
Sound Transit kicks off early phase of testing for East Link light rail
State lawmaker ill with COVID in El Salvador now in Florida
Students walk out of class, protest school leaders in Bellevue
Court orders state commission to explain chaotic events leading up to missed redistricting deadline
Local leaders agree to terms on turning troubled City Hall Park over to King County
Seattle council rejects proposal that sought to cut 101 unfilled SPD positions
State Sec. of Health: ‘Slight increase’ in breakthrough cases shows need for boosters
Limited number of vaccinated state House members allowed in chamber

La Raza del Noroeste
El Programa “Aprender a Volver”
La vacuna contra el COVID-19 de laboratorios Pfizer está autorizada para niños mayores de 5 años de edad

The Stranger
Washington Supreme Court Orders Redistricting Commission to Please Say What the Fuck They Did This Week

Friday, November 19

First fires, now floods: British Columbia and Washington reeling from atmospheric river
First they baked, then they burned, and now they’re inundated. The Pacific Northwest and British Columbia have endured a punishing siege of climate disasters since the summer, supercharged by human-caused climate change. After an unprecedented heat wave to close June and a rash of wildfires that followed, the region is now recovering from devastating floods and landslides, blamed for at least two deaths. Continue reading at The Washington Post. (Jonathan Hayward/Canadian Press/AP)

Gov. Jay Inslee says he won’t add stricter regulations to Joe Biden’s COVID vaccine mandate
Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday that he won’t pursue additional sweeping mandates to strengthen a federal COVID-19 vaccine mandate for workers at large employers. President Joe Biden has ordered that companies with 100 or more workers require COVID shots starting in January. Instead of getting vaccinated, those workers could be tested weekly. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Ellen M. Banner)

Kyle Rittenhouse acquitted on all counts in Kenosha shootings

The jury weighing Kyle Rittenhouse’s fate acquitted Rittenhouse on all counts after deliberating for nearly three and a half days. Jurors in the polarizing case said they had voted to acquit Rittenhouse, 18, of homicide, attempted homicide and other charges related to the August 2020 shootings in Kenosha, Wis. Continue reading at The Washington Post.

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Associated Press
Idaho’s new redistricting map faces second legal challenge

Aberdeen Daily World
East Aberdeen rail separation project awarded $2 million federal grant
Idaho’s new redistricting map faces second legal challenge

Auburn Reporter
Federal Way school board votes to rename local middle school
Bipartisan commission fails to draw new political boundaries
Inslee: State agency vehicles must be all-electric by 2035

Bainbridge Island Review
Letter: Sculpture defacing in BI condemned
Opinion: Climate change: Global crisis requires local action

Bellingham Herald
Cleanup, assessing damage begins in Whatcom cities hit hard by flooding
Whatcom County sees its first COVID-related death epidemiologically linked to November
Gov. Inslee visits Whatcom County after flood

Capital Press
Biden mulls reversing Trump rules on western grouse species
Flooding takes toll on B.C., Washington farms
Analysts: As wheat tops $11 a bushel, no drop in sight
WDFW to try to kill wolves in southeast Washington
Easterday Ranches settles with commodity trading regulator

Columbian
In Our View: Action needed to prevent climate catastrophe
In Our View: Examine domestic violence protections

Everett Herald
Shelters, child care in Franklin’s plan for $20.6M of federal relief
‘Straightforward’ or ‘shenanigans,’ Edmonds adopts $121M budget
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Bloomberg comment: ‘Great Resignation’ really sign of upward mobility
WaPo comment: Today’s teacher shortages part of a historic pattern

The Facts Newspaper
Improving economy, declining jobless claims contribute to lowest 4-week moving average

Federal Way Mirror
City council resumes in-person meetings

High Country News
What Biden’s infrastructure bill means for wildfire management

Islands’ Weekly
Proposal to rename Harney Channel passes major milestone

Issaquah Reporter
What the history of homelessness in our region can teach us about our current crisis

Kent Reporter
City of Kent’s new budget includes litter strike team, more police

Kitsap Sun
Redistricting: Bremerton split into two legislative districts in map forwarded to state Supreme Court

Mercer Island Reporter
City expands interim leadership partnership with Eastside Fire and Rescue

News Tribune
‘Officer needs help’ calls like one prompted by Sheriff Troyer not uncommon. Should they be?
Here’s why Pierce County has more ‘officer needs help’ alerts than neighboring counties
Historic Hilltop church opens shelter for homeless men. ‘I’m committed,’ pastor says
Puyallup considers hiking utility bills to upgrade aging systems. Here are the options

New York Times
House Narrowly Passes Biden’s Social Safety Net and Climate Bill
House Passes the Largest Expenditure on Climate in U.S. History
F.D.A. Authorizes Coronavirus Booster Shots for All Adults
Covid Live Updates: C.D.C. Panel Is Meeting on Pfizer and Moderna Boosters for All Adults
Biden’s Supreme Court Commission Shows Interest in Term Limits for Justices

North American Post
Sixty-First Convention of Nikkei and Japanese Abroad

Olympian
‘We’re trying to do the best we can,’ says Lacey mayor after elected officials threatened
Nearly all workers at Thurston courts provided vaccination proof by Nov. 15 deadline
Washington state to mirror contentious federal COVID-19 vaccine mandate, Inslee says
Amtrak resumes service on Point Defiance Bypass route where 3 died in 2017
Citing public pressure, Port Commission says it will look into Oyo Hotel sale for housing
Cedar Creek escapee back in custody after being located in Bellingham area
Tri-Cities florist settles with gay couple. Turns ‘legal struggle for freedom over to others’

Puget Sound Business Journal
Build Back Better’s Pell Grant provision prompts debate in higher-ed circles
SBA proposals could open loan, contracting door to tens of thousands of businesses
Port of Seattle sets $4.4B capital projects budget for 2022-26
Inslee plans to adopt OSHA’s workplace vaccine requirement without major changes
Opinion: Social media can be a lifeline for small business owners

Renton Reporter
Cascade Behavioral Health workers to receive security staff after months of safety
striking

Runta News
Fire Fighters Diversity Recruitment Program Starts December 11

Seattle Times
Seattle got more than 1,300 federal housing vouchers. So far, only 10 people have used them
Washington’s redistricting failure: What went wrong and what happens now? (Pedersen)
Traveling for Thanksgiving? Keep an eye on Washington road conditions and traffic
Gov. Jay Inslee says he won’t add stricter regulations to Joe Biden’s COVID vaccine mandate
Opinion: Educational system stretched beyond capacity fails students

Skagit Valley Herald
Ferry to be added to Anacortes to San Juan Islands route
Funding awarded to local fish habitat, stormwater projects
Skagit County’s COVID-19 case rate the highest in state
Judge dismisses Hamilton mayor recall attempt

Sol De Yakima
Pediatra local habla de la vacuna contra la COVID-19 para niños
Escasean apartamentos en el condado de Yakima

South Seattle Emerald
Auditor under investigation continued to certify cases after OIG became aware of problems
New polls show Seattle wants more people-friendly streets
State Supreme Court to draw redistricting lines after commission misses deadline
Opinion: Prostitution and the city — Seattle’s ‘end demand’ problem
Opinion: The fear that is felt

Spokesman Review
Spokane students affected by school boundary changes will be given choice to stay
After ‘chaotic’ final meeting Monday, redistricting commission sends final maps to state Supreme Court
Unoccupied home near Underhill Park destroyed by fire overnight
Opinion: Loophole gives commission the chance to do its worst on health board
Spokane International Airport lands lease deal with new aviation service center

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities florist settles with gay couple. Turns ‘legal struggle for freedom over to others’
Nearly 300 Hanford, PNNL workers sue to stop COVID vaccine mandate and save their jobs
30-acre park to be built near Badger Mountain. Learn more at 2 Richland meetings

Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber
At Last: Younger Kids Begin Get Their Shots at School Clinics

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Walla Walla Public Schools workshop aims to help parents prepare children for kindergarten
City of Walla Walla approves contract for design of roundabout at city’s ‘worst intersection’
City of Walla Walla approves 3-year contract with firefighter’s union

Washington Post
Kyle Rittenhouse acquitted on all counts in Kenosha shootings
First fires, now floods: British Columbia and Washington reeling from atmospheric river
House passes roughly $2 trillion spending package that would expand social benefits and fight climate change
FDA authorizes Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna boosters for all adults
A guide to all the ways the House spending bill would affect America
Biden officials to propose road ban on much of Alaska’s Tongass National Forest

Yakima Herald-Republic
Richland florist who refused same-sex wedding job settles with couple
Water rights fight: Yakama Nation wins appeal in 42-year case known as Acquavella
New plan allows only vaccinated House members in chamber
Redistricting commissioners say Latino representation in Yakima Valley was point of contention
Tri-City Herald: Nearly 300 Hanford, PNNL workers sue to stop COVID vaccine mandate and save their jobs
Seattle Times: Gov. Inslee says he won’t add stricter regulations to Joe Biden’s COVID vaccine mandate
Opinion: Billions to fix up our roads and bridges? Why would we want that?

Broadcast

KING 5 TV (NBC)
Dems’ sweeping social, climate bill passes divided House
Seattle City Council votes against eliminating some open positions at police department
US expands COVID boosters to all adults, final hurdle ahead
‘It’s heartbreaking’: Flooding shines light on housing crisis in Skagit County
Washington florist who refused same-sex wedding job settles with couple

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
Moderna, Pfizer say regulators have expanded COVID-19 boosters to all adults, final approval Friday
‘Just start over. Rebuild’: First the floodwaters, now the recovery in Sumas
Inslee says state will follow OSHA’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate
Outpouring of help for Whatcom County flood victims; Red Cross opens new shelter
Seattle teaming with state to provide college scholarships
Supply chain crunch affecting western Washington food banks
Florist who refused same-sex wedding job settles with couple

KOMO 4 TV (ABC)
New plan allows only vaccinated House members in chamber
Inslee: Washington to follow OSHA criteria on COVID-19 vaccine mandate
Seattle City Council rejects budget proposal to cut 101 more police officer positions
Damage assessments, cleanup efforts underway in Sumas after devastating floods
Amtrak resumes service for first time on route where deadly derailment occurred in 2017

KXLY (ABC)
‘We’re just our own worst enemies’: Spokane conservationist sees dramatic impacts of climate change first-hand

Q13 TV (FOX)
New plan allows only vaccinated Representatives in House chamber

Web

Crosscut
A Q&A with Kim Wyman, departing WA secretary of state

MyNorthwest
Man arrested for stabbing Northgate gas station clerk over mask requirement
Limited number of vaccinated state House members allowed in chamber
Snoqualmie Pass reopens after spinouts, crashes during heavy snow
Explaining Seattle council’s proposed police budget, plans to address staffing
King County releases latest numbers on employee vaccination rates post-mandate
How Lynden church helped rally community as destructive flood swept across region
Gov. Inslee: Biden vaccine requirement for workers at large businesses ‘the right direction’
Post blown redistricting deadline, state commission blames ‘partisan performance’
Amtrak service resumes on Point Defiance bypass nearly 4 years after deadly derailment
Richland florist that refused to serve to gay couples agrees to settlement, set to retire
Seattle School Board calls on state to implement COVID vaccine mandate for students
Washington will be ‘aggressive’ in efforts to get federal relief after flood

Thursday, Nov. 18

US Northwest, Canada devastated by flood, 1 death reported
Residents of this small U.S. city along the Canadian border were assessing damage from flooding that hit an estimated three quarters of homes, as Washington state and British Columbia tried to dry out from an intense, days-long rain storm that cut off key roadways and forced hundreds of evacuations. Skies were sunny Wednesday morning in the area around Sumas, Washington, where about 500 rescues and evacuations were reported. “We’re looking at going door-to-door, as waters go down in different parts of town,” Sumas Mayor Kyle Christensen told The Seattle Times. Continue reading at The Associated Press. (Darryl Dyck)

Health leaders urge caution at upcoming holiday gatherings, reminding Washingtonians of last year’s winter COVID surge
Washington’s COVID-19 trends continue in the “right direction,” state health leaders said Wednesday, though concerns remain over a potential holiday season surge. “This is a really important time for all of us,” state Secretary of Health Dr. Umair A. Shah said during a news briefing. “… Where we are in November 2021 is actually very similar to where we were in November of 2020.” He continued, “If you remember at that time, we had started to see an increase [in coronavirus cases and hospitalizations], and that increase then led to our third and very sustained wave over the holidays. That is the caution that all of us have.” Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Charlie Riedel)

2.6 million children under 12 have received their first vaccine dose, White House says
Nearly 10 percent of 5- to 11-year-olds in the United States have received their first coronavirus vaccine dose, just two weeks into the immunization campaign for the 28 million young Americans in that age group, Jeff Zients, the White House’s coronavirus coordinator, said Wednesday. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention signed off on a pediatric vaccine for younger children Nov. 2, and the nationwide drive to inoculate that age group was operational Nov. 8. Continue reading at The Washington Post. (Chip Somodevilla)