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Wednesday, Nov. 17

These people will help create office to investigate deadly force by police in WA state
An advisory board has been appointed to help create the newly formed Washington State Office of Independent Investigations, which will eventually replace law enforcement investigations when police use deadly force. The office stems from legislation intended to ensure unbiased investigations and rebuild trust between police and communities most impacted by police violence. “When police investigate other police, far too often families and communities are left with significant questions about the incident and doubt the impartiality of the investigation,” Rep. Debra Entenman (D-Kent), who sponsored the bill, said in a statement. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Tony Overman)

Flooded communities in Northwest Washington start cleanup as rivers slowly recede
Neighbors across Northwest Washington state will turn their labors toward repairing their communities Wednesday after swollen streams flooded lowland towns and carried filthy storm water into Puget Sound. An estimated 75% of homes in Sumas sustained water damage, a dozen train cars derailed, and electric power stopped in what officials from the border town of 1,300 people called a devastating event. City Hall is full of water. Highway 9 and its Canadian border crossing remained closed. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Amanda Snyder)

US drug overdose deaths hit never-before-seen level
An estimated 100,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in one year, a never-before-seen milestone that health officials say is tied to the COVID-19 pandemic and a more dangerous drug supply. Overdose deaths have been rising for more than two decades, accelerated in the past two years and, according to new data posted Wednesday, jumped nearly 30% in the latest year. Experts believe the top drivers are the growing prevalence of deadly fentanyl in the illicit drug supply and the COVID-19 pandemic, which left many drug users socially isolated and unable to get treatment or other support. Continue reading at KING 5.

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Associated Press
Washington state panel fails to draw new political maps
State redistricting panel urges high court to look at its maps
US Northwest, Canada devastated by flood, 1 death reported
Criticism as WA Panel Hastily Approves New Political Maps
US drug overdose deaths hit never-before-seen level
Road closures, power outages, evacuations persist as floodwaters remain in some areas

Aberdeen Daily World
Local leaders react to passage of federal infrastructure bill

Bellingham Herald
Early indications show no danger to Whatcom County as Canadian city preps for evacuation
As floodwaters pass through Ferndale, this business owner plays the waiting game
Northbound traffic on Interstate 5 has reopened south of Bellingham
With many neighbors fleeing the flooding, the Lynden community offers help
Three more COVID-related deaths reported in Whatcom County, and hospitalizations increase
Here’s the latest on Whatcom County road closures due to flooding Wednesday morning
One missing, 500 displaced in Whatcom floodwaters; Ferndale asks evacuations near river

Capital Press
Northwest devastated by flood; 1 death reported
Expert sees gains in war on Asian giant hornets

Columbian
Wylie, Hoff support Washington redistricting process (Wylie)
Opinion: In Our View: Examine domestic violence protections

Everett Herald
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: Inflation price we’re paying for avoiding depression
WaPo Comment: Why are babies dying of syphilis in the U.S.?
Letter: State’s voters don’t trust state lawmakers to allow income tax
Letter: Inslee mandate on electric vehicles will aid climate

High Country News
After more than 50 years in captivity, will Tokitae ever get justice from Seaquarium?

Kitsap Sun
Washington State Ferries: Service will be restored ‘slowly, one route at a time’ (Randall)

News Tribune
Tacoma mass shooting: Records detail how the deadly attack and investigation unfolded
Whatcom official says no immediate threat to Sumas from Canadian floodwaters
Senator who took tough votes in Olympia, could do a standing slam dunk, dies at 78

New York Times
Covid Live Updates: U.S. Plans to Spend Billions to Increase Vaccine Supplies
Overdose Deaths Reached Record High as the Pandemic Spread
Biden to Bar New Drilling Around a Major Native American Cultural Site
Climate Promises Made in Glasgow Now Rest With a Handful of Powerful Leaders

Olympian
These people will help create office to investigate deadly force by police in WA state (Entenman)
Thurston County abandons RV safe lot plan again
6 more Thurston residents died of COVID-19, 519 more cases reported in past week
Hundreds still without power in Thurston County after Monday’s storm

Peninsula Daily News
Flooded roadways cut off West End
Coast Guard rescued 10 from floodwaters
Oregon Coast Guard saves five off sinking boat from Neah Bay

Puget Sound Business Journal
Bellevue College launching AI-focused degree to strengthen local tech pipeline

Seattle Medium
Mayor-Elect Bruce Harrell Announces Transition Team And Structure (Santos, Macri, Valdez)
City Launches Shop To The Beat Program To Support Small Retail Businesses And Local Musicians
Emile Pitre & The Ongoing Battle For Diversity At UW
Human Trafficking Prevention Effort Passed By King County Council

Seattle Times
Washington’s redistricting commission emerges Tuesday night, post-deadline, with agreement on boundaries. What’s next? (Billig, Hunt)
Flooded communities in Northwest Washington start cleanup as rivers slowly recede (Shewmake, Rule)
Police officer fatally shoots man in North Bend park
Inslee picks advisory board for Washington’s new police accountability office (Entenman)
Lawsuit filed on behalf of Zillow shareholder after flipping business folds

Skagit Valley Herald
State redistricting commission fails to meet deadline

Snoqualmie Valley Record
North Bend addresses water system leakage

South Seattle Emerald
Seattle Promise is building educational equity
Opinion: Anonymous survey reveals educator despair, poor district communication

South Whidbey Record
3 miles by ferry, but these days a round trip can take 5 hours
High winds rip across Whidbey
Whidbey kids receive first doses of COVID vaccine
Inslee: State agency vehicles must be all-electric by 2035

Tri-City Herald
31 employees at PNNL quit, retire or are fired over COVID vaccine mandate
‘Doggone exciting.’ Historic treatment to begin on decades-old Hanford nuclear waste
A roundabout. Extra lanes. What’s the answer for this clogged Pasco highway interchange?

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Registration opens for Mount St. Helens-based volcano naturalist program
Walla Walla ‘Cops and Kids’ program collecting donations for giving holiday gifts, essentials to families in need
Walla Walla County reports 4 more COVID-19 deaths

Washington Post
100,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 12 months during the pandemic
Biden administration will invest billions to expand coronavirus vaccine manufacturing
U.S. to hold historic oil and gas lease sale days after COP26
2C or 1.5C? How global climate targets are set and what they mean
States circumvent federal guidelines to offer booster shots to all adults

Yakima Herald-Republic
Q&A: Yakima County pediatrician Dr. Roy Simms discusses the COVID-19 vaccine for kids
County health officials studying ways to provide COVID-19 vaccinations in colder months
Yakima Valley could see highway, airport and rail projects as a result of infrastructure bill
WA redistricting panel urges high court to look at its maps

Broadcast

KING 5 TV (NBC)
Washington commission OKs Congressional District map after missing deadline
Officials warn of possible pump station failure along Sumas River north of Canadian border
Storm impacts: Major Nooksack River flooding to continue until Thursday
Here’s who remains most likely, least likely to get a COVID-19 vaccine
Free Seattle webinar provides de-escalation training for businesses enforcing proof of vaccination
‘I’ve missed a lot’: Kent special ed student left with little instruction during months-long union dispute

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
Cleanup begins in Whatcom County as water slowly recedes
Catastrophic flood warning issued for B.C.’s Sumas Prairie next to Washington border
Ferndale businesses, homes flooded; part of town still advised to evacuated
Police searching for Whatcom County man swept away in flood waters
State of Emergency declared for Mount Vernon, city recommends some evacuations

KOMO 4 TV (ABC)
‘Walking Bus’ program provides security guard escorts for King County workers
Flood wall holds back rapidly rising Skagit River in Mount Vernon
Many homes near Skagit River left underwater after heavy rainfall
Hundreds displaced, many fight for lives after historic rainfall in Ferndale
Ballard residents feud with homeless ‘Lawnmower Man’ over noise, sidewalk access
Deadline approaching on survey to help shape crime response in Seattle

KUOW Public Radio
A wall to hold back the Skagit River survives its first major test
Covid blog: Updates for Seattle and the Northwest
Washington AG takes opioid distributors to court. Lawyer who tracks settlements weighs the risks
New voting maps to be drawn by state Supreme Court, after historic fail by commission
Heavy rains bring flooding and mudslides to the Pacific Northwest and Canada

KXLY (ABC)
More than 44,000 Washington children ages 5-11 have first dose of COVID vaccine

Web

Crosscut
In a first, court will decide new WA redistricting plan as commission falters
King County crisis responders struggle with backlogs

MyNorthwest
Inslee selects Office of Independent Investigations advisory board members
Whatcom County resident recounts having to leave home by boat amid devastating flood
Seattle Mayor-elect Bruce Harrell unveils transition team led by former Obama cabinet secretary
Washington casino sports book expected to reap millions over next five years
Flooding hits 75% of Sumas homes as responders stage rescues with boats, tractors
‘Never seen anything like it,’ says trooper after semi-truck folds car in half in collision
Gov. Inslee: ‘No plans currently’ to lift Washington’s mask mandate
‘This is a complete joke’: Redistricting group fails to approve new map amid outcry over process
Water receding, but flood warnings remain for North Sound

West Seattle Blog
NEW MAPS: Who’ll be joining us in King County Council District 8?

Tuesday, Nov. 16

Flood fears continue in parts of Western Washington after heavy rains, evacuations
After a day of heavy rain and high winds that prompted evacuations, power outages and a state of emergency for several counties, Western Washington awoke to ongoing flood concerns, scattered roadway reopenings and power coming back throughout the region. As of 6:50 a.m., around 49,000 customers were without power, down from more than 158,000 customers in the dark at one point Monday afternoon. The Seattle area forecast calls for showers to taper off Tuesday, with dry conditions during the night and into Wednesday, National Weather Service meteorologist Samantha Borth said Tuesday morning. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Amanda Snyder)

Local health officials urge families to get kids flu shots after sharp decline
Local health officials are urging families to have their kids vaccinated against the flu after a sharp decline in childhood flu vaccine rates this year. The Washington Department of Health said pediatric flu vaccinations are down about 25 percent from this time last year. Health officials said last year’s flu activity was very low, meaning fewer people have natural immunity due to the lack of exposure. “Flu can be serious for kids and a flu vaccine is the best way to protect them,” said Dr. Tao Sheng Kwan-Gett, Chief Science Officer. Continue reading at KOMO News. (KOMO News)

Pfizer agrees to let other companies make its COVID-19 pill
Drugmaker Pfizer Inc. has signed a deal with a U.N.-backed group to allow other manufacturers to make its experimental COVID-19 pill, a move that could make the treatment available to more than half of the world’s population. In a statement issued Tuesday, Pfizer said it would grant a license for the antiviral pill to the Geneva-based Medicines Patent Pool, which would let generic drug companies produce the pill for use in 95 countries, making up about 53% of the world’s population. Continue reading at KING 5.

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Associated Press
Washington seeks over $38 billion from opioid distributors
DHS watchdog declined to investigate border patrol horseback conduct with Haitian migrants
Biden to protect Native American heritage site, boost safety
Criticism as WA Panel Hastily Approves New Political Maps
Pfizer agrees to let other companies make its COVID-19 pill
Biden signs $1T infrastructure deal with bipartisan crowd

Auburn Reporter
Strong winds lead to power outages in Auburn

Bellingham Herald
I-5 southbound reopens south of Bellingham, but all NB lanes closed in Ferndale due to water
One missing, 500 displaced in Whatcom floodwaters; water over I-5 in Ferndale
Whatcom sees vaccinated resident die, but COVID case rates still higher among unvaccinated
Update: I-5 closed both ways south of Bellingham overnight as 3 cars caught in mudslide
As Sumas deals with a major flood, residents nervously shelter in place
Weather conditions bringing worse floods to Whatcom will prompt ‘painful’ conversations
Access cut to northern Whatcom cities, 50 to 70 water rescues as record rain falls
There are roads, schools closed by Nooksack River flooding in Whatcom County

Capital Press
Washington farm appeals $304,000 irrigation fine from Ecology
Odessa groundwater replacement effort approaches ‘pivot point’
King County judge upholds Port of Seattle’s vaccine mandate
Storms whip northwest Washington state; I-5 closed

Columbian
Video shows what earthquake would do to Interstate 5 Bridge
Investigative team completes probe of fatal police shooting in east Vancouver
Opinion: In Our View: Infrastructure bill a victory for Washington

Courier-Herald
Pediatric flu vaccinations down about 25% from this time last year | DOH
Stormy weather inflicts scattered outages across Plateau area

Everett Herald
Another Navy destroyer is coming to home-port in Everett
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Bloomberg Comment: Slowed supply chain chance to rethink consumption
Bloomberg Comment: Possibilities endless as clean-energy tech advances
WaPo Comment: Watching kids play convinced mom on vaccination
Editorial: Have we at last moved past Infrastructure Week?

High Country News
The Westiest programs in Biden’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act
The Park Service buried its own study on harassment

International Examiner
Opinion: Redistricting and how it impacts Chinatown-ID and South Seattle

News Tribune
Utility crews address aftermath of storm in Pierce County as wet and windy weather passes
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
Power outages, road closures as weather batters Pierce County; Inslee declares emergency

New York Times
How to Feed the Hungry While Helping Struggling Restaurants Survive
Energy-Efficient Isn’t Enough, So Homes Go ‘Net Zero’

North American Post
Bruce Harrell Elected Mayor
Frank Abe’s Search for an Authentic History

Olympian
Habitat project is ‘just the beginning of something great’ on the Skookumchuck River
Hundreds still without power in Thurston County after Monday’s storm

Peninsula Daily News
Flooding shuts down Highway 101, cutting off West End
Peninsula continues to see COVID-19 transmission
Children’s clinic sees opposition; nearly 200 get vaccine
Heavy rains bring flooding, evacuations, school closures across Western Washington

Puget Sound Business Journal
Puyallup rolling out new permit software to speed up turnaround times
Labor pains, supply-chain struggles hitting small businesses hard

Seattle Medium
Dunn Proposes ‘Re-Fund The Police’ Budget Package
Policy Changes Provide Flexibility For Seattle Promise Program Students Facing Hardships Due To COVID

Seattle Times
Flood fears continue in parts of Western Washington after heavy rains, evacuations
Washington redistricting commission takes midnight votes on new congressional, legislative districts after mostly private talks
Flooding along Skagit River doesn’t leave much ‘wiggle room’ for Mount Vernon
Hospital leaders renew push for COVID booster shots, pediatric vaccines as virus trends fluctuate in Washington state

Skagit Valley Herald
Army Corps of Engineers makes concessions
New COVID-19 cases remain above 400 for the week

Snoqualmie Valley Record
National Weather Service Extends Flood Warning near Carnation

South Seattle Emerald
Local nonprofit announces livable wage for entire staff
Seattle’s divide on public safety is fueling a fight over next year’s police budget
Weekend Long Reads: The real costs of child care
‘Week without driving’ challenges leaders to reimagine transit and accessibility (Saldaña)
Washington Latino communities still lag in vaccinations, warns researcher
Opinion: Homelessness, poverty, and the city budget
Opinion: Tomorrow isn’t promised — a reflection on Veterans Day

Tri-City Herald
How could the $1 trillion federal infrastructure act help Tri-Cities?
Pasco looks to give Latino voters more of a voice on the school board
Benton County opens $14M ‘one-stop shop’ with new administration building
5 more COVID deaths in Tri-Cities area. And the latest on cases and vaccinations
Northwest man’s harrowing journey from COVID skeptic to survivor
50-60 mph wind gusts forecast for Tri-Cities. Temperatures will plunge
Wounded Tri-Cities veteran to bring his leadership know-how to real estate firm
‘Time has come.’ Richland parent starts petition to replace longtime school board president

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Nearly 550 children ages 5-11 vaccinated in first week of Walla Walla Valley clinics
Pioneer Middle School construction nears completion in Walla Walla
College Place Police Department promotes two sergeants
DOT staffing shortages extend to Walla Walla region, meaning reduced service this winter

Washington Post
Pfizer deal would allow experimental covid-19 pill to be manufactured around the world
The government dramatically underestimated job growth this summer
Americans broadly support Supreme Court upholding Roe v. Wade and oppose Texas abortion law, Post-ABC poll finds
Biden signs $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill, fulfilling campaign promise and notching achievement that eluded Trump

Yakima Herald-Republic
Yakima Valley could see highway, airport and rail projects as a result of infrastructure bill
Yakima Council to take comments on budget, property taxes and garbage rates
Carbon-free sources, demand response incentives part of Pacific Power’s clean energy plan

Broadcast

KING 5 TV (NBC)
Criticisms arise over Tacoma’s selection process for police chief
500 Whatcom County residents displaced after worst flooding in 31 years

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
Road closures, power outages persist as floodwaters remain in some areas
State of Emergency declared for Mount Vernon, city recommends some evacuations
Schools closed or delayed in Western Washington
I-5 near Bellingham closed overnight due to flooding, landslides; southbound lanes reopen
Coast Guard assists in Forks flood evacuation
Temporary ground stop lifted for flights at SEA

KOMO 4 TV (ABC)
Rescue operations underway as Sumas is submerged by floodwaters
Heavy rainfall causes flooding, mudslides across Pacific Northwest
Mount Vernon recommends evacuation, declares civil emergency in wake of heavy flooding
Gov. Inslee issues severe weather emergency as rain, gusty winds lash state
Local health officials urge families to get kids flu shots after sharp decline

KNKX Public Radio
Heavy rains bring flooding, evacuations in Pacific Northwest
Washington seeks over $38 billion from opioid distributors
Biden and China’s Xi strike ‘respectful’ tone in video chat amid tension

KUOW Public Radio
Covid blog: Updates for Seattle and the Northwest
The pandemic economy’s latest victim? The lowly shipping container

KXLY (ABC)
How money from Biden’s infrastructure bill will be used in Washington
DOH: Fewer kids in Washington are getting the flu vaccine this year

Q13 TV (FOX)
Criticism as Washington panel hastily approves new political maps

Web

Crosscut
Why so many Seattle sidewalks are in bad shape
New WA political maps a mystery after final redistricting meeting
Yakima Valley plastics industry is seeking to replace … plastics

MyNorthwest
Washington lawmaker stuck in El Salvador with COVID, pleads with colleagues for help
Flood warnings continue Tuesday, damage across Western Washington
More than 50 cases faced sentencing in King County last week
Tacoma council set to finalize ambitious plan to reimagine single-family zoning
Workers at Seattle nonprofit just got a $20,000 raise, and we should all pay attention
With position no longer chosen by voters, King County begins search for new sheriff
Seattle to install new traffic cameras to ticket drivers blocking intersections, bus lanes
Still ‘all hands on deck’ as region responds to record-setting rain, flooding
Gov. Inslee’s statewide vaccine mandate for large events starts Monday
Lawmaker aims to restore 21-gun salute at Washington’s capitol
Rivers rising, expected to peak Monday through Tuesday
Washington could top pre-pandemic Thanksgiving travel volumes in 2021
Seattle councilmember pushes to expand program addressing downtown homeless camps

West Seattle Blog
WEST SEATTLE LIGHT RAIL: Here’s who’s in the new advisory group that meets for the first time Tuesday

Monday, Nov. 15

Big demand for appointments as kids begin to get vaccinated
Six-year-old Duke winced as he got his first COVID-19 vaccine shot last weekend. Luckily, his older brother Gage, sporting an Iron Man shirt, was there to hold his hand. Gage, Duke and 9-year-old Kane were champs, mom Hollie Peterson said. “Their arms weren’t even sore.” After 20 months of living in a pandemic, the three quick jabs at their long-time pediatrician’s office felt like a step toward normalcy, Peterson said. The pandemic has gutted the Snohomish family’s schedule once packed with sports practices. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (Kevin Clark)

Washington state’s trial against 3 major opioid distributors opens Monday in Seattle
The trial for Washington’s lawsuit against the three largest distributors of prescription opioids in the state will open Monday morning with Attorney General Bob Ferguson giving opening remarks in King County Superior Court. The lawsuit accuses the three distribution companies — McKesson Corp., Cardinal Health Inc. and AmerisourceBergen Drug Corp. — of shipping vast amounts of oxycodone, fentanyl and other painkillers into Washington and failing to comply with requirements that they identify suspicious orders that could be diverted to the illegal drug market and report them to law enforcement. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Ted S. Warren)

Rising grocery prices challenge Puget Sound food banks
Grocery prices keep rising, and that’s creating challenges for local food banks as they prepare for the holidays. Northwest Harvest says more people seek assistance when costs increase. “We know that these households are being thrifty and making the decisions that are right for their households, but what it means is that they are having to choose between food and other essentials, choices that none of us would ever want to have to make,” said Christina Wong, director of public policy and advocacy. Continue reading at KING 5.

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Associated Press
State lawmaker ill with COVID-19 in El Salvador (Rule, Shewmake)
King County judge upholds Port of Seattle’s vaccine mandate
Fraudsters siphon $830,000 meant for homelessness nonprofit
Washington seeks over $38 billion from opioid distributors
Key reason for supply shortages: Americans keep spending
$62 million award in suit over toxic chemicals at Monroe school
‘Watered-down hope’: Experts wanted more from climate pact
Biden to sign $1T infrastructure bill Monday

Aberdeen Daily World
Fishers released at Olympic National Park to boost species’ restoration
Interactive local flood control project map unveiled

Bainbridge Island Review
Opinion: Conservatives phony on Critical Race Theory

Bellingham Herald
Nooksack floodwaters near Sumas, Whatcom school districts closed as record rain falls
Loss of K9 leaves large hole for Whatcom County search and rescue community and her family
Do you need to signal in a turn-only lane? The law says yes, and it’s just plain helpful
New Puget Sound report finds these ‘red flags’ toward environmental recovery goals
There are the roads, schools closed by Nooksack River flooding in Whatcom County
Blaine hopes to continue rebound with reopened border, but these rules still hurt
Whatcom surpasses 16,000 confirmed COVID cases and sees another death reported Friday
Here’s how many Whatcom County seniors have gotten an additional COVID vaccination dose
Ferndale legislator ailing with COVID in El Salvador (Shewmake, Rule)
Watch the Nooksack Indian Tribe’s Veterans Day ceremony

Capital Press
Scope of wolf protection in hands of judge
WAR ON STRIPE RUST: Scientist leads PNW battle against devastating wheat disease
As winter nears, La Nina grows stronger
Plea made for northeast Washington rancher to join wolf group
Ag exporter grapples with port delays

Columbian
Video shows what earthquake would do to Interstate 5 Bridge
Opinion: In Our View: We must learn to manage COVID-19 sensibly
Opinion: In Our View: Inslee veto ruling underscores checks, balances
Opinion: Cheers & Jeers: Less litter; event was garbage
Opinion: In Our View: Roadblocks remain at U.S.-Canada border

Everett Herald
Big demand for appointments as kids begin to get vaccinated
Snohomish County looks to swap vehicles for electric ones
Architects unveil new details for Baker Heights housing site
After confrontation at Monroe High, community grapples with racism
Many public school employees are exempt from getting vaccine
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: State prisoners need chance to earn earlier release
Comment: Juan Peralez: Third party needed to represent those ignored
Comment: Sid Roberts: We need to be our own online content moderators
Bloomberg Comment: For climate projects alone, spending bill must pass
WaPo Comment: It’s not just Facebook; colleges using algorithms, too
WaPo Comment: Cops who don’t vaccinate betray their oath to protect
Editorial: County jumpstarts its switch to electric vehicles

The Facts Newspaper
Mayor Durkan Statement on City Council Draft Budget
Statement from Seattle Mayor-Elect Bruce Harrell on City Council’s Proposed Budget

High Country News
Bringing the fight against dams to COP26

The Inlander
As Spokane adds permanent shelter space, homeless advocates worry it’s still not enough for winter

Issaquah Reporter
King County Flood Control District approves $1.3 million to prevent flooding of Issaquah Creek

Kitsap Sun
$7 million in funds for mental health allocated to organizations in Kitsap County

News Tribune
Pierce County park with 160 acres is getting dog park, nature play area, trail upgrades
Editorial: How a hotel-turned-shelter can inform Pierce County’s new approach to affordable housing
Editorial: Pierce County pediatricians agree: Children should be vaccinated against COVID-19
Op-Ed: Replacing snow days with remote learning is worth considering. I should know. I’m a teacher

Olympian
Wet and windy forecast could spell trouble for Tacoma, Olympia areas Monday morning
Most Thurston County workers have complied with new COVID-19 vaccine policy
New Puget Sound report finds these ‘red flags’ toward environmental recovery goals
Inslee appoints state Senator to replace Secretary of State Wyman starting Nov. 22
Port of Olympia punts on sale of hotel Housing Authority wants for senior housing

Peninsula Daily News
Football team COVID-19 cluster reported
Enchanted Valley chalet meeting Monday
EYE ON CLALLAM: County considers money for Black Ball Ferry Line

Port Townsend Leader
Jefferson County workers to get COVID hazard pay
Two small COVID outbreaks discovered in local students

Puget Sound Business Journal
Tacoma council overhauls tax break program for apartment developers
‘We have the workforce we have’: Hospitality group CEO warns labor shortage isn’t going to fix itself

Seattle Times
With inflation on the rise, here’s what’s gone up in price in Seattle, and what hasn’t
Large events in Washington state now require proof of COVID vaccination or a recent negative test
Washington state’s trial against 3 major opioid distributors opens Monday in Seattle
A King County nonprofit raises all staff salaries to $70,000 minimum. Will more organizations follow?
Inslee prods, orders amid latest COVID pandemic surge: ‘We can get on top of this virus’ (Billig)

Skagit Valley Herald
Rain to bring serious flooding to Skagit County; Hamilton residents urged to evacuate
County commissioners get update on economic recovery plan

Washington Post
Stephen Bannon surrenders after he was indicted on charges of contempt of Congress
Five big takeaways from COP26
Biden to propose 20-year drilling ban around Chaco Culture National Historical Park, a sacred tribal site
Why Facebook won’t let you control your own news feed

Whidbey News-Times
Port commissioners pass industrial development

Yakima Herald-Republic
It Happened Here: Longtime Yakima businessman earns Congressional Gold Medal
Vacant apartments remain scarce in Yakima County with a 1.1% vacancy rate
Opinion: Local officials bite the hands that feed them

Broadcast

KING 5 TV (NBC)
Monday is child tax credit pay day: What to do if it doesn’t show up
Rising grocery prices challenge Puget Sound food banks
Washington going to trial in largest public health lawsuit in state history
Low-income families could get $1,800 per child Dec. 15, but must register immediately

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
Flood warnings continue with high winds, heavy rain in forecast
Siren blares, alerting Hamilton residents to evacuate due to flooding concerns
Schools closed or delayed in Western Washington
Power outages around Western Washington
2 potential flood events raising concerns in Skagit County
Fraudsters siphon $830,000 meant for homelessness nonprofit
Judge upholds Port of Seattle vaccine mandate
Pierce County crews rescue two people from White River
Washington lawmaker stuck in El Salvador with COVID, pleads with colleagues for help
Bannon indicted on contempt charges for defying 1/6 subpoena

KOMO 4 TV (ABC)
Sounder N Line train cancelled Monday because of landslide risk

KNKX Public Radio
Rain, floods prompt Coast Guard rescues in Pacific Northwest
How the Texas ban on most abortions is harming survivors of rape and incest
A lottery could determine the fate of Biden’s vaccine rule for 84 million workers

KUOW Public Radio
Jayapal trumpets infrastructure bill passage, predicts success for Build Back Better
Covid blog: Updates for Seattle and the Northwest

KXLY (ABC)
Spokane Public Libraries to reopen Monday following emergency closures
94% of all WSU employees have been vaccinated against COVID-19
Proof of vaccination required at all large events in Washington starting Monday

Q13 TV (FOX)
Proof of vaccination or negative COVID test at large indoor and outdoor events starts Monday

Web

Civic Skunk Works
The High Price of High Prices

Crosscut
Yakima Valley plastics industry is seeking to replace … plastics
Climate and quality-of-life activists find common ground at Boeing Field

The Stranger
Mosqueda Brings Durkan’s Budget Back to Reality With Cuts to SPD

West Seattle Blog
Wind alert extended, Highland Park Way reopens, power restored

Friday, Nov. 12

Amtrak to resume service on bypass 4 years after derailment
Amtrak Cascades will resume service Nov. 18 on the Point Defiance bypass between Tacoma and Olympia, nearly four years after a deadly derailment there. The first train to use the bypass is scheduled to leave Seattle at 7:22 a.m. and arrive at the new Tacoma Dome station at 8:08 a.m., according to an Amtrak statement. The first northbound train will leave Eugene, Oregon, at 5:30 a.m., stop in Portland and arrive in Tacoma at 10:54 a.m., The Seattle Times reported. Continue reading at The Associated Press. (National Transportation Safety Board)

Gov. Inslee names state Sen. Steve Hobbs as new secretary of state
Gov. Jay Inslee announced Wednesday that he has named state Sen. Steve Hobbs as Washington’s new secretary of state. Hobbs is replacing Kim Wyman, who left the position to take on an election security role in the Biden administration. Hobbs has served as a Democratic state senator for the 44th legislative district in Mill Creek since 2007. Continue reading at KIRO 7.

‘It’s kind of heartbreaking’: Teachers, tutors see pandemic’s affect on students’ learning
Local students have been back in the classroom for two months. Though they have to wear masks and social distance, it is looking a little closer to normal. That, however, doesn’t mean they’re caught up. The pandemic has affected kids mentally and also in their learning. Technology has been both a positive and negative part of learning these past 20 months. Some students have thrived learning through a screen, while others have struggled. Continue reading at KXLY.

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Associated Press
State Sen. Steve Hobbs appointed WA secretary of state
Gov. Jay Inslee overstepped veto authority, state Supreme Court rules
Amtrak to resume service on bypass 4 years after derailment
Seattle’s Incoming Mayor Criticizes Proposed Police Cuts
$62 million award in suit over toxic chemicals at Monroe school

Auburn Reporter
Auburn School District is trying to solve substitute teacher shortage

Bellevue Reporter
Sen. Steve Hobbs named secretary of state
King County business owner leads QAnon gathering in Dallas to see return of JFK Jr.
Opinion: Public safety takes centerstage in local elections
Opinion: Washington’s secretary of state leaves big shoes to fill

Bellingham Herald
Cases among school-age residents spur COVID infection rate growth in two Whatcom regions
How new Lake Whatcom data could help predict the region’s next big earthquake

Everett Herald
Sen. Steve Hobbs of Lake Stevens named secretary of state (Lovick)
4 noteworthy changes in Snohomish County’s 2022 budget
‘A sharp kick in the wallet’: Lake Stevens to pay safety fines
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: Their crosses to bear now a memorial for their own
Bloomberg Comment: Wages are going up, but they’re not driving inflation
WaPo Comment: Democrats can talk effectively on race; Biden does
WaPo Comment: Excusing violence as ‘patriotic’ has proved dangerous
WaPo Comment: Why mandates are working to drive up vaccinations
Editorial: What would you change about state’s tax system? (Frame)
Letter: We don’t have to accept carnage of gun violence

The Facts Newspaper
Ecology begins rulemaking for 2021 plastics law

Federal Way Mirror
Superintendent Pfeiffer delivers first State of Education address

Islands’ Weekly
USDA grant project to encourage new farmers

Kent Reporter
Kent to spend $2.2 million to replace 42 aging city vehicles

New York Times
COP26 Live Updates: Negotiators Race to Reach Climate Deal as Activists Demand Action
Who Has The Most Historical Responsibility for Climate Change?
The Supreme Court Tactic That Aims to Kill Affirmative Action
Biden to Choose Robert Califf to Lead F.D.A., Despite Drug Industry Ties

Peninsula Daily News
Another COVID-19 death reported

Puget Sound Business Journal
Employees have more leverage than ever. They’re making mental health a priority.
Here’s what’s on aerospace leaders’ minds as 2021 comes to a close
As inflation worries increase, this is not the time to take on more debt
Investors poured billions into Opportunity Zones. Compliance issues are looming.
Amazon, Alaska Airlines join effort to lower aircraft emissions
How PPP loans affected bank relationships with small businesses
Seattle City Council, mayor trade barbs over proposed police cuts
Opinion: Can Sound Transit manage our money? Don’t count on it.

Seattle Times
Substitute shortages, staff burnout lead to Seattle-area school cancellations
How Seattle plans to scale up its free community college program and help more students
How much will you pay into the WA Cares Fund? Estimate your lifetime contribution to Washington’s long-term care program
How a volunteer-led group in South King County is working to eliminate barriers to mental health care
Washington politicians promote state climate laws at Glasgow UN summit (Carlyle)
Sen. Das: What an EV road trip says about Washington’s readiness
Sen. Saldana: Latinx community needs fair redistricting map

Skagit Valley Herald
Sedro-Woolley City Council rejects property tax increase
Legislators give update on ferry service disruptions, propose solutions (Lovelett, Lekanoff, Ramel)

Yakima Herald-Republic
Audits show Wapato still struggling with financial issues
COVID trends plateau in Washington state as other respiratory viruses gain steam
Two maps under review could increase Latino representation in Yakima City Council districts
Where to get kids COVID vaccines in Yakima County
Comment: Why Washington needs a Latino majority legislative district for Yakima
Comment: The rise in school shooting threats is alarming — and a cry for help

Broadcast

KIRO 7 TV (CBS)
More than 100 businesses falling short on proof of vaccination requirement
Seattle Public Schools will launch virtual option for grades 6-12
Pioneer Square encampment cleared; Ballard, other neighborhoods waiting
Surprise Friday school closure leaves parents scrambling
Gov. Inslee names state Sen. Steve Hobbs as new secretary of state
Justices say Gov. Jay Inslee overstepped veto authority

KNKX Public Radio
Navy’s crucial Bremerton shipyard squeezed as vaccine deadline looms
Rail bypass near Tacoma reopens four years after fatal Amtrak derailment

KUOW Public Radio
Two Best Friends Walk Into a Pharmacy for Their Covid Vaccines
No school Friday for Seattle, Bellevue. Teachers say they are exhausted
Covid blog: Updates for Seattle and the Northwest
In a first, U.N. climate agreement could include the words ‘coal’ and ‘fossil fuels’
Activists urge world leaders to make immediate pollution cuts for a livable climate
How SARS-CoV-2 in American deer could alter the course of the global pandemic
Gov. Inslee appoints state Senator Steve Hobbs as new secretary of state

KXLY (ABC)
‘A let down’: Bus driver shortages cancel kids’ after school activities
‘It’s kind of heartbreaking’: Teachers, tutors see pandemic’s affect on students’ learning
Officials destroy $3 million worth of pot on WA farms

Web

Crosscut
Climate and quality-of-life activists find common ground at Boeing Field
Post-election Seattle has housing density on the agenda
Gov. Inslee announces pick for Washington’s new Secretary of State (Hobbs, Nguyen, Lovick, Berg)
Opinion: Salmon, orca, and the soul of Seattle

Wednesday, Nov. 10

Black residents experience 5 times more force from sheriff’s department, says new Pierce County report
Pierce County’s first report looking at use of force incidents by the sheriff’s department has been published. The study found Black residents experienced more than five times as much force as white residents, leading to about 87 additional incidents each year. And even though Black residents make up 7% of the sheriff’s department service area, Black residents represented 23% of physical use of force incidents. Continue reading at KNKX Public Radio. (Courtesy Of Pierce County)

The real costs of child care in America
Child care in Washington state and in the U.S. is a broken economic system, according to providers and other experts. The pieces just don’t fit, despite small and large efforts to fix the problem. Even care that meets only minimum licensing standards is too expensive for many parents, yet child care providers cannot pay their workers a living wage. Continue reading at InvestigateWest. (Dan DeLong)

Seattle and Bellevue schools cancel classes for students Friday due to lack of staff
The Seattle and Bellevue school districts have canceled classes on Friday for thousands of students in the Puget Sound area, citing staffing problems, substitute shortages and weather concerns as among the reasons to close down. Seattle Public Schools said in an email sent to families Tuesday that “We are aware of an unusually large number of SPS staff taking leave on Friday, and do not believe we have adequate personnel to open schools with the necessary environment for high-quality learning.” Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Travis Ness)