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Friday, March 5

Entenman’s Bill Creating An Office Of Independent Investigations Passes House
On the first anniversary of the killing Manuel Ellis, the Washington State House of Representatives passed a bill to mandate independent investigation of deadly uses of force by law enforcement. HB 1267, sponsored by Rep. Debra Entenman (D-Kent), passed the House with a vote of 57-39. Continue reading at The Seattle Medium.

Governor: Farm, Grocery Store Workers, Others Will Be Eligible For COVID-19 Vaccine
Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday the dates in March and April when more Washingtonians will be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. These include police officers, public transportation personnel, grocery store workers, inmates, the homeless, and people with chronic medical conditions. Although the dates are still tentative, they offer details of the vaccination plan that started slowly but is now accelerating. Continue reading at El Sol de Yakima (available in English via Google Translate). (Ellen M. Banner)

Community groups call for more equitable COVID-19 vaccine distribution for people with limited English, technology access
Community organizer Sokha Danh has been helping Cambodian elders get vaccinated for COVID-19. The process has been frustrating – even though he is relatively tech savvy, and knowledgeable about the workings of the City and nonprofit worlds. Recently, with the help of a private Facebook group, Danh helped a Buddhist monk who lives in Tacoma get the vaccine in Seattle. The elders Danh helps often don’t speak English well, and may not know how to use a computer. Continue reading at The International Examiner. (Auriza Ugalino)

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Associated Press
US adds a strong 379,000 jobs in hopeful sign for economy
Dems trim jobless benefits, Senate debates virus relief bill
Seattle teachers vote to stay out of classrooms
Senate OKs bill for graduating students to take bridge year
Senate OKs bill prohibiting price gouging during emergencies
Washington state surpasses 5,000 COVID-19 deaths
WA vaccine eligibility to expand to more groups on March 22
Stocks swerve lower as economy, yield pressures heat up
Canada clears Johnson & Johnson vaccine, first to approve 4

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
The New Deal didn’t apply to all workers. It’s time for Washington legislature to fix that
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Watch: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee gives COVID-19 update Thursday
Whatcom County sees 13 new B.1.1.7 variant COVID-19 cases — second most in the state
More eligible for COVID vaccine as Gov. Inslee expands tier, gives new WA state timeline
Here’s how to make sure your COVID-19 mask fits well
Coronavirus weekly need-to-know: Spring break, ventilators, second doses & more
No, Biden isn’t to blame for higher gas prices, analysts say. Here are the real reasons

Bothell Reporter
King County could pass grocery store worker hazard pay next week
Inslee OKs use of single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Capital Press
Federal judge orders new Washington survey of farmworker pay
Washington Senate passes diluted environmental justice bill (Saldaña)

Columbia Basin Herald
Senate passes bills to raise fertilizer fees, reset pollinator task force (Liias)

Columbian
In Our View: County is making progress in COVID-19 fight
Clark County reports 33 new COVID-19 cases, no new deaths on Thursday

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Governor: Farm, Grocery Store Workers, Others Will Be Eligible For COVID-19 Vaccine
Vaccine Clinics: Fridays in Toppenish; Saturday in Richland for veterans

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Public speaks out against Everett’s ‘no-sit, no-lie’ proposal
Groundbreaking for the Mukilteo’s first mosque is Saturday
Last Everett-built Boeing 787 rolls off the assembly line
Vaccine eligibility to expand to more groups on March 22
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Cornfield Report: Inslee: The president made me speed up teacher vaccinations
WaPo Comment: Digital divide now clear in access to covid vaccine
Editorial: Reject Big Tobacco’s plea to clear nicotine’s name

High Country News
The long Western legacy of violence against Asian Americans

International Examiner
Community groups call for more equitable COVID-19 vaccine distribution for people with limited English, technology access

News Tribune (subscription required)
Tacoma police disproportionately use force against people of color, TNT analysis shows
Puyallup council member departs Puyallup Food Bank after three months as CEO
More than 100 new COVID-19 cases reported Thursday in Pierce County
‘So scared.’ Tacoma students share fears of soon returning to in-person learning
Teacher says he was trying to pledge frat, not Proud Boys, when he made controversial video
Editorial: Replacing Native American mascot is big test for this Pierce County school district

New York Times
The U.S. Added 379,000 Jobs in February as Hiring Picked Up: Live Updates
Live Updates: Senate to Debate Nearly $2 Trillion Stimulus Bill
One and Done: Why People Are Eager for Johnson & Johnson’s Vaccine
Pandemic’s Racial Disparities Persist in Vaccine Rollout
As Biden Urges Caution on Covid, Governors Split on How Fast to Reopen
Private Insurance Wins in Democrats’ First Try at Expanding Health Coverage
When Amazon Raises Its Minimum Wage, Local Companies Follow Suit
How Green Are Electric Vehicles?
In the Atlantic Ocean, Subtle Shifts Hint at Dramatic Dangers

Olympian (subscription required)
Need a vaccine? Walmart says it is administering the vaccine to those who are eligible
Mobile clinics bring COVID-19 vaccines to Washington’s rural veterans
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Thurston County reports 1 death, 14 more COVID-19 cases on Thursday
More eligible for COVID vaccine as Gov. Inslee expands tier, gives new WA state timeline

Peninsula Daily News
Ribbon cutting marks 100 percent vaccination for facility
Study: Chinook salmon are key to Northwest orcas all year
Suicide prevention team idea before House (Ortiz-Self)
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Officers: Peninsula ready for expanded vaccine eligibility

Puget Sound Business Journal
Treasury to invest $9 billion in minority communities
Mothers are regaining jobs, even while shouldering pandemic burdens at home
GSBA to launch 2nd round of relief grants for small businesses
Costco says it’s spent more than $1B on Covid-related expenses
Opinion: The next generation of leaders will lift us to new heights
Providence finds coronavirus antibodies transmitted through breast milk of vaccinated mothers

Seattle Times (subscription required)
What federal approval of Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine means for Washington state
Don’t click on it: Unemployment scams flooding text and social media in Washington state
Gov. Inslee: Law enforcement, firefighters, grocery workers to get COVID-19 vaccines in March
Seattle considers creating a right to free legal counsel for those facing eviction
Washington state lawmakers advance eviction protections as end of moratorium approaches (Kuderer)
Washington state lawmakers grill auditor aides over disclosure of massive data breach (Keiser, Carlyle)
Editorial: State Senate should hit brakes on capital-gains bill (Robinson)

Seattle Medium
Entenman’s Bill Creating An Office Of Independent Investigations Passes House (Entenman)
Critical Workers, Pregnant People To Be Eligible For COVID-19 Vaccine March 22
Youth Attorney Access Bill Passes House (Johnson)

Skagit Valley Herald
State recommends that bird feeders be left down
Mount Vernon School District finalizes plans to bring back middle, high school students

South Seattle Emerald
King County, with second-lowest COVID-19 rate in U.S., still needs more vaccines
Elders of color face major hurdles getting COVID vaccine
State’s essential workers added with educators in qualifying for vaccine on March 22
Seattle educators overwhelmingly vote ‘no confidence’ in superintendent and administration
Opinion: There was more police accountability in Washington state during Jim Crow than today
Black Brilliance Research Project releases final report
Leader of Seattle Education Association reacts to bargaining over school reopening

USA Today
Biden’s relief bill isn’t getting bipartisan support like previous stimulus bills. What do Republicans dislike so much?
The Senate is debating Biden’s COVID stimulus bill. When can you expect help? Here’s what we know.

Washington Post
Opinion: I’ve lost three loved ones to gun violence. Only the one killed by police did not get justice.
Pressure grows on Biden to end the filibuster
State Department aide appointed by Trump stormed the Capitol, beat police with a riot shield, FBI says
Opinion: The MAGA phenomenon has never been about economics

Wenatchee World
Bill could provide tax relief to residents rebuilding after September wildfires (Liias)

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Western Washington veterans of all ages can get vaccine through VA Puget Sound
Some critical Washington workers to be eligible for COVID-19 vaccine in late March
Over 100 Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander elders vaccinated at 2nd dose popup clinic in Federal Way
One foster child cost Washington state $37,000 per month for his care, records show

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Critical workers in certain congregated settings will be eligible for vaccine on March 22
Seniors, others worry they’re getting left behind as WA expands vaccine eligibility
Bellevue dentist addresses racial inequities in dental care
Veterans of all ages can now get COVID-19 vaccine in Washington
Some luxury travel packages now include COVID-19 vaccine

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Gov. Inslee: State to expand COVID vaccine eligibility to more groups
15 more families join suit against Seattle Children’s over deadly mold
Suspect arrested in attack that occurred in Chinatown-International District, police say
Seattle grapples with widespread graffiti problem amid COVID-19 lockdowns
Families set sights on reform after losing loved ones in police shootings

KNKX FM
Rep. Pramila Jayapal teams with Sen. Elizabeth Warren on Ultra-Millionaire Tax
Study: Chinook salmon are key to Northwest orcas all year

KUOW FM
GROCERY STORE AND OTHER CRITICAL WORKERS CAN BE VACCINATED STARTING MARCH 22, INSLEE SAYS
WA awaits Johnson & Johnson vaccine as state surpasses 5,000 Covid deaths
Updates on the pandemic in the Northwest
Friday Politics: Teachers can get vaccines but school’s still out in Seattle
Senate Democrats Agree To Extend Unemployment Benefits Through September
A Sign Of Hope After ‘Winter Hibernation’: Employers Add 379,000 Jobs
Got Questions About Johnson & Johnson’s COVID-19 Vaccine? We Have Answers
Biden Administration Moves To Speed Up Processing Of Migrants In Family Detention
Democrats Tweak COVID-19 Relief Package In Hopes Of Speedy Senate Approval
Supreme Court Makes It Harder For Undocumented Immigrants To Fight Deportation

KXLY (ABC)
Spokane Schools hoping for mass vaccination clinic as state lays out plans to vaccinate more teachers
Washington essential workers can get vaccinated in a matter of weeks
Mayor Woodward sends Phase 3 proposal to Gov. Inslee
‘It is not a serious proposal’; Governor’s Office slams WA Senate GOP’s Phase 3 plan

Q13 TV (Fox)
Critical workers, pregnant people eligible for COVID-19 vaccine in late March
Washington state hatchery to rely on native steelhead trout
Bellingham mother demanding action on safety around homeless camps after a man groped her 11-year-old daughter
Seattle teachers vote ‘no confidence’ in superintendent, opt to stay out of classrooms

Web

Civic Skunkworks
Wealthy Americans Have Consolidated Power to Dangerous Levels. Now We’re at a “Crisis Point.”

Crosscut
Prescription prices could push Washington state into the drug business (Keiser, Van De Wege)
Why diversity is important among WA doctors and health care providers
Opinion: What it takes to recycle Styrofoam in Seattle

Slog
Pass the Public Option for Broadband (Hansen, Wellman)
Seattle Could Finally Resume Transit Projects Paused for the Pandemic and Tim Eyman

West Seattle Blog
LIBRARIES: One more nearby branch adds curbside service

Thursday, March 4

Washington state’s COVID-19 deaths break 5,000 mark on Wednesday
More than 5,000 people in Washington state have now died from COVID-19 as the state Department of Health reported 799 new cases of the disease and 24 new deaths Wednesday. Pierce County reported 64 cases Wednesday and one new death. Pierce County has a total of 467 deaths likely caused by COVID-19, according to the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. Continue reading at The News Tribune. (Ben Connors, Chad Scheer, and Ted Newman)

State Senate OKs bill to let graduating students make up for time lost to COVID-19
The Washington state Senate approved a bill Wednesday that would allow high school students in the graduating classes of 2021 and 2022 to stay in school for a “bridge year” to catch up on learning and participate in missed extracurricular activities. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Joshua Bessex)

Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders fight for COVID-19 vaccine access in Washington
Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders are fighting a different battle against COVID-19 than most communities. “In our community, our elders are sacred treasures, and so, I think to lose that many elders in such a short time is pretty devastating,” [Joseph Seia] explained. According to the most recent data from the Washington State Department of Health, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders have a four times higher case rate of COVID-19 than white populations. Continue reading at KING5 TV.

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Associated Press
Multi-state review group authorizes J&J vaccine
US jobless claims tick up to 745,000 as layoffs remain high
Washington state’s mountain snowpack piles up
Senate OKs bill prohibiting price gouging during emergencies
Study: Chinook salmon are key to Northwest orcas all year
Pacific gray whales spotted in Puget Sound
Washington governor signs graduation waiver measure
Washington state hatchery to rely on native steelhead trout

Aberdeen Daily World
Aberdeen District continues to roll out return of in-person classes.
Warning from PUD: Scammers continue to threaten power shutoffs
Commentary: A lesson from the last ‘normal’ pre-pandemic weekend: We’re not as smart as we think we are
Commentary: Can we reclaim lost decency and courage?

Auburn Reporter
Law gives Washington high school seniors leeway to graduate
Governor: Educators are now eligible for coronavirus vaccine
Study shows Washingtonians exceeded ‘heavy drinking’ threshold in 2020
First-time home buyers increasingly priced out of Washington housing market

Bainbridge Island Review
Experts expect economy to improve

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Watch live: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee to give COVID-19 update Thursday at 2:30 p.m.
State Senate OKs bill to let graduating students make up for time lost to COVID-19 (Hunt, Rolfes)
Washington state’s COVID-19 deaths break 5,000 mark on Wednesday
As state surpasses 5,000 deaths, Whatcom sees 1 death and 35 new COVID cases Wednesday
Vaccine update: about 5,000 more Whatcom residents now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine
WA ranchers struggling to meet demand during COVID pandemic closer to relief
Fentanyl overdose deaths climb in Washington, and cartels are to blame, feds say
Fake masks delivered to Washington hospitals worked surprisingly well, officials say
Pacific gray whales spotted in Puget Sound
How soon after coronavirus infection should you get a COVID vaccine?
Can you skip second dose of a coronavirus vaccine if you’ve had COVID? Experts debate

Bothell Reporter
DNR commissioner seeks $125 million to fight wildfires

Columbian
In Our View: Timing wrong for proposed statewide soda tax (Cleveland)
Reps. Stonier, Wylie co-sponsors of felons voting rights bill (Wylie, Stonier)

Covington-Maple Valley Reporter
Encouraging numbers for kokanee salmon spawn count

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Mental Health Professionals Urge “Practice Pause”
Yakima County to Receive More COVID-19 Vaccines This Week

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Inslee OKs use of single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Snohomish County Council delays education spending vote
Should Marysville Pilchuck High drop the name ‘Tomahawks’? (Wicks, Lekanoff, Berg, Lovick, Davis)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: Why those vaccine selfies are actually selfless

The Inlander
Outside Spokane, vaccine hesitancy and oversupply challenge the region’s ability to stick with a phased approach

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Kitsap teachers begin signing up for COVID-19 vaccine appointments
Review group authorizes Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine for Washington state

News Tribune (subscription required)
With 8 dead and hundreds injured, Tacoma grapples with how much police force is too much
The process: 3 investigations launched every time a Tacoma police officer kills someone
Registration is Thursday for Pierce County’s next COVID-19 mass vaccination event
Washington state’s COVID-19 deaths break 5,000 mark on Wednesday
These volunteers help senior citizens find that ever-elusive COVID vaccine appointment
What happened to body cameras for Gig Harbor police? Chief explains delay
Editorial: No selfies for you! Banning them inside parts of Washington state Capitol seems harsh (Pedersen)

New York Times
Covid-19 Live Updates: Pushback in States as Biden Criticizes Their Moves on Masks
Plan to Ditch the Mask After Vaccination? Not So Fast.
Texas Drops Its Virus Restrictions as a Wave of Reopenings Takes Hold
Now Making Electric Bikes: Car and Motorcycle Companies
Jobless Claims Rise, Showing the Pandemic’s Economic Toll: Live Updates

Olympian (subscription required)
State Senate OKs bill to let graduating students make up for time lost to COVID-19 (Hunt, Dhingra)
Washington veterans of any age can now get a COVID vaccination from the VA
Washington state’s COVID-19 deaths break 5,000 mark on Wednesday
Thurston, Providence announce clinic for those due for 2nd doses of COVID-19 vaccine
Red Lion protesters wanted FEMA funds used to house people experiencing homelessness in hotels. Why hasn’t Thurston done that?
Thurston County adds 20 COVID-19 cases; February case totals fall 50 percent from January

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Teachers, school staff and childcare professionals now vaccine eligible

Puget Sound Business Journal
Return-to-office plans are set in motion, but virus uncertainty remains
Facebook ends ban on political advertising
Opinion: Pandemic’s toll on community behavioral health must be recognized

Seattle Times (subscription required)
More than 5,000 people have now died from COVID-19 in Washington state
‘Functional bipartisanship is impossible’ — Washington state’s Democratic and GOP party chairs spar over elections, Trump
Lawmakers frustrated by secrecy surrounding massive data hack at Washington state auditor’s office (Keiser, Carlyle, Nguyen)
SDOT installs crosswalk, traffic signals at Lake City intersection where pedestrian was killed
Lessons learned at Life Care Center: Lake Washington Institute of Technology students remember pandemic’s first days
Highway 520 bridge closes in both directions this weekend
Opinion: Washington Privacy Bill needs stronger safeguards for consumers

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit Public Utility District vendor suffers data breach

The Skanner
WA Black Lives Matter Alliance Launches Reparations for Black Lives Legislative Push

Spokesman Review
Effort underway to decriminalize ‘magic mushrooms’ in Spokane
Spokane Public Schools wants public input on how the district can boost equity
Schoesler bill could provide tax relief to eastern Washington residents rebuilding after September wildfires
Downtown stadium one step closer to reality after Spokane Public Schools meeting
Local Catholic leaders say to avoid Johnson & Johnson vaccine made with fetal cells if possible, but health experts disagree
With teachers now in the queue, thousands of Spokane County residents will be searching for vaccine doses

Tri-City Herald
6,000+ Tri-Cities teachers, childcare workers join scramble for COVID vaccine
3 Tri-City police unions support recalling Benton County sheriff
WA ranchers struggling to meet demand during COVID pandemic closer to relief

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla County reports no new cases of COVID-19 for first time since June
Walla Walla County judge denies release for Leslie Moreno, convicted of manslaughter
Walla Walla County reports no new cases of COVID-19 for first time since June

Yakima Herald Republic
Vaccine eligibility is a relief for Yakima County school staff already on campus
Naches-based fruit company to contest unfair labor practice complaints filed by union
Study: Chinook salmon are key to Northwest orcas all year
Washington state surpasses 5,000 COVID-19 deaths

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Plan to prioritize Washington educators for vaccines leaves other workers frustrated
Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders fight for COVID-19 vaccine access in Washington
Sea-Tac Airport to test anti-drone technology
Judge orders release of Auburn Proud Boy charged in US Capitol riot
Kirkland college reflects a year after nursing students exposed in first US COVID-19 outbreak
Human composting: How Washington is writing the guidebook to a green burial
Assisted living operators in Washington holding out hope for federal aid

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Federal judge orders release of Auburn ‘Proud Boy’ charged in U.S. Capitol riot
Northshore educator seriously injured in possible hate crime attack
KIRO 7 investigates vaccine vacations
Seattle NAACP among dozens of groups now supporting full ban on credit scoring in insurance (Mullet, Das)
Police issue alert about possible March 4 plot against U.S. Capitol
Seattle police remove barriers, hit with graffiti on the same day
COVID-19 related deaths surpass 5,000 in Washington

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
‘5,000 lives were more than a number:’ Washington state eclipses 5,000 COVID-19 deaths
Federal judge orders release of local ‘Proud Boy’ accused of leading riot at US Capitol
WA 3-Percenters deny being part of rumored plot to attack U.S. Capitol
King County Court shifts to virtual trials, potentially changing future of courtrooms
‘He was trying to kill us,’ says man about attack in Chinatown-International District
WSP: No threats to Washington’s capitol after police uncover plot to storm U.S. Capitol
Homeless encampment, Tent City 4, to set up behind Bellevue temple next month
Pharmacies prepare as Washington teachers become eligible for COVID-19 vaccine

KUOW FM
‘Just another day.’ Seattle clears Denny Park tent encampment, forcing unhoused people to relocate
Updates on the pandemic in the Northwest
House Approves Major Election And Campaign Finance Reform Bill
House Approves Police Reform Bill Named After George Floyd
March 3 | Denny Park sweep goes against pandemic guidance
Senate Democrats, White House Agree to Tighter Income Limits For Stimulus Checks
Capitol Police Warns Of Another Possible Right-Wing Attack On Congress

KXLY (ABC)
Providence opens more than 1,000 vaccine appointments for upcoming clinics
Report: Spokane Police use force on Blacks, Native Americans at disproportionate rate
WA Senate passes a bill prohibiting price gouging during states of emergency (Darneille)

Q13 TV (Fox)
State educators anxious for COVID-19 vaccine after Gov. Inslee fast-tracks eligibility
Washington state lawmakers discuss $125 million wildfire bill
Local mom who lost son to drug addiction concerned over state Supreme Court ruling
Washington state surpasses 5,000 COVID-19 deaths
Sheriff’s captain suspended for post about Black teens
West Coast scientific panel approves Johnson & Johnson vaccine for Washington

Web

Crosscut
How virtual school is straining the mental health of WA students (Liias)

MyNorthwest
Port Angeles awaits Seattle lawsuit before drafting own grocery worker hazard pay proposal
Parler drops Amazon lawsuit, then files new one in King County court
Seattle-area Proud Boy facing charges from Capitol siege released from prison pending trial
Spokane judge intervenes to stop farm workers’ wages decreasing
Renewed push to crack down on repeat DUI offenders in Olympia
Rise in fentanyl overdoses has Pacific Northwest ‘under siege’ from cartel, says DEA

West Seattle Blog
VACCINATION: Last-minute openings for next two days at city’s new West Seattle site

Wednesday, March 3

Washington educators and child care workers can now receive the COVID-19 vaccine
Washington’s educators and licensed child care workers can now receive the COVID-19 vaccine, Gov. Inslee announced Tuesday, in response to President Joe Biden’s directive that those people be prioritized in vaccine rollout. “Phase Finder may take time to reflect these changes, but educators and licensed child care workers can schedule with providers right away,” Inslee said. Continue reading at KXLY.

AG Ferguson Releases I-940 Independent Investigation Inquiry Report
Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson recently released the I-940 Independent Investigation Inquiry Report. Ferguson’s inquiry into investigations reviewing police use of deadly force in the first half of 2020 found that the majority of investigating teams complied with most of the state’s new independent investigation requirements. However, some investigations failed to include at least two non-law enforcement community representatives and comply with other key requirements. Continue reading at The Seattle Medium.

Inslee signs bill allowing COVID-19-related waivers of some graduation requirements
Struggling Washington state high school seniors are getting a hand in fulfilling their graduation requirements, as Gov. Jay Inslee signed into law on Tuesday a measure to aid students whose education has been interrupted by the coronavirus pandemic. Roughly 70% of Washington students are still learning remotely. With online learning and a constantly changing situation, many high schoolers who were on track to graduate have fallen behind. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Dan Pelle)

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Associated Press
Official: Dems OK tighter income limits for COVID-19 relief
More contagious Brazilian virus variant emerges in Oregon
Washington state to surpass 5K coronavirus deaths
David Postman appointed chair of Liquor and Cannabis Board.
Washington educators, childcare workers eligible for vaccine
Washington governors signs graduation waiver measure
Gov. Inslee signs relief bill waiving liquor license fees
Inslee signs measure waiving some graduation requirements during pandemic

Aberdeen Daily World
Southwest Washington senators critical of bill prohibiting open-carry at protests
Commentary: Blessed are the listeners

Auburn Reporter
First-time home buyers increasingly priced out of Washington housing market
King County Elections seeks better voter turnout in historically excluded communities

Bainbridge Island Review
House bill extends curbside drinks until 2023

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Educators, childcare workers eligible for COVID-19 vaccine now after Biden directive
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Whatcom sees 20 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, significant drop in test positivity rate
COVID-19 infection rates show triple-digit growth in 2 Whatcom County regions last week
Whatcom sees 42 new confirmed COVID cases Monday, as vaccination rate begins to pick up
Whatcom sees 20 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, significant drop in test positivity rate
State recognizes Whatcom shorted COVID-19 vaccine doses, makes plans to catch county up
Use of deadly force inquiry omits Thurston region because agencies didn’t fill out survey
Washington flu deaths dropped from 114 last season to 0. There are a few reasons why
High snowpack in WA mountains following February storms
Tri-Cities legislator wants to end WA state voting by mail
Do all 3 COVID vaccines offer similar protection? Here’s what the data say
Mask Wearing 101: How to use and properly reuse a mask
Older Black veterans getting COVID vaccine at higher rate than whites, VA data shows

Capital Press
Simpson defends dam-breaching plan
WDFW: Check-in with governor before killing wolves just courtesy
NW onion prices, shipments mixed
Power company: Dam removal would hurt reliability, raise costs

Columbian
Washington governors signs graduation waiver measure

The Daily News
‘Looking good’: One-day smelt fishery serves up plenty of fish and happy dippers
Cowlitz County COVID-19 vaccine site opens this week, appointments filled in two hours

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Inslee: Teachers, child care staff in Washington can get vaccinated
Absences for vaccination appointments allow others to be inoculated

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Cornfield Report: Lawmakers — and 8,000 others — await a capital gains tax bill (Liias, Frame, Lovelett)
Governor: Educators are now eligible for coronavirus vaccine
Law gives Washington high school seniors leeway to graduate
County Council proposes to address a big pre-K learning gap
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Getting down to business during Women’s History Month
Comment: Vigilance now needed to stop surprise medical bills
WaPo Comment: Ruling to allow evictions an attack on federal power
WaPo Viewpoints: Getting beyond good cop, bad cop
WaPo Comment: As covid wanes, expect its political battles to grow
Editorial: Restore voting rights to those who served time (Simmons)
Editorial: Training, support must follow policing mandates (Pedersen)

High Country News
What tribal sovereignty means for Freedmen citizenship

News Tribune (subscription required)
Pierce County sees fewer than 80 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday
Washington flu deaths dropped from 114 last season to 0. There are a few reasons why
Family of man killed by sheriff’s deputy in 2018 sues Pierce County
Proud Boys member with Western WA ties was key leader of U.S. Capitol breach, feds say
Editorial: Will hybrid learning hurt high schoolers? Some in this Pierce County district fear so

New York Times
Covid-19 Live Updates: Texas Lifts Restrictions, Part of a Wave of U.S. Reopenings
Why the Georgia G.O.P.’s Voting Rollbacks Would Hit Black People Hard
Exxon Mobil’s Chief Says It Is ‘Supportive’ of Zero-Emission Goals

Olympian (subscription required)
Use of deadly force inquiry omits Thurston region because agencies didn’t fill out survey
Educators, childcare workers eligible for COVID-19 vaccine now after Biden directive
Thurston County reports 3 new COVID-19 deaths, announces plans for new vaccine clinic
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
MultiCare says purchase price for Capital Medical Center is $44.6 million

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Increased vaccine supply expected on Peninsula in April

Puget Sound Business Journal
Opinion: Pandemic’s toll on community behavioral health must be recognized
Washington state teachers now eligible for Covid vaccine, moving schools closer to opening
AWS helps address Covid vaccine fraud with new tracking system
The SBA’s PPP loan deadline is fast approaching. But pressure is building to extend it.
Virus did not bring financial rout that many states feared
Opinion: Federal minimum wage hike is long overdue

Seattle Times (subscription required)
King County Sheriff’s captain suspended for a day for offensive Facebook post about Black teens
A new neo-Nazi group in Spokane harkens back to era of virulent extremism in the Northwest
At Denny Park, Seattle is quietly trying to remove homeless encampment without police
Inslee signs bill allowing COVID-19-related waivers of some graduation requirements (Santos)
Washington state teachers, child care workers can now get COVID-19 vaccines, Gov. Inslee says (Pollet)
Editorial: Police must obey use-of-force laws (Nobles)
Editorial: Ban Native mascots in schools without Tribal support (Billig)

Seattle Medium
AG Ferguson Releases I-940 Independent Investigation Inquiry Report

Skagit Valley Herald
Looking ahead to federal COVID relief, Skagit County begins to discuss priorities

The Skanner
$500,000 Grant Funding Will Invest In Racial Equity In WA

Spokesman Review
‘It is exciting’: Multiple sclerosis vaccine could be byproduct of COVID-19 technology
Supporters of Spokane stadium say plan would save money and boost downtown, but time is running out
Teachers, child care workers eligible for COVID-19 vaccine in Washington following presidential directive
Thanks to effort to vaccinate the homeless in Spokane, one man’s shot will open door to permanent housing
Inslee signs off on law allowing state to waive some graduation requirements for students during pandemic

Tri-City Herald
Kennewick Police Chief Ken Hohenberg stepping down after more than 40 years
More COVID vaccine appointments open as Tri-Cities struggles to keep new cases down
This Tri-Cities hospital led WA state in COVID patient admissions
82-year-old wrong-way driver killed in I-182 head-on in Pasco

USA Today
Is universal income closer to reality? Cities from Stockton to St. Paul are already testing monthly checks for residents
Biden’s COVID-19 relief plan includes a child tax credit boost popular with Democrats but a ‘nightmare’ to Republicans

Vancouver Business Journal
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center adjust visitor policy to allow for limited visitor access

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla County jury finds Pasco’s Edgar Chavez Beltran guilty of murder
COVID-19 case rates ‘on downward slide’ in Walla Walla County

Whidbey News-Times
High court ruling in drug possession case has multitude of implications
UW professor floats idea for tunnel between Whidbey, Mukilteo
Coupeville Middle School students are returning to campus, but not for class
Police accountability bills push through legislature (Jinkins, Dhingra, Entenman, Salomon, Das)

Yakima Herald Republic
Federal judge’s ruling grants relief on farmworker wages
Yakima County COVID vaccine supplies increasing this week; educators now eligible
Yakima County commissioners approve more than $2 million in funding to help keep East-West Corridor work going
Washington educators, child care workers eligible for vaccine
Washington governors signs graduation waiver measure
Microsoft: China-based hackers found bug to target US firms

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington forms healthy snowpack after snowiest February in 20 years
Washington teachers now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine, Inslee announces
Renton teachers agree to resume in-person learning
Marysville students push school district for more mental health resources
King County prosecutors address rise in violence toward Asian Americans during pandemic

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Gov. Inslee immediately expands vaccine eligibility in Washington to include teachers, childcare workers
Concierge health care provider investigated over COVID-19 vaccinations
Seattle teachers union files unfair labor practice complaints against Seattle Public Schools
UW Medicine hopes to restart first dose appointments

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
COVID-19 vaccine: Washington teachers, school workers now eligible, Gov. Inslee announces
‘It breaks my heart:’ COVID-19, crime reshape Seattle and leave vacant downtown buildings
DEA: Pacific Northwest being flooded with fentanyl-laced drugs
Community groups question city’s response to clean up Denny Park as crime, chaos spike
Stranger attacks Asian couple in Chinatown as hate crimes spike in King County
‘We are so close:’ Experts sound alarm as Texas lifts masks mandate, opens up 100 percent
Health experts warn lifting COVID-19 mask mandate could create resurgence in Texas cases

KNKX FM
A small group of tech-savvy retirees hunts for vaccine doses for older people
School counselors in Pierce County make home visits to help kids connect to remote classes
Biden Says U.S. Will Have Vaccine Supply For All Adults By May, Prioritizes Teachers
WA House passes ban on chokeholds; backs off complete ban on tear gas (Johnson, Pederson, Dhingra)

KUOW FM
One year ago, Tacoma police killed Manuel Ellis. A silent march honored him
Teachers, childcare workers eligible for coronavirus vaccine in Washington state
Updates on the pandemic in the Northwest
Progressives Show Patience With Biden, At Least Until Relief Bill Passes
Some States Drop CDC Guidelines And Vaccinate People By Age Group
Biden Says U.S. Will Have Vaccine Supply For All Adults By May, Prioritizes Teachers
Prisoners eligible for stimulus checks, but getting payout behind bars is complicated
WA House passes ban on chokeholds; backs off complete ban on tear gas (Johnson, Pederson, Dhingra)
Biden To Allow Some Separated Migrant Families To Reunite In The United States

KXLY (ABC)
Washington educators and child care workers can now receive the COVID-19 vaccine
Lawmakers can’t cite local examples of trans girls in sports

NW Public Radio
Inslee: Washington Educators Now Eligible For COVID Vaccine Following White House Directive

Q13 TV (Fox)
Inslee: Washington teachers, child care workers now eligible for COVID-19 vaccine
King County prosecuting attorneys say local hate crimes are on the rise
Landlord says he’s owed nearly $30,000 in unpaid rent, has no recourse under City of Seattle
Parents and teachers disagree on how to safely return to in-person learning
City of Seattle schedules clean up of homeless encampment at Denny Park

Web

Crosscut
Family and friends wonder why Seattle police killed Derek Hayden
Why Salish Sea researchers are targeting superbugs in marine mammals
Seattle and all of Washington must extend the eviction moratorium
Opinion: How parks can better serve Puget Sound during times of crisis

MyNorthwest
Seattle council candidate drops out after report of 2015 assault surfaces
New orca baby sparks questions over Naval training
Educators, school staff added to current vaccine tier in Washington
Ski resorts experiencing both outdoor enthusiasm and challenges
Washington hospitals pact helps avoid being overrun by COVID patients
Counterfeit masks sold to Washington hospitals may actually be effective
Seattle teachers’ union files unfair labor practice complaints against district
Seattle Councilmember Sawant calls for investigation into Puget Sound Energy
Three vaccination sites to open in King County as dose supply expected to increase
Seattle opens up applications for commission tasked with redrawing city’s council districts
WA Rep. Jayapal co-sponsors ‘Ultra-Millionaire’ tax on nation’s wealthiest households
State lawmakers scramble to close drug possession loophole created by court ruling
State bill waiving liquor license fees ‘exactly the kind of help bars and restaurants need’
COVID-19 updates: State edges closer to key daily vaccination benchmark

Slog
Washington Has a Computer Problem, and Legislators Are Scrambling to Find a Fix

Tuesday, March 2

Washington House Passes Ban On Police Chokeholds, Backs Off Complete Ban On Tear Gas
Police officers, along with jail and prison staff, would be barred from using neck holds or restraints designed to restrict a person’s airway or blood flow, but the use of tear gas would still be allowed in limited circumstances under a bill that’s passed the Washington House. Continue reading at Northwest Public Broadcasting. (Parker Miles Blohm)

Tensions over vaccine equity pit rural against urban America
In some cases, recriminations over how scarce vaccines are distributed have taken on partisan tones, with rural Republican lawmakers in Democrat-led states complaining of “picking winners and losers,” and urbanites traveling hours to rural GOP-leaning communities to score COVID-19 shots when there are none in their city. Continue reading at The Yakima Herald. (Mark Humphrey)

Low-carbon fuel bill passes state House
A low carbon fuel bill passed the state House of Representatives Feb. 27 in a 52-46 vote with every Republican voting no. Its next stop is the Senate. The bill directs the Department of Ecology to institute rules that require refineries to produce fuels, like gasoline and diesel, to have reduced greenhouse gas output over time. Continue reading at The Bainbridge Island Review.

Print

Aberdeen Daily World
Another year of low salmon returns points toward 2021 season similar to 2020
WDFW drafts rules to enforce fish passage statewide
Recreational crabbing closes again in Grays Harbor, except for the Westport Boat Basin
Commentary: Jefferson would cringe at the destruction of local media
Letter: Child care
Washington state to surpass 5K coronavirus deaths

Auburn Reporter
Justices strike down Washington state drug possession law
Low-carbon fuel bill passes state House

Capital Press
Vilsack makes new appointments and policies that impact ag
Lights out for bill to let Washington counties nix solar panels on farms

Columbian
Clark County receives substantial COVID-19 vaccine increase (Cleveland)
Still plenty of ways to get sick, even if it’s not COVID
Clark County reports 87 new COVID-19 cases, no new deaths since Friday
In Our View: Police reform complex, necessary undertaking

Federal Way Mirror
FWPS postpones in-person learning by one week

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Washington state’s bag ban on hold during COVID-19 (Das, Carlyle, Peterson)

News Tribune (subscription required)
New Pierce County COVID-19 cases dip below 100 on Monday
Tacoma memorial honors those who died, often alone, from COVID-19
Tacoma teacher investigated for alleged affiliation with Proud Boys to resign, records show
Parkland man angry about couple parking van in vacant lot fatally shoots other man

New York Times
Covid-19 Live Updates: Merck Will Help Manufacture Johnson & Johnson Vaccine
Should Your School Be Fully Open? Here’s What the C.D.C. Says
After Stimulus, Biden to Tackle Another Politically Tricky Issue: Infrastructure
Live Updates: Biden to Meet Senate Democrats on Stimulus Plan
Reversing Trump, Interior Department Moves Swiftly on Climate Change
Amazon Workers’ Union Drive Reaches Far Beyond Alabama
High Staff Turnover at U.S. Nursing Homes Poses Risks for Residents’ Care

Olympian (subscription required)
Views on Fifth salmon art serves as reminder that building stands on Squaxin Island land
Tri-Cities legislator wants to end WA state voting by mail
Here’s the industry people complained about to the Washington UTC the most in 2020
Why stop at $1,400? These Democratic senators want Biden to back recurring stimulus checks
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
Here’s how a new program could help drug offenders and their victims in Thurston County

Peninsula Daily News
North Olympic Peninsula libraries open to some in-person browing
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Clallam, Jefferson officials encourage any of three COVID-19 vaccines

Port Townsend Leader
COVID-19 case count stays stable in Jefferson County over the weekend

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Speed up vaccines for teachers, Seattle lawmakers urge Inslee and Durkan
Seattle teachers union files unfair labor practice complaints against school district
Opinion: Please tax my capital-gains profits: Washington’s crises demand it
Washington state lawmakers advance bills to ban police use of chokeholds and neck restraints, collect use-of-force data (Nobles, Johnson)
Prosecutor who helped dismantle outlaw Hells Angels in Washington is tapped as acting U.S. attorney

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit County’s largest COVID-19 vaccine providers receive thousands more doses

The Skanner
Things To Know: States Ease Restrictions Despite Warnings

South Seattle Emerald
‘Silent March’ in Tacoma commemorates Manuel Ellis ahead of anniversary of his death
South King County residents 65 and older eligible for vaccination at mass vaccination sites

Spokesman Review
Bill forcing tax negotiations between Spokane city and county on emergency communications passes House (Riccelli)
Seattle teachers’ union balks at school return plan
Spokane high schools finally reopen. Here’s what the first day was like at North Central.
Downtown Spokane Partnership will unveil new downtown stadium proposal
Third COVID-19 vaccine could arrive in Washington later this week

Washington Post
Biden to announce ‘historic partnership’: Merck will help make Johnson & Johnson coronavirus vaccine, officials say
Global coronavirus numbers edging back up after weeks of decline, says WHO
U.S. announces sanctions on Russia over poisoning and jailing of opposition leader Navalny
U.S. alleges Proud Boys planned to break into Capitol on Jan. 6 from many different points
Opinion: The GOP is now just the party of white grievance
Andrew Cuomo and the old ‘I was just being playful’ excuse

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima Valley Libraries reopening for limited in-person services, delighting patrons
The pandemic’s silver lining: No flu deaths so far this year in Washington
CWU assumes a return to a ‘new normal’ for fall quarter
Tensions over vaccine equity pit rural against urban America
COVID and squalor threaten tribal members living in once-abundant Indian fishing sites along Columbia River

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Parents, students protest continued remote learning at Lake Washington School District
Drive-in memorial at Tacoma Dome honors those who died from COVID-19
Doctors say the best COVID-19 vaccine is whichever one is available

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
UW Medicine temporarily halts first-dose appointments due to vaccine shortage
Seattle to operate mass vaccination site at Lumen Field Event Center
Seattle teachers union files unfair labor practice complaints against Seattle Public Schools
Tacoma memorial honors those who died, often alone, from COVID-19
Hundreds rally in Lake Washington SD, protesting district’s decision to keep students home
Boeing 737-9 MAX flies out of SEA for the first time
First-time home buyers consistently priced out of Washington housing market
Kent, Auburn COVID-19 vaccine sites expanding eligibility to include those 65+

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Seattle plans to clear Denny Park homeless camp Wednesday as crime, health concerns rise
Seattle teachers’ union balks at school return plan
Homeless encampments on Seattle highways remain unchecked during COVID-19 pandemic

KXLY (ABC)
City Council unanimously approves new Spokane Police Guild contract
COVID-19 case rates still high in Washington, but trending downwards
SPS middle and high school students return to in-person hybrid learning
Pandemic did not lead to spike in overall crime in Spokane

NW Public Radio
Washington House Passes Ban On Police Chokeholds, Backs Off Complete Ban On Tear Gas (Johnson, Pedersen, Dhingra)
Washington State Dems Push For Capital Gains In A Year When ‘Tax’ Doesn’t Seem Like A Bad Word (Das, Robinson, Mullet, Rolfes, Billig)

Q13 TV (Fox)
City of Seattle opens two new vaccination sites, plans to open mass clinic at Lumen Field
Washington state to surpass 5K coronavirus deaths
Lake Washington students in grades 6-12 will not return to in-person learning this school year
Seattle teachers’ union balks at school return plan

Web

Crosscut
Private prison ban could limit ICE detention in the Pacific Northwest (Ortiz-Self)

Slog
Washington’s Supreme Court Decriminalized Drug Possession Statewide. What Happens Next?
Seattle’s AIDS Memorial Pathway Continues to Bloom
After Opposing an Increase in Minimum Wage, Dick’s Expands to Bellevue with Jobs Starting at $17/Hour

Monday, March 1

Here are 5 police reform bills that Washington state families are watching
As state lawmakers debate and vote on law enforcement reforms in Washington state, family members who have lost loved ones to police violence watch with optimism and concern. Legislators who’ve worked with them have listened compassionately, they say. But it’s actions that matter, and the Washington Coalition for Police Accountability is watching those actions carefully. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Steve Bloom)

Two decades after welcoming it, Tacoma fights to close the NW ICE Processing Center
More than 20 years ago, elected leaders in Tacoma gave their full support to a plan to build the privately operated facility that would become the Northwest ICE Processing Center. This week, a legislative effort designed in part to correct that grave mistake took a significant step toward becoming a reality. Continue reading at The News Tribune. (Peter Haley)

One year after seeing first COVID-19 death, Washington expected to surpass 5,000 this week
Washington is expected to surpass 5,000 COVID-19 deaths this week — almost exactly a year after the first was announced in the United States. But while the state absorbs that painful milestone, health officials are hopeful that a recent, consistent decline in deaths, combined with a ramp-up of vaccine distribution and continued masking and social distancing, mean better days are ahead. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Emily M. Eng)