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Wednesday, January 6

Five things to know about Washington’s 2021 legislative session
Amid the ongoing pandemic and threats by far-right protesters to “occupy” the Capitol, Washington lawmakers will convene Monday for what will ultimately be a mostly remote 2021 session with a focus on the ongoing response to COVID-19, police reform, addressing climate change and writing a two-year state budget. Continue reading at KNKX. (Austin Jenkins)

Gov. Inslee unveils ‘Healthy Washington’ COVID-19 reopening plan
Gov. Jay Inslee announced a new reopening plan for Washington state when current coronavirus restrictions around indoor dining and gatherings expire Jan. 11. The plan, called “Healthy Washington,” will allow regions to reopen when they meet certain metrics around hospitalization and case data, Inslee said during a news conference Tuesday. Continue reading at KING5 TV. (Office of Governer Jay Inslee)

Bill would ban openly carried guns at demonstrations in Washington state
Against a backdrop of recent gun violence at protests in Olympia and across the U.S., two lawmakers in the Washington state Senate have introduced a bill to ban open carry of guns and other weapons at demonstrations and on the Capitol Campus. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Tony Overman)

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Associated Press
Inslee announces new COVID-19 reopening plan for Washington
Some fishermen on edge after rough year in North Pacific
Man who threatened to bomb Spokane office faces prison
Governors scramble to speed vaccine effort after slow start
Asian shares mostly lower as virus, China-US tensions weigh
250,000 gallons released from wastewater treatment plant
McMorris Rodgers to object to Electoral College count
Biden to name judge Merrick Garland as attorney general

Aberdeen Daily World
County COVID site updated to provide state data
Three additional COVID-related deaths reported in Pacific County
State audit finds misuse of funds by former Grays Harbor Fire District 5 chief
SR 109 in Ocean City reopens following flooding

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Bill would ban openly carried guns at demonstrations in Washington state (Kuderer)
Whatcom’s record pace continues with 53 confirmed COVID-19 cases Tuesday, state reports
New state COVID-19 business reopening plan tied to cutting regional case rates. Here’s how
Here’s how Bellingham is helping to plan for COVID-19 vaccine distribution
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Pandemic unable to trip up Whatcom County’s real estate market in 2020
With COVID-19 restrictions, did Whatcom County see fewer DUIs this holiday season?
Gov. Inslee announces new ‘Healthy Washington’ plan that focuses on reducing case rates
Watch: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee spoke Tuesday (Jan. 5) about COVID-19 response
These Washington cities have some of the best job markets in the country, report says
These are the leaders and functions of the 2021 state legislature (Jinkins, Sullivan, Riccelli, Keiser, Billig, Randall)
Coronavirus updates: State passes 258k cases; Inslee announces new plan
What happened to the flu? Here’s why influenza spread is way down this season
Coronavirus updates: State rolls out vaccine eligibility tool; IRS launches tracker for relief checks

Capital Press
APHIS grants aid battle against agricultural pests
Critic of farm employers receives $50,000 state grant

Columbian
Ashley Dumont, 21, has severe symptoms 6 months after coronavirus: ‘I have no control over my body’
Clark County COVID-19 activity level falls into ‘moderate’ range
PeaceHealth COVID-19 outbreak reaches 11 staff and 19 patients Nurses describe ‘huge emotional toll’ amid high COVID-19 numbers in Clark County
In Our View: Science, safety key in returning to classrooms

The Daily News
Inslee announces new reopening plan based on COVID-19, hospitalization rates in regions

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Inslee’s new path for reopening economy could be long, bumpy
11,000 in county have received first shot of COVID vaccine
How we’ll get around as pandemic continues in 2021
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Bloomberg: Boeing Dreamliner’s defects spur $7.5 billion cash drain
Bloomberg Comment: Congress’ vote not a formality but an invitation to a coup
WaPo Comment: Backers of Trump’s coup can’t be called conservatives
Letter: Nurses’ resignation shows lack of funding for public health
Editorial: Don’t mess with elections; honor will of voters

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Inslee unveils ‘Healthy Washington’ COVID-19 reopening plan
Kitsap deputy injured when truck theft suspect rammed him
Grammy Awards postponed to March 14, same day as SAG Awards, amid COVID-19 surge in California
North Kitsap homes evacuated after landslide
Kitsap’s two housing authorities to see new leadership
Op-Ed: Navy remains committed to environmental stewardship
The ripples of COVID-19 are still felt for Kitsap County’s first couple to test positive
Op-Ed: Vaccines present a community challenge

News Tribune (subscription required)
CHI Franciscan, Virginia Mason complete merger, unveil new name for joint health system
Indoor dining will return in WA, but only at 25% capacity — and we could go backwards
Pierce County deputies to get body, dash cameras after council approves budget
Appeals court rules against former Tacoma police accused of telling woman to beat boy, 9
Editorial: Raise a glass, not fees, for Tacoma area distilleries, unlikely heroes of pandemic

New York Times
Early Biden Climate Test: Groups Demand Tougher Rules on Building

Olympian (subscription required)
Bill would ban openly carried guns at demonstrations in Washington state (Kuderer, Das)
Yen Huynh selected for open seat on Olympia City Council
Pierce County state Senate race second costliest in Washington history (Nobles, Dhingra, Mullet)
Raphael Warnock makes history as Georgia’s first Black senator. Here’s the reaction
‘The WNBA has led.’ Basketball players showered in praise after Warnock’s Georgia win
Another Washington restaurant hit with restraining order over COVID indoor dining ban
Could the Georgia runoffs go to a recount? Here’s what it would take
Congress is set to certify the Electoral College votes Wednesday. Here’s how it works
Amazon bringing hundreds of jobs to Pierce County; Tesla site might also be in works

Peninsula Daily News
Olympic Community Action Programs awarded $11.3 million for affordable housing
Massive outages reported on Peninsula
North Olympic Peninsula COVID-19 cases cross 1,000 mark on Tuesday

Port Townsend Leader
More than two dozen COVID-19 cases found in JeffCo over past two weeks
COVID-19 case count in JeffCo rises to 229

Puget Sound Business Journal
Amazon launches $2B affordable housing fund for Seattle area and 2 other hubs
Boeing to close facility on Marginal Way, but don’t expect it to hit the market anytime soon
US Treasuries, Nasdaq futures sell off after Democrat wins Senate race
Inslee announces new statewide Covid recovery plan
Amazon surpasses Boeing to become Washington’s largest employer
The future of offices when workers have a choice
More than 170 business executives urge Congress to certify Biden’s win

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Washington’s GED completions are down by half. The test changed amid COVID-19, but did it go far enough?
Inslee announces plan to reopen Washington state restaurants, other businesses based on COVID-19, hospitalization rates in regions
Amazon pledges $2 billion to affordable housing, including $185 million for apartments in Bellevue
Charles V. Johnson, judge and Seattle civil-rights trailblazer, dies at 92
Opinion: Doctors should address patient medical debt

Seattle Weekly
Inslee announces new COVID-19 reopening plan for Washington

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit County commissioners approve water plan
Skagit communities wrap up census responses

South Seattle Emerald
Governor lays out regional plan for some businesses to reopen, but COVID-19 activity still “aggressive”
Breaking: Four new COVID cases detected at King County Jail

Spokesman Review
Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Russ Fulcher say they will contest Electoral College results as ‘civil war’ divides GOP
Preparing for ‘the worst’ as pandemic rages, officials call for volunteers to join Medical Reserve Corps
Man who allegedly threatened volunteers inside Spokane County Democrats’ office indicted on federal charge
Inslee announces new reopening plan, but the state won’t be moving forward just yet
Spokane Public Schools expected to bring more students back soon
Area hospitals share vaccine doses, Providence opens drive-thru testing site in Spokane Valley
Restaurants defy COVID-19 restrictions in uprising embraced by Northwest far-right groups

Tri-City Herald
School employees fail to reach contract agreement over pay raises in Pasco
This is what the Tri-Cities has to do to reopen restaurant dining rooms and fitness centers
Tri-Cities man died in a police car after ‘huffing’ an aerosol cleaner, say officials
125 more COVID cases announced in Tri-Cities area, but data may be incomplete
‘Singled out?’ Pasco business owners plead with council to reopen
Op-Ed: Preserving our Constitution and the sacred institutions of our country

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Umatilla County battles logistics to get COVID-19 vaccine into arms
Walla Walla Public Schools eyes Jan. 25 to start phasing students into a hybrid schedule
Milton-Freewater and Athena-Weston school districts prepare to welcome back students
Walla Walla County commissioners support limiting Gov. Inslee’s emergency powers
Walla Walla murder suspect, Christian Scott, pleads not guilty
Walla Walla man Antonio Ramon Lomeli, suspected in string of thefts, arrested Saturday
Multiple Walla Walla Valley businesses benefit from state relief grants
College Place School District and teachers’ union agree on January reopening plan
Walla Walla County adopts 2021 budget; pandemic poses unknowns

Washington Post
Warnock wins, Ossoff leads Perdue with U.S. Senate control at stake
Wealthy donors received vaccines through Florida nursing home
Trump will auction drilling rights to Arctic National Wildlife Refuge Wednesday
Trump makes appearance at rally as thousands gather to protest election results
No charges to be filed against Kenosha police officer who shot Jacob Blake
Opinion: Our vaccination need is more urgent than ever. You wouldn’t know it from state efforts.

Yakima Herald Republic
Testing continues at Costco in Union Gap after COVID-19 outbreak
Kittitas County begins vaccinating some high-risk school employees

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Gov. Inslee unveils ‘Healthy Washington’ COVID-19 reopening plan
Phase 1B details of Washington’s vaccine rollout expected Wednesday
Amazon commits $2 billion toward affordable housing
Washington’s community clinics prepare outreach to patients about coronavirus vaccines

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Gov. Inslee announces new COVID-19 reopening plan for Washington
‘Needed for so long’: Tacoma rolls out new police body cameras
Cathy McMorris Rodgers to object to Electoral College count
Where can health care workers get vaccinated if they don’t work at a hospital?
Seattle Public Schools surveying families about return to in-person learning in March
Longview restaurant hit with order, fine for COVID-19 violations

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Governor Inslee says new ‘Healthy Washington’ COVID-19 safety plan will begin next week
‘It’s disheartening:’ Local businesses, restaurants react to Inslee’s new COVID-19 plan
Protesters march through Capitol Hill after officers cleared in Jacob Blake case
Amazon creates $2 billion fund for affordable housing in Wash. state, Tenn., Virginia
2 Wash. health care giants merge to form Virginia Mason Franciscan Health

KNKX FM
Inslee announces new COVID-19 reopening plan for Washington
Five things to know about Washington’s 2021 legislative session (Springer, Johnson, Entenman, Dhingra, Lovick, Fitzgibbon, Carlyle)
COVID-19 Vaccine May Not Get To Long-Term Care Facilities Quickly Enough

KUOW FM
Pandemic updates for Seattle and the Northwest
U.S. Security Agencies: Massive Computer Hack Is ‘Likely Russian’
How COVID-19 Attacks The Brain And May Cause Lasting Damage
COVID-19 Vaccine May Not Get To Long-Term Care Facilities Quickly Enough

NW Public Radio
How COVID-19 Attacks The Brain And May Cause Lasting Damage
Washington Governor Unveils New Business Reopening Plan, Moving To More Regional Approach
Idaho K-12 Schools Account For More Than 4,800 COVID-19 Cases

Q13 TV (Fox)
Inslee: Washington’s new reopening plan based on regions, not counties
Seattle Public Schools sends out parent survey to gauge in-person learning
Some high-risk healthcare workers say it’s hard to find sites that will give them COVID-19 vaccine
USDA allocates nearly $1 million to eradicate Asian giant hornets in Washington
Restaurant hit with order, fine for COVID-19 violations

Web

Civic Skunkworks
Some Good News: On New Year’s Day, Many Americans Got a Raise

Crosscut
Poll: WA voters are divided on new taxes to address COVID-19
Only 55% of WA voters say they want to be vaccinated, poll says
Opinion: How WA schools can support students struggling with mental health

MyNorthwest
Teresa Mosqueda to run for reelection to Seattle council, won’t pursue mayoral campaign
Seattle council, police union react to bill expanding powers of accountability groups
CHI Franciscan, Seattle-based Virginia Mason merge to run 11 hospitals together
Some Washingtonians see stimulus payments go to tax prep services first
Restraining order upheld in court against Spiffy’s Restaurant in Chehalis

Seattle P.I.
Seattle rents down over 20% since start of coronavirus pandemic, down nearly 4% month over month
Inslee announces new phased regional approach to reopen Washington amid coronavirus pandemic

Slog
Washington Launches New Reopening Plan; Some Activities Expected to Resume Next Week
The Christmas COVID Surge Has Predictably Arrived
Here Are Washington’s Top Environmental Priorities for 2021
Gov. Jay Inslee’s Office on Vaccines and How Much Trump Sucks

Tuesday, January 5

Seattle’s payroll tax complicates efforts to implement one statewide
Seattle went its own way earlier this year by enacting a tax on large businesses with highly paid employees. Now, a proposal at the Washington State Capitol aims to enact a similar corporate payroll tax across the entire state. There’s a hitch, however: A statewide tax could be difficult to pass if it is layered on top of the one Seattle businesses already are paying. Continue reading at The Kitsap Sun. (Ted S. Warren)

New Washington Secretary of Health Dr. Shah says state’s early vaccine rollout is not good enough
Washington’s new Secretary of Health Dr. Umair Shah says the state’s early vaccine rollout has not been good enough, noting a surplus in both Moderna and Pfizer vaccine doses. Gov. Jay Insee appointed Shah to replace former health secretary John Wiesman. It’s a pressure-packed welcome for Dr. Shah to navigate the state’s vaccine distribution, which is unprecedented in scope. Continue reading at KING5 TV.

Native communities hope 2020 census addresses historic undercounts
Last year was critical for Indian Country: On top of nationwide U.S. elections, the 2020 census provided a rare opportunity to address the historical undercounting of Native communities throughout the country. On the Colville Reservation, that meant starting the work of census outreach early. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Matthew Brown)

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Associated Press
Washington, Oregon, 29 tribes sue over plan to move archives
Asian stocks track Wall St retreat as COVID caseloads surge
UK prime minister orders new virus lockdown for England
Judge upholds state’s $126,000 fine for Longview restaurant flaunting COVID rules

Aberdeen Daily World
CCAP gets $3.25 million for 24 low-income housing units

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
More electric vehicle charging stations coming to Western Washington
Whatcom sets record 7-day high for pandemic after seeing 43 new COVID cases Monday
More wind and rain on the way for Whatcom — when might it all end
After a busy week to wrap up 2020, another small earthquake strikes near Whatcom
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
Landslides and avalanches likely this week, Washington officials warn. What to know
AG Ferguson joins with Oregon, tribes to sue Trump Administration over archives move
Fast rollout of virus vaccine trials reveals tribal distrust
When will you get your $600 stimulus check? The IRS payment tracker is now online
What’s in the COVID vaccine? Doctors assure allergy-sufferers it’s OK to get the shot

Capital Press
Hammonds may get grazing rights back
What’s at stake for ag in Georgia’s U.S. Senate run-offs
Senator puts Washington meat inspections on table
Feds backpedal on $14K fee for distillers that made hand sanitizer

The Daily News
Maskless shoppers threaten Longview store
State serves Stuffy’s II with temporary restraining order, $126K fine

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Thousands of residents — and the lake — could join Lake Stevens
Firefighters roll up their sleeves for COVID vaccinations
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: Schools should reopen but not without managing risks
Bloomberg Comment: Trump’s Georgia phone call a bad case of coup fever

International Examiner
Chuminh Tofu’s free Sunday meals offer a model for community aid
Car caravan from Renton to Bellevue rallies in solidarity with Indian farmworkers

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
250,000 gallons of effluent flows into Puget Sound from Bainbridge Island treatment plant
Seattle’s payroll tax complicates efforts to implement one statewide (Macri, Rolfes, Nguyen, Frame)
When the public’s away, the Legislature shouldn’t play (Sheldon)
Will ‘Warp Speed’ come to a grinding halt?

News Tribune (subscription required)
Pierce County sees single highest day of new COVID-19 deaths along with 164 new cases
Landslides and avalanches likely this week, Washington officials warn. What to know
Coronavirus updates: IRS launches online tracker for relief checks

New York Times
Covid-19 Live Updates: Global Vaccination Efforts Roll Out Slower Than Promised

Olympian (subscription required)
Capitol Land Trust secures 2 Eld Inlet properties for conservation
City of Olympia pays $15,000 penalty for Percival Creek sewage spill
AG Ferguson joins with Oregon, tribes to sue Trump Administration over archives move
More electric vehicle charging stations coming to Western Washington
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
Thurston COVID-19 cases top 5,000 with 64 more on Monday
Amazon surpasses Boeing as Washington state’s biggest employer
Proud Boys leader arrested in D.C. for burning Black Lives Matter flag
Here are 5 counties to watch as the Georgia Senate election results roll in
Editorial: To honor Hank Adams, we must all honor the promises of tribal treaties

Peninsula Daily News
Child care openings, staffing remain struggles for Clallam County providers
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Most COVID-19 cases at long-term care facility outbreak tied to one person
School districts plan to go with more in-person teaching

Seattle Times (subscription required)
School nurses key to reopening schools, but new research shows equity gaps in Washington
Central Washington Rep. Dan Newhouse won’t join GOP effort to block Biden electoral votes

Skagit Valley Herald
Sedro-Woolley City Council seat draws interest

Spokesman Review
Dry Fly distillery, which made sanitizer, was nearly fined $14,000 by the FDA until another agency stepped in
Spokane County started 2021 with 362 new confirmed COVID-19 cases
‘It’s undermining our system of government’: Kim Wyman responds to Trump pressuring Georgia official to change votes
Spokane plans for fire-dispatch future without backup from new regional agency
Washington AG Bob Ferguson sues to stop federal sale of Seattle National Archives
Spokane first responders receive first dose of COVID-19 vaccine
Opinion: Pam Clough & Rhonda Barker: How Washington farmers’ wheat straw can help solve a big environmental problem

Tri-City Herald
U.S. Rep. Dan Newhouse posts how he will vote on the Electoral College results
Over 500 new Tri-Cities COVID cases reported, with Christmas surge yet to come
Pasco councilman wants city to declare emergency and defy WA COVID restrictions
What are the health risks and needs of Hanford workers? New survey is out
$3.8M tiny house project will give Tri-Cities homeless a place of their own
Op-Ed: Restoring trust in state government in 2021

USA Today
COVID-19 vaccine doses have been delivered but are sitting on pharmacy shelves. Longer delays could prolong the pandemic
COVID-19 sparks more than 1,000 workplace-related lawsuits in 2020 as employees complain about safety, wages

Washington Post
L.A. County first responders told not to bring patients to hospital if survival chances are low
Opinion: China brings its cruel crackdown on Uighur advocates to the U.S.
Young ER doctors risk their lives on the pandemic’s front lines. But they struggle to find jobs.
Kenosha prepares for protests as it awaits decision in Jacob Blake shooting

Yakima Herald Republic
U.S. Rep. Dan Newhouse says he will confirm Electoral College vote
Yakima Valley College’s new West Campus ready for grand opening
Yakima County COVID-19 cases rise by 333 Sunday and Monday, with five new deaths
Local health care system officially becomes Yakima Valley Memorial
Opinion: Newhouse, GOP need to reinforce confidence in elections

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington sticking to full two-dose vaccine plan, as others look for ways to stretch supplies
New Washington Secretary of Health Dr. Shah says state’s early vaccine rollout is not good enough
Logistics proving to be biggest challenge for Washington’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution
Restaurant rebellion grows during Washington COVID-19 restrictions
Haven’t received your second stimulus check? How to track your payment online

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Unemployed workers grapple with new overpayment notices and confusion
Relentless rain triggers landslides; more rain and risk on the way
Hospitals facing vaccine delivery problems and finding workarounds
Feds consider cutting Moderna vaccine doses in half, UW researcher reacts
King County plans to buy hotels to permanently house homeless
Parents in Snoqualmie Valley School District rally to reopen schools

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
New year, same daunting challenges face Seattle, King County lawmakers
Slow rollout of COVID-19 vaccine in Washington, state to decide who is next
‘Feels like ‘bleep”: State warns pub’s open-air dining plan still fails COVID rules
Amazon buys 11 Boeing 767s to ship orders faster
Mudslides shut down Sound north line service through Wednesday
Capacity in most hospitals over 80% in Washington

KNKX FM
Vaccines, state electoral college and hydrogen cars teed up for 2021 lawmaking (Hunt, Morgan, Jinkins)

KUOW FM
IN SEATTLE, PANDEMIC STRESS OVERSHADOWS NEW MINIMUM WAGE BOOST
Trump’s Call To Georgia Election Officials Sparks Debate Over Legality, Ethics
Pandemic updates for Seattle and the Northwest
LA Paramedics Told Not To Transport Some Patients With Low Chance Of Survival
FDA Warns Health Officials Not To Mess With COVID-19 Vaccine Doses Schedule
Trump’s Census Plan In Peril As Bureau Expects February Release Of Count Results
At First Wary Of Vaccine, Cherokee Speaker Says It Safeguards Language, Culture
Trump Gives Medal Of Freedom To Loyalist GOP Congressman Nunes
Trump And The Military: What An Erratic Commander In Chief Leaves Behind

NW Public Radio
Ranchers Whose Federal Arson Case Sparked Malheur Refuge Takeover May Get Grazing Rights
Timber Tax Cuts Cost Rural Northwest Towns Billions. Polluted Water Drove Up The Price

Q13 TV (Fox)
Snohomish County’s global hunt for 7 million medical gloves
DNR warns of increased landslide risk over the next few days
FDA calls idea of half-dosing Moderna COVID-19 vaccines ‘premature’
Some single parents unable to get stimulus money due to exes listing them on taxes

Web

Crosscut
Native communities hope 2020 census addresses historic undercounts

Seattle P.I.
Seattle Public Schools to start surveying families about return to in-person learning

Slog
Seattle Police Union Contract Will Determine Whether Subpoena Powers for Oversight Agencies Apply to Cops
Trump Wants to Cut Off Access to Washington Tribal Records—Bob Ferguson Sues to Stop Him
Op-Ed: Want to Save the Economy? Raise Progressive Revenue and Invest in Neighborhood Businesses.

West Seattle Blog
After years of rising taxes, West Seattle Junction’s free-parking lots will soon be free no more
Updates from Camp Second Chance, plus a look inside new tiny-house-building ‘Hope Factory’

Monday, January 4

Washington lawmakers face a tall order, including balancing the budget mid-pandemic
As state lawmakers head back to Olympia virtually for the 2021 legislative session, making sure that everyone’s webcam is working properly will be just one of the many concerns to deal with. The good news is that revenue hasn’t dropped anywhere near as dramatically as predicted this June after the COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on jobs during a spring shutdown. Continue reading at The Inlander. (Jim Bowen)

New Washington laws going into effect in 2021
The new year brings changes, and more laws at both state and local levels. In Washington, 2021 will bring new wages, a law concerning criminal background checks and new rules to protect orcas. As we reflect on the year that was 2020 in life, news and sports, take a look at what’s to come with these new laws and updated rules. Continue reading at Seattle PI. (Sergio Amiti)

Olympia lawmaking is about to go virtual. Participants see both minefields and silver linings
During the 2021 session, Olympia’s Capitol Campus that comes alive each January will, under current plans, remain largely dormant. Legislative buildings will stay closed to the public, with COVID-19 transmission prevention in mind. Much of the typical activity and conversation will move online. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Tony Overman)

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Associated Press
Boeing Max returns to US skies with first passenger flight
New whale-watching restrictions enacted for resident orcas
Winds and heavy rain could lead to landslides, flooding
Washington state vaccinates high-risk inmates, prison staff
Fast rollout of virus vaccine trials reveals tribal distrust
More GOP lawmakers enlist in Trump effort to undo Biden win
New Washington law sets $100 cap on copayments for insulin (Keiser)
Sound Transit cancels north line train due to mudslide
PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center has COVID-19 outbreak
Fauci: Vaccinations are increasing in a ‘glimmer of hope’
Quinault Tribe recalls 29 tons of Dungeness crab due to toxin
NCAA to play all 67 March Madness games in Indiana
Iran starts 20% uranium enrichment, seizes South Korean ship
King County seeks to buy up to dozen more hotels to house homeless
Fauci: ‘Glimmer of hope’ as vaccinations increase, but post-holiday coronavirus surge likely

Aberdeen Daily World
County tops 2,100 COVID-19 cases
Corps of Engineers to start Grays Harbor maintenance dredging Jan. 4
County reports three new COVID-related deaths on Wednesday
First reponders get COVID-19 vaccinations at Grays Harbor Community Hospital

Auburn Reporter
US Navy punishes suicidal sailor who sought mental health treatment
Column: A legislative session like no other we’ve seen

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Does that pup on your lap violate the law against distracted driving?
Olympia lawmaking is about to go virtual. Participants see both minefields and silver linings (Jinkins, Liias, Billig)
Whatcom records 171 new confirmed COVID-19 cases over three days, state reports Sunday
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Sunday in Washington state
Bellingham opens this new temporary winter shelter for the homeless
Swift Haven opens as temporary winter shelter in Bellingham
Should an electoral college pick WA’s next governor? This Tri-Cities lawmaker says so
Seventh state prison inmate dies from COVID-19, Department of Corrections announces
‘The deaths are real deaths.’ Fauci rebuts Trump claim COVID numbers are ‘exaggerated’

Capital Press
New York judge blocks Trump pesticide rule
Higher wheat prices likely have ‘staying power,’ market experts say
Animal health officials on alert for bird flu
Only a fraction of vaccine has been used in Washington
Pandemic increases need for Beef Counts aid
WSDA tells legislators to leave beef labels to feds
West Coast states issue stop order for organic soil amendment; company to appeal

Columbian
In Our View: Shake up Employment Security Department
In Our View: Cheers & Jeers: Add diversity, not guns
In Our View: Inslee budget request offers several good ideas
In Our View: Resolve now to ditch single-use plastic bags
Vancouver’s PeaceHealth hit with COVID-19 outbreak among staff, patients
Nurses describe ‘huge emotional toll’ amid high COVID-19 numbers in Clark County

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Fans blow methane away from Everett houses built on landfill
Bus cuts, light rail and road work highlight the year ahead
Amid pandemic, 2020 was an historic year for unemployment
For tribes, climate change fight is about saving culture
2020 was what it was, and here are the top 10 local stories
Coronavirus commerce: The baddest business stories of 2021
Pandemic, protests and ‘murder hornets’ top state stories
Mudslide cancels Sounder commuter train Monday
Concrete barriers coming to stretch of U.S. 2 at Snohomish
Health care workers find silver linings in the year of COVID
Edmonds eases penalties for driving with a suspended license (Salomon)
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Only a fraction of vaccine has been used in Washington
Mom: Pandemic safety restrictions are hitting children hard
Sno-Isle Libraries offers new online service for job seekers
Tenants, landlords are pondering alternatives to eviction
Comment: Environment needs fairer hand in local development
Bloomberg Comment: ‘She-cession’ has hit minority women especially hard
WaPo Comment: Biden can help restaurants survive by lifting tariffs
WaPo Comment: Election showed what we don’t know about Constitution
WaPo Comment: Why has Warp Speed slowed to a trot for vaccines?
Editorial: Changes needed to build more middle-income housing
Editorial: Three resolutions for a safe and prosperous 2021

The Inlander
Washington lawmakers face a tall order, including balancing the budget mid-pandemic (Riccelli, Billig)

International Examiner
Retiring from ICHS, Ron Chew reflects on his career, local history, and looking to what’s in front of us

Island’s Weekly
Public hospital district boards decide against potential purchase agreement for Hospice of the Northwest

Journal of the San Juan Islands
Salmon advocates celebrate Canada removing salmon farms in the Discovery Islands

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
USS Nimitz ordered to stay in the Persian Gulf region following threats
Puget Sound Naval Shipyard begins year with face mask emphasis
Residents at Washington Veterans Home in Port Orchard receive coronavirus vaccine
Standing up for families in Kitsap: Why I voted to override the President’s veto
Scientists study impact of Growlers’ growl over Olympic National Park
Kitsap schools could join forces, create own sports plan
Gun range remains shuttered under contempt-of-court ruling, upheld on appeal
Hearing examiner rules against developers of proposed apartment complex in Silverdale

News Tribune (subscription required)
Police, civilian witnesses tell conflicting stories of fight that ended in Ellis’ death
Tacoma puts 5th officer that report says restrained Manuel Ellis on administrative leave
Navy will get funds to continue noise monitoring on Olympic Peninsula
Pierce County reports 189 new COVID-19 cases
As the world waited for a vaccine to end a crippling disease, here’s how Tacoma responded
Editorial: Tacoma woman, thousands more on hook to repay jobless benefits. State, fix your mess
Editorial: Tacomans with disabilities are isolated by COVID, shortchanged by local government
Op-Ed: Pierce County must invest in broadband sooner, not later. Innovation depends on it

New York Times
Trump, in Taped Call, Pressured Georgia Official to ‘Find’ Votes to Overturn Election
Trump Call to Georgia Official Might Violate State and Federal Law
Election Day Voting in 2020 Took Longer in America’s Poorest Neighborhoods
Covid-19 Live Updates: Scientists Debate Holding Back Second Vaccine Dose
Hundreds of Google Employees Unionize, Culminating Years of Activism
As the Virus Spikes, Vaccine Distribution Is One More Hurdle for States

Olympian (subscription required)
Olympia lawmaking is about to go virtual. Participants see both minefields and silver linings (Jinkins, Billig, Liias)
Militia group plans to occupy Legislative Building in Olympia when session begins (Jinkins, Billig)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Sunday in Washington state
Trump demands Georgia elections official overturn his defeat in hourlong call
Thurston County COVID-19 cases grow by 52 on Sunday
Stories that defined the year 2020 in Thurston County
Washington state extends pandemic assistance as Trump stalls federal relief package
Capital Medical Center in Olympia to be acquired by Tacoma-based MultiCare Health System
Washington’s minimum wage hike will show up on paychecks earlier than expected

Peninsula Daily News
School districts plan to go with more in-person teaching
Pandemic changes ceremonies, but not vows
Sequim experiences flooding
Sixteen new cases reported since Thursday night on Peninsula
Former Clallam Bay corrections officer dies from COVID-19 complications
Pastor welcomes ‘community spirit village’
Sequim first responders receive Moderna vaccine
Progressive tax top priority of Port Angeles City Council
Social Distancing Center lease extended

Port Townsend Leader
COVID-19 case count in JeffCo rises to 229

Puget Sound Business Journal
Slack begins 2021 with major outage
Colleges stand to receive billions in new stimulus, but warning signs are flashing
Hundreds of Google employees unionize, culminating years of activism
Gig workers bear the brunt of US labour market slowdown
Once a fringe idea, the $15 minimum wage is making big gains
Year in Review: This is what 2020 looked like through our lens
Microsoft says Russian cyberattack exposed its source code
Inslee extends Washington’s eviction moratorium
US stocks close tumultuous year at record high
The big questions for Big Tech in 2021
Group calls for investigation after longtime leader of Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic resigns
Microsoft’s giant campus expansion marches on, even as it embraces remote work
Most Americans are expected to save, not spend, their $600 check
Opinion: When working on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, experts say start with strategy
Inslee extends Covid restrictions on businesses to Jan. 11
9 ways the pandemic will change travel in 2021
The year inequality became less visible, and more visible than ever

Runta News
Bill to Provide Automatic Rental Assistance to Families

Seattle Times (subscription required)
New laws lead some Washington prosecutors to rethink three-strike life sentences (Goodman, Dhingra)
A ‘homelessness authority’ was supposed to get Seattle and its suburbs on the same page; after a slow year, they may be further apart
Hydroponic kits and toys for black bears: Washington science teachers get creative during pandemic learning
Changes ahead for Washington state’s political landscape: Redistricting may bring some drama
Need for free food in Washington state has doubled, many groups report, as COVID-19 rips away jobs and security
Opinion: Legislature’s ‘Four Corners’ square off on state challenges in 2021 (Billig, Jinkins)

Seattle Weekly
US Navy punishes suicidal sailor who sought mental health treatment
New proposal might help Washington get a Republican governor
Gov. Inslee extends ban on indoor dining, other restrictions

Skagit Valley Herald
Relationships were key in Skagit County commissioner’s two decades of service
Study examines privatizing Anacortes-to-Sidney ferry route
Ask the Undersheriff: Taking a look at the crime stats for 2020

South Seattle Emerald
Future Gazing: Honor the Indigenous people of these territories
State health officials cautiously optimistic as COVID-19 rates hold steady and vaccination of health care workers continues
‘The Shadow Beside Me’: Seattle nonprofit debuts poetry from King County juvenile detention
Opinion: What we lost in 2020
Future Gazing: A place where poverty is no longer criminalized
Seattle Public Library offers free printing, job search assistance, and online tutoring during pandemic
Future Gazing: Striving for Black and Brown queer and trans joy

Spokesman Review
These are the Washington laws changing in the new year
More than 200 new COVID-19 cases, one death reported in Spokane County on Sunday
Inslee extends indoor dining ban, other COVID-19 restrictions until Jan. 11
Washington to pay unemployment benefit after delay of federal coronavirus package
Medical director resigns from clinic in protest of racism at Seattle Children’s hospital, prompting demands for change
‘It’s not our job to find votes’: Spokane County auditor reacts to Trump pressuring Georgia secretary of state
Opinion: Ed Taylor and Phil Ballinger: What should count in college admissions: the quality of future leaders we most need
Opinion: Christine Johnson: COVID-19 defined our year. We won’t let it define our decade.
Opinion: Anne Mason, DNP, ARNP: AMA needs to do less trolling, more collaborating

Tri-City Herald
$3.8M tiny house project will give Tri-Cities homeless a place of their own
Tri-Cities new COVID cases hit plateau, but 36 people died in December
Should an electoral college pick WA’s next governor? This Tri-Cities lawmaker says so
3 WA prison COVID deaths this week. The latest in Walla Walla
Tri-Cities bar’s liquor license suspended. It violated state COVID restrictions
Tri-Cities COVID numbers affected by holiday spikes, reporting delays
Editorial: Klippert’s anti-vax bill goes too far, sets us back on COVID and measles

Vancouver Business Journal
Gov. Jay Inslee announces one-week extension of statewide restrictions

Washington Post
‘I just want to find 11,780 votes’: In extraordinary hour-long call, Trump pressures Georgia secretary of state to recalculate the vote in his favor
Months later, more than 1 million Americans are still waiting for unemployment aid
Opinion: It’s impeachable. It’s likely illegal. It’s a coup.

Yakima Herald Republic
As 2021 session approaches, Yakima Valley lawmakers say they want to roll back governor’s emergency powers
Longtime Yakima pediatrician Roy Simms gets vaccinated, encourages others to do the same
Records show who is on ICE flights at Yakima airport; fewer deportations during pandemic
Yakima Heath District reports 358 new coronavirus cases Friday and Saturday
Eviction moratorium has been extended, but debate likely to continue in Olympia
Opinion: Our wish list for 2021
Opinion: Return to classrooms on the horizon

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Union wants Washington grocery store workers vaccinated as soon as possible
Puget Sound-area food banks remain busy as unemployment declines
Johnson & Johnson’s single-dose vaccine next to seek emergency use authorization

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Medical workers across Washington to get 2nd dose of Pfizer vaccine
6 arrested at SPD’s East Precinct over weekend
Trump urged Georgia secretary of state to ‘find’ votes during phone call
New Washington law sets $100 cap on copayments for insulin (Keiser)
Cal Anderson campers appear to have moved to new park
State preparing questionnaire for vaccine eligibility
North Sound restaurant also defying COVID-19 restrictions
New law requires faster treatment for addiction (Davis)
New year marks increase of state’s minimum wage, raise for Seattle rideshare drivers
145 employees at Costco near Yakima positive for COVID-19
Fifth officer identified in Tacoma police death of Manuel Ellis put on leave
Woman who was a victim of sex trafficking at age 14 sues Backpage.com and Salesforce
Local distilleries billed thousands for making hand sanitizer, but feds reverse course
2nd Washington corrections officer dies of COVID-19
All residents of long-term care facility will now get vaccine
Four arrested during New Year’s Eve demonstrations in Seattle

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Two Seattle artists document 2020 and the year in face masks

KNKX FM
Teachers’ unions express concerns as some districts prepare for in-person learning
State Rep. John Lovick: Events since George Floyd’s death are ‘a turning point for all of us‘ (Lovick)

KUOW FM
In Seattle, pandemic stress overshadows new minimum wage boost
Trump And The Military: What An Erratic Commander In Chief Leaves Behind
Republican Lawmakers Divided On Election Certification
Pandemic updates for Seattle and the Northwest
COVID-19 Cases Surge In U.S. As Vaccinations Fall Below Government Predictions
More Republicans Announce Plans To Object To Electoral College Results
Judge Rejects Last-Minute Claim That Pence Can Ignore States’ Presidential Electors
New COVID-19 Variant Spreads To Dozens Of Countries
Congress Overturns Trump Veto On Defense Bill After Political Detour
U.S. Surpasses 20 Million Confirmed Coronavirus Cases
President Trump Extends Freeze On Many Worker Visas

NW Public Radio
In Seattle, People Living In Their RVs Get Help From City Waste Pumper
It Wasn’t Just The Pandemic: Oil’s Terrible, No Good, Very Bad Year
Despite What The Logging Industry Says, Cutting Down Trees Isn’t Stopping Catastrophic Wildfires

Q13 TV (Fox)
An Olympia cafe followed all of Inslee’s mandates – the state threatened them anyway
Snoqualmie parents rally for return to in-person learning
The Divide: Should Washington change how it elects governors?
The Divide: Congresswoman Jayapal on fight for COVID-19 relief
Washington creates online system to help determine who can get COVID-19 vaccine
Gold Bar restaurant defies governor’s orders

Web

Crosscut
How Seattle’s new payroll tax complicates efforts to enact one statewide
Opinion: Why the Kalama methanol refinery would hurt the Yakama tribe
WA coronavirus restrictions extended through Jan. 11
Revered doctor steps down, accusing Seattle Children’s Hospital of racism
Black-owned pot shops are rare in WA. Can a task force fix that?
Salmon spawn in the upper Columbia after an 80-year hiatus
Environment officials want input on aging Central Washington dam

Seattle P.I.
New Washington laws going into effect in 2021
University of Washington begins seeking volunteers for Novavax COVID-19 vaccine clinical trial
Washington has the third-lowest COVID-19 spread in US

Slog
The War on Cars Enters Its 135th Year
Why So Many Fires in Seattle All of a Sudden?
Herman Cain Ends the Year as the Most Noted Republican Killed by Covid
2020, The Year Death Became a Major Political Party in America

Thursday, December 24

**The Daily E-Clips will be taking a holiday vacation starting today. Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year. The Daily E-Clips will return January 4th.

Inslee extends eviction moratorium through March 31
Gov. Jay Inslee on Wednesday extended his executive order banning most evictions until March 31. It was set to expire at the end of December. This is the fifth time Gov. Inslee has extended the moratorium on evictions since he first announced one in March. No specific details were provided but a news release from the governor’s office said more information is forthcoming next week. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Tony Overman)

WA youth in the state’s care endure rain, cold for holiday visits
Richelle Madigan had a black suit and tie and a pair of shiny black shoes sent to her son’s psychiatric inpatient facility as a secret surprise for his 13th birthday. It was the day after he had officially become a teenager, but visits were precious at the Child Study and Treatment Center in Lakewood, so Christian was bubbling with excitement. Madigan and her husband, Jason, had set up a formal dinner for Christian as nicely as they could, considering the conditions: an overcast day with rain, a cold metal picnic table partly covered by an overhead eave, and a propane tower heater that, for safety reasons, sat too far away to be of use. It would also double as their Christmas visit, as the facility limited the number of visitors per day Continue reading at Crosscut. (Richelle Madigan)

Trump vetoes defense bill, setting up possible override vote
President Donald Trump on Wednesday vetoed the annual defense policy bill, following through on threats to veto a measure that has broad bipartisan support in Congress and potentially setting up the first override vote of his presidency. The bill affirms 3% pay raises for U.S. troops and authorizes more than $740 billion in military programs and construction. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Evan Vucci/AP)

Print

Associated Press
Eviction moratorium extended through March in Washington
Train derails after collision in Central Washington
Jobless claims in Washington state drop
Trump vetoes defense bill, setting up possible override vote
Trump threatens to torpedo COVID relief with new demands
COVID in California: 2 million confirmed cases and counting

Aberdeen Daily World
Grays Harbor Community Hospital begins COVID vaccinations
Grays Harbor COVID cases near 1,700, active cases at 313
Marine toxins shut down recreational crabbing in Willapa Bay
Consultants selected to assess Aberdeen fire, police, jail, court facility upgrades
Breakthrough: UK and EU reach post-Brexit trade agreement

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Derailed oil train catches fire again in Custer
Update: BNSF train derails after hitting semi truck west of Prosser
Whatcom has 42 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, state says Wednesday
No injuries or damages in Whatcom oil train derailment as cleanup, investigations begin
Focus turns to cleanup, environmental assessment in Whatcom train derailment

Capital Press
California seeks to block Trump pesticide rule
A pause? As White House changes hands, ag-related lawsuits expected to change course

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Everett officer says son was behind controversial tweets
Bust nets 247 pounds of meth, golden gun and blind rapper
County allots $13.2 million to early 2021 pandemic response
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Congressman Rick Larsen tests positive for COVID-19
Editorial: Govenor’s menu of taxes looks appetizing

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
In praise of Douglas-fir — the northwest’s original Christmas tree, and so much more
Fired Bremerton public works employee accused of kidnapping, threatening wife
A ‘precarious plateau’: COVID-19 slows heading into Christmas, but health officials urge caution
Trump pardons former campaign chairman Paul Manafort along with Charles Kushner, other allies
First vaccines plunge into arms of Kitsap’s Navy medical community
Multiple sewage spills prompt no-contact advisory for Dyes Inlet, Port Washington Narrows and Liberty Bay
Heavy rains and leaking pipe cause Brownsville Highway washout

News Tribune (subscription required)
Where will Santa be? NORAD will track him and his reindeer despite COVID-19 challenges
More than 300 new COVID-19 cases reported Wednesday in Pierce County
Editorial: Tacomans with disabilities are isolated by COVID, shortchanged by local government
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state

New York Times
Britain and E.U. Reach Landmark Deal on Brexit
Frontline Workers and People Over 74 Should Get Shots Next, C.D.C. Panel Says
Answering Trump, Democrats Try and Fail to Jam $2,000 Payments Through House

Olympian (subscription required)
CenturyLink, WA state regulators at odds over huge fine for 911 outage in 2018
Tyson reports $285M loss. Cattle group says Eastern WA ranch may be to blame
Inslee extends eviction moratorium through March 31
Thurston County adds 55 new COVID-19 cases Wednesday
COVID-19 vaccinations begin next week at long-term care facilities in Washington state
Thurston County unemployment rose to 6.3 percent in November

Puget Sound Business Journal
Seattle hospitals begin administering Pfizer, Moderna vaccines to staff
Health care advances prompted by the pandemic may stick around, expert says
Boeing accelerates 787 shift to South Carolina; last Everett Dreamliner rolls out in February
Data analysis: Olympia businesses’ PPP loan success was a team effort
Millions of small businesses on deck for simplified PPP loan forgiveness
‘PPP fatigue’ means some lenders will opt out of a second round of loans
There’s a way Biden can raise more from the rich without higher taxes

Seattle Times (subscription required)
During protests, Seattle officers didn’t violate policy by wearing black bands on badges or keeping cameras off, review finds

USA Today
$2,000 stimulus checks in limbo as Congress unable to agree on COVID relief payments
The federal eviction moratorium expires in January. It could leave 40 million Americans homeless.
Operation Warp Speed is living up to its name, but COVID-19 immunizations are going ‘slower’ than expected, officials say

Yakima Herald Republic
Thanksgiving leads to spike in hospitalizations, new COVID-19 cases in Yakima
Train derails after collision with semi-truck near Mabton
Company loans ultra-cold freezers to Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic for COVID vaccine

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington expected to get more than 101,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine next week
Republicans block $2,000 COVID-19 checks despite Trump demand
Washington eviction ban extended again through March 2021
Environmental impact limited following oil spill from derailed train in Whatcom County

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Gov. Inslee extends state’s eviction moratorium
New health secretary says state can’t relax in effort to stop COVID-19
City, county government waiting in limbo after Trump doesn’t sign COVID relief bill
First flight from U.K. lands at Sea Tac Airport after reported mutated COVID-19 strain
Seattle expands COVID-19 testing capacity ahead of Christmas
Kitsap jail inmate who died was improperly subdued, investigation finds
Oil train derailed near site of earlier terrorist attempt, officials say

KUOW FM
Photos: remembering the people in Seattle who died in 2020 while experiencing houselessness
‘All Is Not Calm’: Congress Scrambles After Trump Blasts COVID-19 Relief Package
Is carrying crude oil by rail worth the risk? This expert says no
Shock And Dismay After Trump Pardons Blackwater Guards Who Killed 14 Iraqi Civilians
Trump Vetoes Defense Bill, Setting Up Congressional Vote To Potentially Override Him

Q13 TV (Fox)
Eviction moratorium extended through March in Washington
State expects roughly 70,000 fewer COVID-19 vaccines this month
Cause of oil train derailment, fire remains under investigation
Families and businesses affected by pandemic await second round of stimulus checks
Millions of Americans receiving unemployment aid could face surprise tax bill

Web

Crosscut
WA youth in the state’s care endure rain, cold for holiday visits
The top stories readers helped us tell in 2020

Slog
Washington’s COVID-19 Numbers Are About to Drop—But Only If You Don’t Fuck It Up!!
Cal Anderson Re-Opens… with Ping Pong Tables?

Wednesday, December 23

Local, state, federal agencies will investigate oil train derailment in Whatcom County
An oil train fire in Custer was out as of 9:30 a.m. Wednesday morning, Dec. 23, after seven tank cars derailed Tuesday afternoon, Dec. 22, and nearby residents were evacuated. Local, state and federal agencies were just beginning the investigation and it was too early to discuss a cause, said Whatcom County Sheriff Bill Elfo. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Elaine Thompson/AP)

Trump urges $2,000 checks — and Pelosi says ‘Lets do it!’ What about other lawmakers?
President Donald Trump urged Congress to approve $2,000 stimulus checks in the next coronavirus relief deal, calling the legislation just passed by both the U.S. House and Senate a “disgrace.” Now some leading lawmakers, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, are voicing support for Trump’s push for higher payments. Continue reading at SourceName. (Evan Vucci/AP)

Dozens Of Women Allege Unwanted Surgeries And Medical Abuse In ICE Custody
One former detainee says she was already in a hospital gown this past July waiting to be wheeled into surgery, when she began to suspect something was very wrong. Jaromy Floriano Navarro thought she was getting an operation to remove a cyst on her ovary — until the driver who brought her to the hospital said otherwise. “She was just like, you know you’re having a hysterectomy, right?” Floriano tells NPR in an interview. “And I was in shock, because I knew what that meant.” Continue reading at KUOW. (TK)