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Tuesday, December 22

‘A recipe for disaster’: As Olympia becomes the site of political clashes, officials voice concern for the Capitol and the city
The demonstrations have become meaner. The taunts between opposing sides nastier. The number of weapons has multiplied. And the firearms traditionally brought to the Capitol for symbolism are now being pointed and fired to settle scores between political opponents. With triggers pulled this month at two different political clashes — wounding at least one person — Olympia has become one of the latest emblems of America’s frayed social fabric. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Bettina Hansen/The Seattle Times)

Thurston prosecutors decline to charge Bellingham man accused of shooting at protest near Capitol
Thurston County prosecutors have declined to charge a 25-year-old Bellingham man accused of shooting another man during a clash between protesters Dec. 12 near the Capitol Campus in Olympia. Supporters of President Donald Trump and counter-protesters dressed in black, a look commonly associated with anti-fascists, clashed that afternoon. During the fighting, one person suffered a gunshot wound and three people were arrested. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Martin Bilbao/The Olympian)

Protesters clash with police, smash glass doors, disrupt lawmakers on ‘unnerving’ day at Oregon State Capitol in Salem
A special session of the state Legislature was disrupted Monday by protesters opposed to policies designed to slow the spread of the coronavirus.Protesters broke glass doors at the largely empty Capitol building, tore tarps from the marble reliefs on the front steps and engaged in a brief standoff with Oregon State Police and Salem Police Department officers. Continue reading at USA Today. (Brian Hayes/Statesman Journal)

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Associated Press
Senate investigators fault FAA over Boeing jet, safety
Microsoft announces additional $110M in local COVID relief
Gov. Inslee issues travel restrictions over new virus strain
Judge won’t speed bail hearings at Tacoma immigration lockup
Gov. Inslee delays implementation of plastic bag law
Gov. Jay Inslee announces Western states’ approval of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine
Farm company fined $2 million after 2 workers die of virus
During crucial holiday season, US consumer confidence slumps
Biden picks Connecticut schools chief as education secretary

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Lowland Whatcom sees a few snowflakes on the first day of winter. Here’s where it’s falling
Power out at about 9,000 Whatcom County homes Tuesday morning
Whatcom has 84 new confirmed COVID-19 cases in two days, state says Monday
Riding the ferry in Washington this holiday season brings risks — and these changes
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
New mutation of coronavirus prompts Inslee to issue travel restrictions
Most Americans will get $600 from new stimulus package. Here’s what we know

Capital Press
Washington farm fined $2 million for virus violations
Spotted wing drosophila’s Asian foe found in Washington
New spending bill has provisions for Western water projects
U.S. potato utilization drops 5.2% as foodservice sags
COVID-19 crinkled NW potato industry

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Bothell area subdivision proposal sparks watershed concerns
How has the pandemic changed life? Look in your garbage
Logan is PUD board president again, but it wasn’t unanimous
No one injured in small mudslide Monday on Whidbey Island
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: What happens when ‘the curve’ can’t be flattened
Audit: Inadequate control enabled state unemployment scam (Sells)
Editorial: State CEOs backing reforms against racial inequity
Editorial: Enough with rabble-rousing allegations of a coup

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Navy shipbuilding plan calls for bolstered fleet; retiring USS Nimitz, USS Ohio
Lawmakers reach ‘bipartisan breakthrough,’ announce $900 billion COVID-19 relief deal, will vote Monday
New COVID-19 cases plummet in Washington state

News Tribune (subscription required)
Pierce council to consider tax increase to fund behavioral health services, revamp Medicaid
‘Broad and systemic’ troubles at City Hall, survey finds; mayor singled out
Donations for Pierce County Toys for Tots are low this year due to COVID-19
Pierce County starts week with more than 100 new COVID-19 cases, three new deaths

New York Times
Live Updates: Stimulus Payments May Start Arriving as Soon as Next Week
Public Schools Face Funding ‘Death Spiral’ as Enrollment Drops
The Antitrust Case Against Big Tech, Shaped by Tech Industry Exiles
How Cities Lost Control of Police Discipline

Olympian (subscription required)
Hohohobos spread Christmas’ cheer — and share its wealth
Coronavirus updates: Washington state total cases pass 225K; Inslee issues travel restrictions
JBLM soldier charged in ‘drifting’ incident that left two women dead at car meetup
More stimulus money is on its way to Washington. Here are the answers to your questions
Thurston prosecutors decline to charge Bellingham man accused of shooting at protest near Capitol
Inslee orders travelers from Great Britain and South Africa to quarantine
New Washington Secretary of Health steps into post as COVID-19 cases remain high

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Long-term care center in Clallam reports 9 cases

Puget Sound Business Journal
Congress rushes to pass huge coronavirus relief bill
Inslee mandates quarantine for travelers arriving from countries with new Covid strain
Bezos contributes another $25M to statewide Covid relief efforts
Some big-name Seattle real estate companies approved for PPP loans
Seattle school district prepares to bring youngest students back to the classroom by March
Congress nears deal on new PPP loans. Here’s who would qualify, for how much, and what the rules would be.
Regence teams with health tech startup to provide primary care in rural communities
New stimulus deal includes $15B for entertainment venues, museums and zoos
The Covid-19 vaccine is here, but many won’t get it for months

Seattle Times (subscription required)
‘A recipe for disaster’: As Olympia becomes the site of political clashes, officials voice concern for the Capitol and the city (Hunt, Kuderer)
Moderna vaccine arrives in Seattle, with more coming later this week
Washington farm company fined $2 million after 2 workers die of COVID-19
Sound Transit cancels Sounder north line train service after Snohomish County landslide
Gov. Inslee orders quarantine on arrivals from nations with outbreak of the COVID mutation
Solemn vigil for those who died without shelter

Seattle Weekly
Who should foot the bill for pandemic-era power?

Skagit Valley Herald
COVID-19 vaccinations begin in Skagit County
Whale watching rules to take effect in new year
Sheriff’s Office warns of new scam

South Seattle Emerald
A guide to Seattle’s new lobbying rules

Spokesman Review
Difference Makers: Twa-le Abrahamson-Swan is a ‘modern-day warrior’ who has coordinated wildfire, pandemic relief on reservations
Washington’s Lottery opens first retail store in the state in NorthTown Mall
As Congress approves new pandemic relief package, Eastern Washington applauds – but many hope for more (Riccelli)
Inslee announces travel restrictions to South Africa, U.K. as new COVID-19 strain spreads quickly

Tri-City Herald
4 more Tri-Citians die of COVID. December already has almost triple November deaths
WA farm hit with one of largest fines in state history over COVID violations. 2 workers died

USA Today
Congress passes legislation to create Smithsonian museums on Latino and women’s history
More than 3 million people died in 2020 – the deadliest year in US history
Protesters clash with police, smash glass doors, disrupt lawmakers on ‘unnerving’ day at Oregon State Capitol in Salem
Politics updates: Donald Trump expected to sign coronavirus stimulus bill

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Local businesses join to feed families in need in Walla Walla on Tuesday evening
Walla Walla County sees more COVID-19 cases over the weekend
Whitman College and WWU students tutor Walla Walla High School freshmen and seniors
Bail set for David L. Mills of Walla Walla arrested in College Place drug bust
Local groups help keep their public libraries thriving

Washington Post
What will the new stimulus package mean for the nearly 50 million food-insecure Americans?
Are they cutting in line to prove the vaccine is safe — or to save themselves?
Hundreds of thousands of families spend holidays with an empty seat at the table

Yakima Herald Republic
Q & A: What you need to know about Yakima County COVID-19 case investigations, contact tracing and rapid results
Yakima County reports 387 new COVID-19 cases Sunday into Monday; 51 people hospitalized
Lt. governor announces new CWU program counting experience toward bachelor’s degree
‘This is not something I would wish on anybody’: Congressman Dan Newhouse opens up about his bout with COVID-19

Broadcast

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Gov. Inslee issues travel restrictions over new virus strain
Winter arrives in western Washington with a bang
Could you pay less for insurance, under a proposal to ban using credit scores to calculate premiums?
Frontline essential workers to be vaccinated next, including teachers
Former soldier claims rape and retaliation at JBLM
2 Muslim men accuse Alaska Airlines of violating civil rights for texting in Arabic

KNKX FM
Housing Connector, a new tool, launches to tackle homelessness — then contends with a pandemic
Victoria, B.C.’s ‘perfect flush’ won’t be flowing into Northwest waters anymore

KUOW FM
Inslee tightens WA travel restrictions following new coronavirus strain revelations in U.K., South Africa
‘The best Christmas present.’ Seattle Senior living community gets Covid-19 vaccine
Seattle businesses, non-profits hope for some of that federal stimulus money
How the Cal Anderson sweep went down — and why it’s so contentious
Air Force Investigation Finds Black Members Face Racial Disparity In Service
Low Demand For Antibody Drugs Against COVID-19
House Passes $900 Billion Coronavirus Relief Bill, Ending Months-Long Stalemate
Seattle City Light disconnects software implicated in massive government hack, says it wasn’t compromised

Web

Crosscut
Black clergy call for unity in fight for Seattle police accountability
Survey: What WA issues should Crosscut cover in 2021?
Three writers on the hard lessons of 2020
Opinion: 2020 was the year (almost) none of us were OK
Opinion: 2020 was the year of empathy fatigue

MyNorthwest
Despite Puget Sound draped in clouds, rare ‘Great Conjunction’ was still visible across the globe
New WA program plans to help curb conflict after eviction moratorium
Gov. Inslee announces travel restrictions on arrivals from UK, South Africa
How to see the Christmas star in Seattle (Spoiler: it’s too cloudy)
Bans on open carry at protests, high capacity mags top WA gun safety group’s agenda in 2021
West Seattle group launches campaign for gondolas as alternative to light rail
Gov. Inslee: New COVID relief package ‘can only be considered a down-payment’
COVID-19 updates: New aid bill ‘failed to address many aspects of virus,’ says Mayor Durkan

Slog
Flights from London, the Hotspot for a New COVID-19 Strain, Could Still Arrive at Sea-Tac

Monday, December 21

Congress seals agreement on $900 billion COVID relief bill
Top Capitol Hill negotiators sealed a deal Sunday on a $900 billion COVID-19 economic relief package, finally delivering long-overdue help to businesses and individuals and providing money to deliver vaccines to a nation eager for them. The agreement, announced by congressional leaders, would establish a temporary $300 per week supplemental jobless benefit and a $600 direct stimulus payment to most Americans, along with a new round of subsidies for hard-hit businesses and money for schools, health care providers and renters facing eviction. Continue reading at Tacoma News Tribune. (Susan Walsh/AP)

COVID-19 ripped through communities east of the Cascades, killing people at twice the rate of Western Washington
For months, McKay Healthcare & Rehab staff kept its elderly residents safe from COVID-19. But in late October, the virus slipped into the center’s 8-decade-old building. By mid-December, 15 of the 31 residents had died from the disease. In the struggle to fight the virus, some staff members worked 24-hour shifts to cover for co-workers who tested positive and had to stay home. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Amanda Snyder/The Seattle Times)

Riccelli joins Inslee to support funding and restructuring public health systems
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues putting stress on public health, Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday a legislative package that boosts funding and support for public health systems statewide. The proposals include creating a new fund to improve public health programs in the long term, as well as restructuring local public health jurisdictions. Continue reading at The Spokesman-Review. (Ted S. Warren)

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Associated Press
EU greenlights COVID-19 vaccine after agency gives safety OK
AG: ‘No reason’ for special counsel on election, Biden’s son
Congress seals agreement on $900 billion COVID relief bill
Seattle scales back bridge earthquake retrofit work
Audit: Control inadequate at Employment Security to prevent fraud
Pacific County COVID rates falling after November spike, but still high

Aberdeen Daily World
Cosi mill announces plans to be fully operational by February
Historical Seaport seeks help to keep ‘Lady Washington’ afloat
Public Health reports four new COVID deaths
Letter: Thank you, Gov. Inslee

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Slowing down the speeders? It’s easy to do, whenever we’re truly ready
Here’s how badly Canadian border closure has hit Whatcom tourism
Washington state reports 2,332 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday
CDC wants people to stay home for the holidays. Here’s what’s expected in Whatcom County
Whatcom County, B.C. have no border for snow. Here’s when we might share some
Whatcom sees 24 confirmed COVID-19 cases on Saturday

Capital Press
Washington native crowned agriculture advocate
Farms weather uncertain financial times during pandemic

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Lawmakers reach ‘bipartisan breakthrough,’ announce $900 billion COVID-19 relief deal, will vote Monday
Hospital workers receive first doses of coronavirus vaccine in Kitsap
Handle With Care initiative supports students in crisis
Former Poulsbo police chief hired to run city’s parks and rec department
His health failing, Bremerton grad casts emotional electoral vote for Joe Biden

News Tribune (subscription required)
Cases rise to 738 in Gig Harbor with 2 more deaths; one new death on Key Peninsula
Pierce County reports 187 new COVID-19 cases
Puyallup Food Bank selects new CEO. He’s likely a familiar face to city residents
Becoming a teacher has always been difficult in WA. Remote learning makes it tougher
COVID-19 sends McMenamins to the brink. Company pleads for easing of dining restrictions
Sumner’s $30 million bridge project would improve traffic and White River’s current
Editorial: Tacoma’s Wilson High School needs a new, non-racist name. This choice is perfect
Op-Ed: I’m part of the top 3-percent earners – so tax me higher, says Pierce County resident
Ex-safety manager sues MultiCare, alleges wrongful termination for reporting hazards

New York Times
Live Updates: Congress Races to Finalize Stimulus Deal
Stimulus Deal Provides Economic Relief, for Now
Covid-19 Live Updates: New Variant Causes Alarm Around the World
Health Care Workers Still Face Daunting Shortages of Masks and Other P.P.E.
Biden Introduces His Climate Team

Olympian (subscription required)
Coronavirus updates: Pierce County reports 187 new cases, state no longer reporting on Sundays
It’s a deal. More unemployment payments, stimulus checks could be headed to Washington soon
Thurston County reports 41 COVID-19 cases on Sunday
COVID-19 to climate change. PNNL delivered science and technology during challenging 2020
Thurston commissioners allow asphalt recycling, expand opportunity for mining
Nisqually River stretch protected by land trust’s $1.2 million purchase
Providence gives first caregivers Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine Friday
The Seahawks are perfect against COVID, but the Huskies got crushed — what happened?
Port of Olympia struggles to find strategy for homeless response
Presidential search at Evergreen picks up steam after board approves 2 key items

Peninsula Daily News
Crescent’s strategy has kids in classrooms
Peninsula inmate cases seen only in Clallam County jail
Health officer discusses vaccine prioritization
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
COVID-19 infection rates dipping on North Olympic Peninsula
Law enforcement, inmates split on vaccine
OMC nurse gets Clallam County’s first vaccine shot
Thanksgiving precautions paid off, say Peninsula health officers
EYE ON CLALLAM: Quillayute Valley School Board to hear virus report
EYE ON JEFFERSON: County considers tax for affordable housing

Seattle Times (subscription required)
As he lobs fraud claims, losing Republican candidate Loren Culp’s own campaign spending draws questions
Essential trips only on Washington State Ferries this holiday season, WSDOT asks
Seattle police break up ‘antifa soccer’ game, arrest 7 at Cal Anderson Park
Gov. Jay Inslee announces Western states’ approval of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine
COVID-19 ripped through communities east of the Cascades, killing people at twice the rate of Western Washington
COVID-19 added new element of risk to the Grant County agriculture season
Opinion: It’s time for a national dialogue on reparations

Skagit Valley Herald
Mental Health: Progress being made on new treatment facility
Mental Health: Pandemic has had wide-ranging effects
Mental Health: Law enforcement finds another approach
Businesses are making indoor air safer to reduce COVID-19 risk

South Seattle Emerald
As pandemic drags on, parents cope with mental health challenges
In My Own Words: Justice for Herbert Hightower Jr.
Weekend Reads: An equitable future for Washington
Study indicates stark need for a South King County paradigm shift on multilingual education

Spokesman Review
‘Building a winning team’: New NAACP president hopes to grow community partnerships
When COVID-19 doesn’t go away: Some survivors experience symptoms months after infection
Study: Depleted wolf packs unlikely to welcome immigrants
Inland Northwest health workers started getting COVID-19 shots last week. What’s next?
Additional 276 COVID-19 cases reported in Spokane County on Sunday; second round of vaccines on the way
Riccelli joins Inslee to support funding and restructuring public health systems (Robinson, Riccelli)

Tri-City Herald
WA state pays former Tri-City woman record $2M foster care sex abuse settlement
Kennewick 25-year-old was trying to find his way in life before he died in a police car
Here’s why 3 health care workers said yes to getting first COVID vaccinations in Tri-Cities
What WA state’s new school guidelines mean for Tri-Cities schools
2nd Tri-Cities area girl dies from COVID. Deaths now total 219
Hanford reportedly a target of Russian hackers in nationwide infiltration of federal agencies
Nursing homes being hit hard by post-Thanksgiving COVID infections
Kadlec gets nearly 2,000 COVID vaccines this week. None for Trios, Lourdes workers yet
Kagen Coffee & Crepes temporarily closes during latest COVID restrictions
COVID-19 sparks rapid mask and ventilator adaptor design using 3D printers
Washington Gov. Inslee rolls out $57.6 billion budget plan that includes capital gains tax
Editorial: ‘We need answers.’ It’s great we have a COVID vaccine, but who’s calling the shots?

USA Today
COVID-19 relief package: $600 stimulus checks, $300 bonus for federal unemployment benefits in new deal
Some Americans aren’t in a rush to get a COVID-19 vaccine; experts understand but say there’s no need to wait
Millions of Americans unemployed because of COVID-19 are still waiting on unemployment money

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla area students consumed in nationwide struggle with grades
Blue Zones Project launches in Walla Walla Valley
Joshua Hartwell pleads guilty to lesser crimes in Pioneer Park bird attack
City of Walla Walla launches virtual open house for Park Street infrastructure project
Walla Walla physician takes job as county’s public health officer, helping set policy for 61,000 residents
Walla Walla Public Schools to reassess COVID-19 numbers two weeks after winter break
Pandemic claims lives of four more in Umatilla, Walla Walla counties
County, state data shows surge of COVID-19 cases among Washington State Penitentiary inmates
Walla Walla County reports 25 new COVID-19 cases Wednesday; no new deaths

Washington Post
Mnuchin says new stimulus payments could go out next week as Congress readies relief bill vote
NIH launching study on rare allergic reactions to coronavirus vaccine
Here’s what we know about the new European coronavirus mutation
A Black VMI cadet was threatened with a lynching, then with expulsion
The inside story of how Trump’s denial, mismanagement and magical thinking led to the pandemic’s dark winter

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington doctor says COVID-19 vaccine safety data is ‘encouraging’
US Postal Service delays make big impact on western Washington small businesses
People over 75, essential workers next in line for COVID-19 vaccine
Washington hospitals ready to receive more doses of COVID-19 vaccine

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine on way to Washington
Agreement on $900B COVID-19 relief package reached with leaner $600 direct payments
Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine cleared for use by the Western States Scientific Review Workgroup
Fast-moving new strain of coronavirus in UK raising fears
Air travel expected to surge for holiday despite health warnings
7 arrested after disturbance in Cal Anderson Park
Gov. Inslee delays implementation of plastic bag law
Youth sports advocates’ message to governor: ‘Let them play’
COVID-19 sends McMenamins to the brink. Company pleads for easing of dining restrictions
Former student sues Seattle schools over sexual assault
UW to host Tent City 3 again
Tacoma Public Schools to bring back some students for in-person instruction in mid-January
Judge won’t speed bail hearings at Tacoma immigration lockup
Public Health on vaccine rollout: ‘anticipate delays, unanticipated challenges, snafus at every stage’
Restaurant workers push back against calls for reopening indoor dining
New state audit of $600 million unemployment fraud
Senate Report: Boeing, FAA manipulated 737 Max tests

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Wash. state to receive 176,000 more COVID vaccine doses this week
City crews continue cleaning Cal Anderson Park after illegal homeless camp sweep
Tacoma Public School students begin return to in-person learning next month

KNKX FM
‘The whole idea of a government safety net is like a sham’: Renters frustrated by lack of help
Frustration, questions over the order in which Swedish employees got vaccinated
COVID-19 caused UW to miss Pac-12 championship, forgo bowl bid

KUOW FM
Ballard P-Patch will live on, thanks to an Amazon donation
Here Is What’s In Congress’ COVID-19 Relief Package
Congress Poised To Simplify FAFSA, And Help People In Prison Go To College
Virginia Removes Its Robert E. Lee Statue From U.S. Capitol
A rural tribe tried to keep Covid at bay, but a last hurrah seeded an outbreak
Officials report low Covid-19 cases at Northwest Detention Center. But others say transparency is lacking

Q13 TV (Fox)
The Divide: Pathway out of a pandemic
Brandi Kruse: Don’t be mad at KOMO for showing the sad state of Seattle
Judge won’t speed bail hearings at Tacoma immigration lockup

Web

Civic Skunkworks
The Blueprint for Rebuilding Washington State

Crosscut
How COVID reshaped Seattle, season by season
Top stories of 2020 in Washington state
What you should know about WA Gov. Jay Inslee’s 2021 budget plan

MyNorthwest
Gov. Inslee: New COVID relief package ‘can only be considered a down-payment’
COVID-19 updates: Vaccine may need to address new strain of virus in future
Seattle police arrest 7 people at Cal Anderson Park
‘Potential for at least some snow’ Monday in Puget Sound region
Western States Scientific Safety Review Workgroup approves Moderna COVID-19 vaccine
Restaurant workers ask Governor Inslee for health, financial protections
Audit finds internal controls at ESD weren’t strong enough to prevent fraud
Arrow crashes through rear window of Washington driver’s car on road
Over 1,000 high-risk health care workers in Washington get vaccine

Slog
A Very Brief History of the Seattle Police Department’s Greatest Hits
SPD Arrests Over 20 in Cal Anderson Sweep

West Seattle Blog
RESEARCH REVEALED: UW vessel Rachel Carson’s work off Alki Point could help predict earthquakes

December 18, 2020

Gov. Inslee proposes capital gains tax, tax on health insurers to offset pandemic revenue losses
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee is proposing a new capital gains tax and a tax on health insurers as part of his two-year, $57.6 billion budget proposal that seeks to offset the revenue losses the state has seen during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and to help bolster the state’s public health system. Continue reading at Q13 Fox News. (Office of Jay Inslee)

Inslee targets natural gas, proposes cap and trade
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee proposed Tuesday capping factory emissions, mandating green transportation fuels and banning oil and natural gas heat from new houses by 2030 and all homes by 2050. Continue reading at Capital Press. (TVW)

State superintendent supports school reopening guidelines
Reykdal says younger children are proving more likely to follow coronavirus rules, which is one of the reasons they should come back first. Those rules include wearing masks at all times, maintaining six feet of physical distance whenever possible, improved ventilation, and increased cleaning. Continue reading at MyNorthwest. (Billy Calzada/The San Antonio Express-News via AP)

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Associated Press
Dozens of states, including ours, file lawsuit against Google
COVID-19 cases top 200 at Western State Hospital amid layoffs
Planned sweep of Seattle homeless camp postponed
Inslee: Washington COVID vaccine allocation will be cut
Vaccines reach COVID-ravaged Indigenous communities
COVID-19 cases top 200 at hospital as layoffs announced
Inslee proposes capital gains tax, tax on health insurers
High court rules challenge to Trump census plan is premature
California: More than 1,000 virus deaths in last 5 days
2nd COVID-19 vaccine set for OK in US with panel endorsement
First time in decades, chinook salmon spawn in upper Columbia River
WHO: Vaccine program gets access to nearly 2 billion doses
Gov. Inslee proposes capital gains tax, tax on health insurers to offset pandemic revenue losses (Ormsby)
COVID-19 cases top 200 at Washington’s largest psychiatric hospital as layoffs announced

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
No charges filed following Bellingham Police investigation into South Hill homicide
Whatcom’s Lummi Nation one of first U.S. tribes to begin COVID-19 vaccinations
Base Camp deploys rapid COVID tests for admittance into Bellingham homeless shelter
Whatcom sees 66 new confirmed COVID-19 cases on Thursday, 975 vaccine doses, state reports
As COVID vaccination ramps up, state Sen. Ericksen proposes bill to prohibit requiring it

Capital Press
Inslee proposes capital gains tax, $1 billion tax hike
Biden picks EPA administrator, Interior secretary
Inslee targets natural gas, proposes cap and trade
Oregon to phase out most uses of chlorpyrifos by end of 2023
Feds sued for nixing grizzlies in Cascades

Columbian
Clark County reports 115 new COVID-19 cases, two deaths, as hospitalizations surge
Clark County COVID-19 vaccine rollout takes first steps down long, critical road
In Our View: Making PPP loans tax-free should be a priority

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Eyman: I may never qualify another ballot measure again
County’s first shipment of COVID vaccine could arrive Friday
Inslee proposes capital gains tax, tax on health insurers (Robinson, Ormsby, Hobbs)
5,000-6,000 vaccine doses to land in the county this week
Bloomberg: Boeing scraps most 2021 pay raises, gives out stock instead
Governor urges schools to phase in classroom learning
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Editorial: Adopt covid relief with pledge for more to come

Kent Reporter
Orwall gets gavel once more and keeps committee lineup (Orwall)

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Bremerton City Council relaxes restrictions for accessory dwelling units

News Tribune (subscription required)
COVID-19 outbreak among staff, patients at Puyallup hospital. Union files complaint
Coronavirus updates: Outbreak at Puyallup hospital; PLU faces steep budget cuts
County executive joins calls to remove Tacoma Narrows Airport from expansion list
What is a Community Land Trust? And could one help with Tacoma’s homelessness crisis?
Budget hole has Tacoma-area university considering deep faculty, program cuts
Man accused of shaking infant son charged with child assault in Pierce County court
Pierce County’s COVID 14-day averages starting to trend down; five new deaths reported
Editorial: Infamy will stick to two Washington state representatives for backing Trump lawsuit
Editorial: Heroes of averted Health Department takeover? Pierce County residents who spoke out
Over half of Washington counties at highest COVID risk before Christmas, data show

New York Times
Biden Transition Live Updates: Dispute Over Fed’s Powers Complicates Stimulus Negotiations
Justices Put Off Ruling on Trump Plan for Unauthorized Immigrants and Census
Nursing Homes, Ravaged by Covid-19, Start Vaccinating the Most Vulnerable
Some Health Care Workers Are Getting the Vaccine. Others Aren’t. Who Decides?
Why Some States Are Seeing Higher Revenue Than Expected Amid Job Losses
Biden Picks Deb Haaland to Lead Interior Department
Wealthier, Whiter Areas Are More Likely to Get Help After Fires, Data Show

Olympian (subscription required)
Coronavirus updates: Outbreak at Puyallup hospital; PLU faces steep budget cuts
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Thursday in Washington state
Thurston County reports 37 COVID-19 cases on Thursday
Judge blocks release of Reinoehl documents after Thurston Sheriff files lawsuit
Washington Gov. Inslee rolls out $57.6 billion budget plan that includes capital gains tax (Rolfes, Ormsby)
Restaurant hit with restraining order for breaking COVID rules, WA officials say

Peninsula Daily News
‘Jumpstart phase’ of inoculation begins on Peninsula
BC begins treating sewage before releasing it into Strait
In-person learning a top priority for Peninsula school leaders
State Rep. Mike Chapman visits Crescent School (Chapman)
Allotment of Pfizer doses cut

Puget Sound Business Journal
Amazon wants its front-line workers vaccinated next
Microsoft to spend $110M on Covid economic stimulus efforts
FDA advisers back Moderna vaccine
Inslee unveils climate plan that aims to cut emissions
Marine cargo shipping imports surged in November at Puget Sound ports

Runta News
TNC Drivers Will Get Pay Increase Per Mile, Minute, and Cancelled Trips

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Seattle police removing encampment at Cal Anderson Park
Inslee unveils Washington budget proposal with taxes on capital gains and health insurers to fund COVID-19 recovery
Seattle’s pre-K through first graders will return to school in person March 1
Former student files lawsuit against Seattle Public Schools in connection with 2018 sexual assault at Ballard High School
Washington state raises its estimate for number of fraudulent unemployment claims by 41%

Skagit Valley Herald
New small business services to aid entrepreneurs in Skagit, Island counties
COVID-19 vaccine arrives in Skagit County

South Seattle Emerald
A federal judge ruled to fully reinstate DACA, but the fight continues
Ten non-profits receive grants from Port of Seattle’s South King County fund to improve COVID-19 economic recovery
Opinion: The pandemic from the eyes of a prisoner
Opinion: I was a teenage runaway — How I found home in a city park

Spokesman Review
COVID-19 vaccinations begin in Spokane with Sacred Heart transplant doctor
After a legal disagreement, Spokane City Council may take another step against militias
Two Spokane Valley bars reopen in defiance of Inslee’s COVID-19 shutdown order
Washington’s next Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine shipment will be significantly lower than expected, but hope grows for Moderna
‘A moment long in the waiting’: Inland NW tribal leaders hail Haaland’s selection to lead Interior Department
What’s next for schools after Gov. Inslee announcement on Wednesday?
Initial jobless claims for the state drop; number of unemployed remains steady
COVID-19 cases top 200 at Western State Hospital, more layoffs announced
Opinion: Gus Simonds: Making Spokane buildings safe enough for employees and students

Tri-City Herald
Nursing homes being hit hard by post-Thanksgiving COVID infections
Kadlec gets nearly 2,000 COVID vaccines this week. None for Trios, Lourdes workers

USA Today
Politics live updates: Stimulus talks come down to the wire; Pence gets the vaccine
‘We just made history’: Native Americans praise historic choice to have Deb Haaland lead Interior

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla Valley law enforcement officers begin their Christmas deliveries
City of Walla Walla launches virtual open house for Park Street infrastructure project
County, state data shows surge of COVID-19 cases among Washington State Penitentiary inmates

Washington Post
Government funding likely to expire Friday night as Congress tries to complete stimulus deal
Europe is paying less than U.S. for many coronavirus vaccines
Opinion: Why the coronavirus vaccine may not be accessible for the people who need it most
White House aides talked Trump out of last-minute demand for stimulus checks as big as $2,000

Yakima Herald Republic
VFW, military and others place holiday wreaths on veterans’ headstones at Yakima cemetery
Yakima County to seek new interim health officer before finding permanent one
Yakima County reports 347 new COVID-19 cases Thursday, pushing total to more than 18,000
U.S. Marshals deputy receives national award for crime-fighting effort in Yakima area

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Gov. Inslee proposes capital gains tax, tax on health insurers in Washington’s 2021-23 budget
Seattle police begin clearing Cal Anderson Park
Washington lawmaker proposes legislation to prohibit COVID-19 vaccine ‘discrimination’
Seattle school board OKs in-person classes for pre-K through first graders by March
Ready for the second stimulus check? Here’s the potential timeline
Hundreds of Washington health care workers get COVID-19 vaccine in rollout week

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Seattle’s Cal Anderson Park could be swept of tents at any moment
Investigation underway after officer-involved shooting in Auburn
Washington’s COVID-19 vaccine allocation cut by 40%
FDA panel recommends Moderna vaccine for emergency use
Coronavirus live updates: Pence receives COVID-19 vaccine
Wi-Fi signal, no matter what: Redmond using new tech to ensure connectivity in disasters

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Inslee announces 2021-23 budget proposal
Seattle Police begin clearing Cal Anderson Park
Judge orders defiant Olympia restaurant to stop providing indoor dining
Bartell Drugs to pay $800,000 fine for filling invalid prescriptions
Crews clear ‘Pirates of the Columbia’ encampment
‘Poverty is not a crime:’ Protesters not leaving Cal Anderson Park until demands are met
Yakima sees largest ever single day increase in COVID cases

KNKX FM
Some kids have been learning outdoors for months in Whatcom County, but not in Seattle

KUOW FM
Seattle sweeps encampment at Cal Anderson Park
New WA Black Lives Matter Alliance agenda aims for ‘liberation’
Supreme Court Punts In Census Case, Giving Trump A Chance To Alter Numbers
Microsoft Says 40 Customers Hit By Ongoing Hack Of Government Agencies
First Coronavirus Vaccine Doses Administered In Hard Hit Indigenous Communities
Inslee dusts off capital gains tax, proposes new tax on insurance plans to fund public health

Q13 TV (Fox)
‘It was a huge surprise:’ Some Washington teachers react to state’s new push to get kids back in school
Inslee: CDC to cut 40 percent of Washington’s vaccine allocation next week

Web

Crosscut
What you should know about WA Gov. Jay Inslee’s 2021 budget plan
Podcast | From Big Oil to Big Tech: A brief history of antitrust
Dr. Vin Gupta on coronavirus, the vaccine and our path forward

MyNorthwest
Sweep underway Friday at Seattle’s Cal Anderson Park
Investigation underway after officer-involved shooting in Auburn
All Over The Map: Roadside holiday signs live on in Everett
State superintendent supports school reopening guidelines
Swedish critical care providers say they didn’t get vaccine right away
Gov. Inslee renews push for capital gains tax in proposed budget
Pittsburgh homicide suspect captured in Seattle
Giant hornet trap finds potential tool for fighting second invasive pest
King County Elections certifies hand recount for 5th Legislative District seat
UW Medicine doctor explains study suggesting COVID enters the brain

Seattle Medium
Families Of Students With Special Needs Face Many Challenges During COVID (Orwall, Gregerson, Johnson)

Slog
Still No Cal Anderson Sweep, Judge Denies TRO
The State of Live Music Venues from the Perspective of a Service Worker

West Seattle Blog
Some Seattle Public Schools students will return by March 1st, board decides

Thursday, December 17

Some good news: Washington state’s third COVID-19 curve appears to be flattening
Washington state’s current and worst COVID-19 curve might be flattening and the dreaded post-Thanksgiving surge does not appear to be materializing, according to state Department of Health officials. Still, the situation is tenuous despite the first doses of a vaccine for the coronavirus being administered this week in Washington, officials say. Relaxing preventive health safety protocols could re-charge the surge. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (TVW)

Inslee paves way for return to in-person classroom learning
New recommendations provided Wednesday by Gov. Jay Inslee could spark the return of in-person learning in many school districts across Washington. “It is time to begin the process of getting more of our students back into the classroom,” Inslee said during a virtual press conference. Inslee said that the state is lowering the threshold for schools to reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading at The Kitsap Sun. (Ted S. Warren)

Who’s next in line for the COVID-19 vaccine after front line health care workers?
As vaccinations against the virus that causes COVID-19 ramped up across Washington state Wednesday, health authorities still have yet to determine who is next in line for the vaccine. It might be late spring or early summer until everyone in Washington who wants to be vaccinated will be able to receive the shot, said Assistant Health Secretary Michele Roberts during a state media briefing on the pandemic. Continue reading at The Olympian. (AP)

Print

Associated Press
Washington unemployment rate in November was 6%

Aberdeen Daily World
Grays Harbor EMS facing funding crisis
Westport Marina dredging project complete
Op-ed: The mail must go through; USPS should get COVID relief
Commentary: Postal bailout talk shows Washington’s fiscal insanity

Bellingham Herald
Use of covid quarantine facility in Bellingham is at its highest. This is one reason why
Some good news: Washington state’s third COVID-19 curve appears to be flattening
Whatcom County sees 40 new confirmed COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, state reports
COVID infection rates in four Whatcom regions decrease, but another rockets to record level

Columbian
Walk-up, drive-thru COVID-19 testing on the horizon in Clark County

The Daily News
New Wallace Elementary School opens with ribbon cutting, virtual tour

Everett Herald (subscription required)
188 concrete columns: Light rail to Lynnwood is 25% done

The Inlander
COVID-19 sweeps through incarcerated populations in Spokane and Airway Heights
Spokane got a grant for a new young adult shelter, but the mayor doesn’t want it here. What now?

Kitsap Sun
Inslee paves way for return to in-person classroom learning
Barbs fly as Bainbridge Island council appoints city’s first Black council member
CNO, Navy leaders pay Kitsap, region a visit in recent weeks

News Tribune
New fire station near LNG plant on Tacoma Tideflats could sit empty when completed in 2021
First COVID vaccine recipient at Tacoma hospital hopes it brings ‘a little light’ to dark times
Pam Roach — yes, that Pam Roach — narrowly averts public health coup. Now what?

Olympian
Coronavirus updates: Bowling centers offer buildings for vaccine inoculations
Thurston County COVID-19 cases grow by 34 on Wednesday, increasing total to 4,067
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
JBLM begins vaccinating its health care workers against COVID-19
Who’s next in line for the COVID-19 vaccine after front line health care workers?
Revised guidance lowers bar for schools to reopen in Washington state, Inslee announces
Fisher Scones fined for violating teen labor laws

Peninsula Daily News
First vaccination on Peninsula at Jefferson Healthcare
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Unthank: Pandemic straining health department finances (Van de Wege, Tharinger, Chapman)
New virus cases reported

Port Townsend Leader
First COVID-19 vaccination is given in Jefferson County

Puget Sound Business Journal
Deadline set to start planning shutdown of convention center project in Seattle
Durkan extends residential, commercial eviction moratoriums as landlords struggle

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Seattle was the saddest metro area in the nation last month, survey shows
Inslee releases new state standards, urges Washington districts to begin reopening some schools after COVID-19 closures
Seattle police have exceeded overtime budget; City Council will consider additional cut next year
Maker of Fisher Scones cited for more than 1,500 instances of overworking teens
Federal judge considers order to stop tent removal at Cal Anderson Park; city says encampment is a health and safety risk
6 weeks after Election Day, Mark Mullet wins 5th Legislative District race in Washington state (Mullet)
Editorial: Seattle Promise gains ground in higher education

Seattle Weekly
Inslee announces new guidelines for schools and in-person learning

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit Regional Health receives donated freezer for vaccine
Burlington mayor proposes site for year-round homeless shelter
Burlington City Council vote threatens George Hopper project
Skagit Valley College seasons pushed back

South Seattle Emerald
State avoids post-holiday surge, won’t share personal information with federal government in vaccination plan
‘Community defense’ and activists — but not police — fill Cal Anderson as sweep deadline arrives
Opinion: no one should go to court because they can’t afford a transit ticket
Seattle’s Office of Arts & Culture launches cultural PDA to preserve cultural space and strengthen communities of color
Protesters march to SPD South Precinct demanding justice for police killing of Shaun Fuhr
As murder trial delayed a third time, Auburn police officer who shot Jesse Sarey still employed and receiving $100k salary

Spokesman Review
Back to school: Inslee releases guidelines to bring kids back to the classroom
Senate report: Opioid industry has paid advocacy groups $65M
Enrollment decline impacts Spokane Public Schools budget
For the first time in more than 80 years, salmon spawning in the upper Columbia River
Spokane-area gym owners face grim reality of pandemic shutdown
Facing pressure, Woodward now open to young adult homeless shelter in city limits

Tri-City Herald
600 people wanted Tri-Cities public health doctor removed. Here’s how the board responded
4 more Tri-Cities residents lost to COVID. State says new case data lagging
Editorial: Newhouse must repair damage done after backing Trump’s claims of fraud

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Valley vs. The Virus: When COVID-19 got personal for one Walla Walla nurse
Inslee releases new state school reopening standards
Two Walla Walla organizations receive $16 million from MacKenzie Scott

Washington Post
Coronavirus vaccinations have started. But people in Africa face a much longer wait.
Congressional leaders try to clear final hurdles in sprint to finish coronavirus relief package
French President Macron tests positive for the coronavirus after showing symptoms

Yakima Herald Republic
COVID-19 vaccinations begin for Virginia Mason Memorial staff
Yakima School District plans to refinance two decade-old bonds – and may save taxpayers $2.8m
Rodriguez True becomes 1st Latino to serve as Yakima County Superior Court commissioner

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Fisher Scones maker cited for overworking teenagers
2nd Alaska health care worker has adverse reaction after coronavirus vaccine
New guidelines lower the bar for Washington schools to bring students back into classrooms
Judge to rule Thursday on allowing Seattle to clear homeless camp in Cal Anderson Park
COVID-19 vaccine timeline: When western Washington health care workers will get shots
JBLM healthcare workers, soldiers among first in US military to get COVID-19 vaccine

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
COVID-19 vaccinations underway; who’s next?
Gov. Inslee announces new COVID-19 guidelines for in-person learning at schools
FDA authorizes use of at-home COVID-19 test requiring no prescription
WA Pfizer vaccine trial participants share experiences for the first time
City set to sweep Seattle’s Cal Anderson Park, but plan appears to be on hold
CHI Franciscan ramps up COVID-19 vaccinations across hospital system
Move to break up Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department fails on tied vote
Seattle mayor extends Seattle eviction moratorium through March
French president tests positive for COVID-19

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
‘Seattle has lost control:’ Security company owner explains why Cal Anderson sweep failed
Cal Anderson Park resident files suit to block city’s plan to remove encampment
Survey: Tacoma is now the nation’s hottest housing market
Gov. Inslee announces new COVID-19 guidance for in-person learning
State officials preach vigilance as cases, hospitalizations flatten
Issaquah High School closes after two staff members test positive for COVID-19

NW Public Radio
Jay Inslee Urges Washington Schools To Consider Bringing Back More Students
Contaminated Former Orchards In Central Washington One Step Closer To Being Safer
Endangered Species Status Of Northern Spotted Owl Will Remain Unchanged

Q13 TV (Fox)
Governor Inslee loosens guidelines for schools reopening
No post-Thanksgiving COVID-19 surge, signs of flattening curve in Washington
City works to clear large homeless encampment to reopen Seattle’s Cal Anderson Park
People of color express concerns and historical impacts on vaccines

Web

Crosscut
WA unemployment problems persist, with some going unpaid for months
Opinion: 2021 will be a year of sloppy economic thinking in Seattle
Gov. Inslee gives WA schools clearer path to reopening

MyNorthwest
WA Education Association: Safety requirements need to be ‘fully in place’ before in-person return
Gov. Inslee recommends Washington schools begin bringing students back into classrooms
Mayor Durkan extends Seattle eviction moratorium, COVID relief through March 2021
Two eagles shot in Southeastern WA, WDFW seeks perpetrator
Seattle councilmember ‘concerned’ over planned sweep of Cal Anderson Park

Seattle P.I.
Planned sweep of homeless encampment in Cal Anderson Park postponed as protesters gather

West Seattle Blog
School board delays reopening vote, after governor announces new recommendations
City extends eviction moratorium for residences, nonprofits, small businesses, and other pandemic-relief measures

Wednesday, December 16

Meet the first medical professionals to get the COVID-19 vaccine in Washington
On Tuesday, the first people were injected with the coronavirus vaccine in Washington state. In this group of firsts were 13 doctors, nurses, first responders and other healthcare employees. “Hopefully this will be a step towards the end of the pandemic. We’ve all been working really hard and it’s hard to keep your motivation when there’s no end in sight,” said Mikaela Hagberg, a flight nurse with Airlift Northwest. Continue reading at KING5 TV.

Shining a light on the Native vote with data
Native voters have long been overlooked by political parties, but November’s presidential election put them in the spotlight — in some cases, they had the power to help swing a state. Reservation communities got a surge of attention in Arizona, for example, where many credit Navajo Nation voters for providing the edge needed to turn the typically red state blue. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Elaine Thompson)

Inslee unveils climate proposals ahead of full budget plan
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee on Tuesday announced several climate related proposals for the next legislative session, including fully reinstating a plan to cap carbon pollution in the state. “We can fight climate change and we can create good paying jobs by transitioning to a cleaner energy economy,” Inslee said at a news conference announcing his plan. “We know these actions are required now. We cannot kick this can down the road anymore.” Continue reading at KNKX. (Ted S. Warren)