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Wednesday, March 17

Washington expands COVID-19 vaccine eligibility on Wednesday
More critical workers in Washington are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine starting Wednesday, March 17. That group includes employees in certain congregate settings, such as grocery stores, agriculture, corrections, transit and law enforcement. People age 16 years and older who are pregnant or have a disability that puts them at high risk will also be included in this phase. Continue reading at KING 5 News.

January unemployment rate in Washington drops to 6%
Washington’s unemployment rate dropped to 6% in January, down from December’s 7.1% rate, state officials announced Tuesday. The Employment Security Department said that in addition to the drop in the overall jobless rate, the state added 4,400 jobs in January. The national unemployment rate decreased from 6.7% in December to 6.3% in January. February’s unemployment rate will be released on March 24.
Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Washington state projected to get $3.2 billion more in taxes as economy brightens amid COVID-19 recovery
Washington’s state tax collections are roaring back, with an estimated additional $3.2 billion projected through 2023 as parts of the economy brighten and people get vaccinated amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Ken Lambert)

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Associated Press
Washington state extends COVID-19 vaccination eligibility
White supremacist propaganda surged in 2020, report says
Washington justices weigh towing of vehicles of homeless
January unemployment rate in Washington drops to 6%
Washington state, Canada try to kill Asian giant hornets
Amazon jumps into health care with telemedicine initiative
$7.8 million needed to fix Seattle drawbridges, transportation officials say
Washington state, Canada teaming up to try to kill Asian giant hornets

Aberdeen Daily World
Washington state’s only Native American lawmaker cuts a path in Olympia (Lekanoff)
Aberdeen requesting $50 million in state transportation budget funds for rail separation project
Engineering report paints bleak picture of future of Shoppes at Riverside
How they voted in Olympia last week (Van De Wege, Tharinger, Chapman)
Commentary: Trump made it easier to export U.S. guns. Biden must reverse these dangerous policies

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
COVID-19 infection rates shrink by more than 48% in three Whatcom County regions
Here’s when to sign up for Saturday’s COVID vaccinations at Bellingham Technical College
Experiencing side effects from a COVID vaccine? CDC wants to hear from you

Capital Press
Environmental groups oppose Simpson’s dam removal plan

Columbian
Clark County COVID-19 activity rate drops below 100 cases per 100K population
In Our View: Transparent government is good government

The Daily News
Grocery workers, others in congregate settings eligible for COVID-19 vaccines Wednesday

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Health Officials Announce Opening of Mass Vaccination Site in Yakima
Everett Herald (subscription required)
Cornfield Report: A revenue jackpot; Democrats lukewarm to Inslee school order (Jinkins)
50,000 more in county are eligible for vaccine in Phase 1B2
Sheriff Fortney breaks his silence on failed recall attempt
Where does Everett need accessible curb ramps and sidewalks?
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: Payday loans don’t need more rules; just a new lender
Editorial: Purdue, family should see no profit from OxyContin

International Examiner
Community leaders denounce anti-Asian attacks — and call for community-driven solutions
Coronavirus in Kitsap: Meal delivery programs wind down after a year of helping restaurants, frontline workers

News Tribune (subscription required)
Is it time for Tacoma’s ‘cartoonish’ totem pole to get the heave-ho from Fireman’s Park?
‘Mr. Steilacoom’ has stepped down. Longtime mayor worked hard for his town, region
Need a ride on Sundays? Pierce Transit might have just the bus for you starting soon
Editorial: Cone of silence around new Gig Harbor fire chief must be lifted. Transparency matters

New York Times
New E.P.A. Head Says Agency Has Climate Regulations Underway
Opinion: One Year Later, We Still Have No Plan to Prevent the Next Pandemic

Olympian (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Thurston adds 9 COVID-19 cases, expects more vaccine doses
WA National Guard troops qualify for COVID vaccine but only 40% have taken it. Why?

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Utility rate hikes proposed
Health officers discuss school cases
Grants provide economic relief

Puget Sound Business Journal
Mariners to welcome fans back to the ballpark, but things will be a bit different
Report: Only 20% of Seattle renters could afford monthly mortgage payment

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Seattle’s drawbridges need millions of dollars in maintenance
Seattle leaders pledge increased protections for Asian Americans after Georgia shootings
Washington Supreme Court considers case that could impact whether cities can tow cars people live in
‘Steps to the toilet and coffee machine’: Are we working from home, or living at work?
Washington state projected to get $3.2 billion more in taxes as economy brightens amid COVID-19 recovery

Skagit Valley Herald
High school sports, speedway get a boost under Phase 3
Mount Vernon High School mariachi performers participate in Latino Legislative Day (Lovelett, Lekanoff, Ramel)
Large vaccine shipments continue to arrive in Skagit County

South Seattle Emerald
Opinion: Racism runs rampant in Renton
Report shows racial wealth divide growing in Seattle, forum will explore solutions
Durkan extends eviction moratorium as local, state leaders consider further protections
Photo Essay: Hundreds gather to protest recent rise in anti-Asian violence
Honoring the legacy and love of our Black trans women and trans women of color

Spokesman Review
How the legacy of nuclear testing in the Marshall Islands still affects Spokane’s Marshallese community
Should the city of Spokane launch a COVID-19 clinic for its employees?
State completes audit of disputed herd; records show no discrepancies at Easterday operation
More Washington residents eligible for coronavirus vaccine starting Wednesday
Lower Snake River dam-breaching proposal a ‘nonstarter’ for more than a dozen regional environmental groups

Tri-City Herald
This dangerous Highway 12 intersection in Pasco will change under WA state plan
Tri-Cities couple arrested for DUI within an hour of each other
COVID case numbers must drop in part of Tri-Cities to stay in Phase 3 reopening
Tri-Citians join thousands of restaurant workers in plea for COVID vaccine priority

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla, Umatilla, Columbia counties report 10 new COVID-19 cases
College Place School Board names Eva Brown newest member
Big upgrades underway at Walla Walla High School

Yakima Herald Republic
New variant of COVID-19 found in Yakima County; health district encourages extra vigilance
Mass COVID-19 vaccination site at fairgrounds to open for business
Washington state extends COVID-19 vaccination eligibility
Transportation officials say $7.8M needed to fix drawbridge
Amazon jumps into health care with telemedicine initiative

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington expands COVID-19 vaccine eligibility on Wednesday
Seattle nonprofit Mary’s Place helps unhoused families get stimulus checks
Amazon jumps into health care with telemedicine initiative
What you need to know about COVID-19 vaccines in Washington Wednesday

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Debate emerging over whether Washington should open vaccines to all adults
Seattle Public Schools, teachers union reach agreement to get kids back in the classroom
Multiple Seattle churches targeted with anti-Asian hate speech
3 Washington Planned Parenthood clinics close due to low Medicaid rates
Homeless Seattle man who had his truck towed gets case heard by WA Supreme Court

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
‘Survival of the fastest:’ Getting COVID-19 vaccine appointment to be more difficult
24 workers test positive for COVID-19 at Covington Walmart
Washington state set to move into next tier of COVID-19 vaccine rollout
Seattle Public Schools, teachers’ union reach deal to get some students back on campus
$7.8 million needed to fix Seattle drawbridges, transportation officials say
Ethnic studies graduation requirement gaining support in Washington

KNKX FM
Legislative update: Capital gains, getting kids back in school, state’s economy and more

KUOW FM
Seattle Schools may reopen March 29 after tentative agreement with teachers union
‘Why aren’t we on the list?’ restaurant industry asks as others access vaccine
Pandemic blog: Updates for the Northwest
Biden Says U.S. May Miss Deadline For Withdrawing Troops From Afghanistan
Deaths Of Migrant Children Haunt Former Official As Border Surge Increases
Olympia bill would remove voting rights barriers for former felons (Simmons)

KXLY (ABC)
Mayor Woodward to give annual State of the City address Wednesday
‘Let’s imagine a clean slate’: Community members show support for downtown stadium during forum

NW Public Radio
Couples And Families Separated By U.S.-Canada Border Closure Find Oasis At Peace Arch Park
Agriculture Agencies In Washington, British Columbia Work Together On Trapping Giant Hornets

Q13 TV (Fox)
Grocery employees among high-risk critical workers now eligible for Covid vaccine
Seattle schools, teachers union reach tentative agreement for in-person learning return date
Washington state, Canada teaming up to try to kill Asian giant hornets

Web

Crosscut
Despite vaccines, WA health care workers struggle with burnout
Opinion: A Seattle tenant’s struggle to pay rent
Opinion: Why Washington state needs public broadband
Far-right GOP state senators form their own caucus in Olympia (Nguyen, Pedersen)

MyNorthwest
Seattle venture capitalist: Wealthy residents ‘can still afford that yacht’ with capital gains tax
Washington justices weigh towing of vehicles of homeless
Seattle Public Schools reaches tentative agreement with teachers’ union for return to school
Seattle partners with state to reduce speed limit on portions of state routes
Where you can (and can’t) see tulips, cherry blossoms in Washington
Former Council President Bruce Harrell announces campaign for Seattle mayor
Popular neighborhood business allowed to stay open after Seattle council loosens land use rules
WA high court says no automatic life without parole for 18-20 year-olds
CDC recommends you do not travel for spring break to limit COVID spread

Slog
New Data Analysis Exposes Wide Racial Disparities in Drug Possession Convictions Across Washington

Tuesday, March 16

20 long-term care facilities in Washington could close over the next 18 months
Around 1,600 long-term care facilities are expected to close across the country over the next 18 months. At least 20 of those closures will be in Washington state, unless there is a drastic change. Continue reading at KING 5 News.

Opinion: Is this the year Washington state starts a public bank?
It’s a high-stakes year in the Washington state Legislature. If you’ve been reading the news, you’ve probably heard about proposals to provide pandemic relief, tax the rich, protect tenants from mass eviction and more. But some transformative bills have been flying mostly under the radar. One of them, Senate Bill 5188, could create a Washington state public bank. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Jovelle Tamayo)

Durkan extends Seattle eviction moratorium 3 more months
The moratorium, which prevents the eviction of residential, nonprofit and some small business tenants, was set to expire on March 31. The three-month extension comes as the city prepares to spend $23 million in federal rental assistance, Durkan’s office said in a news release. Additional funding will become available following the passage of the American Rescue Plan, signed by President Joe Biden last week. Continue reading at Puget Sound Business Journal. (Anthony Bolante | PSBJ)

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Associated Press
Washington state, Canada try to kill Asian giant hornets
‘Monumental day’: Indian Country reacts to Deb Haaland vote
Major European nations suspend use of AstraZeneca vaccine
Voter outreach led to big drop in rejected mail ballots

Aberdeen Daily World
As State Parks celebrates past, local campgrounds figure in future
AHS students back in classrooms starting Thursday
Op-ed: Point: Regulate social media business models to mitigate harmful speech
Op-ed: Counterpoint: Control over online speech should be in the hands of users, not the government

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
Washington gas prices surged 36 cents in the past month, AAA says. Will it continue?
Canadian PM says U.S.-Canadian border will reopen ‘eventually, but not for today’
These 30,000 Whatcom County residents will be eligible for COVID-19 vaccines this week
Snowbuster, Plowser and…Jim? Washington officials want your help naming a snowplow
Tracking your $1,400 stimulus check? Here’s what ‘Payment Status Not Available’ means
Is it seasonal allergies — or COVID? How you can tell based on these common symptoms
When will you get your $1,400 stimulus check? IRS’s ‘Get My Payment’ tool is now live
Your $1,400 stimulus check could be taken by private debt collectors before you see it

Capital Press
Man pleads guilty in $12M grass seed fraud schemes
Washington high court takes case against state logging
Tribal leader appointed to NW Power and Conservation Council

Columbian
Clark County records 105 new COVID-19 cases, two new deaths since Friday

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
South African variant of COVID-19 detected in Yakima County
YVC receives more than $ 300,000 to support undocumented students
Agricultural workers, grocery store workers will be able to get vaccinated from March 17

Everett Herald (subscription required)
$2,000 MPHS scholarship memorializes a teen suicide victim
Inslee signs order to get students back in classrooms
Snohomish recycling project sees community-wide support
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: Citizen housing panel charts Edmonds’ housing future
Comment: Online harassment of women reporters chillingly real

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Planned Parenthood shutters 3 clinics, including the only one in Mason County

News Tribune (subscription required)
Union to protest lack of COVID-19 safety at two MultiCare clinics this week
Registration opens Tuesday morning for mass COVID vaccine event in Puyallup this week
Tacoma Public Schools superintendent announces plans to retire

New York Times
Covid-19 Live Updates: Worries Over AstraZeneca Doses Upend Europe’s Vaccine Drive
The Financial Crisis the World Forgot
How Amazon Crushes Unions

Northwest Asian Weekly
Seattle leaders speak out against anti-Asian crimes
Fryer grease plays a role in Clean Fuel Standard

Olympian (subscription required)
Thurston County ends week with 124 COVID-19 cases
Canadian PM says U.S.-Canadian border will reopen ‘eventually, but not for today’
22-year-old found dead in river after high-speed police chase, Washington cops say
Thurston judge sentences man accused of assaulting, threatening reporters during protest
Washington gas prices surged 36 cents in the past month, AAA says. Will it continue?
Some banks won’t process $1,400 stimulus checks until Wednesday. Why the delay?
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state

Peninsula Daily News
Grants provide economic relief
Sequim to host community talks on race, equity, inclusion
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Vaccination clinic set for Chimacum High School

Puget Sound Business Journal
Alaska Airlines recalls more than 400 pilots as it readies for travel surge
Durkan extends Seattle eviction moratorium 3 more months
Rep. DelBene’s data privacy bill would force changes to tech company practices
Restaurant groups petition Inslee to make industry workers eligible for vaccines
Analyst: Boeing faces tough choices as it decides what to develop next
Opinion: Women are having a growing impact on philanthropy
Opinion: Washington’s students are losing in this power struggle

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Washington ethnic studies graduation requirement gains support from Board of Education
People in Seattle area are spending much more on groceries since COVID-19 pandemic began
A bill that would allow the use of home kitchens to prepare food for sale advances to Washington state Senate (Frame)
A Seattle-area sober housing company promised respite from homelessness. Tenants found chaos.
Seattle demonstration decries ‘cowardly’ violence against Asian Americans, elders
Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan extends eviction moratorium; City Council delays vote on providing lawyers for those facing eviction
Opinion: Specialized, unarmed 911 response teams can best help people in crisis
Editorial: Step out of pandemic with hope, vigilance

Seattle Medium
State Board of Education Adopts Emergency Waiver Program For Class Of 2021
City of Seattle Provides Johnson & Johnson Vaccine To 1,000 Educators And Childcare Providers

Skagit Valley Herald
Pushing Past the Pandemic: School boards resuming in-person meetings
Burlington City Council delays homeless shelter vote

The Skanner
Judge Called on To Resign After Comments About Black Man

Spokesman Review
Spokane County’s median home price soars to record $325,000 in February
Vaccine appointments available at Spokane Arena; case counts plateau statewide
Spokane expected to draw $10 million from reserves to fund new police contract
Spokane City Council considers formal acknowledgment of Native American land
State lawmakers have long called for dedicated wildfire funding; this could be the year it happens
Digital art display on Spokane’s Black Lives Matter mural promotes COVID-19 awareness

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla Elks to break ground for new lodge
Woman arrested after officer stop wrong-way vehicle in Walla Walla

Yakima Herald Republic
Children’s bookshelves are filling with more diverse characters, Yakima librarians, booksellers say
Washington state, Canada try to kill Asian giant hornets
Thoughts on the massive wind and solar farm? Benton County wants to hear them
Health district launches behavioral health app for Yakima County residents

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
City, business leaders call loss of nearly 200 Seattle Police Department officers a crisis
Home-based businesses have more freedom to operate under new Seattle rules
Hospitality workers petition for COVID-19 vaccine eligibility in Washington
20 long-term care facilities in Washington could close over the next 18 months
Washington hospitals report dramatic increase in children’s mental health-related visits
Puget Sound rallies call for stop to anti-Asian hate crimes
What you need to know about COVID-19 vaccines in Washington Tuesday

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Multiple Seattle churches targeted with anti-Asian hate speech
Seattle superintendent: ‘I’m pretty confident we’re going to do what the governor says’
Mayor Durkan extends Seattle eviction moratorium through June 30
Burien restaurants challenge food truck program amid COVID-19 losses
Dick’s Drive-In president responds to report of health violations
Space Needle sues insurer for $160 million

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Undercover video sheds new light on motives, tactics of Seattle protest group
Dick’s Drive-In: 5 claims alleging health, COVID-19 violations were without merit
North Seattle church targeted again with anti-Asian hate speech graffiti
Voter outreach led to big drop in rejected mail ballots

KNKX FM
In ‘historic moment’ for tribes, U.S. Senate to vote on first Native American Interior secretary
Finding a vaccine is getting easier, but it can still be a ‘shark tank’ for older people

KUOW FM
There’s light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, but many still feeling anxious
Pandemic blog: Updates for the Northwest
What It Would Take For Biden To Revive The Iran Deal
Seattle won’t fund eviction lawyers just yet, as council delays vote
CDC Looks At Whether 3 Feet — Instead Of 6 — Is Safe For Schools’ Social Distancing

KXLY (ABC)
Could Daylight Saving Time become permanent? The answer is complicated (Riccelli)

NW Public Radio
Cascade Snowpack More Vulnerable To Climate Change Than Inland Neighbors, Study Suggests
Deb Haaland Confirmed As U.S. Interior Secretary, First Native American In Any Cabinet Post

Q13 TV (Fox)
Racist message targets Seattle church as rallies supporting Asian-Americans continue
‘The data and science are clear’: State says mental health crisis behind directive to reopen schools
How Biden’s ‘American Rescue Plan’ will impact Washingtonians
Judge sentences man accused of threatening reporters on Capitol Campus
Southwestern Washington judge called on to resign after comments about Black man killed by police

Web

Crosscut
WA is reopening but many essential workers aren’t vaccinated yet
Opinion: Is this the year Washington state starts a public bank? (Chopp, Kuderer, Hasegawa)

West Seattle Blog
City extending eviction moratoriums, ending suspension of 72-hour parking limit

Monday, March 15

Reopening schools, reviving a drug law and debating taxes
Gov. Jay Inslee continues to ratchet up the pressure on teachers to get back into classrooms. He intends this week to issue a legally enforceable emergency proclamation requiring school districts to offer at least two days a week of in-person instruction in every grade by no later than April 19. Continue reading at The Everett Herald.

Here’s what Washington state’s new Phase 3 of its COVID reopening plan means for you
Having a hard time keeping up with what is and isn’t allowed under the current phase of pandemic reopening? Here are the basics of Phase 3, which affects the entire state of Washington as of March 22, 2021. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (TVW)

To have all adults eligible for vaccine by May, Washington needs increased supply
In order to accomplish that goal in Washington state, Gov. Jay Inslee said the federal government “will need to come through with increased doses and infrastructure.” Continue reading at MyNorthwest. (David Ryder/Getty Images)

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Associated Press
Seattle mass vaccination site aims for 22,000 shots per day
Governors applaud Biden’s vaccine timeline, but need supply
Stocks mixed as investors eye bond market
Automakers embrace electric vehicles. But what about buyers?
AG wants additional $2.8M in legal fees from Tim Eyman
Measure allowing overtime for farmworkers moves forward (Keiser)
What to do if you are a victim of unemployment fraud

Aberdeen Daily World
More than 25,000 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been given in Grays Harbor County
CCAP non-profit plays a central role downtown
Dropping possession cases pulls rug from under drug court
Cosi Elementary students are back in school
Commentary: Syringe exchange is one aspect in giving users a chance

Auburn Reporter
COVID-19 forced many adustments to Auburn’s budget
Editorial: Restore voting rights to those who served time
The right to vote helps rehumanize incarcerated people | Guest column

Bainbridge Island Review
Attendance continues to be a concern at BISD
Despite statistics, some still hesitate to get COVID-19 immunization
Schools survey BI about equity
Opinion: Distrust media? Then make up your own mind

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Here are the bills on homelessness that are still alive in the state legislature (Peterson, Ryu, Nguyen, Ormsby, Lovelett)
What’s the on-ramp speed limit and when does it kick in? Here’s a reasonable interpretation
Whatcom sees 31 new confirmed COVID cases Saturday
A year into COVID pandemic, Whatcom health director expecting a ‘long tail of recovery’
Most restaurant workers in Washington probably aren’t vaccinated. Here’s why
State parks to reopen group campgrounds. Reservations open March 18
Whatcom sees 24 new confirmed COVID cases Friday, as area schools report new incidents
Whatcom County waits for COVID-19 vaccine availability to catch up with its capacity
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Saturday in Washington state
Governments delay access to public records during pandemic
Watch: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee on COVID-19, school reopening Friday (March 12)
Here’s what Washington state’s new Phase 3 of its COVID reopening plan means for you
Schools required to offer both in-person and online learning to all students by April
Rare sighting of whale in Washington river caught on video. ‘You don’t ever see this’
Some banks won’t process $1,400 stimulus checks until Wednesday. Why the delay?
When will you get your $1,400 stimulus check? IRS’s ‘Get My Payment’ tool is now live
‘We’re not in the end zone yet’ on COVID pandemic in US, Fauci warns

Capital Press
Washington farm groups seek ‘seasonality’ in OT bill
H-2A employers critique farm labor bill

Columbian
COVID-19 even affects apples: Washington farm exports crimped by cargo-container shortage
In Our View: Congress should OK daylight saving time bill
Cheers & Jeers: Vaccine progress; virus still risk

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Reopening schools, reviving a drug law and debating taxes
Businesses and the homeless at odds over Everett ordinance
Snohomish County’s tourism workers feel hopeful, wary in 2021
Governor: All schools statewide must reopen by end of April
A new neighborhood park in Everett will take shape in April
Where does Everett need accessible curb ramps and sidewalks?
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Boeing’s Future of Flight at Paine Field reopens — for 2nd time
Voters may have a say in 1,500-acre Lake Stevens annexation
New plan earmarks millions of dollars for pre-K programs
Comment: Covid scolding is exhausting; and it isn’t helping
Comment: Biden spoke without swagger but with pride in nation
Opinion: Rep. Lovick helped clear up problem with unemployment (Lovick)
Editorial: Lawmakers must choose path on a price on carbon

International Examiner
ICHS begins administering Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Washington state COVID-19 cases holding steady, up in Kitsap
Officials grapple with questions raised by court voiding state’s drug possession law (Simmons)

News Tribune (subscription required)
With eviction crisis looming, Pierce County tenants and landlords urged to talk it out
Pierce County dam operator sued for third time after turf released in Puyallup River
You can finally visit these two Tacoma libraries in person starting Tuesday
Puyallup School District’s COVID-19 cases increase as more kids return to the classroom
Tacoma sues over planned wastewater treatment requirements that could cost $1 billion
Editorial: Politicians playing favorites with Washington state wine industry leaves sour taste
Editorial: Police dog Maverick retires. Could he be among last of his kind in Washington state? (Johnson)
Op-Ed: Earlier release of serious criminals? Washington state shouldn’t go through with this
Op-Ed: Birds tell us to take climate action now. Washington state leaders hear their call

New York Times
Covid-19 Live Updates: Europe Confronts a Third Wave of Infections
For Voting Rights Advocates, a ‘Once in a Generation Moment’ Looms
How the U.S. Got It (Mostly) Right in the Economy’s Rescue

Olympian (subscription required)
Here are the bills on homelessness that are still alive in the state legislature (Peterson, Ryu, Nguyen, Ormsny, Lovelett)
Here’s how Inslee’s schools order affects hybrid learning options in Thurston County
Where should Lacey get its water as it grows? City Council weighs options
Here’s what Washington state’s new Phase 3 of its COVID reopening plan means for you
Thurston County adds 17 COVID-19 cases, weekly total appears set to remain low
When will you get your $1,400 stimulus check? IRS’s ‘Get My Payment’ tool is now live

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Weekend clinic vaccinates about 500
State’s only Native American lawmaker clears her own path (Lekanoff)
Washington State parks to start reopening later this month
Peninsula virus cases hit plateau
Op-Ed: To save family farms like mine, pass capital gains as emergency measure
Op-Ed: Legislature: Support Trust Land Transfer for state forests

Puget Sound Business Journal
Boeing nears $1.7B deal for P-8 military jets with Germany
Former ESD boss only makes veiled reference to agency’s crisis in resignation letter (Berry)
Inslee orders Washington K-12 students back to school
Opinion: The latest death care option is also the greenest
Opinion: Washington, Oregon contained Covid outbreaks better than most — but here’s the flipside
Opinion: After a year with Covid-19, the fight is far from over

Runta News
BUSINESS Taxi, For Hire, and TNC Drivers Finally Get Vaccine As Soon As Next Week

Seattle Times (subscription required)
With the Washington Legislature halfway through its session, here’s where policing bills stand (Johnson, Pedersen, Entenman, Nobles, Nguyen, Dhingra)
Opinion: In ‘infodemic,’ TVW to the rescue covering Washington state government
Editorial: Olympia’s forecast for transparency is partly cloudy
Opinion: Retroactive back pay threatens small farms and farmworkers
Editorial: Strike deal for infrastructure, environment and jobs (Hobbs, Fey, Saldaña, Carlyle)

Skagit Valley Herald
Bill that would phase in overtime pay for agricultural workers moves forward (Lovelett)
Skagit County’s COVID-19 testing site closes as emphasis shifts to vaccinations

The Skanner
Lawmakers in Olympia on Verge of Major Policing Overhaul (Pedersen, Johnson)

South Seattle Emerald
Ground-breaking police accountability bills pass the House, await Senate consideration (Johnson)
Governor Inslee orders all students to have option of in-class instruction by April 19
Highline Black and Native speaker series provides opportunities for ‘rewriting history’
Weekend Long Reads: Life without parole
Homebound elders will be able to be vaccinated in their own homes

Spokesman Review
Spokane City Council considers formal acknowledgment of Native American land
Legislation to address child care shortages statewide moves forward as funding questions remains (Senn)
With bipartisan support in Congress for permanent daylight saving time, could this weekend’s time change be the last?
Gonzaga earns NCAA Tournament’s top overall seed, opens Saturday against Appalachian State or Norfolk State
Opinion: Spin Control: If capital gains tax fails, how about one for clichés, pharma jargon or robo-calls?

Tri-City Herald
Thoughts on the massive wind and solar farm? Benton County wants to hear them
Where did Kennewick’s 3 Southridge horse sculptures disappear to?
Exclusive look: Richland’s newest luxury apartments come with a view
Chokeholds, neck restraints may be banned in WA. How often do Tri-Cities police use them?
Growing Pasco neighborhood soon will have a place to play
These Romanian men skimmed $100,000 from Tri-Cities bank accounts

Vancouver Business Journal
Inslee announces statewide move to Phase 3 of recovery plan
PeaceHealth Family Birth Center named to list of nation’s best

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Athena-Weston schools promote superintendent from within district
Multi-car crash north of Milton-Freewater shuts down Highway 11
Marcus Whitman statue in D.C. may be relocated to Walla Walla
Walla Walla vaccine clinics expand eligibility in light of Gov. Jay Inslee’s announcement
Handful of coronavirus cases cap off low week in Walla Walla, Umatilla counties

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima restaurateurs cautiously optimistic with fed loans and eased restrictions in sight
White Swan-based Black Lodge Singers celebrate another Grammy nomination
The Growth Gap: Childcare struggles during extraordinary times
Toilet paper gifts, Zoom poetry and getting sober: Pandemic stories from our readers
Central Washington Works: When it’s time for change

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington student advocacy group pushes for full return to in-person learning
Rallies in King County call attention to attacks on Asian Americans during pandemic
13 arrested for property damage, assault after destructive march in Seattle
What to do if you are a victim of unemployment fraud
Bothell-based TV and internet provider to pay $900,00 after charging customers hidden fees
New Kirkland Community Court aims to help nonviolent offenders avoid incarceration

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Everett could ban homeless street camps through ‘no sit, no lie’ ordinance
New push to vaccinate educators against coronavirus
Police arrest 13 during demonstration that turned destructive
AG wants additional $2.8M in legal fees from Tim Eyman
Seattle opens mass vaccination site at Lumen Field Event Center
Health officials concerned about post-spring break surge in COVID-19 cases
Encampment to be cleared in Bellingham
Weekend COVID-19 vaccination clinic held for Snohomish School District employees
Families of Black males killed by police want sheriff out
Gov. Inslee will sign emergency proclamation that schools must offer remote, in-person learning options
Tacoma sues over planned wastewater treatment requirements that could cost $1 billion
Extra doses of COVID-19 vaccine given out at end of day
WSU no longer requiring SAT and ACT for admission

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Sea-Tac expecting pandemic record number of travelers for Spring Break holiday
1,000 educators, child care providers receive Johnson & Johnson vaccine at Seattle clinic
Mariners, Sounders allowing limited fans at games after Washington moves to Phase 3

KNKX FM
The doctor who helps save doctors found herself in greater demand during the pandemic
Inslee says he will require schools to offer some in-person instruction in April
You still have to spring forward this weekend despite state votes to ditch the switch

KUOW FM
PHOTOS: Mass vaccinations begin at Seattle’s Lumen Field
In this ‘city of abundance,’ everyday Seattleites deliver donations to unhoused communities
Pandemic updates for the Northwest
More U.S. Travelers Are Flying Again Despite COVID-19 Risks
DHS Directs FEMA To Help With Surge Of Migrant Children At Southern Border
Is it really time to roll back gathering restrictions? Some experts are optimistic about WA moving to Phase 3
‘Now is the time.’ Gov. Inslee orders Washington schools to reopen by April 19

KXLY (ABC)
Here’s how to schedule a COVID vaccine appointment at the Spokane Arena
Eastern WA school leaders see difference in students learning remotely versus in person
Inslee to sign emergency proclamation requiring schools to offer increased in-person learning opportunities

Q13 TV (Fox)
Pending stimulus check? Here’s when your money could be released
‘Preparing for hope’: Seattle’s Lumen Field opens as largest civilian-led mass vaccination site in US
Families of Black males killed by police call for resignation of King County sheriff
The Divide: Dems debate capital gains tax (Mullet, Nguyen)
Marysville adopts law on drug possession after high court ruling
Local families on financial brink say latest stimulus checks couldn’t come fast enough

Web

Crosscut
Planned Parenthood closes 3 clinics in WA, citing low Medicaid rates (Macri, Cody, Rolfes)
Gov. Inslee tells WA school districts to reopen classrooms

MyNorthwest
Has Washington finally done its last ‘spring forward’? Lawmakers are hoping so
Kitsap Peninsula, Hood Canal wake up to early morning snow
Group works to ensure Seattle’s homeless get stimulus payment ‘lifeline’
Hundreds gather at Seattle park to protest attacks on Asian Americans
King County health officer: Variants, vaccine, behaviors will determine course of virus
Educational groups react to Inslee’s in-person learning proclamation
To have all adults eligible for vaccine by May, Washington needs increased supply
With Phase 3 on the way, Washington nightclubs remain in holding pattern
Gov. Inslee issues proclamation requiring schools to offer in-person classes with hybrid model
WA Rep. Smith proposes bill to divert funds to unarmed 911 response efforts
Group sues Washington state, pair of counties over drug possession cases

Slog
Why Did These Five Republicans Vote to Keep Native American Sports Team Names Without Tribal Consultation? (Lekanoff)
Workers File Health and Safety Complaints Against Dick’s Drive-In
Today the Seattle City Council Will Decide Whether Tenants Facing Eviction Deserve Attorneys (Kuderer)

Friday, March 12

Biden: All adults will be eligible to be vaccinated on May 1
One year after the nation was brought to a near-standstill by the coronavirus, President Joe Biden pledged in his first prime-time address to make all adults eligible for vaccines by May 1 and raised the possibility of beginning to “mark our independence from this virus” by the Fourth of July. He offered Americans fresh hope and appealed anew for their help. Continue reading at Everett Herald. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Lawmakers in Olympia on verge of major policing overhaul
The bills include measures limiting the use of tactics like neck restraints and creating an independent office to investigate police use of deadly force. Officers would be required to intervene if they see a colleague using excessive force and to exercise reasonable care in deciding to use force — a standard designed to require de-escalation tactics and to take into account whether someone is having a mental-health crisis. Continue reading at Bellingham Herald. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File)

WA state Supreme Court prohibits mandatory life without parole for young adults
The Washington State Supreme Court found mandatory sentences of life without parole unconstitutional for young adults and ordered two Pierce County men to be resentenced in a split ruling Thursday. Continue reading at Bellingham Herald. (GETTY IMAGES/CREATAS RF)

Print

Associated Press
Biden: All adults will be eligible to be vaccinated on May 1
Washington state parks to start reopening later this month
Court overturns automatic life sentences for young killers
Limited number of fans to soon return to Washington stadiums
Lawmakers in Olympia on verge of major policing overhaul (Pedersen, Johnson)
First case of Brazil COVID-19 variant found in Washington
The Latest: WH: Will direct states to allow shots for May 1
President Biden sets May 1 target to have all adults vaccine-eligible
Biden aims for quicker shots, ‘independence from this virus’

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Lummi Chairman: ‘This virus knows no borders, and we are blessed to be able to share vaccines‘
With federal stimulus money coming, what will this mean for Whatcom retailers?
Watch: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee announces Phase 3 of COVID-19 reopening (March 11)
WA state Supreme Court prohibits mandatory life without parole for young adults
State parks to reopen group campgrounds. Reservations open March 18
State will enter Phase 3 March 22, professional sports to welcome fans
WA health officials wary of fourth COVID wave as state races to distribute vaccines
Answers for the fully vaccinated confused by new CDC COVID guidance
When’s the earliest you could get that $1,400 stimulus check — and who’s eligible?
Coronavirus weekly need-to-know: Leftover shots, COVID pill, restaurant dining & more
President Biden on economy: ‘We’re in a national emergency…we need to act like it’

Capital Press
Shipping congestion hurts agricultural exporters

Columbian
$145 million in stimulus funds heading to Southwest Washington
Camas High School COVID-19 case count grows
In-person classes canceled at Camas High after COVID spreads at party
Forbes ranks Vancouver as second-best place in U.S. to visit during pandemic
In Our View: State’s economy depends on trade relations

The Daily News
In the bag: Kelso music students get special PPE to play instruments in-person

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
State Senate Passes Bill That Would Eliminate Overtime Exemption For Farm Workers
One year after the pandemic, Yakima has a “stronger” public health system
Op-Ed: Rural populations in Washington need more health care

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Drug possession is illegal again, so far only in Marysville
Moving to Phase 3: Fans in stadiums and more indoor dining
New plan earmarks millions of dollars for pre-K programs
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Cornfield Report: A bundle of billions and an imbalance of power (Ortiz-Self, Frame)
Comment: During covid, TVW has been a window into government

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Inslee announces Phase 3 of Healthy Washington plan
Lawmakers in Olympia on the verge of a major policing overhaul (Pederson, Johnson)

News Tribune (subscription required)
More than 100 new COVID-19 cases reported Thursday in Pierce County
Shipbuilder to reopen Tacoma facility, bringing 75 jobs for maritime workers
Registration opens Friday for University Place COVID vaccination event
Ex-warship Kitty Hawk could produce ‘an odor’ as it is cleaned in WA state, Navy says
Peninsula district names list of candidates to succeed retiring superintendent Art Jarvis

New York Times
Live Updates: Biden Sets High Expectations for an American Recovery
L.G.B.T.Q. People Face Increased Risks From Covid, but Many Don’t Want the Vaccine
The Virus Spread Where Restaurants Reopened or Mask Mandates Were Absent
Seattle’s Virus Success Shows What Could Have Been
Need Health Insurance? A Guide to New Options Under the Stimulus.

Olympian (subscription required)
State will enter Phase 3 March 22, professional sports to welcome fans
Thurston County reports 1 COVID-19 death, 12 more cases on Thursday
WA health officials wary of fourth COVID wave as state races to distribute vaccines
New homeless census provides an incomplete snapshot of Thurston County’s unhoused
WA state Supreme Court prohibits mandatory life without parole for young adults
State parks to reopen group campgrounds. Reservations open March 18
Mariners given approval for 9,000 fans to return to T-Mobile Park

Peninsula Daily News
Online Farm & Food Finder aims to feed Peninsula

Port Townsend Leader
All counties moving to Phase 3 | 2021 Legislative Session

Puget Sound Business Journal
Washington state will soon move to Phase 3 of Inslee’s reopening plan
Seattle’s nuanced (and somewhat perilous) status as a tech hub
SDOT looking for contractor for West Seattle Bridge repairs
Here’s what the new Covid economic relief package means for Seattle-area businesses

Seattle Times (subscription required)
FAQ Friday: New federal guidelines for those fully vaccinated against COVID-19
COVID-19 vaccine side effects hit some recipients hard; that’s not all bad. Here’s what to do about them.
Opinion: Trudi Inslee: It’s time to safely reopen our schools
It’s daylight saving time again: How long do we have to keep switching the clock back and forth? (Riccelli)
Inslee loosens Washington COVID-19 restrictions; pro sports can host fans, restaurants can serve more customers
Washington state parks to start reopening in March

Seattle Medium
Inslee Announces Statewide Move To Phase 3 Of COVID Recovery Plan
State Board of Education Adopts Emergency Waiver Program For Class Of 2021

Skagit Valley Herald
PUD approves major water project
Governor to loosen restrictions when state moves into Phase 3 on March 22
Sedro-Woolley draft ADA Transition Plan released for review
MJB Properties moving forward on plans to develop Anacortes waterfront property

The Skanner
Washington Again Ranked #1 State in National Report

South Seattle Emerald
Larger capacities for indoor and outdoor spaces allowed as Washington moves to Phase 3
Local leaders respond to anti-Asian violence, rallies planned this weekend
Opinion: Bill may end decades of human rights violations at immigration detention center

Spokesman Review
Here’s how Democrats’ $15-an-hour minimum wage proposal could impact the Inland Northwest
Washington to receive billions of dollars from federal stimulus package for schools, child care, local governments
Spokane City Council on electric cars: if you buy them, charging stations will follow
Feds say nursing homes ‘should allow’ indoor visits, but residents in Washington, Idaho will have to wait
Some Eastern Washington school districts want relaxed social distancing standards
District moves ahead with potential North Central mascot change
Inslee: All counties in Washington to move to Phase 3 starting March 22

Tri-City Herald
‘Asking for hope.’ 4 children beg Tri-Cities judge for mercy for their mom’s killer
WA health officials wary of fourth COVID wave as state races to distribute vaccines
More Tri-Cities essential workers, pregnant women eligible for COVID vaccine Wednesday
Tri-Cities driver jailed for DUI after hitting bicyclist with truck in Kennewick
Scammers trying new tricks. 2 Tri-Citians fooled into sending $18,000 and $10,000

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Gov. Jay Inslee announces Phase 3 — major changes for Walla Walla, Columbia counties
Walla Walla driver’s license office remains closed, causing difficulty for many
No new COVID-19 cases again reported in Walla Walla County

Yakima Herald Republic
‘I just wish I could have been there holding her hand:’ Losing a mother to COVID-19
Gov. Inslee: all counties in Washington state will go to phase three, including Yakima
Washington State Patrol releases list of active cases of missing Indigenous people
First case of Brazil COVID-19 variant found in Washington
“It’s not a sin:” Yakima’s Catholic bishop gets COVID-19 vaccine, encourages everyone to do the same
Agriculture, grocery workers move up on vaccine timeline to March 17 in Washington state

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Private investment firm orders 24 Boeing 737 MAX planes
Bellevue parents rally to reopen more schools
All Washington counties moving to Phase 3 of reopening on March 22
Washington public transit workers eligible for COVID-19 vaccine on March 17
President Biden sets May 1 target to have all adults vaccine-eligible
How Washington’s COVID-19 vaccination numbers compare to other states
Student loan forgiveness now tax-free because of COVID-19 stimulus bill

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
State to enter phase 3 of reopening plan; people in tier 2 eligible for vaccines, Mariners to welcome fans
Wave customers could soon see a credit on their bill, as AG continues “honest fees initiative”
Seattle Police use genealogy website to make arrest in 23-year-old cold case
COVID-19 variant first discovered in Brazil detected in King County
Biden signs $1.9T COVID-19 relief bill, with $1,400 stimulus checks, into law
Bill to take credit scoring out of insurance rates dies in the Senate (Das)
Despite WA Supreme Court ruling, Marysville police will still arrest drug offenders

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
COVID-19: All Washington counties to move to Phase 3, 50% capacity allowed indoors
Governor Inslee hints at loosening visitation guidelines at Washington nursing homes
‘It’s exhausting.’ A year of distance learning wears thin
Biden aims for quicker shots, ‘independence from this virus’
Homeless advocates in Seattle feud over approach in their outreach efforts
COVID-19 pandemic one year later
Two local women help teen honor COVID victims with WA state memorial quilt

KNKX FM
Inslee announces plan to move all WA counties to Phase 3 starting March 22
Biden Sets Goal Of July 4th To ‘Mark Independence’ From Coronavirus

KUOW FM
All Washington state counties will move to phase 3 of reopening on March 22, Gov. Inslee says
One year since Seattle schools closed, here are some hurdles to reopening
Pandemic updates for the Northwest
We still spring forward this weekend despite votes to ditch daylight saving time (Riccelli)
Children Spend Days In Crude Facilities As U.S. Border Resources Overwhelmed Again
Indoor Visits With Nursing Home Residents OK, New CDC Guidance Says

KXLY (ABC)
More fans to be allowed at high school, youth sports in Phase 3
Biden will direct states to open vaccinations to all adults by May 1
Washington essential workers moved up in vaccine rollout

NW Public Radio
Sorry, Northwesterners. You Still Have To ‘Spring Forward’ This Weekend Despite State Votes To Stop (Riccelli)
Jay Inslee Announces Plan To Move All Washington Counties To Phase 3 Starting March 22
President Biden Sets Goal Of July 4th To ‘Mark Independence’ From Coronavirus

Q13 TV (Fox)
All counties in Washington advancing to Phase 3; Mariners can welcome fans on opening day
Tenants, property owners seek legislative edge before evictions resume (Macri)
Mariners now allowing 9,000 fans at T-Mobile Park for games starting April 1
Washington state parks to start reopening later this month
Seattle businesses celebrate moving into Phase 3 with some planning to hire back staff
Local families on financial brink say latest stimulus checks couldn’t come fast enough

Web

Civic Skunkworks
Let’s Debunk the Lies About a New Plan to Invest in Washington State

Crosscut
Court’s drug possession ruling upends WA’s criminal justice system (Mullet)
Washington climate activists disagree about how to cut carbon (Lekanoff, Shewmake, Carlyle, Lovelett)
Trial judges must reject campaign money from police in Washington
Diversity at U.S. medical schools has barely improved in 40 years
Mariners games soon? Gov. Inslee lifts some WA pandemic restrictions

MyNorthwest
Washington state to move to Phase 3, reopening of sports under new metrics
Most local ski resorts extend season into April
WA Rep. Larsen: COVID relief package isn’t perfect, but it’s still necessary
Washington health officials: ‘We’re moving into a new era of this pandemic’
Tacoma unveils plan to do away with ‘single-family’ zoning label, reimagine housing options

Slog
Washington Will Move to Phase 3 on March 22, Loosening Restrictions on Indoor and Outdoor Activities
Biden: All Adults Must Be Eligible for Vaccine by May 1
Alex Pedersen Doesn’t Like the Bill that Helps the Small Business You Started in Your Garage
The Senate Must Not Weaken Just Cause Eviction Protections Any More than the House Already Has (Kuderer, Paul, Chapman, Rule, Peterson, Macri)

Thursday, March 11

State House passes bill to expand tax exemption for working families
The Washington state House of Representatives on Tuesday approved a bill that would expand the state’s Working Families Tax Exemption. If it were to become law in its current form, the proposal also would ensure the exemption is available to eligible taxpayers for the first time. After passing on a broadly bipartisan, 94-2 vote, House Bill 1297 now heads to the Senate for further consideration. Continue reading at The Olympian. (TVW)

Bill would add climate-change factors to state planning law
Climate change is the second-most-common problem that state Rep. Davina Duerr hears about from her constituents. Their No. 1 concern? Transportation, which in Washington contributes nearly 45% of the greenhouse gases that drive climate change. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (Andy Bronson)

Economic equity requires bold action from state legislators
Without major State investments, we will emerge from COVID-19 with even more racial, gender, and economic inequality than before the pandemic. New revenue from SB 5096 and additional progressive sources such as the wealth tax and an expanded estate tax would help break the downward spiral and propel us onto a path of thriving communities and dreams made real. Continue reading at The South Seattle Emerald. (James Seattle)