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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)

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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)

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Associated Press
‘I feel hope’: Nurse among 1st to get vaccine in Washington
Inslee unveils climate proposals ahead of full budget plan
Stocks wobble on Wall Street a day after setting records
The Latest: Biden announces Buttigieg as transportation pick
US stock indexes edge higher a day after setting records
Inslee unveils climate proposals ahead of full budget plan

Aberdeen Daily World
Harbor hospitals deal with COVID spikes while preparing for vaccine roll-out
Retiring Superior Court judge leaves legacy of therapeutic drug and family recovery courts
Myth busting: No, COVID-19 vaccines don’t contain Satan’s microchips
Commentary: My generation is not getting the education our governance requires
Letter: Congress must not leave Washington without passing COVID relief

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Biden settles on energy secretary choice. It’s not Inslee
Whatcom County sees 12 new COVID-19 cases on Tuesday; Lummi received Pfizer vaccine
Washington Gov. Inslee unveils wide-ranging package of climate policy proposals
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Need health insurance Jan. 1? Today is the deadline to sign up for state coverage
Senators unveil $748 billion COVID relief proposal. What it could mean for you
Some experts say prisoners should be next in line to get COVID vaccines. Here’s why
Now you can test yourself for COVID at home without a prescription, FDA says
Fauci says Biden and Harris should get COVID vaccine ‘as soon as we possibly can’

Capital Press
Inslee targets natural gas, proposes cap and trade
‘Christmas Star’ to be visible during solstice

Columbian
In Our View: Biden must work for trade policy to benefit all

The Daily News
Washington, Oregon Health Agencies Watching For Suicide Rise During Pandemic, But Not Seeing It

Everett Herald (subscription required)
5,000-6,000 vaccine doses to land in the county this week
Recently named Edmonds police chief is out before he begins
At last, Tim Eyman telling his side of the story
Volunteers continue to play critical role in COVID response
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Bloomberg Comment: World needs Biden to join climate reporting standard
Editorial: Adopt covid relief with pledge for more to come

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Kitsap County jury trials suspended again amid COVID-19 surge
Central Kitsap High School adding class on social justice movements
Public facilities district approves $1.4 million for South Kitsap raceway project

News Tribune (subscription required)
UPDATED: Proposal to dissolve health department fails in surprise County Council vote
Coronavirus updates: State passes 205k cases
There’s help for Pierce County residents in need of food, but plan ahead for holidays
Officer-involved shooting in Bonney Lake; suspect not arrested
Nearly 200 new COVID-19 cases on Monday in Pierce County as first vaccines arrive

New York Times
$900 Billion Pandemic Relief Deal Takes Shape: Live Business Updates
‘Like a Hand Grasping’: Trump Appointees Describe the Crushing of the C.D.C.
Covid-19 Live Updates: U.S. Seeks Tens of Millions More Vaccine Doses From Pfizer
From Voter Fraud to Vaccine Lies: Misinformation Peddlers Shift Gears
To Cut Emissions to Zero, U.S. Needs to Make Big Changes in Next 10 Years
Billions Spent on U.S. Cyberdefenses Failed to Detect Giant Russian Hack

Olympian (subscription required)
Biden settles on energy secretary choice. It’s not Inslee
Thurston County reports 45 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Commission legalizes ADUs in unincorporated Thurston County
Troopers ask public to help identify second shooter at Capitol Campus confrontation
Washington Gov. Inslee unveils wide-ranging package of climate policy proposals (Fitzgibbon, Carlyle, Saldaña)

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Port Townsend council adopts balanced budget despite impacts
Virus vaccines arrive on Peninsula
Volunteer pilots to test transporting vaccine to West End
Op-Ed: The fish and game commission is irrelevant
Op-Ed: Working together means staying apart

Port Townsend Leader
Jefferson County Public Health: Three new cases of COVID-19 reported

Puget Sound Business Journal
The unsexy side of Covid vaccines gets Wall Street’s attention
FDA approves first over-the-counter Covid-19 test
Amazon launches 26 solar and wind projects, becoming the world’s largest corporate buyer of renewable energy
Port of Seattle OKs 10 South King County recovery fund program grants

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Westneat: ‘Prepare for war:’ A local GOP official goes all-in with election conspiracy theories
Inslee proposes his latest climate-change package as part of Washington budget (Carlyle, Saldaña)
Seattle plans to clear homeless encampment from Cal Anderson Park on Capitol Hill
MacKenzie Scott gives away $4.1 billion to 384 organizations, including 4 Washington state groups

Skagit Valley Herald
County commissioners approve 2021 budget
Concrete passes budget, presents first-time award

Spokesman Review
Inslee puts pause on termination of health departments, calling politics in public health ‘reckless and dangerous’ (Riccelli)
Inslee to push familiar ideas to fight climate change in 2021 session (Fitzgibbon, Carlyle)
‘I feel hope’: Nurse among first to get vaccine in Washington
Online vaping companies caught selling vaping products to Washington AG investigators posing as minors
Biden taps Buttigieg for transportation, Granholm for energy
McMorris Rodgers, Newhouse, other NW Republicans acknowledge Biden’s win after McConnell’s lead
As monarch butterflies flutter toward extinction, Fish and Wildlife Service opts not to protect them
Opinion: Dr. Francisco Velazquez: Get the vaccination to get Spokane County back on its feet

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities hospitals packed with COVID patients. Most in 5 months
Handcuffed man dies in back of Kennewick police car

USA Today
Coronavirus updates: 2M more vaccine doses to be delivered next week; FDA approves at-home COVID test

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla Public Schools to reassess COVID-19 numbers two weeks after winter break
New COVID-19 cases Tuesday: Walla Walla County, 34; Umatilla County, 43 and 1 death
Hope Street receives donation from Walla Walla business

Washington Post
Congressional leaders add stimulus checks to $900 billion relief package as they near deal
America’s biggest companies are flourishing during the pandemic and putting thousands of people out of work
FDA authorizes first rapid, over-the-counter home coronavirus test

Yakima Herald Republic
Newhouse calls Biden “president-elect” even while repeating unfounded election concerns
Medical workers plead for help from the public in slowing spread of COVID-19 as cases, hospitalizations keep rising
Yakima County commissioners ask Inslee for role in managing local COVID-19 response
Opinion: Republicans must accept Biden’s victory and move on

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington schools superintendent uses foul language to describe pandemic’s impact on education (Santos)
Proposal to break up Tacoma-Pierce County Public Health Department fails
Seattle city workers to clear Cal Anderson Park on Capitol Hill
It could be more than 6 months before the COVID-19 vaccine is available for all Washingtonians
Meet the first medical professionals to get the COVID-19 vaccine in Washington

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
City to clear campers out of Seattle’s Cal Anderson Park
How a Seattle school can keep tabs on students without face masks
Early court victory gives hope of a lifeline to small businesses struggling with pandemic shutdowns
Some families of long-term care residents eagerly await vaccine roll-out in facilities
Gov. Inslee unveils climate proposals ahead of full budget plan
Pompeo quarantining after exposure to COVID-19
American Cancer Society donations down 80% during pandemic
Seattle healthcare workers receive first vaccinations in state

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Seattle set to clear homeless campers from Cal Anderson park
Vote fails to dissolve Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
Washington state health officials tackle questions on COVID-19 vaccines
‘I feel excited,’ UW Medicine nurse among the first in the state to get COVID-19 vaccine
Community questions Denny Park’s future after city plans to remove homeless camps
Planet Fitness ads aim to get Inslee to ease state’s COVID-19 restrictions on gyms
Barricades sprout at Cal Anderson Park hours before planned city sweep

KNKX FM
Health-care workers have ‘glimmer of hope’ as they receive COVID vaccine in Washington
Inslee unveils climate proposals ahead of full budget plan

KUOW FM
UNBOXING THE CORONAVIRUS VACCINE IN SEATTLE: A GLIMMER OF HOPE
Coronavirus FAQ: Should I Wash My Kid’s Clothes Every Day After School?
As Inslee considers extending WA’s eviction ban, some tenants and landlords slip through the cracks
Updates on the Covid-19 pandemic in Washington
Seattle Now: Limited medical care in rural COVID hotspots
Paycheck-To-Paycheck Nation: How Life In America Adds Up
Excitement and hope: First Seattle health care workers vaccinated against Covid-19
Health Workers ‘Feeling Good As Hell’ As Hospitals Begin COVID Vaccine Injections
Biden To Name Gina McCarthy, Former EPA Chief, As Domestic Climate Coordinator
Biden Plans To Nominate Former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm As Energy Secretary
Biden Expected To Name Former Rival Buttigieg As Transportation Secretary
Public health agencies watching for rise in suicides during pandemic, but not seeing it
Poll: Americans Are Growing Less Reluctant To Take COVID-19 Vaccine
Census Estimates U.S. Population As High As 336 Million Ahead Of Actual Count
FDA Authorizes 1st Home Coronavirus Test That Doesn’t Require A Prescription
Right-Wing Embrace Of Conspiracy Is ‘Mass Radicalization,’ Experts Warn
Fauci Predicts U.S. Could See Signs Of Herd Immunity By Late March Or Early April

Q13 TV (Fox)
‘The end of this nightmare’: Frontline health care workers get COVID-19 vaccine in Washington
Proposal to disband Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department fails after stunning split vote
Bloodworks Northwest testing all blood donations this month for COVID-19 antibodies
Investigators bust 7 vape companies for illegally selling products to minors online

Web

Crosscut
Nearly half of Seattle’s helmet citations go to homeless people
Shining a light on the Native vote with data
Opinion: Juneau, Best, Durkan and the limits of representation

MyNorthwest
Sweep expected at Seattle’s Cal Anderson Park on Wednesday
WSP looking for second suspect in shooting at weekend protest in Olympia
Gov. Inslee unveils plan to use fight against climate change to grow WA economy
WA Supreme Court justice defends Dr. Jill Biden’s use of ‘doctor’ honorific
Seattle council cracks down on ‘indirect’ lobbying efforts to sway public opinion
L&I: Only ’40 to 50 businesses’ in Washington fined for defying COVID rules
UW Medicine administers Washington’s first COVID-19 vaccinations Tuesday
Pier 57 deemed safe to reopen as progress is made on Pier 58 removal

Slog
What’s Happening in Cal Anderson Park Is Obscene and Insulting to Cal’s Memory

Tuesday, December 15

Washington’s 12 electors cast votes for Biden and Harris
Washington’s 12 electors on Monday unanimously cast their votes for President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, who won 58% of the state’s vote last month. The votes were cast were part of Electoral College meetings in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (Ted S. Warren)

Inslee announces $365 million in equity budgeting for 2021
Gov. Jay Inslee has proposed a slew of budgeting measures meant to address racial injustice across a broad swath of areas. These proposals, totaling $365 million, target everything from healthcare inequities — which the current novel coronavirus pandemic has laid bare — and environmental disparities to homelessness and even how insurance companies handle clients. Continue reading at The South Seattle Emerald.

Who is getting the COVID-19 vaccine first in Washington?
Washington state is receiving shipments of the COVID-19 vaccine, which has prompted questions from many people about who will get it first. The first shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine arrived in Washington state on Monday. The state is expected to receive 62,400 doses of Pfizer’s vaccine this week. Continue reading at KING5 TV.

Print

Associated Press
Electoral College makes it official: Biden won, Trump lost
State elections official threatened amid anger over Trump loss
Washington’s 12 electors cast votes for Biden and Harris
Inslee announces equity proposals as part of budget plan
‘Healing is coming’: US health workers start getting vaccine
Vaccine comes too late for the 300,000 US dead
Gov. halts breakup of Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
COVID-19 vaccine arrives in Washington state
US COVID-19 deaths top 300,000 just as vaccinations begin
London faces tightest restrictions; sees new virus variant
Wall Street tries again to snap losing streak, pushes higher
Washington pulls out of Pac-12 title game, replaced by Ducks
Feds to delay seeking legal protection for monarch butterfly
EU regulators move up Pfizer vaccine assessment to Dec. 21
Gov. Inslee announces equity proposals as part of budget plan
US vaccinations ramp up as feds weigh 2nd COVID-19 shot

Aberdeen Daily World
Hospital hoping for first doses next week
Another first: County’s first female prosecutor will now be its first female Superior Court judge
Op-ed: Even with a vaccine, we could be living with COVID-19 for years to come
Op-ed: Put civics back in the classroom — right now

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Gov. Inslee pitches package of policy and budget proposals to move state toward equity (Gregerson, Morgan, Nguyen, Saldana)
Watch: Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee announced equity proposals Monday (Dec. 14) (Gregerson, Morgan)
Whatcom seeks better, cheaper answer for the 138,574 calls to 911 each year
St. Joseph hospital in Bellingham to get first doses of COVID-19 vaccine in Whatcom
After another big week, Whatcom County sees 18 new COVID-19 cases on Monday
Candidate who lost WA governor race by 13% sues state official, alleging voter fraud
Rampant wildfires created unseen danger in parks: ‘Seemingly flat earth can be hollow’
How many in US want the COVID vaccine? Answer hinges on timing and politics, poll says
Does COVID kill someone in the U.S. every minute? It’s actually worse, data show
What are your chances of dying from COVID? This calculator gives you a hint
Coronavirus updates: Vaccines arrive in Washington state

Capital Press
Farm groups rap blueberry trade probe by U.S.

Columbian
Pandemic’s ongoing impact leads discussion at Legislative Outlook event in Vancouver
(Stonier, Wylie, Cleveland)
COVID-19 vaccine to arrive in Clark County this week

The Daily Chronicle
State Lawmakers Offer County, City Officials Advice on Clearing Centralia-Area Homeless Encampment

The Daily News
John Day Dam oil leak spills into Columbia River

Everett Herald (subscription required)
They made the Electoral College real to hundreds of students
Snohomish County food banks fill stomachs, hearts
From poop to power: Manure from 2,300 cows may run 600 homes
COVID-19 vaccine arrives in Washington
COVID vaccine expected to land in Snohomish County this week
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: Free society needs individual rights and mandates
Comment: Voice of America worth saving, if it’s possible
Enrollment deadline for signing up for Obamacare is Tuesday

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Post-holiday COVID-19 surge: Gatherings fuel a dramatic rise in cases in Kitsap
Seabeck will soon have a new community center at the site of the old elementary school
Bainbridge city manager exits with little fanfare as replacement candidates are announced
Attorney General William Barr resigns after recent clashes with Trump, still defends president
Bremerton bartender charged in racist attack on Black man

News Tribune (subscription required)
Inslee pauses the termination of health departments. What’s it mean for Pierce County?
Need health insurance Jan. 1? Today is the deadline to sign up for Washington’s Healthplan
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
Nearly 200 new COVID-19 cases on Monday in Pierce County as first vaccines arrive
Port Orchard diner has liquor license suspended over COVID-19 violations
Editorial: Washington state’s 2020 Electoral College marks inspirational change from 2016 fiasco
Police body-worn cameras to make first appearance in Tacoma on Monday
UW Huskies out of Pac-12 championship game due to ongoing COVID-19 issues

New York Times
Moderna Vaccine Is Highly Protective and Prevents Severe Covid-19, Data Show
Covid-19 Live Updates: As Vaccine Campaign Enters Day 2, Fauci Says Biden Should Receive One Soon
Scope of Russian Hack Becomes Clear: Multiple U.S. Agencies Were Hit
Here’s Why Vaccinated People Still Need to Wear a Mask
First Coronavirus Vaccines Bring Americans Hope in Small Doses
How Biden Can Move His Economic Agenda Without Congress
Big Fines and Strict Rules Unveiled Against ‘Big Tech’ in Europe

Olympian (subscription required)
Bail set at $50,000 for Bellingham man accused of shooting at protest near Capitol
Coronavirus updates: Pierce County reports 194 new cases, receives first vaccine shipment
Thurston County adds 50 new COVID-19 cases Monday
Gov. Inslee pitches package of policy and budget proposals to move state toward equity (Gregerson, Morgan, Nguyen, Saldana)
Washington state electors cast their ballots for Biden, Harris
Vancouver, Washington man officially owns former state ferry at Olympia port
Thurston court sets bail for two men accused of assaulting law enforcement during protest
McConnell calls Biden president-elect as growing list of Republicans ‘face the music’
Washington Gov. Inslee: With OK from Western States group, vaccine could start arriving Monday

Peninsula Daily News
Drive-thru COVID testing available at Jamestown clinic
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Clallam revenues better than anticipated, but hiring freeze continues

Port Townsend Leader
Washington state health officials report 195 infected with COVID-19 in Jefferson County

Puget Sound Business Journal
Moderates pare back stimulus plan in hopes of breaking stalemate
It’s all about the data at Amazon — even when it comes to hiring
Should companies require employees to take the vaccine?
Dealmakers warn of chilling effect on buyouts from US court ruling
See the data: SBA releases list of recipient names, loan values of EIDL program
Opinion: Washington retailers could face lawsuits stemming from Covid-19 exposure
Opinion: Small businesses have always carried a big impact
Google delays return to office and eyes ‘flexible work week’

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Coronavirus vaccine heads to Washington’s nursing homes, bringing hope and questions
US vaccinations ramp up as 2nd COVID-19 shot nears
Amazon’s plastic waste could encircle globe 500 times, report says
Washington state schools chief says his hands have been tied in pandemic (Santos)
Homeless people at hotel must move out, Renton City Council decides
Boeing finds more 787 quality defects, broadens inspections
Struggling small restaurants defend JumpStart tax after Seattle chamber files lawsuit
Editorial: Hold employers to racial equity commitment
Threat made against Washington elections official amid anger over Trump loss

Skagit Valley Herald
Federal battle ahead for migratory bird protections
School districts receiving free PPE
COVID-19 vaccinations to begin this week

South Seattle Emerald
Inslee announces $365 million in equity budgeting for 2021
Prosecutor’s office may face conflict of interest in Tommy Le case
South End constituents react to Mayor Durkan’s decision not to seek re-election

Spokesman Review
First doses of coronavirus vaccines land at Seattle’s UW Medical Center
Gov. Inslee announces budget proposals to tackle inequities statewide (Morgan)
City of Spokane adopts ‘priority-based’ 2021 budget of nearly $1 billion
Mead sees first in-school COVID-19 transmissions as other districts’ cases rise
Washington electors cast their 12 votes for Biden and Harris

Tri-City Herald
Group of Tri-Cities leaders, businesses continue push to defy WA COVID orders
More Tri-Cities area COVID deaths, amid grim December case counts
Inslee on vaccine arrival in Washington: ‘We’re ready to go’
COVID vaccine expected to arrive soon in Tri-Cities. Hospitals are ready
Tri-Cities mental health workers picket over wage concerns
What is affordable housing?

USA Today
COVID-19 relief package: No stimulus checks but it offers a $300 bonus to unemployment benefits

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla, Umatilla county officials answer vaccination questions, but much remains murky

Washington Post
William P. Barr to depart as attorney general, Trump announces
Opinion: The moral hypocrisy of conservative leaders is stunning
McConnell congratulates Biden on his win; Biden heading to Ga. to campaign for Senate hopefuls

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima County to receive nearly 2,000 doses of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine this week
Nursing homes will be among first to get COVID-19 vaccines, but many questions remain
The eviction moratorium is set to end Dec. 31. What’s next for Yakima renters and landlords?
Yakima County reports 292 new coronavirus cases Sunday into Monday

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Inslee announces racial equity proposals as part of budget plan
First frontline health workers to receive COVID-19 vaccine in Seattle Tuesday
Who is getting the COVID-19 vaccine first in Washington?
US on track to approve 2nd COVID-19 vaccine by end of week
Gov. Inslee puts brakes on breakup of Tacoma-Pierce County Public Health Department
Washington Secretary of State Kim Wyman calls threat to elections director ‘unacceptable’
New studies explore Navy jet noise over Olympic Peninsula and underwater

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Coronavirus: Seattle healthcare workers to get first vaccinations in state Tuesday
Questions remain about whether cancer patients should get vaccine
FDA briefing documents say Moderna vaccine appears effective, safe
QFC, Fred Meyer pharmacies preparing to receive COVID-19 vaccine
Gov. Inslee halts breakup of Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
Electors cast Washington’s 12 votes for Biden
Gov. Inslee announces equity proposals as part of budget plan

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
‘What a great way to end the year:’ Long-term facilities eager for COVID-19 vaccine
Renton votes to ban long-term use of Red Lion for homeless shelter
Seattle to cover mayor’s legal costs from fighting recall
What will it take for Washington state to reach ‘herd immunity?’
City gives notice that it plans to clear encampments and re-open Cal Anderson Park

KNKX FM
‘Great excitement’ among hospital workers as COVID vaccine arrives in WA
Inslee puts temporary halt to breakup of Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
Health care workers face unemployment as coronavirus surges
Declaring he’s ‘joyous,’ WA governor announces COVID-19 vaccine distribution begins this week

KUOW FM
WITH COVID-19 INFECTIONS SPIKING MORE THAN EVER, HERE’S WHAT TO KNOW AMID THE HOLIDAYS
Will Jeffrey Rosen, Interim DOJ Leader, Withstand White House Pressure?
Updates on the Covid-19 pandemic in Washington
FDA Analysis Of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Finds It Effective And Safe
Amazon, TikTok, Facebook, Others Ordered To Explain What They Do With User Data
December 14th | The COVID-19 vaccine touches down in Seattle
William Barr To Step Down As Attorney General Before Christmas
How Do We Grieve 300,000 Lives Lost?
‘Healing Is Coming’: U.S. Starts Vaccinating People Against COVID-19

KXRO
Chapman Replacing Blake As Chair Of Rural Development, Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee (Chapman)

NW Public Radio
Washington And Idaho Hospitals Receive COVID Vaccine, Prepare To Administer Shots

Q13 TV (Fox)
Local healthcare workers prepare to get vaccinated this week
Inslee: ‘Taking the politics out of public health’ over future of Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
Confusion over future of Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
Facility that reported nation’s first COVID-19 outbreak prepares vaccine distribution plan
Website threatens more than 3 dozen US election officials, including Washington’s elections director
Major milestone: First shipment of coronavirus vaccines arrives in Washington
Hops & Dreams: Marysville brewery questions ‘outdoor dining’ rules

Web

Crosscut
How WA youth shelters are handling online learning
Amazon, antitrust and a series about the future of capitalism

MyNorthwest
Pier 57 deemed safe to reopen as progress is made on Pier 58 removal
Renton City Council votes to remove homeless people from hotel, restrict shelters
Seattle will cover Mayor Durkan’s legal costs from fighting recall
Gov. Inslee halts effort to dissolve Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department partnership
State suspends liquor license for Port Orchard restaurant after refusal to close indoor dining
Gov. Inslee wants to ‘eliminate racial disparities’ with series of new initiatives

Seattle P.I.
Report: High-speed rail could be the future of Washington travel

Slog
Seattle’s Art World Just Got Its Own Real Estate Developer
The $3 Million Black Brilliance Research Project Is Still Vague
A Proud Boy Rally Is About Much More Than White Privilege
COVID-19 Cases Rise at King County Jails
Cancel Your Fucking Christmas Plans
Guest Editorial: A Renewed Renters’ Rights Movement Must Fight to Strengthen Eviction Moratorium and Cancel Rent
Seahawks’ Russell Wilson Teams with Seattle Artist to Draw Attention to Police Shooting of Herbert Hightower Jr.
Pierce County Republicans Rush to Dissolve Public Health Department During Pandemic

West Seattle Blog
COVID-19 vaccine arrives in our city. So when will it be available in West Seattle?
WEST SEATTLE BRIDGE: Stabilization milestone near

Monday, December 14

Washington Gov. Inslee: With OK from Western States group, vaccine could start arriving Monday
A group of experts appointed by the governors of four western states, including Washington, has unanimously concluded that the COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer/BioNTech is “safe and efficacious.” Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (TVW)

Washington House releases remote legislative session plan
The Washington state House on Friday released its plan for the upcoming legislative session, with opening ceremonies held at a nearby private university in order to abide by coronavirus restrictions, but with the rest of the work done remotely. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (Ted S. Warren)

Two Washingtonians could be among first women to walk on the moon
Two Washington natives are part of NASA’s next mission to the moon, and they’re in the running to be the first woman to walk on the lunar surface. Anne McClain of Spokane and Kayla Barron of Richland are among 18 astronauts on the moon mission, known as Artemis Continue reading at MyNorthwest. (PhotoCredit)