Click here for our Daily E-Clips policy.

Thursday, December 3

Record number of votes cast in Washington in 2020, but turnout rate shy of 2008
The nation reached new heights in voting in the 2020 presidential election, and the state of Washington is no exception: It broke the record for numbers of ballots cast and came close to the record for percentage of voters voting. Secretary of State Kim Wyman announced Tuesday that 4,116,894 voters, or 84.14% of Washington’s 4,892,871 registered voters, filled out their ballots for the Nov. 3 election. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Bob Brawdy)

Should people with low incomes get cash payments from the city? Tacoma to explore it
Residents facing poverty in Tacoma might soon be able to seek help from the city in the form of a cash payment. A $100,000 grant in partnership with the Mayors for a Guaranteed Income (MGI) and United Way of Pierce County will pave the way for further exploration of guaranteed income in Tacoma. Tacoma City Council approved the grant on Tuesday. Continue reading at The News Tribune. (City of Tacoma)

In aftermath of Lutz firing, pressure builds to revamp health boards in Washington
The firing of former health officer Dr. Bob Lutz from the Spokane Regional Health District sparked questions of the role and structure of local public health boards. Public health experts say his firing is just another example of how public health has become politicized during the pandemic. Continue reading at The Spokesman-Review. (Molly Quinn)

Print

Associated Press
US virus deaths top 3,100 in a single day for the first time
School closings threaten gains of students with disabilities
Stay home for the holidays or get tested twice, CDC urges
Asian shares inch higher on optimism over vaccines, stimulus
Nurses wanted: Swamped hospitals scramble for pandemic help
US lawmakers unveil anti-slavery constitutional amendment
House committee chair presses Census on delays to count
Washington state to boost Amazon workers’ compensation
Lawsuit: St. Michael Medical Center insurer discriminated against transgender teen
Union coalition urges state to approve methanol plant
Operating error sends wastewater into Puget Sound
Seattle rents down 20% since start of COVID-19 pandemic
US jobless claims remain high at 712,000 as virus escalates

Aberdeen Daily World
COVID case counts continue to rise in Grays Harbor and Pacific counties
Op-ed: Broadband is critical for Grays Harbor: How you can help connect your community

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
John Braun of Centralia elected state Senate Minority Leader
Many questions, few details about who will get a COVID-19 vaccine when, DOH officials say
Record number of votes cast in Washington in 2020, but turnout rate shy of 2008
Whatcom tops 2,500 total COVID cases with 76 new positive tests reported Wednesday
Killer whale populations are dying. New study helps researchers understand why
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
As COVID-19 wears down Whatcom’s small businesses, new financial help is available
Whatcom County prioritizes first COVID-19 vaccines expected this month
Operating error sends wastewater into Puget Sound
Lawsuit: Transgender teen’s health insurance violated ACA
Frontline doctor’s perspective on caring for COVID-19 patients in Washington
How long do you have to quarantine after COVID-19 exposure? CDC announces new guidance
Mask mandates can actually spur the economy – depending on who enforces it, study says
How long before the millions of jobs lost during COVID-19 come back? What experts say
Coronavirus updates: State reaches 167,216 cases

Capital Press
Washington agriculture committee chairman exits after 12 years (Blake, Schewmake, Lekanoff, Chapman)
Judge dismisses lawsuit aimed at blocking Washington forest project
Judge sides with USDA on protecting farmer data
Complaint seeks to block sheep grazing in Washington national forest
Wildlife advocates sue to protect Canada lynx

Columbian
Camas’ Discovery High School students create stanchions, desk shields in class
New accounting approach raises Clark County’s COVID-19 death toll
Board of Health declares racism a public health crisis in Clark County

Everett Herald (subscription required)
16,000 fentanyl pills, pounds of meth, heroin seized in bust
‘There’s going to be some tears’ over 160-acre timber harvest
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Snohomish County Jail employee charged in drug smuggling
WaPo Comment: Compiling pandemic’s history accurately won’t be easy

The Inlander
Virus got your contact tracers overwhelmed? There’s now an app for that
We’re supposed to be kind to the fine folks prolonging this pandemic?

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Nine infected in COVID-19 outbreak among Port Orchard Fred Meyer employees
COVID-19 outbreak on S’Klallam reservation connected to Thanksgiving week gatherings
Bremerton fast ferry to switch docks in Seattle while Kitsap Transit studies long-term solution
Denmark to dig up dead minks with mutated novel coronavirus after some ‘rise from graves’

News Tribune (subscription required)
Should people with low incomes get cash payments from the city? Tacoma to explore it
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Workers compensation insurance premiums to stay steady in 2021
Pierce County domestic violence suspect dies after robot reveals self-harm, deputies say
COVID-19 is crushing those who help others in need. What happens when nonprofits die?
Elevated levels of COVID-19 cases continue Wednesday in Pierce County; 3 new deaths
County Council to vote on taking over joint health agency. Motives, timing questioned

Olympian (subscription required)
Many questions, few details about who will get a COVID-19 vaccine when, DOH officials say
John Braun of Centralia elected state Senate Minority Leader
West Olympia Business Association distributing free PPE
224 killed, 186 military aircraft lost. Pilots worry about being ‘the next accident’
Board extends unused ordinance allowing Thurston homeless encampments
Thurston County COVID-19 cases grow by 68 on Wednesday

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Health officials prepare for surge in COVID-19 cases

Port Townsend Leader
Suspended street maintenance, layoffs, levy increase expected for city of Port Townsend under proposed 2021 budget
Lethal force used to remove mountain goats from Olympic National Park

Puget Sound Business Journal
As hospitals fill, travel nurses race to virus hot spots
Covid vaccine supply chain targeted by hackers, say security experts
Covid vaccines are coming soon, but must overcome public’s safety doubts
Small-business groups unhappy with latest SBA PPP loan data dump
Office demand index quantifies how badly Covid has walloped Seattle market
Reinventing workers for the post-Covid economy
Who will get the coronavirus vaccine first?
Opinion: Seattle’s VC ecosystem should capitalize on homegrown startups

Seattle Times (subscription required)
I fear everyday encounters more than I do hate groups
Lawsuit: DOC fired guard trainee for wearing ‘Black Lives Matter’ shirt after others wore ‘Police Lives Matter’ shirts
Seattle will allow religious organizations to develop larger buildings with affordable housing
Finding a new path in a pandemic: How one Seattle architect went from mansions to tiny homes

Skagit Valley Herald
Sedro-Woolley’s CARES Act funds distributed
Hospitals cope as COVID surge continues

South Seattle Emerald
Older man said to be veteran suffering from PTSD pepper sprayed, pulled to ground by SPD officer
Tracy Castro-Gill is insuppressible, and so is Ethnic Studies

Spokesman Review
Two Spokane County Commissioners say they won’t support a new charter to halt 5 commissioner bill, citing lack of support from constituents (Riccelli)
In aftermath of Lutz firing, pressure builds to revamp health boards in Washington (Riccelli)

Tri-City Herald
COVID pandemic won’t stop these Tri-Cities annual Christmas season events
5 more COVID deaths reported in Tri-Cities after jump in new cases
‘Taken too soon.’ Tri-Cities area COVID deaths climb to 199
Editorial: Want to help Tri-Cities businesses? Be a customer, not just a protester

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla High School’s Ramirez raises 12th Man flag for Sunday’s Seahawks game
Walla Walla ward’s problems come to fore after City Council walk-about

Washington Post
U.S. reports more than 200,000 new cases and 100,000 hospitalizations for first time
Hackers try to penetrate the vital ‘cold chain’ for coronavirus vaccines, security team reports
Trump escalates baseless attacks on election with 46-minute video rant
‘Absolutely normal’: Covid vaccine side effects are no reason to avoid the shots, doctors say
What Elliot Page’s coming out can teach us about supporting transgender people: ‘Lead with love’
Trump is said to be livid at Barr, with one official suggesting termination possible

Yakima Herald Republic
Community testing for COVID-19 increasing, but capacity still good
Another 114 Yakima County COVID-19 cases reported Wednesday, no new deaths
Some 2-week coronavirus quarantines can be cut to 10 or 7 days, CDC says
City of Yakima hasn’t weighed in yet on whether it will send letter to Gov. Jay Inslee asking for increased local control
Opinion: ESD’s efforts to hinder audits is shameful

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Overlake Medical Center faces staffing shortage as coronavirus cases soar
Ryanair orders 75 more 737 MAX jets in boost for Boeing
Tacoma launches garbage collection program for homeless camps
Pierce County Council considers disbanding Tacoma-Pierce County Public Health Department
Two western Washington restaurants defy Inslee’s COVID-19 indoor dining restrictions
Washington state adopts CDC’s shortened quarantine guidelines

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Applications now open for new round of small business grants
Thousands of Washington residents receive overpayment notices for unemployment benefits
Washington prepares to receive COVID-19 vaccine shipments
’It’s a Christmas miracle.’ Community saves landmark café and its generous owner
Mossyrock passes ordinance allowing businesses to remain open during shutdown

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Washington state face major hurdles in distributing COVID-19 vaccines effectively
Photos: Seattle’s new Market to MOHAI Corridor connects SLU to Waterfront
UW study: Young whites report more illegal acts, young Blacks arrested more
Rush begins for new round of small business COVID-19 relief grants
Seattle rents down 20% since start of COVID-19 pandemic

KNKX FM
Pierce County Council proposal to dissolve public health partnership draws swift criticism

KREM2
Washington legislators urge Congress to extend federal unemployment funding (Keiser, Sells)

KUOW FM
‘We’re All Tired Of This’: Health Care Workers In Seattle Prepare For Another Surge
Covid-19 pandemic updates for the Northwest
U.S. Hits 100,000 COVID-19 Hospitalizations; More Than 3,100 Daily Deaths
Leaked Files Show Trump’s Ability To Alter Census May Come Down To The Wire
More COVID-19 hospitalizations, more deaths, and plans for a vaccine rollout
Lawmakers Barrel Ahead On Defense Bill Plans, Balking At Trump Veto Threat
Nearly 3,000 European invaders found on Puget Sound shores. They’re crabs
CDC Adviser On COVID-19 Vaccine Priority Groups And Why Some Aren’t Eager To Be First
‘We Don’t Have To Live This Way’: Doctors Call For Climate Action
Grounded: Emotional Support Animals No Longer Guaranteed Free Flights
Top Democrats Back Off Demands for Larger COVID-19 Bill
Social Distancing Plummeted In Lead Up To Fall Surge, Survey Finds
CDC Shortens Its COVID-19 Quarantine Recommendations

NW Public Radio
Washington Lawmakers And Activists Craft Police Reform Bills Ahead Of 2021 Legislative Session (Johnson, Goodman)

Q13 TV (Fox)
Future of Tacoma-Pierce County Health Dept. suddenly in question
‘Like a freight train out of control’: Tacoma-Pierce County Board of Health reacts to county proposal
Fire officials concerned over safety hazards after King Co. turns hotel into homeless shelter
Pierce Co. conservation group blazes trail to fight climate change, help local ecology
Lewis County community won’t recognize governor’s new Covid restrictions

Web

MyNorthwest
Ryanair gives Boeing a boost by ordering 75 more MAX jets
Mayor Durkan ‘in conversation’ to remove East Precinct wall, reopen Cal Anderson Park
With Washington election certified, Loren Culp continues to threaten legal action

lAW360
Wash. Lawmakers May Consider Digital Ad Sales Tax (Slatter)

Slog
ACLU Asks Durkan to Ban Use of Facial Recognition Software at SPD
The Pandemic Has Increased Costs at the PNW’s Abortion Fund
The Pandemic Has Changed Life for Animals in Zoos, Aquariums, and Science Centers
The Most Costly Pandemic Policy Out There Is Not Imposing Restrictions on Washington Businesses
SPOG President Mike Solan Continues Campaign to Scare the Shit Out of Everyone

West Seattle Blog
VIDEO: Post-decision, what’s up on and around the West Seattle Bridge? Here’s what the Community Task Force heard

Wednesday, December 2

Washington secretary of state certifies election results
Republican Secretary of State Kim Wyman has certified the final results of Washington state’s election, two days ahead of the deadline. The state saw its second-highest turnout percentage, with 84.14 percent of the state’s nearly 4.9 million voters casting a ballot. Continue reading at KOMO4 TV. (Ted S. Warren)

What’s Between 30 Million Americans and an Eviction Tsunami?
We’ve all been so concerned about the transition on Jan. 20 that many of us have forgotten another critical date for American democracy: Dec. 31. That’s when the federal eviction moratorium — which has held the pandemic-related eviction tsunami at bay — expires. After that date, more than 30 million Americans are at risk of losing their homes. Continue reading at The New York Times. (Woody Harrington)

How Washington state is preparing for COVID-19 vaccine’s arrival
That medical experts have warned of a winter surge of the coronavirus since the early days of the now year-old pandemic doesn’t make the lived reality of it any less sobering. Cases are surging in almost every state, and exponential growth promises a long and deadly season, adding to the 1.4 million lives globally claimed so far by the pandemic, including more than 259,000 in the U.S. and more than 2,655 in Washington state. Continue reading at The Kitsap Sun. (Hans Pennink)

Print

Associated Press
Canada: US border measures to last until virus under control
Washington secretary of state certifies election results
US probing potential bribery, lobbying scheme for pardon
Lawmakers, activists set ambitious agenda for police reform (Johnson, Goodman)
Study looks at impact of ocean and dams on salmon runs
Businesses fined, warned over COVID-19 mask violations
Lawsuit: Transgender teen’s health insurance violated ACA
Number of people dead from COVID-19 tops 2,800 in WA
US: Mountain pine tree that feeds grizzlies is threatened
UK authorizes Pfizer coronavirus vaccine for emergency use
Report: Climate change damaging more World Heritage sites
US panel: 1st vaccines to health care workers, nursing homes
Asian shares mixed after S&P 500 sets fresh record high
Britain OKs Pfizer vaccine and will begin shots within days
San Francisco bans smoking inside apartments; pot smoking OK

Aberdeen Daily World
Westport tsunami platform preliminary design unveiled
City of Hoquiam awards COVID relief grants to 26 businesses
Shoalwater protective berm suffers significant damage during recent king tides, storm
Op-ed: Make America decent and reasonable again

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
During the pandemic, Whatcom residents dramatically changed how they shop. Here’s how
Whatcom County prioritizes first COVID-19 vaccines expected this month
After crushing the record in November, Whatcom starts December with 83 new COVID cases
Lighthouse Mission reports first known COVID case at homeless center as testing offered
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
COVID-19 was silently spreading across US as early as December 2019, CDC study says
Ambulance services at ‘breaking point’ as coronavirus surges, advocacy group warns
Phone app can alert WA residents to COVID-19 exposure
Who’s first in line to get the COVID-19 vaccine? CDC reveals priority list
‘No reason’ Congress can’t agree on stimulus package by end of year, McConnell says
Emergency approval of coronavirus vaccines is not guaranteed, FDA commissioner says

Capital Press
Judge sides with USDA on protecting farmer data

Columbian
Clark County courts suspend jury trials due to surge in COVID-19 cases in community
Clark County Council earmarks $5M in additional virus response funding
Third round of grant program opens for businesses affected by Washington’s virus restrictions
Frito-Lay in Vancouver closes due to COVID-19 outbreak
In Our View: Congress must take action to lower drug prices

Everett Herald (subscription required)
COVID cases, hospitalizations and deaths continue to rise
Cannabis sales surge, proving pot is pandemic-proof
Everett council looks to fund fireworks, Jetty Island ferry
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: What World AIDS Day tells us about this pandemic
Editorial: Take steps to make most of next jobless aid bill (Sells)

International Examiner
New 37th District legislator Kirsten Harris-Talley is ready to represent the Chinatown-ID, southeast Seattle: “I’m inherently optimistic about what’s possible” (Harris-Talley, Hackney)
Restaurants in the Chinatown-ID brace themselves for new COVID-19 dining restrictions

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
How Washington state is preparing for COVID-19 vaccine’s arrival
Denmark to dig up dead minks with mutated novel coronavirus after some ‘rise from graves’
CDC-convened panel votes to add nursing home residents to first phase of COVID-19 vaccine rollout

News Tribune
Pierce County hospitals facing onslaught of new COVID-19 cases
Layoffs avoided at Tacoma libraries with $1M added to budget, but impacts remain
Purple trash bags will start appearing on Tacoma’s Eastside. Will homeless use them?

New York Times
Covid-19 Live Updates: C.D.C. Warns Against Holiday Travel and Outlines Ways to Shorten Recommended Quarantine Times
U.K. Approves Pfizer Coronavirus Vaccine, a First in the West
What’s Between 30 Million Americans and an Eviction Tsunami?
U.N. Reclassifies Cannabis as a Less Dangerous Drug

Olympian
Thurston County adds 64 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday
Here are the latest COVID-19 case numbers confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Washington woman in court on fraud charges uncovered by L&I

Peninsula Daily News
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Two more die of COVID-19 in Clallam

Port Townsend Leader
Three more cases of COVID-19 reported in Jefferson County

Puget Sound Business Journal
SBA releases detailed PPP data identifying all borrowers, specific loan amounts
State unveils app for Covid contact notifications
U.S. senators announce $908B stimulus proposal

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Boeing Nears Max Deal With Ryanair in Win for Embattled Jet
It’s past time for the Donald Trump and Loren Culp election sideshows to go dark
CDC to shorten COVID-19 quarantine to 10 days, 7 with test
Animal cruelty cases spike in King County; prosecutors and service organizations consider pandemic’s role

Skagit Valley Herald
Resource officers work to staying connected to students
November a dark month for COVID-19
Skagit County train tracks part of tampering campaign

South Seattle Emerald
Skyway event to provide healthcare resources, COVID-19 testing, and metro cards
Keep Music Live will provide grants to small, live music venues, prioritizing women-, LGBTQ+- and BIPOC-owned businesses

Spokesman Review
Lawmakers, activists set ambitious agenda for police reform (Johnson, Goodman)
Record numbers of ballots cast in Washington but failed candidate questions results
UW study shows how nonprofits are suffering and sustaining during the pandemic
Airway Heights prison faces 64 new COVID-19 cases in inmates overnight

Tri-City Herald
‘Taken too soon.’ Tri-Cities area COVID deaths climb to 199
Facing fines and loss of liquor licenses, 2 Tri-Cities bars stop serving indoors
Pasco business owner charged with defrauding state L&I for interpreter services

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla suspect in murder pleads guilty to lesser charge
Monday return still in play for Dayton students

Washington Post
Barr says he hasn’t seen fraud that could affect the election outcome
Britain first country to grant Pfizer coronavirus vaccine emergency authorization
Justice Dept. investigated potential ‘bribery-for-pardon’ scheme involving White House
States race to craft their own economic relief plans, frustrated with federal inaction
More than half of emergency small-business funds went to larger businesses, new data shows

Yakima Herald Republic
117 new coronavirus cases Tuesday in Yakima County. New testing site opens this weekend in Sunnyside
Washington state shares little data about public schools and whether coronavirus is spreading, or not

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Alaska Airlines, Washington National Guard ready to take part in coronavirus vaccine rollout
Washington companies commit $2 billion to racial equity initiatives
Washington state reviewing CDC’s shortened quarantine guidelines

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
CDC advisers recommend who should get COVID-19 vaccine first
License renewal fee notices arrive as small businesses struggle through COVID-19 closures
Thousands of Washington residents receive overpayment notices for unemployment benefits
Seattle researchers expand human trial of COVID-19 treatment
State’s eviction moratorium expires at end of December

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Skagit County businesses fined, warned over COVID-19 mask violations
Washington secretary of state certifies election results
After another night of protests and vandalism, Capitol Hill businesses seek relief
Local food banks facing huge demand during COVID-19 pandemic

KNKX FM
Senator details proposals to improve state’s unemployment system (Keiser)
State superintendent says distance learning is not working for a lot of kids

KUOW FM
Millions Face Bitter Winter If Congress Fails To Extend Relief Programs
Enrollment By International Students In U.S. Colleges Plummets
Justice Department Investigating Possible Bribery-For-Pardon Scheme
Covid-19 pandemic updates for the Northwest
Report outlines faults in DOC coronavirus response
Psychologist Says Tailored Messaging Is Key For Effective Public Health Policy
Next Administration Could Mean New Safety Regulations For Coal Mines
EU Could Approve Pfizer, BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine In December
WA House Democrats told to limit bills introduced in 2021 due to Covid (Jinkins, Fitzgibbon, Goodman, Billig)
Bipartisan Group Of Lawmakers Offer $908 Billion Coronavirus Aid Compromise
Should Nursing Home Residents Be Prioritized For Getting The COVID-19 Vaccine?

Q13 TV (Fox)
State prepares for first vaccines to health care workers, nursing homes following panel decision
Families resume visitations at veterans home after brush with COVID-19
Snohomish County 5-year-old exposed to coronavirus, unknowingly spreads it to family
The US added 4M COVID-19 cases in November, more than most countries reported all year

Web

Civic Skunkworks
Robert Reich explains “the dangers of an economy that is too out of whack.”

Crosscut
WA misses deadline to bring foster kids back from out-of-state homes
Scientists say WA wildfire management must go beyond forests

MyNorthwest
Washington Secretary of State Wyman certifies 2020 election results
Washington health officials provide details on how COVID vaccine will be handed out
Final Seattle 2021 budget includes SPD cuts, reworked injection sites, new Nav Team
Support SnoCo campaign encourages shopping at local businesses

Slog
Washington Decriminalized HIV This Year. Here’s What’s Next.
Judge Finds Portland Police’s Use of Munitions Against Protesters Defied Court Order

West Seattle Blog
SHELTER: West Seattle Veteran Center offers a warm place to sleep

Tuesday, December 1

Washington voters approved comprehensive sex ed. Now what?
Nearly 58% of voters gave their stamp of approval to Referendum 90 earlier this month, signing off on a bill that requires public schools to provide comprehensive sexual health education by the 2022-23 school year. The bill on the topic was introduced in January 2019 and signed into law in March 2020, but was the subject of much heated debate among legislators and their constituents. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Jennifer King)

Washington needs strong privacy law
Although Washington’s Legislature won’t convene until January, progress is already happening on a much needed state privacy law. State Sen. Reuven Carlyle, D-Seattle, spent months gathering feedback from privacy experts, industry and others on a new version of the privacy act that nearly passed during the last session. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Donna Grethen)

State lawmakers prepare to address police reform
The new reform proposals come on the heels of massive protests in the wake of police killings of George Floyd in Wisconsin, Manuel Ellis in Tacoma and more. Democrat Roger Goodman chairs the House Public Safety Committee. “The use of deadly force should be used less often than it is today and that the duty to preserve life and that less-than-lethal use of means of force should be a priority,” he said. Continue reading at KIRO7 TV.

Print

Associated Press
Washington psychiatric hospital sees spike in COVID-19 cases
Prosecutors: Hate crimes on the rise in King County
Washington launches statewide COVID-19 notification app
Washington state auditor warns unemployment agency on audits
New solar project to power 11K homes in Washington state
EU eyes Dec 29 approval for 1st virus vaccine, later than US
Powell says pace of economic improvement has moderated
Western State Hospital sees spike in COVID-19 cases

Aberdeen Daily World
Commercial Dungeness crab season opener delayed through at least mid-December
County passes 1,000 COVID cases mark
Inslee announces rollout of statewide COVID exposure notification tool
Op-ed: On the COVID front lines, we’re tired of hearing lame excuses for risky behavior

Auburn Reporter
Inslee announces statewide COVID-19 exposure notification tool
King County voter turnout hits record 86.6% in general election

Bainbridge Island Review
Restrictions lead to unemployment spike in latest job numbers
Since they’re online, no reason for school delays

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Washington voters approved comprehensive sex ed. Now what?
State Sen. Schoesler steps down as minority leader, as lawmakers pick 2021 leaders
Kennewick teen’s death from COVID is one of 1st in Washington state
After another record week, Whatcom sees 29 new COVID-19 cases Monday, state reports
Watch Live: Gov. Jay Inslee to speak at 2:30 p.m. about WA state COVID-19 exposure tool
Washington state reports 2,319 new COVID-19 cases on Monday
How deadly is COVID-19 in comparison to other causes of death locally and statewide?
Don’t rush for a COVID-19 test after Thanksgiving gathering, experts say. Here’s why
Some unemployed Americans were underpaid by COVD-19 relief program, watchdog says

Capital Press
First vaccinations coming to Oregon in mid-December
Oregon, Washington enlist tiny ally in fight against knotweed
BLM plan aimed at reducing massive wildfires in West
Whitebark pine tree proposed for protection
New array of solar farms planned in Washington

Columbian
Clark County Council to discuss declaring racism a public health emergency
Interstate 5 Bridge steering replacement group lays out plan for advisory, equity groups
Clark County reports 849 new COVID-19 cases over Thanksgiving holiday weekend
Clark County health officials urge flu shots, wary of surges in flu and COVID-19
In Our View: Shooting prompts vital community discussions
In Our View: Tolls inevitable, appropriate for new I-5 Bridge

The Daily News
Cowlitz County COVID activity up; state announces exposure notification app
Round three of state-funded business grants opens Tuesday
Cowlitz PUD warns customers of scam

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Washington launches statewide COVID-19 notification app
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Port of Everett, state offer new small business grants
New Snohomish County online guide aims to boost businesses
Five things to know about COVID vaccine planning
Kennewick teen one of 1st children in state to die from COVID
Bloomberg Comment: States serving as laboratories for climate action

The Inlander
Why contact tracing failed to control the spread of COVID-19 in Spokane

Journal of the San Juan Islands
COVID-19 hospital occupancy is soaring in Washington state

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
City orders Marine Drive developer to halt work, citing lack of permits

News Tribune (subscription required)
Transgender teenager’s health insurance violated ACA by denying coverage, lawsuit alleges
Pierce County starts week with new COVID cases in triple digits and four new deaths
How deadly is COVID-19 in comparison to other causes of death locally and statewide?
Coronavirus updates: Washington launches notification app; state reaches 165,019 cases

New York Times
Presidential Transition Live Updates: Lawmakers Unveil Stimulus Package, and Biden Introduces Economic Team
The Long Darkness Before Dawn
Who Will Get the Coronavirus Vaccine First?
Police Body Cameras Cited as ‘Powerful Tool’ Against Stop-and-Frisk Abuses
E.P.A.’s Final Deregulatory Rush Runs Into Open Staff Resistance

Olympian (subscription required)
State Sen. Schoesler steps down as minority leader, as lawmakers pick 2021 leaders (Billig, Hasegawa, Randall, Mullet, Nguyen, Kuderer, Hobbs, Conway, Stanford, Das)
Washington state reports 2,319 new COVID-19 cases on Monday
Kennewick teen’s death from COVID is one of 1st in Washington state
Washington voters approved comprehensive sex ed. Now what?
Thurston County adds 27 new COVID-19 cases Monday
Need a place to live? More apartments proposed in Thurston County

Peninsula Daily News
Lower Elwha Tribe finishes 2-year restoration project
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Peninsula health officers report three new virus cases
COVID-19 survivor issues plea to follow guidelines to protect all

Port Townsend Leader
Seven additional COVID cases reported after weekend in Jefferson County
COVID-19 death linked to senior care facility
Washington state health officials report 164 infected with COVID-19 in Jefferson County

Puget Sound Business Journal
Boeing wins $196M deal to keep Air Force’s aging E-4B command fleet aloft
Small businesses ramp up PPP loan forgiveness requests — but the SBA still lags behind
Alaska Airlines exec details 737 Max moves, plans to shrink Airbus fleet
Biden’s economic picks suggest focus on workers and income equality

Renton Reporter
Lift Zones seek to bridge the digital divide for ‘at-risk’ students

Seattle Times (subscription required)
CDC advisers to vote today on who will be first in line for a vaccine
UW study shows how nonprofits are suffering and sustaining during the pandemic
2 face federal terror charge over train track interference
Washington state Sen. Mark Schoesler stepping down as minority leader (Billig)
WA Notify system goes live with COVID exposure notifications for iPhone and Android users in Washington state
Seattle-based Coast Guard icebreaker to head north on rare wintertime Arctic mission
Washington state shares little data about public schools and whether coronavirus is spreading, or not
Editorial: Washington needs strong privacy law (Carlyle)

Seattle Weekly
Puget Sound artists adapt creativity, and business sense, to pandemic

Skagit Valley Herald
Lincoln Theatre finds unexpected boon
Local mining operation approved, two more under review

South Seattle Emerald
State officials encourage use of new COVID app, share good vaccine news
More details emerge about Black Brilliance Project’s research plan

Spokesman Review
Washington hopes smartphones will warn about COVID exposure
New jobless claims in Washington, Spokane County soared in the week ending Nov. 21
With reservation, Spokane City Council tentatively approves sales tax to fund affordable housing
Washington state auditor warns unemployment agency on audits
Schoesler steps down as Senate GOP leader
Opinion: Other Voices: Some of us are lucky in this pandemic. And here’s what we need to do.
Opinion: Shawn Vestal: The health board hired a replacement, but the void left by Lutz’s ouster remains

Tri-City Herald
Another new Tri-Cities solar project could power 11,000+ homes
1 of every 100 Pasco-area residents test COVID positive in recent weeks
Kennewick teen’s death from COVID is one of 1st in Washington state

USA Today
Trump election lawsuits targeted counties with large Black, Latino populations
Lawmakers introduce bipartisan COVID-19 relief proposal with uncertain future in Congress

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
College Place Schools, Walla Walla University help feed the community through food donations
Alzheimer’s Association offers webinars for families and caregivers
Officials: Oregon spreading COVID-19 faster

Washington Post
Bipartisan group of senators prepares $908 billion stimulus plan, aiming to break partisan logjam
Why health officials are terrified of a pandemic Christmas
Scott Atlas resigns as Trump’s coronavirus adviser after months of feuding with administration health officials
How to talk to loved ones when you’re worried about their mental health

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima County records 261 new coronavirus cases, 4 more deaths Sunday and Monday
Washington hospitals commit to helping their neighbors as COVID-19 cases grow
Yakima small businesses see boost in traffic and sales over Thanksgiving weekend
Other views: The COVID-19 vaccine is a gift from science. Accept it

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Do COVID-19 phone notifications work? Here’s what other states learned
Washington state gearing up to distribute coronavirus vaccine, officials say
Washington launches statewide COVID-19 exposure notification app
Hate crimes on the rise in King County, prosecutors say
Pierce County studying rapid COVID-19 testing in schools

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
SEA airport preparing to receive millions of ‘ultra-cold’ vaccine shipments
State launches COVID-19 exposure notification app
Four arrested during Capitol Hill protest
State lawmakers prepare to address police reform (Goodman)
Moderna seeks emergency use authorization from FDA for COVID-19 vaccine
Returning Thanksgiving travelers told to quarantine

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Will Washington have to endure another COVID-19 lockdown?
3 Pierce County public school districts roll out campus-wide COVID-19 testing
Salem nurse’s COVID-19 video post sparks questions over workplace rights
Pandemic to blame for rise in hate crimes in 2020?
Snohomish County officials warn about home repossession scam
New solar project to power 11,000 homes in Wash. state
Seattle protesters say movement is evolving as regular rallies continue unabated

KNKX FM
Washington launches COVID exposure alert app statewide. You need to turn it on
King County prosecutors say pandemic may be one cause of uptick in hate crime cases

KUOW FM
WASHINGTON LAUNCHES COVID EXPOSURE ALERT APP STATEWIDE. YOU NEED TO TURN IT ON
Today So Far: Seattle’s wish list for the state Legislature
Covid-19 pandemic updates for the Northwest
Coronavirus Was In U.S. Weeks Earlier Than Previously Known, Study Says
How your used face masks and gloves are contributing to water pollution
November 30th | Months after a catastrophic fire, the town of Malden is still waiting for aid
So You Traveled Over Thanksgiving. Now What?
Cheap At-Home Tests Could End The COVID-19 Pandemic By Christmas, One Researcher Says
Supreme Court Weighs Trump Plan To Exclude Undocumented Immigrants In Census Case
Boston Reverend Enlists Dr. Fauci To Help Black Community Get Behind COVID-19 Vaccine

NW Public Radio
Care Facility In Small Okanogan County Town Of Tonasket Reports 11 Deaths In COVID Outbreak
Supreme Court Weighs President’s Plan To Cut Undocumented Immigrants From Census Count

Q13 TV (Fox)
Auditor accuses state’s unemployment chief of obstructing massive fraud investigation
School-based rapid COVID-19 testing piloted at three districts in Pierce County

Web

Civic Skunkworks
Maximizing Shareholder Value Is Killing the Planet

Crosscut
Scientists say WA wildfire management must go beyond forests
Opinion: U.S. mishandling of COVID echoes the 20th century eugenics movement

MyNorthwest
Support SnoCo campaign encourages shopping at local businesses
Four arrested Monday during demonstration in Seattle’s Capitol Hill
Auditor’s Office: ESD made audits difficult, delayed important work
Washington begins preparing for December arrival of COVID vaccine
Seattle councilmember hopes to speed up ‘tedious’ process for homeless housing
UW study looks to track and record mask wearing across King County

Seattle P.I.
Snohomish County judge censured for profanity
Prosecutors: Hate crimes on the rise in King County
Washington psychiatric hospital sees spike in COVID-19 cases

Slog
After All This Time, Seattle Might Actually Create Supervised Drug Use Facilities

West Seattle Blog
What would it take for Seattle Public Schools to resume some in-person learning? Here’s what the board heard
FOLLOWUP: West Seattle low-bridge camera enforcement not ready to start yet

Wednesday, November 25

Record number of new COVID-19 cases confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
The Washington state Department of Health reported a record high 3,482 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 35 deaths Tuesday. Pierce County reported 343 cases Tuesday and one new death. Pierce County has a total of 225 deaths likely caused by COVID-19 as of Tuesday, according to the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department. Continue reading at The Olympian. (BOB BRAWDY/TRI-CITY HERALD)

Officials warn that COVID-19 hospitalizations in Washington state are spiking
Washington Gov. Jay Inslee on Tuesday warned that hospitalizations in the state are nearing rates seen early in the pandemic due to a continued surge in new coronavirus cases around the state, and he said that restrictions on businesses may need to be expanded if the growth of cases doesn’t slow. Continue reading at Kitsap Sun. (Scott P. Yates/Rockford Register Star)

Virus Outbreak, Once in the Nation’s Middle, Gains Steam All Around
What started as a Midwestern surge has grown into coast-to-coast disaster. Over the last two months, rural counties and midsize cities in the Great Plains and Upper Midwest have been the main drivers of the dizzying growth in coronavirus cases in the United States. But the virus appears to have entered a new phase in recent days: The reason the country is continuing to break case records has less to do with North Dakota and Wisconsin than it does with swift resurgences of the virus in cities like Baltimore, Los Angeles, Miami and Phoenix and with first-time spikes in smaller cities away from the nation’s middle, like Cumberland, Md. Continue reading at The New York Times. (Bryan Denton/The New York Times)

Print

Associated Press
Officials warn that COVID-19 hospitalizations in Washington state are spiking
Consumer spending up a slight 0.5% as virus maintains grip
Fox News viewership slips post-election, prodded by Trump

Aberdeen Daily World
Hoquiam uses portion of CARES Act funds to rent outdoor seating tents for local restaurants
GGHI’s upcoming business forum features Boeing manager on navigating the pandemic

Capital Press
WSU posts map of winter wheat trials
WSDA to toughen grapevine quarantine

Everett Herald (subscription required)
COVID outbreak at Providence Regional Medical Center Everett
Hospitals put to the test again as virus patients surge
With a final tally, county closes the book on 2020 election
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
COVID is making its way back into long-term care homes
COVID-19 outbreak being investigated at Regency on Whidbey
Comment: Washington saw Thanksgiving’s role in uniting nation
Bloomberg Comment: Food supply chain passed the test posed by COVID
Editorial: Education can build on Native Americans’ heritage

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
‘It’s still a beautiful world:’ Readers share stories of gratitude during the pandemic
Election results show Kitsap voter turnout falls short of record levels
Tree farms are expected to be a big draw during the pandemic holiday season

News Tribune (subscription required)
This local food bank flipped the script, finding a way to expand reach during COVID-19
Tacoma bar previously accused of violating COVID-19 rules again under investigation
300+ Pierce County COVID-19 cases reported Tuesday likely an undercount, officials say
Owl’s Port of Tacoma train ride is thwarted but soon he’ll be a wildlife ambassador
Trump reportedly plans to pardon Michael Flynn. How do presidential pardons work?
Pandemic-weary college students head home for the holidays. Is Washington ready?

New York Times
Virus Outbreak, Once in the Nation’s Middle, Gains Steam All Around
Covid-19 Live Updates: As Cases Overwhelm the U.S., Some Health Officials Give Up on Contact Tracing
Rising Jobless Claims Show Pandemic’s Toll on the Economy: Live Updates
Here’s One Issue That Could Actually Break the Partisan Gridlock

Olympian (subscription required)
Thurston County records 83% turnout in 2020 general election as ballots certified
Insurance Commissioner drops $1 million fine on Aliera for selling illegal policies
Customers confront 8 liquor agents trying to shut down Tri-Cities bar
UW Huskies to play Utah in replacement game for Apple Cup
Threshold for reopening WA schools could be lowered significantly, draft plan shows
Record number of new COVID-19 cases confirmed Tuesday in Washington state
Thurston County adds 55 new COVID-19 cases amid concerning trends Tuesday
Health workers join Gov. Inslee to warn that hospitals are approaching capacity
Lacey, Homes First shift gears on house for homeless teens after building cost too high
Hospitality Association calls relief package a ‘start’ as legislators discuss more options (Keiser, Springer)

Peninsula Daily News
Jefferson commissioners weigh tax for affordable housing projects
Brinnon students to shift back to hybrid model
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Peninsula jobless rate drops in October
Meal distribution helps 900 families in Sequim
Sequim Warming Center open, modified for pandemic
Peninsula hospitals restricting visitors
Long-term care facility reaches 22 total cases

Puget Sound Business Journal
State lawmakers urge more funding for hospitality industry amid new Covid-19 restrictions (Keiser, Springer)
Who will miss the coins when they’re gone?
Roiled by election, Facebook struggles to balance civility and growth
Yellen would assume vast policy portfolio as Treasury secretary
Despite challenges, opportunity zones provide much-needed capital
Purdue Pharma pleads guilty to role in opioid crisis as part of deal with Justice Department
Workers at this Amazon facility plan to hold union vote
Small businesses hit with another PPP tax change. Here’s what it means.

Seattle Weekly
Washington releases new forest plan

Skagit Valley Herald
COVID-19 map project provides added insight
Skagit Regional Health activates COVID-19 surge plan

South Seattle Emerald
Articles of Faith: On the margins
If state does not curb COVID trend, healthcare workers will have to start making “painful choices,” experts warn
After council vote, solidarity budget celebrates victories but battle against SPD’s “hugely bloated budget” continues

Tri-City Herald
Richland is shutting down 4th and 5th grade classrooms. Here’s the problem
Customers confront 8 liquor agents trying to shut down Tri-Cities bar
Pasco middle and high school students will not return to classrooms Dec. 3
Tri-Cities COVID cases linked to superspreader wedding in Ritzville
‘Running out of air.’ Tri-Cities commissioners beg Inslee to ease business restrictions
Daily COVID cases continue steep climb in Tri-Cities. 242 new cases reported Tuesday
‘No freedom, no peace,’ chants crowd at Tri-Cities protest of COVID business restrictions
Editorial: Thanksgiving could lead to more COVID deaths. Tri-Citians must protect each other
Op-Ed: Frontline COVID-19 workers have Kadlec’s thanks
Op-Ed: Ecology cares – deeply – about Hanford clean-up, and the Tri-City community

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Traditional Thanksgiving plans change, but new celebrations emerge
Walla Walla Community College sets sight on winter quarter
Walla Walla, Columbia, Umatilla counties report 105 new COVID-19 cases
Walla Walla area leaders share economic outlook for 2021

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima County reports 150 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday; state sets new record
Yakima County certifies election results with final turnout at 75.95%
Spokane tribal leader chosen as Eastern Washington tribal liaison for WSP

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
‘We need everyone to really hunker down’: Healthcare workers fear for safety as COVID-19 cases surge
Sea-Tac Airport traffic is down significantly this Thanksgiving holiday
King County to release new COVID-19 outbreak location data Wednesday
Snohomish County COVID hospitalizations up 400%, nearing patient capacity
Most Washington law enforcement agencies don’t use body or dash cameras, KING 5 investigation finds
King County breaks voter turnout record in 2020
Snohomish County preparing to distribute 160,000 COVID-19 vaccines per week

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Still gathering for Thanksgiving? Last minute safety tips from doctors
Nurse: Health care workers should use West Seattle Low Bridge during pandemic
Still planning to fly for Thanksgiving? What you need to know to stay safe

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
‘Catastrophic loss of medical care’ possible if Washington’s COVID-19 numbers skyrocket
State health officials mull loosening COVID restrictions for schools
COVID-19: Inslee warns of more restrictions if state can’t contain surging virus
Poll: Many people insist they will not get a COVID-19 vaccine
Pandemic pushing more small local businesses to brink of closure
Cost of Survival: Seattle small biz tackle pandemic and property damage from civil unrest
Mayor Durkan, critical of City Council, says she’ll sign 2021 budget
‘The need is staggering:’ Washington food banks struggling to keep up with high demand

Q13 TV (Fox)
Washington state officials mull loosening COVID restrictions for schools
COVID-19 hospitalizations in Washington nearing record highs
Voter turnout in Washington hit 84.1%, just shy of record
With downtown Seattle ‘a hollow shell,’ businesses in need of holiday goodwill

Web

Crosscut
How ventilation plays a role in reducing indoor spread of COVID-19
Opinion: In Washington state, housing is the question and the answer

MyNorthwest
Voter turnout in Washington reaches 84.1%, just below all-time record
Gov. Inslee ‘delighted’ by John Kerry’s new climate role
Washington Poison Center warns of Benadryl overdoses amidst TikTok trend
Hospitals in Washington state at record capacity, doc says
Agencies planning as COVID-19 vaccine expected in Washington in December

Slog
Activists Plan to Keep Pushing for an SPD Hiring Freeze
Why Some Say Janet Yellen Is Not the Worst Pick for Treasury Secretary
Anderson Trails Mullet by 57 Votes as Eastside State Senate Race Heads for a Recount (Mullet)
Environmental Groups Scramble to Stop Fishing Giant from Farming in Puget Sound

Tuesday, November 24

New shutdown expected to cost Washington restaurants $800M
A four-week shutdown on indoor service at restaurants and bars prompted by an alarming statewide spike in COVID-19 cases is expected to cost the industry some $800 million, a representative said Monday. Anthony Anton, chief executive of the Washington Hospitality Association, urged lawmakers from both parties to begin figuring out ways to support restaurants as well as hotels and other hospitality businesses so they have a plan ready to go when the Legislature next meets. Continue reading at Everett Herald. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

U.S. agency ascertains Biden as winner, lets transition begin
The General Services Administration has ascertained that President-elect Joe Biden is the “apparent winner” of the Nov. 3 election. President Donald Trump, who had refused to concede the election, said Monday that he is directing his team to cooperate on the transition but is vowing to keep up the fight. The move clears the way for the start of the transition from Trump’s administration and allows Biden to coordinate with federal agencies on plans for taking over on Jan. 20. Continue reading at The Spokesman-Review. (Susan Walsh)

Seattle City Council Just Cut SPD’s Budget by 20%
On Monday evening the Seattle City Council voted 8-1 to approve a $6.5 billion 2021 budget package that filled in COVID-19 holes, increased funding to address homelessness, revived Seattle’s Green New Deal, and, among other things, cut the Seattle Police Department budget by around 20%. Continue reading at The Stranger. (Seattle Channel)