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Wednesday, January 8

US, Iran step back from brink; Trump says Iran stands down
The U.S. and Iran stepped back from the brink of possible war Wednesday, as President Donald Trump indicated he would not respond militarily after no one was harmed in Iran’s missile strike on two Iraqi bases housing U.S. troops. Speaking from the White House, Trump seemed intent on deescalating the crisis, which reached a new height after he authorized the targeted killing last week of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the head of Iran’s elite Quds Force. Continue reading in The Seattle Times. (Evan Vucci/The Associated Press)

Boeing 737-800 airplane crashes in Iran, killing all 176 aboard
A Ukrainian airliner carrying 176 people crashed on the outskirts of Tehran during a takeoff attempt Wednesday hours after Iran launched its missile attack on U.S. forces, scattering flaming debris and passengers’ belongings across farmland and killing everyone on board. The Iranian military disputed any suggestion the plane had been blown out of the sky by a missile, and Iranian aviation authorities said they suspected a mechanical problem brought down the 3½-year-old Boeing 737. Continue reading in The Seattle Times. (Mohammad Nasiri/The Associated Press)

Seattle council advances ban on most political spending by ‘foreign-influenced’ companies
Seattle moved closer Tuesday to banning most political spending by “foreign-influenced” corporations, as a City Council committee advanced legislation that sponsor Council President M. Lorena González said could block Amazon and similar companies from using money to shape candidate elections. The committee’s vote was unanimous, so the full council is almost certain to pass the ban into law on Monday. Continue reading in The Seattle Times. (Greg Gilbert/The Seattle Times)

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Associated Press
Boeing now saying pilots need simulator training for 737 Max
Iran strikes back at US with missile attack at bases in Iraq
Families of 2 Seattle crane collapse victims sue companies
Trump says Iran appears to be ‘standing down’ after strike
Cancer group finds biggest one-year drop in U.S. death rate
Boeing 737-800 airplane crashes near Tehran, killing all on board
Key Boeing supplier may begin shedding workers
Washington county reaches deal over man killed by police
19 flu deaths confirmed in Washington state so far
13 on Washington’s March presidential primary ballot
Landslide halts Amtrak rail service between Portland, Seattle

Aberdeen Daily World
Heavy rain causes slides, some flooding

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Bellingham’s Climate Protection Action Plan has six key targets
What are the Ain Assad and Irbil bases? Iranian missiles target US troops in Iraq
Bellingham Council creates climate committee, will begin discussing recommendations
Had enough of the rain in Whatcom County? Forecasters say it may get worse
‘I remember thinking this is brutal,’ Blaine lawyer says of scene at border crossing
More prescription-strength Zantac recalled. It might have too much of a carcinogen
Texts telling people they’ve just been drafted into the Army are fake, officials say

Capital Press
Fish and Wildlife Commission to let public in, this time
Study: Removing Snake River dams would cost economy, environment
Seattle judge expects to rule soon on wolf claims
Drones effective tools for fruit farmers
WSDA: Fines for pesticide violations too low
Washington plans rule for ‘fine sediment’

Columbian
Oregon creates office for congestion, megaprojects, tolling
In Our View: Protection against surprise billing a good step

The Daily News
‘No perfect site’ for another homeless camp
Longview City Council will swear in new members, elect mayor Thursday
Children’s Discovery Museum opens 2020 Science Sundays with ‘frozen fun’

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Not all are college bound; local students have a new option
Everett Transit set to expand electric buses, cut fuel costs
How to contact your state lawmakers — and other fun facts

Islands’ Weekly
County accepting applications for detached accessory dwelling units
Climate, Community, and Agriculture converge at this year’s San Juan Island Agricultural Summit

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Heard the hum in Sinclair Inlet? This is what it’s from
Public health district looks to ‘build out’ revamped syringe exchange program
Bangor subs to get new kind of nuclear weapon

News Tribune (subscription required)
Landslide stops Amtrak service between Portland and Seattle
Editorial: Let there be dark! New light pollution rules in Pierce County make good sense

Olympian (subscription required)
Did you get a text from an unknown number? It might be a presidential candidate
E-scooters send thousands to hospitals and injure even more in the US, researchers say
Texts telling people they’ve just been drafted into the Army are fake, officials say
Iran, war and politics: How do you talk to kids about what’s going on in the world?

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Families of two Seattle crane collapse victims sue companies over a deadly ‘shortcut’
Westneat: Sign of the times: Being labeled a domestic terrorist may be making Rep. Matt Shea more popular
Seattle council advances ban on most political spending by ‘foreign-influenced’ companies
Seattle Public Schools won’t allow students without complete vaccination records in class starting today
Six people detail their ordeals at Canadian border as Rep. Pramila Jayapal demands answers
Landslide halts Amtrak train travel between Seattle and Portland
Sam Cho, sworn in as Port of Seattle’s only minority commissioner, voices concern about immigration and border policies
Macy’s in Burlington, Walla Walla to close as the retailer cuts underperforming locations
Amazon, Intel and Ford want to harvest your data while you drive (via Bloomberg)
Court: Lawyer, businessman broke campaign finance law
Editorial: Washington’s U.S. representatives are wrong to join anti-abortion push
Op-Ed: Washington lawmakers should listen to voters: No new taxes
Opinion: What’s your personal climate action?

Sequim Gazette
Students encouraged to serve as legislative pages (Van De Wege)

Skagit Valley Herald
Mount Vernon company aims to meet demand for paper straws
Ramel appointed to state House (Morris, Ramel)

Spokesman Review
Two skiers killed, five rescued in aftermath of Silver Mountain avalanche
Sacred Heart nurses reach tentative agreement with Providence officials
Spokane lawmakers put on hold proposal to forgive unpaid utility bills totaling $450,000
Opinion: Graeme Lee Rowlands: Americans should moderate expectations and broaden perspective on modernized Columbia River Treaty

Tri-City Herald
Hanford contractor comes up with way to save $2.5 million
Pasco council makes history by electing city’s first Latino mayor and mayor pro tem

USA Today
Cancer death rate sees biggest one-year drop ever, report says
Could your kid be drafted into the military?
On world stage Trump loathed as much as Obama was loved: survey

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Editorial: Targeting Iranian-Americans at border crossing concerning — if true
Editorial: Statewide effort to help homeless is needed

Washington Post
Ivanka Trump’s CES technology conference keynote address sparks backlash
Live updates: Trump says Iranian strike caused no American or Iraqi deaths; new sanctions on Iran will be imposed
Macy’s is closing 29 stores after drop in holiday sales
Ukrainian passenger jet carrying over 170 people crashes in Iran, killing all on board
176 people died in the Ukrainian plane crash in Iran. Here are some of their stories.
Colorado just used its gun seizure law for the first time — one day after it took effect
Major drugstore chains sue doctors in sprawling federal opioid case
Education Department could face new sanctions for violating court order
At CES, the tech giants are preaching privacy. Don’t believe the hype.

Yakima Herald Republic
Environmental groups poised to sue Majestic Dairy over manure management practices
Wapato finds a new insurance carrier — at a steep cost
New Yakima council members wear traditional clothing during swearing-in ceremony

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Looming strike could disrupt garbage collection in parts of King County
Seattle schools vaccine deadline could keep nearly 1,000 students from class starting Wednesday

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Seattle students without current vaccination records won’t be allowed in class starting Wednesday
Ukrainian plane carrying 176 crashes after takeoff from Tehran; no survivors
Live updates: Trump to address nation after Iran missile strikes target US bases in Iraq
Heavy rain prompts flood warnings, increased landslide risk in western Washington
Rain leads to mudslides and buckled roadways in Grays Harbor County

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Crews work to clear two mudslides, buckled road in Grays Harbor County
Seattle City Council preparing proposal to tax big businesses – again
Nearly 1,000 Seattle students may be kept from class for missing vaccination deadline

KNKX FM
Trump Speaks After Iran Missile Attack On U.S. Troops In Iraq

KUOW FM
Military Base Housing U.S. Troops In Iraq Has Been Attacked
Ukrainian Jetliner Carrying At Least 170 People Crashes Near Tehran Airport
Satellite Photos Reveal Extent Of Damage From Iranian Strike On Air Base In Iraq
Much Of The World Doesn’t Trust President Trump, Pew Survey Finds
Iran warns US not retaliate over missile attack in Iraq
War Powers Resolution On Iran Is Latest Attempt By Congress To Reclaim Clout
Mike Pompeo On Drone Strike That Killed Iran’s Top Military Leader: ‘We Got It Right’
McConnell Will Move Ahead With Impeachment Trial Rules Without Democrats’ Support

NW Public Radio
Moses Lake Airport Close To Maxing Out On Boeing 737 Storage As Planes Stay Grounded
American-Iranians Say They Were Detained At U.S.-Canada Border. Federal Officials Deny It
Unemployment Pushes More Men Into Jobs Fields Dominated By Women

Q13 TV (Fox)
Tacoma shuts down homeless encampment to clean and restore park
The idea of a new cruise terminal on the waterfront getting mixed reactions

Web

AARP Magazine
Bills in Washington State Would Lower Price of Insulin, Other Prescriptions (Keiser)

Crosscut
‘It affects the entire family’: Washington parents now work alongside teens in mental health recovery
Federal Way made it harder to evict renters without ‘good cause.’ The entire state might do the same
An Iranian-born woman held at the Canadian border for 11 hours tells her story

My Ballard
Sen. Reuven Carlyle at tonight’s Ballard District Council meeting

Seattle P.I.
Alex Ramel: Bellingham green activist is new state legislator
Landslide stops Amtrak service between Seattle, Portland
Boeing now saying pilots need simulator training for 737 Max

Slog
Our Car Culture Is Too Obsessed with Drunk Driving and Mostly Ignores Speeding
Clean Campaigns Act Moves Forward, But Super PAC Bill Doesn’t Make It Out of Committee
This CDC Map Shows Why Pot Should Be Legal and Trump Shouldn’t Ban Vapes
After Stranger Lawsuit, State Provides Previously Sealed Records

Tuesday, January 7

Washington’s highest court gets chief justice from Spokane, first Native American member
With ceremonial drumming and singing plus a bit of poetry, the Washington Supreme Court swore in a “daughter of Spokane” as its new chief justice and its first Native American justice ever. Justice Debra Stephens became its 57th chief justice and the first person from Spokane to hold the post since 2001. Continue reading in The Spokesman Review. (Ted S. Warren/AP)

Groups demand answers after Iranian-Americans say they were detained
Civil rights groups and lawmakers demanded information from federal officials Monday following reports that dozens of Iranian-Americans were held up and questioned at the border as they returned to the United States from Canada over the weekend. The Washington state chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations said more than 60 Iranians and Iranian-Americans were detained and questioned for hours at the Peace Arch Border Crossing in Blaine. Continue reading in the Peninsula Daily News. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Alex Ramel appointed to replace Jeff Morris as state rep
At a joint meeting January 6, 2020 of the councils from Whatcom, Skagit and San Juan counties, Alex Ramel was selected as the state representative for the 40th Legislative District in Washington. Continue reading in the San Juan Islander. (Debra Lekanoff)

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Associated Press
Groups demand answers after Iranian-Americans say they were detained
Boeing considers taking on more debt to cover 737 Max costs
New chief justice, first Native American member sworn in
Anacortes oil refinery cancels portion of three-part project
Boeing’s checklist of 737 Max fixes grows with wiring issue
SpaceX launches 60 more satellites, trying to tone them down

Aberdeen Daily World
Hoquiam levee would remove 1,000 homes, 2,000 parcels from mandatory flood insurance requirement
Six people detail their ordeals at Canadian border as Rep. Pramila Jayapal demands answers

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
What changes could come to Washington’s public schools in 2020? These bills offer a sneak peek (Dolan, Dhingra, Hasegawa)
State fines Hanford $1 million. Feds withheld critical safety information, it says
Whatcom added more than 15,000 jobs in 10 years. Here are the industries that thrived
Montoya-Lewis sworn in as Washington’s first Native American Supreme Court justice
‘What Americans endured over the weekend in Blaine is unacceptable,’ governor says
Here’s Whatcom County’s newest representative in Olympia
Russia’s Putin visits Syria to meet Assad, a key Iran ally
US will collect DNA from everyone who is detained at the border for an FBI database

The Daily News
Chinook Indian Nation heads to court to achieve recognition
Local military parents keep wary eye on Iran threat
Study: Dam removal would cost $2.3B, jeopardize regional economies

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Like the airport, Port of Everett area is ready to take off
The region’s crazy real estate market is calmer — for now
Arlington: It’s growing everywhere with more on the horizon
Editorial: State should follow example of private forestlands

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
‘No way to make it fail-safe’ says Bremerton owner of vessel lost in Alaska sea

News Tribune (subscription required)
No wonder homes are hard to find: Idaho, Washington top states in 2019 to relocate
People’s Park in Tacoma to close for a week for clean up of homeless encampment
State fines Hanford $1 million. Feds withheld critical safety information, it says

New York Times
Facebook Says It Will Ban ‘Deepfakes’
E.P.A. Aims to Reduce Truck Pollution, and Avert Tougher State Controls
Trump Rule Would Exclude Climate Change in Infrastructure Planning
Can Congress stop Trump from going to war with Iran? | Q&A

Olympian (subscription required)
Thurston County median home price ends 2019 at $340,000 as inventory plunges
What changes could come to Washington’s public schools in 2020? These bills offer a sneak peek (Dolan, Dhingra, Hasegawa)
US will collect DNA from everyone who is detained at the border for an FBI database
No wonder homes are hard to find: Idaho, Washington top states in 2019 to relocate

Puget Sound Business Journal
US shopping mall vacancies hit two-decade high
EPA aims to reduce truck pollution, and avert tougher state controls
Major Seattle employers strategize around 10-week light rail disruption
Seattle-area home sales spike in December, suggesting red-hot market for 2020

Seattle Times (subscription required)
New snags add to uncertainty over Boeing 737 MAX’s return to service
Seattle’s new City Council started work Monday. Here are 8 things that council members said.
Stampede kills 56 at funeral for Iranian general slain by US
Seattle-area parents of kids with disabilities share their tips for making travel fun
Seattle hasn’t fulfilled judge’s request for police-accountability remedies, watchdog panel says
Editorial: Don’t squander moral authority in Iran
Op-Ed: We can’t abandon those we’ve helped in Afghanistan
LTE: Density wins over empathy in closing of youth shelter
Washington state fines feds more than $1 million over Hanford cleanup documents
To fight climate change, Bellingham may ban heating homes with natural gas
Parents of man fatally shot by a Snohomish County sheriff’s deputy settle federal lawsuit for $1M
Blue Origin will steer its space exploration efforts from new Kent headquarters
Boeing redeploys workers as 737 MAX production in Renton prepares to shut down
Talton: How climate change, politics and our ability to coexist will shape the new decade — and Seattle’s future

Spokesman Review
House leaders unsure of next step involving Matt Shea (Jinkins)
EWU to vacate building on WSU Spokane campus after lease talks
With a narrow vote, Lucky Friday miners union accepts contract after more than two years on strike
WaPo: U.S. military says it will reposition troops within Iraq in preparation for a possible withdrawal
Washington’s highest court gets chief justice from Spokane, first Native American member

Tri-City Herald
State fines Hanford $1 million. Feds withheld critical safety information, it says

USA Today
Dozens of Iranians and Iranian Americans report being detained at US border crossing
Climate change has Australian wildfires ‘running out of control,’ experts say

Washington Post
Stampede kills dozens, delaying Soleimani’s burial; Iraq expects U.S. withdrawal
Facebook bans deepfakes, but new policy may not cover controversial Pelosi video
How a ‘quantum change’ in missiles has made Iran a far more dangerous foe
Harvey Weinstein judge refuses to delay New York trial after lawyers say LA case will taint jury pool
Dating apps need women. Advertisers need diversity. AI companies offer help: Fake people
‘It’s a lot happening all at once’: Illinois shops run out of marijuana just six days after start of legalization
The Technology 202: Women in tech wanted more female CES keynotes. But Ivanka Trump is drawing controversy.

Yakima Herald Republic
Fish and Wildlife to collar and study regional mule deer

Broadcast

KEPR
Patients with diabetes praise lawmaker for new bill (Keiser)

KING5 TV (NBC)
Campers remain at Tacoma park after deadline to leave passes
First 737 MAX workers get reassignment notices as company prepares to pause production
Councilmember Sawant launches new effort to tax Amazon
Rep. Jayapal questions CBP statements after Iranian-Americans allegedly held at border

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
19 deaths confirmed from flu in Wash. state, including 2 children
Tacoma’s deadline for tent city to move comes and goes without any action
New chief justice, first Native American member sworn in

KNKX FM
Iranian-American family speaks out about hours spent stuck at Canadian border
Chinook tribe back in court Monday on long quest to regain federal recognition
Deadline approaches for Seattle students to meet vaccine requirements, stay in school

KUOW FM
Proposed Pioneer Square cruise terminal could help businesses, harm environment
Feds withhold crucial info about Hanford, among most contaminated sites in the world
WA lawmakers push back against Border Protection’s detention of Iranian-Americans
Bolton Says He Would Testify In Senate Impeachment Trial If Subpoenaed

KXLY
Washington could soon have an official state clam (Takko)

NW Public Radio
Washington State Regulators Fine Feds More Than $1 Million Over Hanford Cleanup Data

Q13 TV (Fox)
Tent removal to start later this week at Tacoma park
Lawmaker, immigration activists claim discrimination at U.S. / Canadian border

Web

Crosscut
An investigation accused Matt Shea of domestic terrorism. He might stay in the WA Legislature anyway. (Jinkins, Riccelli)
State environmental law slowed housing construction in Seattle. Lawmakers want to pick up the pace (Fitzgibbon)
Opinion: Voting rights, representation and the future of democracy in the nation’s fruit basket

I love Kent
Ribbon cut on new Blue Origin building Monday morning (Orwall, Wellman)

MyNorthwest.com
Washington state birth rate among the highest rate in nation
Sawant renews push for Seattle head tax in 2020

San Juan Islander
Alex Ramel appointed to replace Jeff Morris as state rep (Lekanoff)

Slog
New Seattle City Council Sworn in with Calls for New Progressive Taxes
Washington State Weed Robberies Lead to Changes
Durkan Supports Capping Super PAC Donations and Blocking Amazon from City Elections
Washington Bans Scammy Health Care Sharing Company and Collects $150,000

Monday, January 6

Trump doubles down on striking cultural sites in Iran
President Donald Trump insisted Sunday that Iranian cultural sites were fair game for the U.S. military, dismissing concerns within his own administration that doing so could constitute a war crime under international law. He also warned Iraq that he would levy punishing sanctions if it expelled American troops in retaliation for a U.S. airstrike in Baghdad that killed a top Iranian official. Continue reading in The Seattle Times. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Iranian Americans returning to U.S. detained for hours at Blaine crossing, group says — but Customs and Border Protection says it’s not true
There are two versions of what happened Saturday night when more than 60 Iranians and Iranian Americans were returning to the U.S. at the Blaine border crossing after attending a Persian pop concert in Vancouver, B. C. According to Washington’s chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), they were detained, some for as long as 11 hours. According to U. S. Customs and Border Protection, “Social media posts that CBP is detaining Iranian-Americans and refusing their entry into the U.S. because of their country of origin are false. Reports that DHS/CBP has issued a related directive are also false.” Continue reading in The Seattle Times.

New law taking effect Jan. 1 means no more surprise medical bills for some Washingtonians
It happens all the time: A person has an accident, gets seriously injured and is rushed to the hospital in an ambulance. This person is fortunate – they have health insurance – and they remember which hospital is considered “in-network” for their plan. They are rushed to that hospital, where they are treated by several specialists. Months later, that person receives a surprise “balance bill” for using an out-of-network anesthesiologist, radiologist or pathologist or for additional lab testing, despite going to an in-network hospital. Continue reading in The Spokesman Review. (Dan Pelle/The Spokesman-Review)

Print

Associated Press
Congress demands answers from Trump about Soleimani killing
Trump doubles down on striking cultural sites in Iran
Spokane may write off years of unpaid utility bills
Homeland Security will share citizenship data with Census
Trump’s threats draw Iran’s cultural sites into tensions
Proposed Washington state bill to cap insulin at $100 (Keiser)
Counting whales from space pitched as key to saving them

Aberdeen Daily World
Basich Boulevard closed due to slide
Commentry: Newspapers have a new tool, public records act, to watch the Legislature

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Forecasters waiting for Whatcom County’s 2020 version of a February Freeze
2020 state road projects focus on culverts, one will temporarily close Chuckanut Drive
CBP denies claims that it detained Iranian-American citizens crossing at Peace Arch
Nation’s growth may be slowing, but Washington is adding babies faster than other states
Isn’t speaking to a passenger while driving as distracting as talking on a phone?
Pelosi plans war powers resolution over Iran. Here’s how Congress could limit Trump

Bothell Reporter
Washington doesn’t know true vaccination data
Despite ruling on Public Records Act, we need to keep a close eye on Olympia

Columbian
New state law requires drivers to move over for cyclists, pedestrians
In Our View: Ferguson right to continue state’s opioid fight
In Our View: Use turn signal when appropriate while driving

The Daily News
Proposed Washington state bill to cap insulin at $100 (Keiser)
Port cautious, but sees US-China deal as step to restore grain exports
No major problems reported in first week of Alabama St. homeless camp

Everett Herald (subscription required)
State timber plan worries the biggest employer in town
Stricter child car seat law may mean longer booster seat use
Lawmakers chew the fat with civic leaders in session warm-up (Liias, Hobbs, Salomon, Davis, Duerr)
Guess what, kiddo? You’re going back into a booster seat
Commentary: Path to apprenticeships now starts at high school (Sells)
Returning Iranian Americans detained at border in Blaine
McCusker: Reports raise interesting questions about structure of military
WaPo Commentary: Use Constitution to reclaim government for all
Editorial: As ‘Sailors’ Choice,’ Everett should be Navy’s choice

Islands’ Weekly
Seniors bring lawsuit against senior center nonprofit
OPALCO board listens to member concerns – reconsiders resolution on Snake River dams

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
With half of its funding in place, Pendleton Place enters ‘last leg’ of capital push
Washington’s legal age to buy tobacco is now 21. Here’s how young smokers are reacting.
Census coming to Kitsap, country this year
A look at Kitsap’s growth over the decade
State ferry, light rail changes begin this weekend. Here’s how to navigate them.

News Tribune (subscription required)
Nation’s growth may be slowing, but Washington is adding babies faster than other states
72-hour notices to remove tents posted at homeless encampment in People’s Park
Editorial: Does stinky marijuana need a task force study? A Washington state senator wants one. We have questions.

New York Times
‘A Different Era’: Anti-Semitic Crimes, and Efforts to Track Them, Climb

Olympian (subscription required)
Editorial: Legislature needs to focus resources to stem rise in youth depression and anxiety
CBP denies claims that it detained Iranian-American citizens crossing at Peace Arch

Peninsula Daily News
EYE ON JEFFERSON: Affordable housing action on county agenda

Puget Sound Business Journal
US debt investors seek protection against inflation
It’s not just software. New safety risks under scrutiny on Boeing’s 737 Max.
Former Fed chair has idea to keep a key rate steady
Inventory will determine whether Seattle housing market grows in 2020
Opinion: All-electric homes are a smart option

Renton Reporter
Election quirks: Drop boxes, tossed ballots, fickle voters

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Winter is here: Snow in the passes, minor flooding, ‘flirting’ with a chance of lowland snow in the Seattle area
Iranian Americans returning to U.S. detained for hours at Blaine crossing, group says — but Customs and Border Protection says it’s not true
Where bike ridership in Seattle has recorded new highs
‘I want to see my city turn around’: Gang violence pushes Yakima man to reach out and help
New chapter starts today in Seattle politics; here are 6 story lines to watch
If you’re couch surfing and disabled, the state can reduce your cash assistance. But that could change. (Marcri, Leavitt)
4 counter-demonstrators arrested during far-right rally in downtown Seattle on Sunday
Op-Ed: New overtime rules will help restore work-life balance for Washington workers
Editorial: Gov. Inslee’s welcome but belated homelessness proposal
Editorial: Expand access to dual-credit programs
FYI Guy: The rise of the renter: For the first time in decades, Seattle has as many renters as homeowners
A dome over Lake Washington? Boeing building spacecraft? Here’s what Seattle Times writers in 1970 predicted for 2020
Big Obama administration grants for Washington’s worst schools paid off, new study shows
Fed up with slow and spotty internet, a small town built its own high-speed network
What changes could come to Washington’s public schools in 2020? These bills offer a sneak peek (Dhingra, Dolan, Hasegawa)

Seattle Weekly
King County faces $2 million lawsuit from 2016 K-9 bite
Editorial: Despite ruling on Public Records Act, we need to keep a close eye on Olympia

Skagit Valley Herald
Burlington-Edison students take part in college prep program
Tour educates about bald eagles, salmon
County staff recommend against changes for Guemes Island water

Snoqualmie Valley Record
King County faces $2 million lawsuit from 2016 K-9 bite
Washington doesn’t know true vaccination data
King County child dies from flu; increasing number of flu-like illnesses in Washington State

Spokesman Review
New law taking effect Jan. 1 means no more surprise medical bills for some Washingtonians (Riccelli)
Federal authorities say they aren’t detaining Iranian-Americans at the Washington/Canada border
Spokane considering forgiving 14 years of unpaid utility bills they believe would be legally difficult to collect
Newport smelter company quiet as Pend Oreille officials end agreement
Spin Control: This look at 2020 isn’t necessarily 20/20
Opinion: A disproportionate response
Editorial: Local and state priorities for 2020

Tri-City Herald
Opioids killed 13 Tri-Citians last year, including a baby
Editorial: Court says legislators must release public records. About time they worked in the light

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Environment groups, logging interests, communities sue over state’s plans to sell timber
Editorial: New law that reduces access to cigarettes, vaping is sound
Editorial: State’s latest salvo in opioid battle is welcome

Washington Post
The disturbing history behind Trump’s threat to target Iranian cultural sites
Iran holds massive funeral for slain commander amid calls for vengeance
Trump calls for quick end to process as Republicans pressure Pelosi to send articles of impeachment to Senate
Opinion: Trump’s Iran mess is getting worse. Here’s Schiff’s idea on what to do about it.
Opinion: We’ve moved past climate denial in Australia. It’s now about blame.
Editorial: American’s population growth has dipped. We can’t ignore that warning.
Uber’s secret project to bolster its case against California’s gig-worker law
The challenges in the highly anticipated Harvey Weinstein trial, which starts today
Trump’s insistence on proving his toughness is in open conflict with America’s actual strength
The Technology 202: Silicon Valley will face new challenges in 2020. Here’s what we’re watching.
The Energy 202: Iran may target oil infrastructure as it seeks revenge for Soleimani’s killing, experts warn
I quit drinking 2 years ago. Over time, my brain made it easier.
Experts predict what the 2020 housing market will bring

Yakima Herald Republic
Flu cases have begun to drop off after spike at ERs in December
Composted cows a success story for some, a concern for others
Environmental groups, dairy farms often at odds in the Yakima Valley

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Feds deny that Iranian-Americans were detained at Washington border
5 steps to making a bill into a law in Washington state
2 weeks of ferry schedule changes at Colman Dock underway
New Washington law requires drivers to give cyclists at least 3 feet when passing
Coach fired after posting video saying city of Wapato ‘smells like natives’

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Dozens of Iranian-Americans reportedly stopped and questioned for hours at Washington-Canada border
First human composting site set for Seattle
4 arrested during rally in downtown Seattle
Protests across US condemn action in Iran and Iraq
Washington troops react to Pentagon deployment preparations

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
State senator proposes capping insulin costs to $100 per month (Keiser)

KNKX FM
‘Just get on and go!’ No bus fare needed anymore on this Northwest transit system

KUOW FM
House To Vote On Measure Limiting Trump’s Military Actions In Iran
American-Iranians say they were detained at the Canadian border. Border officials deny it.
PHOTOS: Three percenters call Matt Shea ‘a hero’ at Seattle rally
To Produce Citizenship Data, Homeland Security To Share Records With Census
Was It Legal For The U.S. To Kill A Top Iranian Military Leader?
Timeline: How the U.S. came to strike and kill a top Iranian general
‘Secret’ WA youth detention center at center of records request dispute
Move over for cyclists, Seattle drivers. That’s the law now
Prepare for 10 rough weeks on Seattle light rail
Beware online medical insurance you can’t use here in Washington state
These Seattle parents just learned library fines are no longer. Here’s what they said
‘There Will Be Reprisals’: Democrats Warn Of Fallout From Killing Of Iranian General
‘Get on and go!’ No bus fare needed anymore on Olympia transit system

NW Public Radio
Chinook Tribe Back In Court On Long Quest To Regain Federal Recognition
Public Invited To Clarkston-Pasco-Vancouver Workshops On Question Of Snake River Dams

Q13 TV (Fox)
Seattle Squeeze 2.0: Expect delays and crowded light rail trains through downtown Seattle
Were Iranian-Americans detained at the border in Washington state? Reports are conflicting
The Divide: Answering for Impeachment
Commentary: Head Tax Round 2?
Several Seattle students could be excluded from school due to outdated immunization records
Boeing has uncovered another potential design flaw with the 737 Max

Web

Crosscut
A small team in southeast Washington is leading the charge in telepsychiatry
U.S. attack on Iranian military leader carries ‘huge risk of escalation,’ WA leaders say
Technology vs. privacy: Washington looks to regulate facial recognition tools in 2020
Opinion: Who’s afraid of rent control?
Pacific Northwest forests fit trifecta for curbing climate change — if we stop logging them

MyNorthwest.com
Over 60 Iranian-Americans held at border in Washington over weekend

Slog
Slog AM: Iranian Americans Detained at Border, Harvey Weinstein’s Criminal Trial Begins, Australia Gets Some Rain
Olympia Implements Free Public Transit. Will Seattle Be Next?

Friday, January 3

Iran vows revenge after U.S. drone strike kills elite force commander
Iran on Friday vowed “severe revenge” in response to a U.S. drone strike that killed Tehran’s most powerful military commander, Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, and dramatically sharpened tensions across the Middle East. Soleimani was a towering figure in Iran’s power projection across the region, with close links to a network of paramilitary groups that stretches from Syria to Yemen. His death in the smoldering wreckage of a two-car convoy in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, left U.S. outposts and personnel bracing for retaliatory attacks and oil prices shooting upward. The U.S. Embassy in Iraq warned its citizens to leave “immediately.” Continue reading in The Seattle Times. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)

Washington sues Johnson & Johnson over opioids
Washington filed its third lawsuit tied to the opioid crisis Thursday, claiming one of the nation’s biggest companies deceived doctors and patients about the addictive nature of the pain killers it developed and marketed. The state is suing Johnson & Johnson Corp. for an unspecified amount of damages for the costs of opioid addiction to state residents, Attorney General Bob Ferguson said. It’s the third suit stemming from opioid addiction his office has filed, with a 2017 suit against Purdue Pharmaceuticals stalled by the company’s bankruptcy and a 2019 lawsuit against three companies that distributed the drugs set for trial in October. Continue reading in The Spokesman Review. (Ted S. Warren/AP)

WA lawmakers propose capping insulin costs at $100 a month
Washington state lawmakers could limit the cost of insulin to $100 a month, along with four more pre-filed prescription drug bills designed to curb rising patient costs. The slate of legislation was filed by Sen. Karen Keiser (D-Des Moines) as a response to ballooning prescription costs. If approved, the bills would allow the state to undertake mass buyouts of insulin, cap insulin costs, import prescription drugs for state workers, create a pharmacy benefit board and create a pharmacy tourism board. Continue reading in the Bellevue Reporter. (Wikimedia Commons)

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Associated Press
AP Explains: Rising Iran, US tension after general’s killing
Democrats call US killing of Iranian general ‘reckless’
Texas judge: Hospital can remove baby from life support
Trump’s plan to curb teen vaping exempts some flavors
Oil prices jump on fears of Iranian retaliation against US
Changes coming for light rail riders during construction
Heavy rain, snow increase threat of mudslides
Washington state sues Johnson & Johnson over opioid crisis
Anacortes School Board seeks removal of cap on how much school districts can collect
Iran vows ‘harsh’ response to US killing of top general
Oil prices surge, stocks slip after US kills Iran general
‘A more dangerous world’: Iran killing triggers global alarm
US kills Iran’s most powerful general in Baghdad airstrike
Turkish lawmakers authorize sending troops to fight in Libya
Oil refinery cancels portion of Washington state project
Washington state school district seeks levy cap removal
US manufacturing activity falls to lowest level in decade
Montana coal power plant closing two units built in 1970s

Auburn Reporter
WA lawmakers propose capping insulin costs at $100 a month (Keiser, Cody)
Bill Peloza: Auburn’s get-it-done guy wraps final council term
City nixes dog-breed specific regulations to square with new state law
Swedish Medical Center nurses could send notification of strike by year’s end
Washington’s vehicle emission check program ends Dec. 31
Who owns King County forestlands?
Opinion: Despite ruling on Public Records Act, we need to keep a close eye on Olympia

Bellevue Reporter
WA lawmakers propose capping insulin costs at $100 a month (Keiser, Cody)

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Legislator may push colleges to share sexual misconduct findings (Pollet)
Here’s what the first storm of 2020 could bring to Whatcom County
Koalas already were on the brink in Australia. Then came the devastating bushfires
Don’t abbreviate 2020 when signing documents, police warn. It can be used against you
Trump cracks down on flavored e-cigarettes — so how are Juul products still for sale?

Capital Press
2020: The year ahead: What farmers can expect from legislators in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho

Chinook Observer
Low-carbon fuel on agenda for WA lawmakers (Jinkins, Chopp)

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Strike announcement called off; Providence talks continue
State sues Johnson & Johnson, claims it fueled opioid epidemic
Big 2019 stories: DNA sleuthing, air service, notable deaths
Constant change: Here’s what happened in business in 2019
Commentary: The Space Force is with us; now what?

Islands’ Weekly
Letter to the Editor: Friends of the San Juans Ensures Added Protections for Southern Resident Killer Whales

Kent Reporter
Keiser files bills to take on high prescription drug prices (Keiser)

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Silverdale man among missing from crab boat

News Tribune (subscription required)
Out-of-state buyers still snapping up Tacoma-area apartments for high dollars
Legislator may push colleges to share sexual misconduct findings (Pollet)
Seattle’s Northwest Hospital rebranded as second UW medical campus
Puyallup opens more land to homeless centers to satisfy state hearing’s board
Swap of local bus for comfy motor coach on long Seattle run leaves Gig Harbor commuters fuming
Tacoma council’s flip on rezone for psychiatric hospital results in court challenge

New York Times
The tech that will invade our lives in 2020
Hypersonic Missiles Are a Game Changer

Olympian (subscription required)
Op-Ed: Bum blockades, I-5 snarls, and climate change
Strike by Providence St. Peter nurses on hold following overnight talks

Omak Chronicle
Bills would address prescription drug prices (Keiser)

Peninsula Daily News
Federal court ruling expected to affect salmon conservation on Snake River

Puget Sound Business Journal
Analyst: AGs make case to block Sprint/T-Mobile merger
Amazon reminds employees they could be terminated for speaking publicly about the company
With partial flavor ban, Trump splits the difference on vaping
Boeing’s troubles run deeper than the 737 Max
Northwest Hospital changes name, integrates with UW Medical Center
Boeing machinists receive payout despite jet maker’s year of woes

Renton Reporter
Despite ruling on Public Records Act, we need to keep a close eye on Olympia

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Washington health department seeks greater power to regulate private psychiatric hospitals (Keiser)
A Seattle youth homeless shelter faces its final days, and its young residents confront an uncertain future
Mailer encourages Washington state teachers to stop paying their union dues and ‘save up to $1,200’
1920s Tacoma tower with bank vault to be renovated for housing
After the sinking of the Scandies Rose, a harrowing search, 2 survivors and an aftermath of anguish
‘You’re not alone’: Young mothers with nowhere to go find a home in Kent
A family member hit her, then she and her baby became homeless. Here’s how help arrived, starting with an Uber full of diapers.
State Attorney General Bob Ferguson files suit against opioid manufacturer Johnson & Johnson
A 45-year-old Seattle glass factory may close amid an expected slowdown in the global construction boom
Washington cities can no longer ban pit bulls and other dog breeds outright
Op-Ed: Add Calgary to the Cascadia Innovation Corridor
Editorial: Washington state lawmakers must pass assault-weapons ban

Seattle Weekly
Swedish nurse strike still possible following Dec. 30 negotiations

Skagit Valley Herald
Local housing projects receive grants
County commissioner helps unveil opioid lawsuit

Spokesman Review
Unions delay strike at Sacred Heart, Holy Family as negotiations progress overnight
Washington sues Johnson & Johnson over opioids
Spokane County Jail, DOC to continue negotiations under 1-month contract
North Idaho man, two Washington men among 5 presumed dead after crab boat sinks off Alaskan coast
‘Tumblegeddon’: Drivers ring in the new year trapped under tumbleweeds, rescued with snowplows

Tri-City Herald
Editorial: Headlines we would like to see in 2020

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Editorial: Monitoring college students with technology is concerning

Washington Post
Iran vows revenge after U.S. drone strike kills elite force commander
What Trump said about Obama and war with Iran, and what it means now
Potential buyer for Trump’s D.C. hotel lease says it’s underperforming and unrealistically priced
Airstrike sharply divides Congress
Five myths about rural America that muddle the political realities
‘Houses were exploding’: In Australia’s fire horror, heartbreak and relief
After a hospital and mother disagree, a court had to rule: Who decides when a child dies?
Scenes from Australia’s deadly bush fire crisis
Editorial: Trump backpedals on vaping. Sad!
After upending U.S. policy on North Korea, Trump’s bet hasn’t paid off
Interior secretary extends the tenure of federal lands chief — without a presidential nomination
Colleges want freshmen to use mental health apps. But are they risking students’ privacy?
Minimum wage increases fueling faster wage growth for those at the bottom

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington bill would cap insulin costs at $100 per month (Keiser)
Providence health care workers postpone strike notice
Early-season conditions at Snoqualmie indicate overall snow shortage in the Cascades
Washington AG files lawsuit against opioid supplier Johnson & Johnson

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Thousands of caregivers with Swedish, Providence-owned facilities postpone planned strike
AG Bob Ferguson announces lawsuit against Johnson & Johnson over state’s opioid epidemic

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Prosecutors: Man breaks into courthouse, goes after security guards
Expect Link light rail route disruptions for next 10 weeks

KNKX FM
Amazon employee group says company threatened to fire climate activists
New year marks start of new rules for recycling plastics in Seattle-King County, glass in Tacoma
Washington state announces lawsuit against Johnson and Johnson over opioid epidemic
Big disruptions coming to Seattle light rail

KUOW FM
Qassem Soleimani’s Enduring Legacy Across The Middle East
Bushfires In Australia May Get Even Worse With ‘Horrible Day’ On Horizon

KXRO
Local legislator tries again to make Pacific razor clam official state clam (Takko, Blake)

Q13 TV (Fox)
Link light rail construction connecting Seattle to the Eastside will impact thousands

Web

B-Town Blog
‘Understanding the Mental Health & Drug Crisis’ community meeting will be Thurs., Jan. 9 (Orwall)

Business Insurance
Legislation may lead to comp, safety changes in many states (Keiser)

Crosscut
Technology vs. privacy: Washington looks to regulate facial recognition tools in 2020 (Hudgins, Carlysle, Ngyuen)

Land Line
Washington state bills set roundabout rules around trucks (Takko)

Marijuana Business Daily
Washington state removes online map of cannabis businesses in response to recent burglaries (Keiser)

MyNorthwest.com
AG report recommends establishing state crime team to solve cold cases (Orwall)

Slog
Slog AM: Iranian General Killed by US Drone, Rose McGowan Apologizes to Iran, 2020 Welcomes World War III

State of Reform
Sen. Keiser pre-files 5 bills to address high prescription drug costs (Keiser)

Thursday, January 2

Welcome to 2020 – and to some new laws in Washington
Jan. 1 means more than a new year with toasts at midnight and a chorus of “Auld Lang Syne.” It also means new laws. Although most new Washington laws passed by the Legislature take effect 90 days after a session ends, some are always delayed until Jan. 1 or later to give residents, businesses and state agencies a bit more time to prepare. Some taxes went up, some new regulations started, some programs ended. Continue reading in The Spokesman Review. (Rogelio V. Solis/AP)

A remarkable year in photographs

View in The Washington Post. (Shealah Craighead/AP)

Report: Washington State Patrol singles out Native American drivers
Twelve years ago, academic researchers working with the Washington State Patrol raised a warning flag: Troopers were searching drivers from minority communities, particularly Native Americans, at a much higher rate than whites. They recommended additional study. That was the last time the WSP conducted a substantive analysis of the race and ethnicity of drivers searched by troopers. Continue reading in The Spokesman Review.