Local News | Nation & World | Business & Technology | Sports | Entertainment | Living | Travel & Outdoors | Opinion | Mobile site
Local NewsUPDATE - 01:10 AM
Social worker recounts minutes before Powell fire
Josh Powell told his 7-year-old son he had a "surprise" for him moments before attacking and killing him and his 5-year-old brother, according to the state social worker who was supposed to supervise a visit between Powell and his sons. Fri, 2/10
Wanted in Seattle classrooms: more teachers of color
Despite a growing body of evidence about its importance, Puget Sound-area public-school districts still can't seem to build a diverse teaching corps. Thu, 2/09
APNewsBreak: Powell had 'incestuous' images
Before Josh Powell was going to try to win back custody of his children last week, Washington state authorities received materials from Utah police that had been discovered on a computer in Powell's home two years ago. Authorities say the images depicted "incestuous" sex and were disconcerting enough that they prompted a psychologist to recommend that Powell undergo an intensive psychosexual evaluation. Thu, 2/09
Council members get briefing on arena proposal, minus details
A New Jersey sports consultant offered Seattle City Council members a glimpse of financing plans, as interest has intensified in the prospect of bringing an NBA team back to town. Thu, 2/09
Bellevue College adds a third bachelor's degree program
The new, four-year degree is in health-care technology and management at Bellevue College. Thu, 2/09
Doctors want to amend new rules on prescribing pain medications
New state rules for prescribing pain medication are so strict they are scaring some doctors into abandoning their patients and avoiding treatment of pain, patients and doctors told lawmakers in Olympia on Thursday. Thu, 2/09
Economy, blogs give survivalists new reason to look to Northwest
While white separatists for years have called for a racial homeland in the inland Pacific Northwest, an even bigger movement of survivalists, Christian fundamentalists and political doomsayers is fueling the idea of a defensible retreat west of the Rockies. Thu, 2/09
Girder setting to cause big delays at I-5 confluence this weekend
The installation of giant girders over Interstate 5 where it meets Highways 18 and 161 near Federal Way will close southbound lanes, some northbound lanes and some ramps this weekend, causing delays of up to 5 miles. Thu, 2/09
Marijuana legalization initiative set to go on Nov. ballot
A measure to create a state-licensed system for the sale of marijuana will be voted on in November after the Legislature declined to act on it. Thu, 2/09
Nicole Brodeur
One chilling reason to pass DNA law
Thu, 2/09
Referendum 71 figured in votes on gay marriage
In most cases, lawmakers' votes on gay marriage aligned with their districts' votes on Referendum 71. Thu, 2/09
State cheerleading tournament illnesses now at 192
A Washington state Health Department spokesman says there have been 192 reports of illness among people who attended a state cheerleading tournament last weekend in Everett. Thu, 2/09
Wash. Supreme Court upholds tribal fishing rights
The Washington Supreme Court has ruled that the state cannot police tribal fishermen at a Columbia River fishing site south of Goldendale. Thu, 2/09
Powerball jackpot to hit record $310 million
The Powerball jackpot is up to a record $310 million. Thu, 2/09
Tacoma withdraws offer to Lowell principal under investigation
Tacoma Schools apparently did not know about an ongoing special investigation into Gregory King over personnel conflicts at Lowell Elementary until a Seattle Times article about King's move to Tacoma mentioned it. Thu, 2/09
Wildlife officials wrong to ticket tribal fisherman, high court rules
A Yakama fisherman wins a state Supreme Court ruling about a ticket issued to him for catching undersized fish. Thu, 2/09
Local Digest
Around the Northwest
Gov. Chris Gregoire will sign a measure legalizing gay marriage in Washington state into law on Monday. The House passed the bill on a 55-43... Thu, 2/09
Kitsap sheriff's patrol car hits car at Hansville
The Kitsap County sheriff's office says no one was injured when a deputy responding to a shooting in Poulsbo collided with a car in Hansville. Thu, 2/09
More than 30 dogs, cats seized in Spokane, Wash.
Spokane police helped animal control officers remove more than 30 dogs and cats from a Spokane home where the stench was so great that workers wore hazmat suits and respirators. Thu, 2/09
SWAT standoff at Vancouver home
A Clark County sheriff's SWAT team has surrounded a home at Vancouver while negotiators try to talk to a man inside who reportedly fired a gun. Thu, 2/09
Wine grape growers meeting at Kennewick
Washington wine grape growers are holding their annual meeting and trade show through Friday at the Three Rivers Convention Center in Kennewick. Thu, 2/09
Club promoter convicted in brutal 2010 murder of Des Moines prostitute
A King County jury Tuesday convicted a man of first-degree murder in the 2010 killing of a Des Moines woman who was found stabbed 63 times. Thu, 2/09
Anti-stalking measure stalls in Legislature after judges' criticism
A bill that would offer greater protections for stalking victims appears dead in the Legislature, after state judges raised concerns. Thu, 2/09
State Medicaid program to stop paying for unneeded ER visits
Starting April 1, Medicaid will no longer pay for such visits, even when patients or parents have reason to believe they're having an emergency. Hospitals and doctors are pressing lawmakers to undo the policy. Thu, 2/09
Activist's website hammers away at Gold Bar, costs tiny town money
Gold Bar attorney Anne Block's community website, goldbarreporter.com, has become a divisive source of rumors and accusations. Thu, 2/09
Nation & WorldUPDATE - 01:06 AM
Two explosions hit northern Syrian city of Aleppo
Two explosions targeted security compounds in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo on Friday, state media said, causing an unspecified number of casualties in a major city seen as key to President Bashar Assad's grip on power. Fri, 2/10
UPDATE - 01:40 AM
GOP candidates to woo conservatives at big event
Three of the four GOP presidential candidates are addressing a major conservative gathering in Washington, giving them a high-profile stage to reshape their messages at a moment of uncertainty in the contest. Fri, 2/10
UPDATE - 12:40 AM
Students, teachers adjust as LA school reopens
Some students wrote farewell letters to their former teachers. Even though it was the middle of the school year to them, it was the first day for the new staff of an elementary school where every worker was replaced following the arrests of two longtime teachers on lewdness charges. Fri, 2/10
British man wanted in '93 heist arrested in Mo.
After nearly two decades as a fugitive, a British man suspected of driving off with an armored car loaded with cash worth about $1.5 million has been captured in southwest Missouri, where he appeared in federal court wearing blue jeans and asking for a court-appointed defense attorney because he didn't have enough money to hire one. Fri, 2/10
UPDATE - 02:02 AM
Officials: 2 held in death of Afghan peace broker
Two Afghan officials say Pakistan has arrested two people in connection with last year's assassination of a former Afghan president who was trying to broker peace with the Taliban. Fri, 2/10
UPDATE - 01:07 AM
Groups demand new probe into Marine photo
A leading Jewish organization and others outraged by a photo showing Marine snipers in Afghanistan posing with a logo resembling a notorious Nazi symbol are demanding President Barack Obama order an investigation and hold the troops accountable. Fri, 2/10
$25B settlement reached over foreclosure abuses
A landmark $25 billion settlement with the nation's top mortgage lenders was hailed by government officials Thursday as long-overdue relief for victims of foreclosure abuses. But consumer advocates countered that far too few people will benefit. Thu, 2/09
Alabama's Rep. Bachus faces insider-trading investigation
The Office of Congressional Ethics is investigating the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee over possible violations of insider-trading laws, according to individuals familiar with the case. Thu, 2/09
FBI file: Steve Jobs distorted the truth
FBI background interviews of some people who knew Apple co-founder Steve Jobs reveal a man driven by power and alienating some of the people who worked with him. Thu, 2/09
NRC approves first new nuclear plant in 3 decades
The nation's first new nuclear power plant in a generation won approval Thursday as federal regulators voted to grant a license for two new reactors at a site in eastern Georgia. Thu, 2/09
Suffering deepens in hard-hit Syrian city
World leaders seemed stymied in efforts to halt the bloodshed in Syria. Thu, 2/09
FBI background file has mixed reviews of Steve Jobs
He had smoked pot and dropped LSD. He could be a pain to work with. He twisted the truth at times. Yet according to a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) background file released Thursday, former Apple co-founder and CEO Steve Jobs would still have made a fine presidential appointee. Thu, 2/09
Fla. mogul, facing trial, adopts his girlfriend
The story already had people's attention: A multimillionaire polo magnate was accused of causing a drunken-driving wreck that killed a young man. But now, with his criminal trial approaching, a strange twist has raised even more eyebrows: He has adopted his 42-year-old girlfriend. Thu, 2/09
Judge: Firing for lactation not sex discrimination
A federal judge's ruling against a Houston mother who says she was fired after asking for a place to pump breast milk has highlighted a question left unanswered by higher courts: Is firing a woman because she wants to pump at work sexual discrimination? Thu, 2/09
Tribe suing beer companies for alcohol problems
An American Indian tribe sued some of the world's largest beer makers Thursday, claiming they knowingly contributed to devastating alcohol-related problems on South Dakota's Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Thu, 2/09
Leaving 'No Child' law: Obama lets 10 states flee
It could be the beginning of the end for No Child Left Behind. Thu, 2/09
Man drowns after seeing girlfriend's car in river
Authorities in northeastern Alabama say a man dove into the Tennessee River after seeing his girlfriend's car sinking and drowned in the fast-moving water. But authorities say he may not have realized the girlfriend had already escaped from the car and was helped to shore by a fisherman. Thu, 2/09
Women at war: Pentagon is easing its job limits
New orders from the Pentagon: The military on Thursday formally opened thousands of jobs to women in units that are closer to the front lines than ever before, reflecting what's already been going on as female American soldiers fight and die next to their male comrades. Thu, 2/09
Marine sergeant not guilty in hazing case
A military jury on Thursday found a Marine sergeant not guilty after authorities charged him with hazing a lance corporal who later committed suicide in Afghanistan. Thu, 2/09
Quarterly loss hits $3.3B at Postal Service
Teetering on the brink of bankruptcy, the U.S. Postal Service's quarterly loss ballooned to $3.3 billion amid declining mail volume and the soaring costs of health benefits for future retirees. Thu, 2/09
Euro ministers cold on deal to bail out Greece
Just hours after Greece gave in to painful new job and spending cuts, European ministers declared Thursday that Athens didn't go far enough and demanded more within a week in exchange for a euro130 billion ($170 billion) bailout to stave off bankruptcy. Thu, 2/09
GOP report questions 600 Guantanamo transfers, releases
Facing domestic political pressures, the Bush and Obama administrations released or transferred 600 terror suspects deemed an acceptable threat from the U.S. prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, only to find that 27 percent re-engaged in terrorist or insurgent activities, according to a report by Republicans on the investigations panel of the House Armed Services Committee. Thu, 2/09
10 states gain waivers from 'No Child Left Behind' law
Some questioned if schools would be getting a pass on aggressively helping poor and minority children, those the No Child Left Behind law was primarily designed to help. Thu, 2/09
Beef prices expected to climb for next 2 years
The smallest cattle herd since the 1950s likely will mean higher beef prices at the supermarket for the next two years. Thu, 2/09
Bishop warns of priest sex abuse cases in Asia
A culture of silence across Asia may be keeping many victims of clergy sex abuse there from coming forward, a top Asian church official told a Vatican-backed conference on Thursday. Thu, 2/09
Extremists' retreat to Northwest stokes memories of ugly past
A plot to bomb an MLK Day parade route in Spokane and evidence of anti-government stirrings in northwestern Montana prompt fears of a resurgence of white-supremacist and militia groups in the region. Thu, 2/09
Facing trial, Florida tycoon adopts his girlfriend — who's 42
The adoption was revealed in recently filed court papers, dumbfounding the Florida judge who will preside over the wrongful-death lawsuit brought by the victim's family. Thu, 2/09
Firing for using breast pump isn't sex discrimination, judge rules
The judge in a case involving a Houston woman reasoned that lactation was not pregnancy-related and, as a result, "firing someone because of lactation or breast-pumping is not sex discrimination." Thu, 2/09
Gender-bending model pushes limits of fashion runway
Andrej Pejic is the only top-tier fashion model who can walk down the runway as either a man or a woman. Thu, 2/09
House passes insider-information ethics bill, but drops key section
Democrats said House Republican leaders weakened the bill by stripping out a provision that would regulate firms that collect "political intelligence" for hedge funds, private equity firms and other investors. Thu, 2/09
Jordan holds ex-intelligence chief in graft probe
A Jordanian prosecutor says he has ordered a powerful former intelligence chief to be detained for 14 days pending a probe on charges of embezzlement of public funds, money laundering and abuse of office. Thu, 2/09
Mexican army finds 15 tons of pure methamphetamine
The size of the meth bust in Mexico state suggests involvement of the powerful Sinaloa drug cartel. Thu, 2/09
Mortenson asks judge to toss 'Three Cups' lawsuit
Attorneys who accuse Greg Mortenson of defrauding readers in his best-selling "Three Cups of Tea" say his case is no different from that of James Frey, who admitted on the "Oprah Winfrey Show" that he lied in his memoir "A Million Little Pieces." Thu, 2/09
NRC approves first nuclear reactors in 3 decades
The Southern Company is adding the two reactors to its Alvin W. Vogtle nuclear plant near Augusta, Ga. Thu, 2/09
Pentagon plan expands women's roles in military
The proposed regulations, expected to take effect this summer, would allow women to serve in noninfantry battalion jobs, such as radio operators, intelligence analysts, medics, radar operators, and tank mechanics. Thu, 2/09
Research: Cancer treatment for pregnant women possible
Doctors have long worried about how to balance treating a pregnant woman with cancer and the need to protect her fetus from cancer drugs and radiation. Thu, 2/09
Spanish human-rights judge is convicted of going too far
Judge Baltasar Garzón is best-known for indicting former Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet in 1998 and trying to put him on trial in Spain for crimes against humanity. Thu, 2/09
U.S. issues more precise warnings on travel to Mexico
The new, more detailed warning comes in response to concerns expressed by Mexico tourism officials, who worried that previous travel warnings scared off U.S. tourists. Thu, 2/09
Dwindling time, rising tension make Iran top fear
The United States and its allies believe the window to stop Iran from building a bomb is quickly closing, pushing conflict with the Islamic republic to the top of the Obama administration's national security worries in the midst of an election year. Thu, 2/09
Giffords aide to run for seat in special election
Ron Barber was always the behind-the-scenes man for his boss, Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords. Thu, 2/09
Hold the mystery meat: Military food gets upgrade
Hold the mystery meat: Military mess halls soon will be serving more fruits, vegetables and low-fat dishes under the first program in 20 years to improve nutrition standards across the armed services. Thu, 2/09
Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood wants government sacked
Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood called Thursday on the ruling generals to sack the military-appointed government, saying it has failed to manage the deteriorating security and economic situation in the country. Thu, 2/09
Miss high court hears challenge to Barbour pardons
Feuding attorneys asked the Mississippi Supreme Court on Thursday to determine the validity of pardons that Haley Barbour gave to convicted killers and other convicts during his final days as governor. Thu, 2/09
Report says 2 Tibetans killed by security forces
Chinese security forces shot dead two Tibetan brothers who had been on the run since taking part in anti-government protests two weeks ago in southwest China, a U.S.-funded broadcaster reported Friday. Thu, 2/09
Romanian accused of hacking NASA-JPL computers
A federal grand jury has indicted a Romanian citizen on charges he hacked into 25 climate-research computers at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena. Thu, 2/09
Deal to aid 1 million homeowners; won't solve housing market's ills
The deal offers help to struggling homeowners, but experts view it more as a moral victory with limited impact on the broader housing market. Thu, 2/09
Gorbachev: Putin has 'exhausted' his potential
Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has "exhausted" his potential as Russia's leader, Mikhail Gorbachev declared Thursday, saying Putin's inability to change the Kremlin's political system might prompt more massive anti-government protests. Thu, 2/09
Pregnant teen held 9 days, beaten by boyfriend
Police say a pregnant teenager was held captive nine days in a California home, where she was bound with tape and beaten by a jealous boyfriend. Thu, 2/09
Serbia urges citizens to save power in big freeze
Serbia was struggling to keep its power system going, officials warned Thursday, after weeks of record low temperatures in Europe that have snarled traffic, frozen rivers and challenged officials to step up outreach to the vulnerable homeless. Thu, 2/09
Daughter: Jailed Tymoshenko denied painkillers
The daughter of jailed former Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko on Thursday accused prison authorities of subjecting her mother to "horrendous" pain by denying her painkillers. Thu, 2/09
Business & TechnologyState's share of mortgage settlement: $648 million
It could take six to nine months for homeowners to find out if they are eligible for the relief, and officials aren't ready to say how many Washington homeowners might benefit. Thu, 2/09
Microsoft offers more details about Windows 8 on devices
Microsoft discloses some long-awaited details on how it's engineering Windows 8 weeks before a test version is released. Thu, 2/09
Darren Berg gets 18-year sentence for Ponzi scheme
Darren Berg addressed the courtroom audience in a five-minute monologue that was both contrite and defensive, occasionally smiling and occasionally choking up as he acknowledged "the horrific mess that I've made." Thu, 2/09
ATS opens aerospace-repair plant near Paine Field, looks to hire
Aviation Technical Services opened a new parts-repair facility just south of Boeing's Everett plant, securing 100 skilled mechanics' jobs and making plans to hire another 100 within two years. Thu, 2/09
Zumiez's online-order center off to Kansas; 35 Everett jobs cut
The youth-oriented clothing chain will move its e-commerce order-fulfillment operations from its Everett headquarters to Edwardsville, Kan., in May Thu, 2/09
Expedia posts lower fourth-quarter profit
The online travel agency's revenue rose 7 percent from a year ago, but that was offset by higher costs. Thu, 2/09
FDA outlines path for lower-priced biotech drugs
The Food and Drug Administration is preparing to review the first lower-cost versions of biotech drugs, expensive medications which have never before faced generic competition. Thu, 2/09
Kodak to stop making cameras, digital frames
Picture it: Save for a few disposable point-and-shoots, Kodak is exiting the camera business. Thu, 2/09
LinkedIn's 4Q revenue doubles, stock soars 8 pct
LinkedIn provided further evidence of online networking's popularity and moneymaking potential with a fourth-quarter performance that got a glowing review on Wall Street. Thu, 2/09
Pepsico to cut 8,700 jobs; 4Q net rises
PepsiCo is trying to put some fizz back into its business. The food and drinks maker announced a restructuring on Thursday that includes cutting 8,700 jobs globally and plowing money into advertising drinks like Pepsi and Mountain Dew in North America. Thu, 2/09
Shuttered wine-bottle plant in Kalama to restart in July
The Bennu Glass plant will have a new furnace and 100 employees when it reopens. Thu, 2/09
US jobs gap between young and old is widest ever
Squeezed by a tight job market, young Americans are especially struggling. They have suffered bigger income losses than other age groups and are less likely to be employed than at any time since World War II. Thu, 2/09
Stocks close higher after debt deal in Greece
The stock market finally got a deal in Greece, but it didn't produce much of a rally. Thu, 2/09
Fidelity: 401(k) balances little changed over 2011
Workers stashed money away in their 401(k) retirement plans at a faster clip last year but didn't get an immediate reward for their savings strategy. Fidelity Investments, the nation's biggest 401(k) administrator, says the average account balance was essentially unchanged in 2011, compared with 2010. Thu, 2/09
Groupon stock plunges on growth worries
Groupon had a lot to prove with its first earnings report as a public company. The nearly 14 percent slide in its stock Thursday suggests investors were not impressed. Thu, 2/09
Rate on 30-year mortgage stays at record 3.87 pct.
The average rate on the 30-year fixed mortgage stayed at a record low this week, providing some added incentive for those looking to buy a home or refinance. Thu, 2/09
State's share of mortgage settlement: $648 million
Washington's share of a $25 billion settlement with the nation's biggest mortgage lenders over foreclosure abuses will be about $648 million, the state attorney general said Thursday. Thu, 2/09
Timeline of events of nationwide mortgage deal
On Thursday, 49 states reached a $25 billion deal with the nation's biggest mortgage lenders over foreclosure abuses that occurred after the housing bubble burst. Thu, 2/09
What settlement will and won't do for homeowners
The mortgage settlement that government officials announced Thursday is intended to help victims of foreclosure abuses that followed the housing bust. Thu, 2/09
Wheat prices fall on record stockpile forecast
Wheat prices fell Thursday after the government predicted global inventories would reach a record high by summer. Thu, 2/09
Wholesale inventories rose 1 percent in December
Wholesale businesses increased their stockpiles sharply in December although the gains are expected to slow in coming months, a development that could curb overall economic growth. Thu, 2/09
Unemployment aid applications near a 4-year low
The number of people seeking unemployment aid neared a four-year low last week, a positive sign that strong hiring could continue in the coming months. Thu, 2/09
Marines posed with Nazi symbol
The Marine Corps has used the incident as a training tool to talk to troops about what symbols are acceptable after it became aware of the photograph last November. Thu, 2/09
The changing face of town houses
A recent update to Seattle's land-use code aims to have new multifamily dwellings take on a different look. Changes include favoring front porches over auto courts. Thu, 2/09
SportsWashington men walloped by Oregon, 82-57
Huskies lose in Eugene, see five-game win streak snapped Thu, 2/09
Steve Kelley
December's demons are back to bedevil Huskies
Oregon beat the Washington Huskies Thursday night, 82-57. It was as bad a 40 minutes as Washington had played all year. Thu, 2/09
Jazmine Davis scores 27 as UW women beat Oregon 72-69
The Washington women avenge a December loss to Oregon where they blew a 16-point lead. This time, the Huskies don't falter when it counts. Thu, 2/09
Cougars end slump, beat Oregon State 83-73
The Cougars (13-11, 5-7 Pac-12) had lost three of their previous four games. Thu, 2/09
Storm makes it official, signs Sue Bird, Tanisha Wright
Storm guards Sue Bird and Tanisha Wright re-signed with the Storm on Thursday. Both players want to finish their WNBA careers with Seattle. Thu, 2/09
Gonzaga men upset No. 16 Saint Mary's 73-59
Freshman Kevin Pangos scored 27 points and Gonzaga beat No. 16 Saint Mary's 73-59 on Thursday night to avenge an earlier loss to the West... Thu, 2/09
BYU women use huge second half run to rout Gonzaga
Kim Parker had 16 points and BYU scored 20 straight in the second half to rout No. 19 Gonzaga 70-40 on Thursday night, handing the Bulldogs their worst conference loss in a decade. Thu, 2/09
Oregon St. women rally past Washington St. 51-39
Thais Pinto scored 12 points and Oregon State defeated Washington State 51-39 Thursday night despite making just 1 of 24 3-point shots. Thu, 2/09
Rainier Beach football coach Mark Haley forced to reapply for his job
Rainier Beach has opened up its head football coaching position, requiring longtime coach Mark Haley to reapply for his job. The school's athletic director says Rainier Beach "just kind of wanted to see what else was out there." Thu, 2/09
Seattle U. women beat Portland State, 90-79
Sylvia Shephard had career highs of 23 points and 13 rebounds as Seattle University's women's basketball team won its third straight road game. Thu, 2/09
Sounders will play Mexican team in Community Shield match Feb. 29
Sounders FC will play Mexico's Jaguares in a final preseason game Feb. 29. Admission for the 7 p.m. kickoff at CenturyLink Field is free. Thu, 2/09
Basketball standout Katie Collier named All-American
Despite her ongoing battle with leukemia, the Seattle Christian standout was named to play in the McDonald's All-American Game March 28 in Chicago. Thu, 2/09
LW boys, Bellevue girls claim KingCo 3A titles | Basketball
Guy Lynott had 14 points and 15 rebounds as Lake Washington's boys beat Bellevue 53-42, and Bellevue's girls handled Liberty 54-36. Thu, 2/09
Sideline Chatter
A looter's lament
Turns out Hurricane Katrina was a big blow to Eli Manning's ego, too. Thu, 2/09
Lakers beat Celtics in overtime
Pau Gasol blocked Ray Allen's put-back attempt at the buzzer in overtime and the Los Angeles Lakers held on to beat the Boston Celtics 88-87 on Thursday night. Thu, 2/09
Tenn. St. knocks off unbeaten Murray St.
Robert Covington had 17 points and eight rebounds to lead Tennessee State to a 72-68 victory over No. 9 Murray State, handing the last unbeaten team in Division I its first loss of the season. Thu, 2/09
Arizona beats Colorado to stay in striking distance of Pac-12 lead
Arizona grinded out a 71-57 win over Colorado Thursday night in Pac-12 men's action. Thu, 2/09
A look at what's going on at Northwest ski resorts
The springlike weather that settled into the Northwest last week has given way to a series of weak disturbances, which amounted to a little bit of new snow or light rain at all ski and snowboard areas. Thu, 2/09
Dustin Johnson in 3-way tie at Pebble Beach | A.M. Briefing
Dustin Johnson pitched in for eagle on the third hole Thursday at Pebble Beach and wound up with a 9-under-par 63. He was part of a three-way tie atop the leaderboard in the Pebble Beach National Pro-Am. Thu, 2/09
Northwest snow-depth data
A look at the latest snow-depth data for various Northwest mountain areas, provided by the National Weather Service: Thu, 2/09
Permits for Mount St. Helens climbs are going fast
More than 20 percent of the climbing permits for Mount St. Helens have been sold, including all of the available Saturday and Sunday permits in July and August. Thu, 2/09
NW Briefs
Washington softball rolls to 4-0 victory in season opener
Sophomore pitcher Kaitlin Inglesby hit a two-run, first-inning home run to left-center field to spark 12th-ranked Washington to a 4-0 victory over No. 21 Nebraska in the teams' 2012 softball season opener Thursday afternoon. Thu, 2/09
Sports on the air
Friday's highlights NBA basketball TV Radio 5 p.m. L. A. Lakers at New York ESPN 5 p.m. Portland at New Orleans CSN 7:30 p.m. Oklahoma City at Utah... Thu, 2/09
Oregon St. overtakes Cougars in 2nd half
Thais Pinto scored 12 points and Oregon State defeated Washington State 51-39 Thursday night despite making just 1 of 24 three-point shots. Thu, 2/09
Thursday's statewide prep basketball scores
Battle Ground 63, Skyview 51 Bellevue Christian 41, Seattle Academy 40 Central Valley 61, Mead 42 Cheney 83, Deer Park 60 Clarkston 65... Thu, 2/09
EntertainmentUPDATE - 01:34 AM
Sarah Jessica Parker headlines celeb-filled gala
A chance to kiss the buff, shirtless Richard Gere of the early `80s? Sold, for $20,000! Fri, 2/10
Movie review
'Oscar-nominated Short Films 2012': See all 10 at Seattle's Varsity
A review of "Oscar-Nominated Short Films, 2012," featuring all five animated nominees (79 minutes total) and all five live-action shorts (107 minutes). The annual pre-Oscar showcase, playing at the Varsity, is highlighted by a brilliantly animated celebration of books, and a short, punchy comedy from Ireland. Thu, 2/09
5th Avenue's 'Oklahoma!': a multicultural frontier
The 5th Avenue Theatre's staging of the vintage Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, opening Feb. 9 and directed by Peter Rothstein, aims to blend folkloric homage with multicultural vision. Thu, 2/09
Theater review
In 'I Am My Own Wife,' a character to remember
Local performer Nick Garrison does an impressive job assuming the many personae required in this multilayered one-man show that poses tough questions about survival in the face of evil. Thu, 2/09
Classical review
Pianist Jan Lisiecki: Extremely talented and incredibly young
The buzzed-about young Canadian pianist showed astonishing maturity and depth, writes critic Melinda Bargreen, in his performance in Seattle on Feb. 8. Thu, 2/09
Concert review
Wilco bonds with the faithful at the Paramount
In this review of Wilco's performance at Seattle's Paramount Theatre Tuesday, Feb. 7, Tom Keogh reports that the band came across in the grand tradition of "bonding with faithful," delivering a special concert that had even lead singer Jeff Tweedy applauding the band's guitarist, Nels Cline. Thu, 2/09
Movie review
'Safe House': Denzel Washington saves day in 'Bourne' knockoff
A movie review of "Safe House," a spy thriller packed with characters, scenes and situations that seem cloned from the blockbuster "Bourne" movies. What it has that the "Bournes" don't is fun-to-watch Denzel Washington. Thu, 2/09
Renowned countertenor in 'Dido' at Town Hall
The Early Music Guild brings Canadian countertenor Daniel Taylor and his Theatre of Early Music to Seattle's Town Hall to perform Purcell's "Dido and Aeneas" on Saturday, Feb. 11. Thu, 2/09
Seattle's Ivan Doig welcomes first stage adaptation
Montana-bred Seattle novelist Ivan Doig looks forward to Book-It Rep's new theatrical version of his popular novel, "Prairie Nocturne." Thu, 2/09
Siriano: Moving past 'fierce'
Thanks to "Project Runway," Christian Siriano is a star in the eyes of the broader public, but now he's trying to appeal to the fashion crowd. Thu, 2/09
Movie review
'Journey 2: The Mysterious Island': Not quite paradise
A movie review of "Journey 2: The Mysterious Island," the mediocre follow-up to 2008's "Journey to the Center of the Earth." It finds returning star Josh Hutcherson playing a kid searching for his missing grandfather (Michael Caine) and in the brawny company of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Thu, 2/09
Movie review
'Pina': a loving tribute to choreographer Pina Bausch, in 3-D
"Pina," an Oscar-nominated documentary about choreographer Pina Bausch, directed by Wim Wenders, is a loving, beautiful tribute to a brilliant artist. It's playing at Seattle's Cinerama. Thu, 2/09
Movie review
'The Vow': sweet, earnest but half-baked
"The Vow," playing at several Seattle theaters, is a gooey, half-baked love story directed by Michael Sucsy and starring Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum, says Seattle Times movie critic Moira Mcdonald. Thu, 2/09
Clemons' nephew to play sax on Springsteen tour
It takes two men to replace The Big Man. Thu, 2/09
Elizabeth Taylor auctions raise $183 million
Paintings, jewelry and fashions belonging to the late Elizabeth Taylor have sold for more than $183 million, with all of the more than 1,800 items on offer snapped up, Christie's auction house said Thursday. Thu, 2/09
Gender-bending model pushes limits of the runway
On a chilly winter afternoon, Andrej Pejic settles into a Manhattan cafe with a cup of Earl Grey tea, sitting gracefully, long legs crossed. The blue-eyed fashion model gazes out a window, unaware that almost every man sitting at surrounding tables is transfixed. Thu, 2/09
Heather Mills says McCartney calls were hacked
She squared off against former Beatle Paul McCartney in divorce court; on Thursday, Heather Mills took on Piers Morgan at Britain's media ethics inquiry. Thu, 2/09
Naomi Watts to star in Princess Diana biopic
Producers say Naomi Watts will play Princess Diana in a film about the last years of the royal's life. Thu, 2/09
Oscar lands in Los Angeles after Chicago flight
Passengers on United Airlines Flight 531 from Chicago to Los Angeles didn't just get to travel with a world-famous celebrity, they also had their picture taken with him. Thu, 2/09
Thursday TV Picks: 'The Finder' on Fox
TV Picks for Thursday Feb. 9, 2012, include the new "The Finder" on Fox; "The Vampire Diaries" on The CW; and "30 Rock" on NBC. Thu, 2/09
Weekend Preview: Seattle's Neighbor Appreciation Day
A lineup of entertainment options for the weekend of Feb. 10-12, 2012. On the list: Neighbor Appreciation Day in Seattle, Family Birding Walk at Juanita Bay Park in Kirkland and Wine & Chocolate tastings on Bainbridge Island. Films opening Friday include Denzel Washington's "Safe House," Rachel McAdams' "The Vow" and Madonna's "W.E." Thu, 2/09
Movie review
'Crazy Horse': an enticing behind-the-scenes look at Paris cabaret
A movie review of "Crazy Horse," a documentary by Frederick Wiseman that takes a fascinating behind-the-scenes view of the legendary cabaret. Thu, 2/09
Movie review
'Loosies': Stolen moments in the life of a pickpocket
A movie review of "Loosies," an amorphous, laugh-flecked drama about a New York City pickpocket played by Peter Facinelli (Dr. Carlisle Cullen of the "Twilight" series). Thu, 2/09
Movie review
'W.E.' — Madonna's movie is an attractive mess
"W.E.," directed by Madonna and starring Abbie Cornish, Andrea Riseborough and James D'Arcy, is fascinating, says Seattle Times movie critic Moira Macdonald, at least from the standpoint of style. It's hard to take your eyes off the clothes and jewelry worn by Wallis Simpson and the man who abdicated the English throne for her, King Edward VIII. But the movie is a silly, illogical mess. It's playing at Seattle's Seven Gables. Thu, 2/09
Movie review
'We Can't Go Home Again' and 'Don't Expect Too Much': A Nicholas Ray film, and the making of it
"We Can't Go Home Again," a new, digitally restored version of the 1976 docudrama by director Nicholas Ray about a student project he designed at State University of New York, is playing at Northwest Film Forum along with his widow Susan Ray's "Don't Expect Too Much," an entertaining 2011 documentary about the making of "We Can't Go Home Again." Thu, 2/09
AP: Pa. symphony seeks soloist via YouTube contest
Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra officials insist it's not "American Idol" meets Mozart. Thu, 2/09
At A Theater Near You: 'Star Wars' film in 3-D, 'Soul Train'
Playing in Seattle-area theaters this week: "Star Wars: Episode 1 — The Phantom Menace" in 3-D, "Soul Train: The Hippest Trip in America," "Muhammad Ali: The Long-Lost Movie," Looney Tunes Cartoon Festival and more. Thu, 2/09
Blacks Keys, Skrillex, Miller lead Woodie nominees
The eclectic mix of The Black Keys, Skrillex and Mac Miller lead nominees for the 2012 mtvU Woodie Awards. Thu, 2/09
Chris Brown to remain on supervised probation
Chris Brown has been getting attention for all the right reasons lately, but a judge said Thursday that he should continue to remain under the watchful eye of a probation officer as he works to complete the terms of his sentence for beating then-girlfriend Rihanna in 2009. Thu, 2/09
Jersey City clears 'Jersey Shore' spinoff
Jersey City taxpayers won't be footing the bill for police assigned to security for the women of "Jersey Shore" and all the attention that comes with them. Thu, 2/09
Lawyers: Reality TV producer hopes to avoid trial
Lawyers for a U.S. reality television producer facing trial for allegedly murdering his wife at a Mexican resort said Thursday they hope to persuade a judge to drop the charges and free their client. Thu, 2/09
McCreery, Gilbert, Hayes make ACM new artist cut
"American Idol" winner Scotty McCreery, Brantley Gilbert and Hunter Hayes are The Academy of Country Music Awards' best new artist nominees. Thu, 2/09
Oscar Trivia: adapted screenplays
Last week, I asked which current nominee has been nominated, over the years, in five different categories. That would be the very busy Kenneth... Thu, 2/09
50 Cent visits famine victims in Somalia, Kenya
Rapper 50 Cent is teaming up with the World Food Program to see firsthand the effects of hunger in Somalia and Kenya. Thu, 2/09
Hanna berates Ohio legislators on exotic pet laws
Celebrity zookeeper Jack Hanna criticized Ohio lawmakers Thursday for not yet passing a bill to regulate exotic animals, months after authorities shot dozens of lions, tigers, bears and other wild creatures let loose by their suicidal owner. Thu, 2/09
Ranchera music star Fernandez announces retirement
Ranchera music giant Vicente Fernandez says he will retire after tours of Latin America, Spain and the U.S., ending a four-decade career. Thu, 2/09
Rap mogul arrested on Vegas traffic, drug charges
Rap music mogul Marion "Suge" Knight is facing a March court date in Las Vegas following his arrest on a 2009 traffic warrant and a new misdemeanor drug charge, authorities said Thursday. Thu, 2/09
Got protest? Music mogul Simmons mad over milk
Music mogul Russell Simmons wants New York's governor to pull the plug on milk from cows. Thu, 2/09
BCBG offers soothing start to NY Fashion Week
The bright sunny morning that started New York Fashion Week on Thursday didn't keep an evening shade from falling on the runway at BCBG Max Azria, the first major collection to give a glimpse of how fall style is shaping up. Thu, 2/09
Berlin festival opens with Marie Antoinette drama
A costume drama set during the French revolution and starring Diane Kruger as Marie Antoinette kicked off the annual Berlin film festival Thursday - the first of the year's major European film festivals. Thu, 2/09
Fashion Week's first trend: Heart-health awareness
Red is Christie Brinkley's color. Thu, 2/09
NY Fashion Week: Wearable, sellable looks for fall
Fashion designers, retailers, editors and stylists settled into their routines Thursday for eight days of previews at New York Fashion Week with barely a blink at all the photographers' flashes: a sign of business-as-usual stability. Thu, 2/09
Living1M Tassimo coffee makers recalled over burns
Home-brewed coffee lovers, take note: More than a million popular coffee makers are being recalled after dozens of reports of the brewers spraying hot liquid, coffee grounds or tea leaves onto people. Thu, 2/09
Recipe: Quince-Filled Chocolate Marzipan Bonbons
This recipe takes the work out of making Valentine candy. Thu, 2/09
Thousands join first lady for 'Let's Move' outing
Wild arm swings, sharp robotic turns, pulsing fist pumps. Thu, 2/09
Edible landscaping sprouts beyond the vegetable patch
Tips on creating an edible landscape that can help reduce some pest problems while benefiting pollinators, enhance soil fertility and provide homegrown fruits, vegetables and herbs. Thu, 2/09
Love grows: 5 plants to give for Valentine's Day and beyond
Five houseplants that make good gifts. Plus, plant-care tips. Thu, 2/09
Turning up the heat on your workout may burn calories after you've finished
Exercise scientists have long debated the wondrous notion of an exercise afterburn. Thu, 2/09
Which thermometer is best?
Many thermometer options available. Thu, 2/09
Travel & OutdoorsD.C. museum's new exhibits celebrate Lincoln
Flowers once attached to President Abraham Lincoln's coffin and ribbons from mourners have been paired with videos and interactive displays... Thu, 2/09
Hipsters on parade in New Orleans' Mardi Gras
Some marching groups in New Orleans are going for social commentary instead of just glitz in the upcoming Mardi Gras parades. Thu, 2/09
Leap of faith can land you a good hotel deal
Priceline is turning down the marketing of its "blind-bidding" for hotel rooms, but it can save travelers a lot at hotels. Thu, 2/09
Hawaii sees a bigger wave of tourists
No need to fret for the state of Hawaii tourism anymore. Visitor numbers to the Aloha State dropped dramatically during the recession, and... Thu, 2/09
On thin ice, and a long course, with the Dutch
As I lace up my ice skates while sitting on the banks of the Zijlroade river Thursday, grizzled men old enough to be my father glide past me, leaning into the bone-chilling wind and effortlessly propelling themselves across the frozen surface. Thu, 2/09
Poulsbo's Liberty Bay a winter birding bonanza
Liberty Bay in Poulsbo is a good winter stop on Audubon Washington's Great Washington State Birding Trail. Thu, 2/09
OpinionFroma Harrop / Syndicated columnist
Big Brother is 'sharing' on Facebook
Stock analysts are valuing Facebook as high as $100 billion, writes Froma Harrop. The interesting part is that the company has absolutely nothing to sell except information about its members. Thu, 2/09
Guest columnist
Education innovation: Washington's ladder to long-term success
With a little bit of money and a whole lot of innovation, Washingtonians can climb out of their economic hole with a ladder called education, says the House Higher Education Committee chairman. Thu, 2/09
The priest, the pill and the mother-in-law
An Obama administration rule that would require Catholic universities and hospitals to cover contraceptives in their health-care plans have Catholic bishops in an uproar. Which is odd, writes Gail Collins, because the churches themselves don't have to provide contraceptive coverage. Thu, 2/09