KPLU Local News podcast
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Food for Thought: Eating While Dieting
It was inevitable that two people who love cooking and eating as much as Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson and KPLU's Dick "The Big Eater" Stein would finally have to face the music -- and the mirror -- as we hear on today's Food for Thought.
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Food for Thought
Not only has KPLU's Dick Stein detected an annoying trend in modern retailing but at this very moment Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson is actually dreaming about it
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Food for Thought
As you might expect, Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson spent her New Year's doing something unusual with food. So unusual, in fact, that KPLU's Dick Stein felt it prudent to begin today's Food for Thought with this disclaimer
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Food for Thought
(12/22 version) On today's Food for Thought Dick Stein discusses some tasty suggestions on holiday gifts for the cook on your list with Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson.
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Food for Thought: Nancy's French Adventures
Seattle Times Food Writer Nancy Leson is back from her KPLU Travel Club trip to Paris - where she ate and ate and - well you get the idea. She tells all to KPLU's Dick Stein on today's Food for Thought.
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Food for Thought: Waiting for a Table
So how long would you be willing to stand on line for a table at a popular restaurant? 10 minutes? A half hour? Longer? Not KPLU's Dick Stein - as he tells Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson on today's Food for Thought - which is ready for you right now.
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Food for Thought: Following the Fish
That seafood doesn't just swim up to your shopping cart or restaurant kitchen. Someone's got to get them there. Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson tells how on today's Food for Thought.
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Food for Thought
Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson and Dick Stein usually get together at the KPLU Studios each Tuesday to record Food for Thought -- but given this last Tuesday's hazardous driving conditions it seemed more prudent for Dick to just get Nancy on the phone for their Thanksgiving chat.
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Food for Thought: Not Mellow with Jell-O
It shakes, it shimmies, sometimes it's got marshmallows in it - it's that wiggly dessert Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson recently rhapsodized about in her blog. But KPLU's Dick Stein is a fellow who's not so mellow about Jell-O.
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Seattle Middle School Students To Get High School Credit
Starting this year, middle school students in Seattle could finally get some credit .on their high school transcripts, that is. Seventh and eighth graders who take high school level courses can now apply them towards graduation. The change has pluses and minuses for young kids. KPLU education reporter Charla Bear explains.
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Boeing Cuts Ribbon on New P-8 Facility
Boeing has cut the ribbon on a new production facility in south Seattle. It's where a version of its best-selling 737 aircraft will be transformed into one of the US Navy's most advanced surveillance and reconnaissance planes. More from KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp.
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Moving Company Shut Down in Seattle
A moving company in Seattle has been ordered to shut down. State regulators say AMX-A Moving Experience, Inc., is in violation of Washington consumer protection laws. KPLU Law and Justice Reporter Paula Wissel has the story.
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Push for Live Taps at Veterans Funerals
Today, Veteran's Day, is a time to honor the men and women who've served the country. But, some say we're not properly paying tribute to those veterans who pass away. Often, a pre-recorded version of "Taps" is played at the funeral. In Washington state, there's a move to change that. KPLU's Paula Wissel has the story.
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Seattle Children's Cleared of Deficiencies
Children's Hospital in Seattle has no deficiencies in its safety procedures. That's the conclusion of a state health department investigation - after three serious incidents. More from KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld:
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Hospitals Statewide Adopt Flu Vaccine
Nearly every hospital in Washington has now adopted a mandatory flu-shot policy for hospital workers. That makes Washington the first state in the nation where nearly every hospital employee will be immunized. KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld has the story:
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"King County Business Barometer" Finds Widespread...
A new survey of businesses in King County shows what may come as a surprise to some people: a high level of optimism about the economy. The Greater Seattle Chamber has just released its first annual "King County Business Barometer." More than forty percent of the employers it surveyed expect to hire new staff next year. More from KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp.
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Money Matters: The Bull is Back?
The stock market recently rose to a two year high. Does this mean we should brace ourselves for another big drop, or will it climb even higher? On this week's Money Matters, financial commentator Greg Heberlein explains his bullish outlook to KPLU's Dave Meyer.
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Child Prostitutes Rescued in Seattle
Does Seattle have more child prostitutes than other cities? During a three-day crackdown, the FBI picked up more young prostitutes in this area than anyplace else. But, as KPLU Law and Justice Reporter Paula Wissel explains, there could be another reason for the high number of prostitutes from here.
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Artscape: Celebrating Sax Man Phil Woods
Jazz legend Phil Woods is celebrating his 79th birthday this month. The alto saxophonist, bandleader and composer has had quite a career, which has even extended to the world of pop music. KPLU's Nick Morrison compiled a list for NPR of the songs that exemplify Woods' diversity and his appeal. And Nick talked with KPLU's Kirsten Kendrick about those songs in this week's installment of KPLU's Artscape.
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Women's Right to Vote Celebrates 100 Years
Today marks the 100th anniversary of a woman's right to vote in Washington State. A day-long series of events is planned for Olympia. The Washington State Historical Socety and the Women's History Consortium have teamed up with Secretary of State Sam Reed and the Interagency Committee for State Employed Women (ICSEW) on a full day of commemorative moments at the Temple of Justice (home of the State Supreme Court), the Capitol Building and Legislative buildings.
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Seattle Schools Get Report Cards
A lot of attention has been focused on improving public schools. But figuring out how schools are doing can be tricky. Some people say test scores and graduation rates don't show the whole picture. Now administrators in Seattle say they've come up with a better system. They're unveiling it Tuesday. KPLU education reporter Charla Bear has more.
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Final King County Hearing on 'Painful' Cuts
It's budget season for local governments all over the state. And the theme this year is what to cut. The King County Council had hoped to avert some of the most painful cuts with a new sales tax. The failure of Proposition 1 in last week's election means they have to make trims and eliminate programs worth nearly $60 million dollars. A final public hearing on the budget takes place today (Monday, Nov. 8th) in council chambers. More from KPLU 's Bellamy Pailthorp.
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The Case of the Radioactive Rabbit
A radioactively contaminated rabbit was caught and killed on the Hanford Nuclear Reservation near Richland in southeast Washington. The U.S. Department of Energy says that's not unusual. Last year the agency caught 33 contaminated animals. But this rabbit was unusually close to workers and the public. KPLU's Anna King reports.
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Turnaround Succeeding: Starbucks Revenue Doubles in Q4
Just two years ago, Starbucks was laying off staff and closing hundreds of US stores in its efforts to restore the chain to profitability. Now it's reporting record earnings for the fourth quarter - with profits up 86% compared to a year ago. More from KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp.
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Rossi Concedes Senate Race After Murray Lead Widens
Democrat Patty Murray has defeated Republican challenger Dino Rossi after a third day of vote tallying in their closely fought race for the U.S. Senate. In capturing her fourth term, Murray adds to the Democrats' slight cushion in the Senate after Republicans made gains there Tuesday while also seizing control of the House.
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It's Official: Russell Investments Now Headquartered in...
What was once the WaMu Tower is now the Russell Investment Center. The financial services company that was downtown Tacoma's largest employer has now formally opened its new headquarters in downtown Seattle. KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp was there.
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Initiative Results Make For Anti-Tax Wave
Washington voters sent a clear message on three statewide tax measures Tuesday: An anti-tax wave swept the state and will make budget cutting the rule of the day in Olympia. KPLU's Tom Banse reports.
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Graduation Rates Up For Foster Care Youth
Students in foster care are far more likely to drop out of high school than their peers. But a new report finds the grim statistic has taken a turn for the better. KPLU education reporter Charla Bear has more.
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Metro Transit Putting Snow Alerts on Phone and Web
Metro Transit says it's better prepared for snow and ice than it was two years ago when the area was paralyzed by winter storms. One thing Metro is doing is pushing riders to sign up for emergency alerts. You can get the alerts about individual bus routes by email or on your phone.Sign up here.
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Selling for Less Than Market Value
What happens when a neighbor sells his condo unit for less than market value? Will that low price push the price down on your unit, too? KPLU's John Maynard talks with real estate appraiser Richard Hagar about this dilemma and what, if anything, can be done about it.
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Washington Voters Love Initiatives
You've heard the complaints about ballot initiatives. Is it right that a corporation with a lot of money can get one on the ballot? And are we, the voters, really qualified to be deciding complicated things like tax policy? But, the recent KCTS 9/KPLU/Washington poll shows voters are generally happy with the initiative process. KPLU's Paula Wissel has the story.
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Moxie Media Set Up Dizzying Array Of PACs
The Democratic political consultant at the center of a Washington campaign finance scandal set up nearly forty Political Action Committees this year. Lisa MacLean of Seattle-based Moxie Media used those PACs to pour hundreds of thousands of dollars into legislative campaigns. KPLU's Austin Jenkins reports the money came mostly from labor unions.
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Potential Risks from Fragrances in Common Products
A University of Washington researcher is adding fuel to a heated debate over chemicals in common products such as soaps, lotions, and cleaning supplies. New research has found trace amounts of chemicals that might be toxic, although no health risk has been demonstrated. More from KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld:
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Artscape: New Arts Space in the Old INS Building
It's one of Seattle's most imposing buildings, the former home of the U-S Immigration and Naturalization Service. I Now artists are giving new purpose to the once-shuttered I-N-S building, transforming offices and detention cells into studios and gallery spaces. As part of our weekly "Artscape" series, KPLU's Florangela Davila toured the building and met those who are reclaiming a space rich in history.
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Tunnel Bids Are In, Governor Promises No Overruns for...
Two bids are in for completion of a deep bore tunnel to replace the Alaskan Way Viaduct along Seattle's waterfront- and they're both at or below the $1.1 billion-dollar asking price. Washington Governor Chris Gregoire says this bodes well for the project. KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp has the story.
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Sharp Increase in Local Foreclosure Filings
When you think of the foreclosure mess, cities such as Las Vegas and Phoenix probably come to mind. Now you can add greater Seattle to the list. A new report says it's become the metro area with the nation's largest annual increase in foreclosure activity. More from KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp.
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Moxie Media Case Referred To AG, Specter Of Re-Vote...
Not since the 1970s has a court overturned a Washington election and ordered a re-vote. But that specter has now been raised in Washington's 38th legislative district because of an emerging campaign finance scandal. Thursday, Washington's Public Disclosure Commission sent the case to the Attorney General and raised this question: should the primary election results be thrown out? KPLU's Austin Jenkins describes the scheme in question.
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Electric Vehicles Prompt Renewed Look At Power Rates
Widespread adoption of electric vehicles in the Northwest could lead local utilities to introduce variable electricity prices. State regulators, consumer advocates and utility managers broached the subject at a well-attended workshop Thursday in Olympia. KPLU's Tom Banse reports.
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Washington Poll: Murray-Rossi Race Tightens
The race for a U.S. Senate seat between Patty Murray and Dino Rossi is tightening, although among likely voters Murray is still ahead. That's according to the latest KCTS 9/K-P-L-U/Washington Poll. KPLU is the first to air the results. Paula Wissel has more.
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Washington Poll: Enthusiasm 'Gap' Not a Factor in Senate...
A new poll being released today shows Patty Murray only slightly ahead of Dino Rossi in the race for a U.S. Senate seat. But Murray garners 51 percent among people who are likely to actually vote. The results of the KCTS 9/KPLU/Washington poll are being heard first here on KPLU. KPLU's Paula Wissel reports the voter enthusiasm gap seems to favor democrats in this state.
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Washington Pollster Explains Why Senate Race Is...
The hard-fought campaign for U.S. Senate -- with all of its television advertising -- appears to be getting closer. But, maybe not close enough for Republican Dino Rossi to unseat Patty Murray. That's one of the top results from a fresh update of the Washington Poll. It's a partnership of KPLU, KCTS-9 and the University of Washington. KPLU's Keith Seinfeld talked to the director of the poll about how Washington differs from the rest of the nation.
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Art Thiel: NFL Fumbling Attempts to Curb Injuries
The N-F-L is attempting to change some of its rules to offer more protection against tackles that are delivered with intent to injure. You can expect more fines and suspensions. Sports commentator Art Thiel tells KPLU's Kirsten Kendrick the future of football may be at stake.
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How Much Snow From La Nina?
With early snow in the mountain passes, you may be wondering just how much of the white stuff to expect this winter. A La Nina weather pattern means colder and wetter conditions than normal. As KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld explains, how much snow still depends on where you are:
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Food for Thought
On today's Food for Thought Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson and KPLU's Dick Stein discuss the ghoulish goodness to come on the 31st.
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Utility Rate Assistance Underutilized in Seattle
In these times of belt-tightening by government agencies, it might not seem possible to pay only half of your utility bill to help make ends meet. But the City of Seattle wants people to know there's a program in place that allows low-income residents to do just that - and it's under-utilized. KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp has the story.
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School Levies on November Ballot
If you've looked at your ballot, you know there's almost a full page of statewide initiatives in addition to the candidates. In some areas, there's also something not usually found on a general election ballot a school levy. That's because when the state legislature cut back on funding this year it also gave local districts permission to raise additional levy money. KPLU's Paula Wissel reports on the pros and cons of the measure on the ballot in Seattle.
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Solving Broadband and Other Problems at FiReGlobal
Next month, KPLU commentator and Strategic News Service publisher Mark Anderson will be hosting his annual FiReGlobal West Coast conference in Seattle. He tells KPLU's Dave Meyer that he's going to take some of the top minds in the computing industry and turn them loose on solving problems facing the Northwest.
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With Senate In Play, Money Pours In
Washington's US Senate race and ballot initiatives are garnering a lot of attention this election season. But there are also several hot state legislative races. Republicans think they can take the State Senate. KPLU's Austin Jenkins takes a look at the money flowing into these local contests.
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CWU Students Were Intoxicated With Alcoholic Energy...
Central Washington University students at a party that ended in chaos were intoxicated, not by drugs, but by potent alcoholic energy drinks. It happened earlier this month in the mountain town of Roslyn, Washington. KPLU's Anna King reports on what a new investigation found.
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I-1082: A Free-market Fix for Workers Comp
Nearly a hundred years ago, Washington was one of the first states in the nation to put in place a workers compensation system. Now it's one of only four left in the country that still provide for injured workers exclusively through a state agency. Initiative 1082 would allow private insurers to enter the market. KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp explains.
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Soda and Candy: Are They Essential?
If taxes went up on soft drinks, alone, most people might not care or even notice. But a campaign to repeal Washington's latest soft drink tax is stirring up passions by combining sodas with three other taxes. Polls show voters are likely to repeal the taxes - without knowing why they were combined. KPLU's Keith Seinfeld wanted to find out how sodas, candy, and bottled water got tossed together.
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New State Effort to Cut Greenhouse Gases
Washington environmental officials are trying to see if they can use one of the state's major land use laws to cut planet-warming greenhouse gases. As KPLU environment reporter Liam Moriarty found out, it's harder than you might think.
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Potato Commission Leader Goes On All-Potato Diet
The executive director of the Washington Potato Commission is on an unusual campaign to protest a decision by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Chris Voigt is on a diet that even he admits is a little crazy. He's eating 20 potatoes a day for 60 days. KPLU's Anna King explains why.
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Artscape: Implied Violence is Arresting Theater
Seattle performance art group Implied Violence is anything but mundane. Its performances are packed with imagery both beautiful and repulsive. Now Seattle's Frye Art Museum is spotlighting these performance artists with an exhibit of their costumes and props. For the latest installment in our weekly "Artscape" series, KPLU's Florangela Davila met up with the group's director to find out what Implied Violence is all about.
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Proposition 1: Will Raising The Sales Tax Save King...
Five years ago former King County Executive Ron Sims declared "the era of deficits to be over." Back then the healthy surplus was spent on everything from medical care for the homeless to buying land to build trails. Today, elected officials say there isn't enough money to keep cops on the streets or to replace a building that is falling apart. Voters are being asked to pass Proposition 1.It would raise the King County sales tax by two-tenths of one-percent. KPLU's Jennifer Wing has the...
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Election 2010: Proposition 1
Despite making more than 170-million in cuts, King County still faces a 60-million dollar deficit. To fill the hole, voters are being asked to approve Proposition 1 on the November ballot. It would raise the sales tax two-tenths of one percent. If it doesn't pass, cuts to basic services will have to be made.However, some say these tough decisions will have to made soon anyway, so why put them off. More from KPLU's Jennifer Wing.
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Obama to Draw Young and Old
President Barack Obama will hold a get out the vote rally on the University of Washington campus Thursday morning at Hec Edmundson Pavilion. He's on a campaign swing through four western states. KPLU's Paula Wissel has more.
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Koster Pulls Out Of Televised Debate
Republican congressional candidate John Koster has pulled out of scheduled TV debate, saying a reporter chosen to ask questions during the live event is biased against him. KPLU's Liam Moriarty reports.
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Boeing Rebounding from 2009 Losses
Though the global economic recovery is slow, one place it's showing improvement is on airlines' balance sheets. Boeing says increased spending on commercial aircraft helped it beat analysts' expectations for a very strong 3rd-quarter earnings report. More from KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp.
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Defining Who's Rich and Who's Not
Who do you consider rich? Someone making $200,000 a year? $300,000? More? A poll conducted for KPLU and KCTS-9 by the University of Washington shows there is not agreement among Washington voters on what it means to be rich. KPLU's Paula Wissel reports.
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Food for Thought: Pot Talk
When it comes to cooking vessels, Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson likes hers with a coat of enamel -- but she may be coming around to Dick Stein's preference for naked cast iron - as we hear on today's Food for Thought.
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Mushroom Boom: NW Mushroom Hunters Score Bumper Year
Washington and Oregon are in the midst of a mushroom-boom. The weather this fall has created nearly ideal conditions for the delicate delicacies. KPLU's Anna King reports.
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State Under Fire for Emailed Overseas Ballots
Election watchdog groups are raising questions about the integrity of how Washington counts overseas ballots. They say Washington's policy of allowing military and overseas voters to send in their ballots as an email attachment is risky. KPLU's Austin Jenkins reports.
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Howard Hanson Dam Faces Another Flood Season
Weather forecasters say western Washington has a wet La Nia winter in store. That could mean a heavier-than-normal flood season for the region's rivers. KPLU's Liam Moriarty reports on what that means for the storm-damaged Howard Hanson Dam on the Green River in south King County.
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Money Matters: The Gold/Silver Ratio
The price of gold is rising faster than the price of silver. Should you be worried? On this week's Money Matters, financial commentator Greg Heberlein explains the relationship between silver and gold to KPLU's Dave Meyer.
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How to Rate Tax Proposals on the Ballot
We're hearing a lot about taxes in this fall's elections. And based on a poll for KPLU and KCTS-9, taxes are as unpopular as ever. Washington voters are likely to reject an income tax, repeal soda taxes, and require any new taxes to get a super-majority vote. KPLU's Keith Seinfeld looked at his ballot and started wondering if he was qualified to sit down at his kitchen table and decide tax policy for the state. He went looking for advice on how to rate tax proposals:
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Hanford Whistleblower Still Awaiting Outcome Of Federal...
A key investigation of a Hanford whistleblower has moved from one federal agency to another. But the former manger for a Hanford contractor says he's still waiting to see if concerns will be addressed. KPLU's Anna King reports.
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Bill Clinton Stumps for Senator Patty Murray
Vice President Joe Biden will be in Vancouver, Washington, today (Tuesday). He'll be campaigning for 3rd Congressional District candidate Denny Heck, as well as Washington Senator Patty Murray. This is Biden's second visit to the state for the Murray campaign this month and comes a day after former President Bill Clinton campaigned with Murray in Seattle and Everett. Clinton spoke to a crowd of about 2,000 people at Paine Field. He made a special plea for young people to get to the polls.
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Rangers Patrol For Brethren Of Killer Mountain Goat
Olympic National Park rangers are out in force on the alpine ridges near Port Angeles. They're looking for whether any other mountain goats are acting aggressively like the one that fatally attacked a hiker on Saturday. KPLU's Tom Banse reports.
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Was The Viaduct Survey Politically Motivated?
An opinion poll commissioned by the state Department of Transportation seems to give a boost to the deep bore tunnel planned as a replacement for Seattle's Alaskan Way Viaduct. But some aspects of the survey have raised questions about whether it was meant merely to measure public opinion, or to shape it. More from KPLU environment reporter Liam Moriarty.
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From Inmate to Cop Killer: The Maurice Clemmons Jail...
Next month, it will be one year since four Lakewood police officers were gunned down in a coffee shop. The killer was Maurice Clemmons, a parolee living in Washington who had just bailed out of jail. After the murders, The Seattle Times obtained more than a hundred hours of Clemmons' recorded jailhouse phone conversations. In an exclusive partnership between the Times and KPLU's Austin Jenkins, you will hear for the first time the transformation of Maurice Clemmons from jail inmate to cop...
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Senate Race: Murray And Rossi Face-Off In Final Debate
Sunday night's second and final Washington US Senate debate featured a sharp disagreement over tax cuts for wealthy Americans. Democratic incumbent Patty Murray repeatedly said the country can't afford them. Republican Dino Rossi insisted that if the tax cuts go away, more jobs will be lost. KPLU's Austin Jenkins has this debate wrap-up.
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Where To Get Information No Easy Choice For Voters
Voters have more than a few decisions to make in the upcoming general election. The ballot is loaded with congressional races, initiatives and propositions. But voters have to make even more choices about where to research the candidates and issues. A new poll from KCTS9, KPLU and the University of Washington found that no single source of information is dominant for state residents. And having a variety of sources affects the voting process. KPLU's Charla Bear explains.
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Auburn School Reaches Out to Haiti
An Auburn middle school is reaching out to help kids in Haiti. The island nation is still reeling following January's devastating earthquake. The effort was sparked by a teacher's recent visit. KPLU education reporter Gary Davis has more.
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Artscape: Pictures of Seattle's Creative Forces
Seattle photographer Chase Jarvis travels the globe on commercial shoots. But for his latest personal project, he turned his camera lens on 100 creative leaders in his hometown. As part of our weekly "Artscape" series, KPLU's Florangela Davila visited Jarvis to talk about his way of celebrating creativity.
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Foreclosure Clogs, More Headaches for Local Agency
For many real estate agents, the recent concern about sloppy processing of foreclosures is adding insult to injury. Many have had to relearn their business to survive a housing market that's become complex and unpredictable. Now there's fear that more deals could fall through as lenders freeze transactions and states investigate banks for potential fraud. From member station KPLU in Seattle, Bellamy Pailthorp visits one real estate agency that's weathering the foreclosure flap.
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Art Thiel: Postseason Standouts Haunt Mariner Fans
The Major League Baseball playoffs are in full swing. Once again, the Seattle Mariners are not in the picture. But one former Mariner and a player who could have been a Mariner have prominent roles in the postseason. Sports commentator Art Thiel tells KPLU's Kirsten Kendrick that makes the playoffs that much harder for Mariner fans to watch.
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Review Board to Find Williams Shooting Not Justified
The shooting of a native woodcarver by a Seattle police officer was NOT justified. That's the preliminary finding of a review panel looking into the case, according to a report in The Seattle Times. KPLU's Gary Davis has more.
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Third Congressional Race: A Swing District Up for Grabs
It's one of the nation's most closely-watched races as Republicans attempt to win control of the U.S. Congress. Washington's 3rd district is an open seat. Democrat Brian Baird is retiring after more than a decade in office. KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp profiles the race that pits Democrat Denny Heck, a 58-year-old legislator turned businessman, against Republican Jaime Herrera, a 31-year-old state lawmaker.
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Larsen/ Koster Matchup Showcases Differing Approaches
With three weeks to go till Election Day, the race between Democrat Rick Larsen and Republican challenger John Koster in the Second Congressional District is still tight. In a year when Democrats could lose their majority in the House of Representatives, voters from Everett to Bellingham will decide whether the seat shifts from blue to red. KPLU's Liam Moriarty has more.
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Public Health and Swedish Take Global Health to Tukwila
Some communities in western Washington have such poor health that they would benefit from solutions invented for developing countries. That's the idea behind a new health project in south King County. KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld explains:
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Poll: Northwesterners Concerned As Counties Struggle To...
Across the Northwest, governments at all levels are cutting back because of the economy. In this next story, we're going to focus specifically on county governments. Many county commissioners say the cuts have gotten so deep they're having to reduce core services: law enforcement, libraries and public health. A new survey shows most Northwest residents are concerned about that. KPLU's Doug Nadvornick reports on how counties are struggling.
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Poll: Northwesterners Divided On Marijuana Policy
Oregon is getting ready to vote on a measure that would establish medical marijuana dispensaries. California is considering a proposal to go even further. That state's Proposition 19 would legalize pot, and not just for medical purposes. But this survey shows Northwesterners don't appear to be ready to legalize the drug. KPLU's Chris Lehman reports on how people are feeling about marijuana these days.
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Poll: Northwesterners' Economic Unease Not Ebbing
In June, we reported that a clear majority of people in the Northwest felt they were worse off financially than a year and a half ago. They still feel that way, according to a new survey from the Northwest Health Foundation, the polling firm of Davis, Hibbitts and Midghall and public radio stations across the Northwest. KPLU's Tom Banse has details.
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Artscape: Picasso's African Connection
Consider what you may know about Picasso: born and raised in Spain, but creating many of his masterpieces while living in France. A just-opened exhibit at the Seattle Art Museum features 150 examples of Picasso's art over 80 years. But as KPLU's Florangela Davila discovered, if you really want to understand this 20th century master, it's worth looking at art from Africa. It's the story in this latest segment of our weekly Artscape series.
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Listen to Alec Baldwin's Fall Pledge Drive Promos
KPLU's Short Fall Pledge Drive runs October 6-11th. Get in the spirit with actor, and public radio supporter, Alec Baldwin! Two new messages just added
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Doc Severinsen Interview
Grammy Award winning trumpeter Doc Severinsen comes to the Pacific Northwest for a concert next weekend. Probably best known as the flashy dressed bandleader for Johnny Carson's "Tonight Show" Orchestra, Severinsen had a career that spanned sixty-five years, and is back on the road after a very brief retirement. KPLU's Kevin Kniestedt caught up with the eighty-three year old musician while on tour.
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Garfield County Hosts Wind Power Project
Puget Sound Energy will use 100,000 acres near Pomeroy, WA as home for a wind power project that will include the construction of 149 wind turbines. KPLU's Glenn Mosley reports.
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Soldiers Find Solace In A More Peaceful Iraq
More than 4-thousand soldiers from the 4th Stryker Brigade are back at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. In August, the Stryker's made a dramatic departure from Iraq as the last, full US combat brigade to leave that country. Thursday they were formally welcomed home. KPLU's Austin Jenkins has more on their one-year deployment.
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Proposed Solar Farm In Central WA Gets County Permit
The biggest solar power plant proposed in the Northwest now has the green light from the Kittitas County Commission in central Washington. But an appeal from unhappy neighbors remains a stumbling block for the private developer. KPLU's Tom Banse reports.
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Art Thiel: Sounders Aspire to More than Just MLS Success
The Seattle Sounders F-C could clinch a playoff berth with a win or tie this Saturday against the Wizards in Kansas City. After a slow start, the Sounders have had a lot of wins recently, in and out of Major League Soccer play. It's the topic of this week's conversation between KPLU's Kirsten Kendrick and sports commentator Art Thiel.
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Listen to Alec Baldwin's Fall Pledge Drive Promos
KPLU's Short Fall Pledge Drive runs October 6-11th. Get in the spirit with actor, and public radio supporter, Alec Baldwin!
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Conservation Group Lobbies To Expand Mt. Rainier...
A Washington environmental group is pushing the federal government to expand Mount Rainier National Park. KPLU's Doug Nadvornick reports the organization hopes to capitalize on the momentum created by the president's Great Outdoors Initiative.
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Lawmakers, Unions Vow To Fight Prison Cuts
A bi-partisan group of lawmakers is rebelling against Washington's plan to close a prison in the Southwestern corner of the state. At the same time, a union representing prison workers says it's preparing to file unfair labor practice grievances against the state. KPLU's Austin Jenkins reports.
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Wells Fargo Settlement
Some Wells Fargo mortgage customers may be getting some relief. Washington and seven other states have reached a settlement over so called "Pick-A-Payment" loans. KPLU Law and Justice reporter Paula Wissel has this story.
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Record Bin Roulette: Insultingly Insensitive Songs
KPLU's "All Blues" host John Kessler and long-time radio personality John Maynard have joined forces to create a funny and entertaining feature called "Record Bin Roulette" that scribbles way off the page. This week we're looking at insultingly insensitive pop songs.
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Nursing's Expanded Role in Primary Care
Washington state's approach to licensing nurses is getting affirmation from a new national report. Washington is one of about a dozen states that allow nurses to offer primary care without the supervision of a doctor. The trend is upsetting many doctors. More from KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld:
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Owned by the Bank
When a property is owned by a bank, should you jump on it or stay away? KPLU's John Maynard talks with real estate appraiser Richard Hagar about these type of properties and what you should know about them if you're in the market to buy.
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How Much Pollution Falls Onto Puget Sound?
When you talk about pollution in Puget Sound, you tend to think of nasty stuff that gets dumped or washed into the water. But one source of contamination is toxic chemicals that literally fall from the sky. A new study shows there's less of that than we thought. But there's also a new threat we're only now starting to look at. KPLU environment reporter Liam Moriarty has the story.
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Surprising Voices on Both Sides of Income Tax Measure
For the first time in nearly forty years, Washington voters will decide whether to create an income tax. Initiative 1098 has triggered a heated debate among the state's wealthiest citizens: the ones targeted by this "tax-the-rich" proposal. As KPLU's Austin Jenkins reports, there are voices on both sides of the debate that might surprise you.
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Family Reacts to Tesoro Fine in Deadly Explosion
The deaths of seven workers killed in a refinery blast could have been prevented. That's the conclusion of a six-month state investigation into last April's explosion at the Tesoro refinery in Anacortes. Washington Labor and Industries has issued its largest fine ever, $2.38 million dollars. KPLU's Paula Wissel reports on the reaction of one man who lost his son in the explosion.
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Tesoro Fined over Fatal Refinery Explosion
An investigation by the state concludes last spring's deadly explosion at an oil refinery in Anacortes could have been prevented. Washington's Department of Labor and Industries has issued a record $2.4 million fine against Texas-based Tesoro Corporation. KPLU's Tom Banse has more.
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Hospital Medication Mistakes - How Rare?
A series of medication mistakes at Seattle Children's Hospital have made headlines. But unfortunately, such mistakes may be more common than you realize. KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld has the story:
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ACLU Report Says People Shouldn't Be Jailed For Their...
A followup to a story we brought to you two weeks ago: the ACLU issues a report Monday that condemns the practice of jailing people in legal trouble because of their debts. Washington is cited in the report because its attorneys can seek arrest warrants for people who ignore orders to show up in court to face their creditors. KPLU's Doug Nadvornick reports.
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Artscape: Clay Throwdown! Exploring Ceramic Art in the...
Imagine a larger-than-life cornucopia spilling its offering of fruits and vegetables down the length of a wall, or an intimate grouping of glazed decorative figurines that look like something from the 18th century. These and more can be seen at the Bellevue Art Museum in its latest exhibit "BAM Biennial 2010: Clay Throwdown." As part of our weekly Artscape series, KPLU's Katherine Banwell found out that the ceramic show is a lot more than a simple pottery bowl.
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NPR's Michele Norris Breaks the Silence on Race
Conversations about race are often difficult to have. Many people only share their true feelings in private. NPR host Michele (MEE-shell) Norris wanted to bring out those hidden conversations in a book - until she discovered that her own family had struggled with racial issues in ways she never knew. Those stories are now the subject of her new memoir. KPLU's Charla Bear talks with Norris about what she discovered and how it informs the broader conversation about race.
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Art Thiel: Mariners GM Should Stay Despite Mistakes
The Seattle Mariners' season comes to an end on Sunday with a game against Oakland at Safeco Field. Most fans and sports pundits agree that this season was a disaster - on and off the field. It's the topic of this week's conversation between KPLU's Kirsten Kendrick and sports commentator Art Thiel.
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Sucess in Fundraising: $20-million for Microfinance
How do you raise money to help the poor in the face of a prolonged economic downturn? A local non-profit has a winning recipe. It involves micro-loans to people in Latin America. KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp has the story.
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Jail Suicides Up
Three inmates have committed suicide in the King County jail in the past few weeks. The latest was a 33 year old man who died at Harborview Medical Center. The robbery suspect was found hanging in his cell on September 20. As KPLU Law and Justice Reporter Paula Wissel tells us, the jail has been cited in the past for failing to prevent suicide.
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Brain Scientists Converge at Paul Allen Event
If you gather some of the country's leading brain scientists in a room together with a billionaire, for a day-and-a-half, what do you get? That's what KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld was wondering as he attended a private symposium hosted by Paul Allen's brain research institute in Seattle. Here's what he found:
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Seattle Business Owners Worried About City Budget
Members of Seattle's business community say they're worried about increased costs for parking and utilities in the proposed city budget. KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp has the story.
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Penny Auction Site Shut Down
An online auction site based in Federal Way has agreed to shut down and refund money to customers. The Washington Attorney General accused the owner of the auction website of tricking people into bidding on items they could never win. KPLU Law and Justice Reporter Paula Wissel has the story.
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Content Without Profit
The dotcom bubble burst a decade ago. Could it happen again? Strategic News Service Publisher Mark Anderson is noticing some familiar trends. He spoke with KPLU's Dave Meyer.
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"The Tenth Inning" Finds Silver Lining in Baseball's...
Filmmaker Ken Burns turns his attention to baseball once again in his latest documentary "The Tenth Inning." It debuts tonight on most public television stations across the country, including KCTS 9 in Seattle. "The Tenth Inning" is a new chapter in Burns' landmark 1994 series, "Baseball." KPLU Sports Commentator Art Thiel sat down with Ken Burns before a recent Mariner game at Safeco Field to talk about the film.
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King County Budget Hits Public Safety
Some violent crimes in King County may not be prosecuted. That's the warning from County Executive Dow Constantine. In proposing a budget for next year, he said dramatic cuts in public safety will be made unless voters approve a sales-tax increase. KPLU Law and Justice Reporter Paula Wissel has the story.
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Seattle Budget: Higher Fees, Service Cuts & Layoffs
If you live in Seattle you'll likely be paying higher fees next year on everything from parking to library fines. Mayor Mike McGinn's proposed 2011 budget plans to close a big deficit that could also mean rate hikes for utility customers who live beyond the city limits. He's also proposing layoffs of nearly 300 employees. More from KPLU's Gary Davis.
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Seattle Readies for Budget Cuts, Likely Fee Hikes
Seattle Mayor Mike McGinn will present his plans today (Monday) for balancing the city's budget. That means proposing cuts totaling $67M, and the potential for fee increases for city services, such as parking or parks and recreation programs. As KPLU's Gary Davis reports, there's high interest in what the first-year mayor will make a priority.
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Artscape: Finding the Connection Between Art and Science
You can find plenty of artists who draw inspiration from science. And you can find scientists who try painting or music. But you won't find many artists as ambitiously merging the two worlds as a duo from Vashon Island. They're known as Lelavision. They're translating ideas about DNA and evolution into theater and art. As part of our weekly Artscape series, KPLU's Keith Seinfeld visited their studio to learn how they connect art and science.
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Lake Union Park Opening
Excitement is mounting in Seattle as Lake Union Park gets ready to open to the public with a big celebration tomorrow (Saturday). KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp went to check it out.
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"Outsourced" Controversy
A network TV sit-com that was spawned in Seattle is generating controversy even before its broadcast debut. NBC has made a series based on the movie, "Outsourced." The first episode airs tonight (Thursday.) But people are already complaining that it's in poor taste. KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp has the story.
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Boosting Green Roofs in Seattle
Traditionally in the Northwest, having a "green roof" means you've got excess moss build-up. But a new survey from the City of Seattle shows that roofs designed to grow grasses, flowers and even trees are taking on a life of their own. KPLU environment reporter Liam Moriarty has more
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Record Bin Roulette: Real People
KPLU's "All Blues" host John Kessler and long-time radio personality John Maynard have joined forces to create a funny and entertaining feature called "Record Bin Roulette" that scribbles way off the page. This week we are looking at real people.
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Food for Thought
Today's Food for Thought begins with a flashback to an off the air conversation Dick Stein had with Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson awhile back about a pub food revelation he experienced in Oregon.
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FIve Washington Cities Win "Best For Young People" Honor
Every year, more "best of" lists come out - top cities for singles, college grads even dogs. But rarely do you see rankings of the most supportive cities for children. A national organization has just published the "100 best communities for young people." Five Washington cities made the cut. More from KPLU's Charla Bear.
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Decibel Festival Showcases Electronic Music
Electronic music is everywhere. It's in nightclubs. It's in Top 40 hits by Rihanna and the Black-Eyed Peas. It's even in commercials. But what exactly is it? Seattle's 7th annual Decibel Festival kicks off Wednesday. It's the biggest festival of its kind in the Pacific Northwest. It's a 5-day showcase of electronic music, visual art and new media. KPLU's Rachel Solomon has more.
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Why Do We Get Sleepy? WSU Researchers Find the Answer
Washington State University researchers have discovered what actually happens in your body when you're awake that makes you sleepy. Their findings could lead to better sleeping pills and treatments for insomnia. Spokane Public Radio's Karen Taylor has more.
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Family Of Slain Lakewood Officer Files $5M Claim Against...
The family of slain Lakewood police officer Tina Griswold has filed a $5 million claim against the estate Maurice Clemmons. He's the Arkansas parolee who gunned down Griswold and three of her fellow officers last November. KPLU's Austin Jenkins has details.
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Money Matters: Making Extra Mortgage Payments
Times are tough - but there's one thing for which it's always worth spending a little extra if you possibly can. On this week's Money Matters, financial commentator Greg Heberlein talks with KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp about making extra payments on your home mortgage.
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Northwest Winemakers Anxious about 2010 Harvest
Shrewd winemakers will always tell customers it's a good year. But behind the scenes, Northwest winemakers are feeling tense about this year's harvest. That's because it's late. So late, that it might freeze before all the grapes are mature. KPLU's Anna King reports.
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Test Could Give Boost to "Clean Coal"
Researchers are planning to conduct an experiment in southeastern Washington that - if successful - could give a boost to efforts to use coal without adding to global warming. More from KPLU environment reporter Liam Moriarty.
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Artscape: On Stage and Talking Trash
It's a quirky world out there and someone's got to tell you about it. Which is what happens when Stokley Towles takes to the stage. As part of our weekly "Artscape" series, KPLU's Florangela Davila profiles the local performer whose latest show is "Talking Trash: The Social Life of Garbage."
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Secretary Locke Touting Trade as Recovery Engine
The economic recovery may be painfully slow - but without unpopular steps taken by the Obama administration, it would be much worse. That was the main message in a speech by Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, who is here touting the expansion of trade as a key ingredient for turning the economy around. He spoke at the annual luncheon of the Greater Seattle Chamber. KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp was there.
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Child Immunization Rates Remain Below National Average
Parents in Washington are still more hesitant about vaccines than in the rest of the country. The latest data on immunization rates shows only about two-thirds of pre-school children have all their shots. More from KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld:
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Seattle Police Shooting Topic of Hearing, Forces Changes...
It's a crisis that has the potential to rip the city apart - but so far, it seems to be bringing the community together. Those were the words of one tribal member testifying in Seattle aobut the police shooting last month of native carver John T. Williams. It was part of a marathon discussion with Seattle's City Council and its Office of Civil Rights about the shooting - and how policies should change in its aftermath. KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp has the story.
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VA, Spokane Health Records Compiler to Share Military...
Until now, when a veteran or an airman assigned to Fairchild Air Force Base is sent for medical care to a Spokane doctor, that patient's military medical records haven't gone along. The same is true for date compiled by his civilian doctor. But that's about to change. John Vlahovich has this story.
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Record Bin Roulette: Falsettos
KPLU's "All Blues" host John Kessler and long-time radio personality John Maynard have joined forces to create a funny and entertaining feature called "Record Bin Roulette" that scribbles way off the page. This week we are looking at falsettos.
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Experiment Looks For Shellfishing's Future In Changing...
Baby oysters could be the "canaries in the mine shaft" for another dimension of global warming. That from Northwest scientists who are studying how the oceans suck in excess carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The process changes seawater chemistry - locally and globally. KPLU's Tom Banse reports on an experiment now underway in Seattle to find out which sea critters can or can't cope.
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Local Kids Take On TEDx Conference
A popular conference known for inspiring adults has motivated a local preteen to create a similar experience for kids. This Saturday, the 12-year-old will host a youth-focused TEDx event. It's an offshoot of the Technology, Entertainment, Design conference known for its viral videos. Now the Redmond youngster wants the concept to infect the next generation. KPLU's Charla Bear reports.
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WTO Ruling Expected in EU's Case Against Boeing
It's a global fight over billions of dollars. The World Trade Organization is expected issue a preliminary ruling today (Wednesday) finding that Boeing received illegal subsidies from the U.S. government. But, analysts say Boeing's offenses pale in comparison to those found in an earlier ruling against Airbus. KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp has the story.
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Seattle Storm Fans Celebrate Here - and There
The Seattle Storm host Atlanta at KeyArena this evening (Tuesday, Sept. 14th) in Game 2 of their best-of-five series for the WNBA title, the top rung in women's basketball. The Storm won Sunday's first game. As KPLU's Gary Davis reports, when the team flies to Atlanta for Game 3, some of their most vocal fans plan to be there.
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Money Matters: The ZymoGenetics Deal
It looks like another Seattle biotech firm is being taken over by an out-of-town pharmaceutical giant. ZymoGenetics employs more than 300 people and is headquartered in the old City Light Steam Plant. On this week's Money Matters, financial commentator Greg Heberlein looks at the impending sale with KPLU's Dave Meyer.
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Recovery Debate: Is Tech Sector Hiring?
What will bring our nation's economy out of the doldrums and put people back to work? A degree in computer science was once seen as a sure bet for young college grads. The Seattle area is known as a hot-bed for those skills. But recent headlines say high-tech companies are slow to hire and that there's still significant outsourcing going on. That's tarnishing high tech's image as the sector most likely to lead the economic recovery.
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Artscape: Looking For A Good View
Have you ever been on a drive and come across a view so beautiful that it makes you pull the car to the side of the road so you can take everything in? Looking out at that ocean, meadow or mountain-rang makes people feel really good. Taking in one of the large, luminous paintings by Victoria Adams brings on the same emotion. Her work is on display right now at Tacoma Art Museum. KPLU's Jennifer Wing as more.
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Seattle Storm Eye WNBA Title
Following one of the best season's by any team in WNBA history, the Seattle Storm take to the court at KeyArena Sunday afternoon against the Atlanta Dream in search of their second championship trophy.
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Tacoma's Stadium Bowl Turns 100
Tacoma's Stadium Bowl turns 100 this year. Though it's connected to Stadium High School, the bowl is also a Tacoma landmark. Alumni are planning an unusual celebration.
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Seattle Unions Respond to City Budget Crisis
Cities across western Washington are agonizing over more budget cuts. In Seattle, labor unions representing city workers are making a big concession: They're asking members to give up wage increases. It's an effort to save city services and jobs. KPLU's Gary Davis reports.
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Seattle Lights Way to Downtown Parking Spots
Seattle's downtown retailers are bracing for the loss of hundreds of cheap on-street parking spots. That's because the Alaskan Way Viaduct and Seawall replacement project will eliminate them. Now the city and some private garage owners have joined forces to make parking in the retail core easier. KPLU's Gary Davis has more.
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New Workforce Training Opportunity: Deconstruction
When you think of green jobs, usually some kind of new technology comes to mind: solar energy panels or wind power or electric cars. But there's a growing field that's more about re-use than the creation of anything new. KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp has the details on a green jobs training program that will teach disadvantaged Seattle residents the craft of de-construction.
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Pierce County Students Get Job Training In The Classroom
High school students in Pierce County can now take video game design and sports medicine classes alongside algebra and social studies. A new skills center allows students to explore career options while working toward their diplomas. Officials say it's a way for some students to get ahead in a down economy. KPLU Education Reporter Charla Bear has more.
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Welcome to KPLU's Humanosphere
AIDS, malaria and bank loans. How are these three topics related? A new project at KPLU has the answers. It's called Humanosphere -- and through Humanosphere, we'll keep an eye on efforts to fix problems around the world. Many of these efforts emanate from here in the Northwest. Humanosphere has a full-time reporter, Tom Paulson, but you won't hear him very often on the air - his focus is our website. With more on the project, here's KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld:
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Whale Researchers Hitch A Ride On Zeppelin
Boaters and beach walkers in north Puget Sound may be startled Tuesday and Wednesday by a low-flying Zeppelin over the water. The giant airship is carrying whale researchers to film orcas before returning to its home base in California. KPLU's Tom Banse reports.
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Conversation with a Death Row Visitor
Washington is set to carry out its first execution in nine years. Whenever there is an execution, the debate is renewed over whether the state has the right to kill someone. KPLU Law and Justice Reporter Paula Wissel recently talked with a woman on one side of the issue. Judith Kay regularly visits the inmates on death row.
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Refinancing When You Don't Have a "9 to 5"
You have the money - it's just not in the form of a monthly paycheck. Can you refinance your home? Some banks say no. KPLU's John Maynard talks to real estate appraiser Richard Hagar about how difficult it can be to refinance without a steady job.
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Artscape: The Arts Take Root in Tiny Tieton
When you're a creative type, sometimes all you crave is time, space and quiet. Which is why Tieton, a tiny town in Eastern Washington, has become a magnet for a growing group of artists, many of them from Seattle. As part of our weekly Artscape series, KPLU's Florangela Davila visited the warehouses and storefronts that serve as a hub for artists in this small orchard town.
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Artscape: The Arts Take Root in Tiny Tieton
When you're a creative type, sometimes all you crave is time, space and quiet. Which is why Tieton, a tiny town in Eastern Washington, has become a magnet for a growing group of artists, many of them from Seattle. As part of our weekly Artscape series, KPLU's Florangela Davila visited the warehouses and storefronts that serve as a hub for artists in this small orchard town.
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The 40th Bumbershoot is as Eclectic as Ever
Bumbershoot returns to Seattle Center this weekend and its lineup is as eclectic as the original one 40 years ago. This year, you can actually see an entire sculpture made out of the lowly coffee stirrer stick. KPLU's Florangela Davila has more.
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Thiel: Mariners' Latest Controversy Costly on Many Levels
A fired Mariners coach is contradicting team management's story that it did not know about the criminal past of a young pitcher acquired in the Cliff Lee trade back in July. Sports commentator Art Thiel tells KPLU's Kirsten Kendrick it's an example of a common dilemma in professional sports: integrity versus winning at all costs.
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Technological Advances Enhance and Stretch 9-1-1 Calling...
It's a system we all depend on: the universal number anyone can dial when there's danger. Yet the 9-1-1 emergency calling system as we now know it is only just marking its 25th anniversary. As KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp explains, over the years technology has both enhanced and stretched the system to its limits.
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Study: Organic Strawberries Beat Conventional
If you like organic strawberries but have some doubts about paying extra for them, here's some good news. Scientists have confirmed that organic strawberry farming is better for the soils, and the organic berries are typically more nutritious. KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld has the details:
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Seattle Police Chief on Fatal Shooting
A fatal shooting of a man by Seattle police officer Ian Birk has left the department with "more questions than answers." That's according to Police Chief John Diaz.
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Budget Cuts Hit Disabled
Today, September 1st, about 1500 disabled people will stop receiving checks from the state. Homeless advocates say it will result in more people on the street. KPLU's Paula Wissel reports.
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Meals Cost More At Some Schools
As kids head back to school over the next couple of weeks, some of them will have to fork over more lunch money. Hot meal prices are going up in some schools. Administrators say they have no choice. KPLU Education Reporter Charla Bear has more.
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Puget Sound Partnership Devises Vital Signs for Recovery
The state agency in charge of leading the clean-up of Puget Sound has come up with a set of what it calls "dashboard indicators" to measure progress toward that goal. More from KPLU environment reporter Liam Moriarty.
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Turning Around Low-Performing Schools
Schools open around western Washington over the next two weeks. Parents will find major changes at some that were given failing grades by the federal government. Districts from Longview to Marysville are under the gun to improve their lowest performing schools. KPLU education reporter Gary Davis has the story.
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Candidates Can't Even Agree On Debates
It's not just the issues they disagree on. The candidates for U.S. Senate in Washington and for governor in Oregon can't even agree on a debate schedule. KPLU's Austin Jenkins reports.
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Secrets of the Apple, Revealed by DNA
Scientists, including researchers in Washington, have just published the full genetic code of the apple. It's a milestone. And it opens the door for creating new breeds of apple that taste better, resist pests, or last longer on the shelf. As KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld explains, it also confirms where on Earth the modern apple evolved:
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Artscape: Sculptors Carve Art, Careers Out of Sand
The sand will fly in Federal Way next week. The city is hosting the World Championship of Sand Sculpting. The international contest is no child's play. Only master sculptors are invited. Many have recently won regional competitions. As part of our weekly Artscape series, KPLU's Charla Bear brings us the scoop on a qualifying tournament in Port Angeles.
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Another 787 Delay - This Time, Due to Engine Trouble
Boeing has confirmed yet another delay of its long-awaited 787 Dreamliner - this time due to a problem with engines. The company now says it won't be able to deliver the jet till mid-February at the earliest. More from KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp.
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Art Thiel: Early Signs of Trouble for Seahawks
The Seahawks play their third preseason game Saturday against the Vikings in Minnesota. While most teams are firming things up for the regular season, the Seahawks seem to be floundering. It's the topic of this week's conversation between sports commentator Art Thiel and KPLU's Kirsten Kendrick.
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Northwest Relief Agencies Aid Pakistan
As the floods in Pakistan continue to affect millions of people, relief organizations in the Pacific Northwest are delivering services and supplies to victims.
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Seattle's Art Walks Now Online
If you've ever lost track of when that monthly art walk takes place in your neighborhood, fear not. Seattle City Councilmember Nick Licata has launched a new on-line resource that highlights all 13 of the walks and let's you know what's happening where and when. Licata says art walks not only provide a convenient way to bring people together and generate revenue -- they also inspire appreciation of creativity throughout the community.
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Senate Race Turns Testy Over Earmarks
The U.S. Senate race is turning testy over the issue of federal earmarks. This is money for special projects that members of Congress get for their home states. Patty Murray ranks 9th in Congress for bringing federal money back home. Dino Rossi mentions it in nearly every campaign stop. But now the Murray camp is dredging up Rossi's own spending record from the state Senate. KPLU's Austin Jenkins found out firsthand just how sensitive the issue has become to the two campaigns.
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Defense Lawyer: Boise Soldier Charged With Battlefield...
The lawyer for a Northwest soldier accused of a battlefield murder is speaking out in his client's defense. This week the Army announced additional charges against Private First Class Andrew Holmes of Boise, and four other Washington-based soldiers. They were first charged in June with murdering Afghan civilians. KPLU's Austin Jenkins has more.
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Victoria's Neighbors Heave A Sigh of Relief
News that Victoria BC will finally build a sewage treatment system is being greeting with relief by the city's neighbors in both Washington and Canada. More from KPLU environment reporter Liam Moriarty.
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Record Bin Roulette: Your Ugly Mug
KPLU's "All Blues" host John Kessler and long-time radio personality John Maynard have joined forces to create a funny and entertaining feature called "Record Bin Roulette" that scribbles way off the page. On this week's episode we're looking at mug shots that have been less than flattering.
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Living With War: Submarine Trainee Amber Pfeifer
Today, (Thursday 8-26-10), our nation celebrates the 90th anniversary of the women's right to vote. Still, one area where gender continues to pose real limits on women is in the military. But, that's changing. Earlier this year, Congress amended federal law and began allowing female officers to serve aboard submarines. 19 trainees were selected and could eventually become commanders at sea. As part of our series "Living With War," KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp has this profile of one of them.
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Electric Rental Cars Coming to Seattle Market
The next time you rent a car, you might be able to get one without gas. Seattle is among several cities where Enterprise Rent-a-Car will start introducing electric vehicles next year. KPLU's Bellamy Pailthorp has the story.
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Kenmore's Bastyr University to Expand to California
A medical college on the shores of Lake Washington is preparing to make a huge leap -- by opening a branch campus in California. Bastyr University offers degrees in naturopathic and other forms of alternative medicine. More from KPLU science and health reporter Keith Seinfeld:
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Court Affirms World Vision Can Fire Non-Christian Workers
It's okay for a religious charity to fire workers who don't observe the organization's faith. That comes from a case involving Federal Way-based World Vision. A three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has affirmed that World Vision is exempt from provisions of the 1964 Civil Rights Act because it is a religious organization. (more)
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Foreclosure Crisis Update: Overloaded Counselors and...
A new wave of foreclosures is hitting Washington state. Credit counseling agencies and loan officers are scrambling to keep up. More from KPLU business and labor reporter Bellamy Pailthorp.
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Artscape | Seattle Street Theater: The Beat Goes On
Their stage can be a sidewalk or street corner. Their clients are anybody who walks by. They're admired, ignored, praised and scorned. They are artists and buskers ... so why on the street? KPLU's John Maynard hits the streets of Seattle to find the answer on the next installment of Artscape.
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Making School-Community Ties Elementary
The first day of school is less than two weeks away for thousands of western Washington children. One Federal Way elementary is helping kids get a jump start by delivering donated books to their homes. It's one of many ways the school is building ties to their community. KPLU education reporter Gary Davis explains.
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Auburn Team Leads Off Little League World Series
The Auburn All-Stars will take the field tomorrow (Friday) for one of the biggest games of their lives. The group of 11 and 12-year old baseball players has made it to the Little League World Series. It's the first time a team from Auburn has ever been to the tournament. KPLU's Charla Bear has more.
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Report: Fewer Smokers in Washington
Programs aimed getting adults to quit smoking are continuing to pay off. That's the word from state officials who say Washington now has the third-lowest smoking rate in the nation. KPLU's Gary Davis has more.
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Record Bin Roulette: Primary Colors
KPLU's "All Blues" host John Kessler and long-time radio personality John Maynard have joined forces to create a funny and entertaining feature called "Record Bin Roulette" that scribbles way off the page. On this week's episode we take a look at our primary colors.
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Expanded Mexican Tariffs Hit NW Farm Exports
More Northwest farmers will feel the collateral damage from a festering trade dispute with Mexico. The Mexican government Wednesday slapped new tariffs on imported apples, cheese and sweet corn. Mexico is using expanded tariffs to pressure the Obama administration to restore a program allowing Mexican trucks into the U.S. KPLU's Tom Banse reports.
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Idaho Cities Commemorate 'Big Burn' of 1910
This weekend, several cities and towns in north Idaho are looking back 100 years. They're remembering the lessons of the blaze known as the 'Big Burn', America's largest-ever wildfire. KPLU's Doug Nadvornick reports from Wallace, Idaho.
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Unexpected Plenty: Salmon & Steelhead Surge Up Some...
Banner runs of salmon and steelhead are migrating up some Northwest rivers this summer. Not since dams were constructed on the Columbia and Snake Rivers have this many sockeye salmon returned. Sockeye bound for Baker Lake in northwest Washington also smashed the pre-season forecast. Meanwhile, the 2010 summer steelhead run is on pace to be the second highest on record on the Columbia. KPLU's Tom Banse explores possible explanations for the unexpectedly high salmon returns.
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Attack Websites Become The Norm
Anyone running for office these days is expected to maintain a robust online presence. But this year, some candidates in Oregon and Washington are benefiting from slickly produced websites devoted solely to attacking the opponent. KPLU's Chris Lehman reports.
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Business Owners Meet With Obama
President Barack Obama stopped in at Grand Central Bakery in Seattle's Pioneer Square today. It was part of a campaign swing through the city on behalf of Senator Patty Murray. KPLU's Paula Wissel has the story.
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Seattle Approves Urban Farm Legislation
The Seattle City Council has approved a bill that supports the rapidly growing local food movement. The ordinance updates the City's Land Use code governing urban agriculture - including "urban farms" and "community gardens." And residents will now be able to sell food grown on their property. This legislation formally recognizes Farmer's markets - allowing them in more areas of Seattle. And it's not just about fruits and vegetables. (Continued...)
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Artscape: Eight Pianos in Everett = Countless...
Everett's latest public art event is creating impromptu music as well as building community. Inspired by a British artist's idea, eight brightly-colored pianos are now scattered on the city's downtown sidewalks. As part of our weekly "Artscape" series, KPLU's Florangela Davila visited the pianos and the variety of people who are playing them.
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Promoting Telemedicine to Small Towns
The distance between you and your doctor's office can be a major obstacle, especially if you're in a small town or rural area and specialists are far away. Tele-medicine is one answer to that problem. A top federal official was in Seattle to promote more care across the internet.
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Art Thiel: Will Mariners Make Bold Move with Next...
The fallout continues from the firing of Mariner manager Don Wakamatsu. Sports commentator Art Thiel talks with KPLU's Kirsten Kendrick about some of the factors that led to Wakamatsu's demise, and how those factors could impact the hiring of the next manager.
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Wind Energy To Be Stored In Home Water Heaters In...
One hundred homeowners are being recruited for an experiment on how to store surplus wind power. Starting next month, the Bonneville Power Administration and a local utility will link up home water heaters to wind farms east of the Cascades. Correspondent Tom Banse explains how this is supposed to work.
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Attorney General Rob McKenna Files Lawsuit Against LCD...
Washington Attorney General Rob McKenna says he's suing the makers of Samsung, Toshiba, Sharp and five other brands of liquid crystal display screens.
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Gregoire Cuts Welfare Rolls, Warns of Bigger Reductions...
More than five-thousand Washington families will lose their welfare benefits starting in February. That's just one of the cuts Governor Chris Gregoire ordered Thursday to keep the state budget from going into the red. KPLU's Austin Jenkins has details.
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Child Care Subsidies Among Gregoire Cuts
Among the budget cuts announced by Governor Chris Gregoire on Thursday are child care subsidies to families on welfare. Gregoire says September's revenue forecast is likely to be bleak, and the outlook prompted her to make $51 million in reductions to the state's Workfirst program. KPLU's Gary Davis reports.
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Money For Teachers Headed to Washington
Washington schools will soon get a funding boost from the federal government. President Barack Obama signed a bill that will allow schools across the country to rehire some teachers laid off because of budget cuts, but the details are murky. KPLU Education Reporter Charla Bear explains.
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Food for Thought: Noodles Redux
Family business required Seattle Times food writer Nancy Leson to be in Chicago this week but KPLU's Dick Stein tracked her down by phone for a clarification of last week's tempest in a noodle bowl.
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