The Kent Police Department (KPD) reported in a Facebook post this week that KPD and Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority firefighters were sent to the Burlington Northern Railroad tracks at E Titus Street after reports of a train hitting a pedestrian. Upon their arrival, the first responders discovered the victim, a 38-year-old Kent man, died.

Initial information the train crew members provided indicates the man who died was crossing the tracks from east to west and it appears he didn’t notice the approaching train.

As the social media statement explained, the crew confirmed the train arms were functioning and in the down position to stop crossing traffic.

“They stated that both the train’s whistle and crossing warning signals were activated and working properly,” the KPD said in its statement.

Officers contacted local businesses nearby to request any video they may on their surveillance cameras, the KPD added. If any members of the public have video of the incident or any additional information they can share, they are asked to call the KPD tip line at 253-856-5808 or send an email to KPDTipLine@kentwa.gov.

Second Western Washington pedestrian killed by a train in a month

A train collided with a pedestrian in Seattle at Broad Street and Alaskan Way, the Seattle Fire Department (SFD) reported on Jan. 21.

Medical crews with SFD responded to the scene, but determined the victim of the collision died on impact. The train hit the pedestrian just after 10 a.m.

According to a post in the Seattle Police Department’s SPD Blotter, officers determined the man was walking west on Broad Street and waited as the train moving south went by. While he walked across the tracks, he was unaware of the incoming train going north and the impact killed him.

The train engineer told officers he was traveling 15 miles per hour and was just two miles away from his final destination.

Contributing: Frank Sumrall

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

U.S. District Judge John Coughenour on Thursday decried what he described as the administration’s treatment of the Constitution and said Trump was trying to change it with an executive order.

The latest proceeding came just a day after a Maryland federal judge issued a nationwide pause in a separate but similar case involving immigrants’ rights groups and pregnant women whose soon-to-born children could be affected.

“Our argument is simple and true — birthright citizenship is enshrined in the U.S. Constitution,” Washington Attorney General Nick Brown said in a statement released by his office. “The president may not care about the Constitution or the rule of law, but we do.”

Where do things stand on birthright citizenship?

The president’s executive order seeks to end the automatic grant of citizenship to children born on U.S. soil to parents who are in the country illegally or who are here on a temporary, but lawful basis such as those on student or tourist visas.

For now, it’s on hold. On Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Deborah Boardman in Maryland followed that up with an injunction keeping it on hold long-term, until the merits of the case are resolved, barring a successful appeal by the Trump administration.

Following a hearing on Thursday, Coughenour — a Ronald Reagan appointee who has been on the bench since 1980 — issued his own injunction. Trump is simply trying to amend the 14th Amendment — which grants citizenship to those born in the U.S. and subject to its jurisdiction — for political reasons, the judge said.

“The rule of law is, according to him, something to navigate around or something ignored, whether that be for political or personal gain,” Coughenour said. “In this courtroom and under my watch the rule of law is a bright beacon, which I intend to follow.”

Coughenour’s injunction comes two weeks after he called Trump’s order “blatantly unconstitutional” and issued a 14-day temporary restraining order blocking its implementation.

The Justice Department is expected to appeal the injunctions.

Washington’s attorney general addresses Trump’s birthright citizenship order

The attorney general’s office expressed concerns about Trump’s actions and their impact on the babies and children in the state of Washington. 

“If allowed to stand, the president’s order would cause thousands of newborns and children born in Washington each year to lose their ability to fully and fairly participate in American society as citizens, despite the Constitution’s guarantee of their citizenship,” the news release states. 

In addition, the state attorney general said the president acted outside of what he is able to do legally and his moves would not only affect children in the state, but thousands of people overall.

“President Trump acted far outside the bounds of his legal authority in issuing his executive order. Allowing federal agencies to implement and enforce it would harm thousands of Washingtonians and the state at large,” the statement reads. “Washington administers numerous programs to support the health and welfare of its residents. Many of those programs are supported by federal funding, which would be reduced as a result of the executive order.”

What about the other cases challenging the president’s order?

In total, 22 states, as well as other organizations, have sued to try to stop the executive action.

The matter before the Seattle judge involves four states: Arizona, Illinois, Oregon and Washington. It has been consolidated with a lawsuit brought by the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project. Eighteen states, led by Iowa, filed a “friend-of-the-court” brief supporting the Trump administration’s position in the case.

Another hearing is set for Friday in a Massachusetts court. That case involves a different group of 18 states challenging the order, including New Jersey, which is the lead plaintiff. Yet another challenge, brought by the American Civil Liberties Union, goes before a federal judge in New Hampshire on Monday.

What’s at issue here?

At the heart of the lawsuits is the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, ratified in 1868 after the Civil War and the Dred Scott Supreme Court decision, which held that Scott, an enslaved man, wasn’t a citizen despite having lived in a state where slavery was outlawed.

The plaintiffs argue the amendment, which holds that “all persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside,” are indisputably citizens.

The Trump administration has asserted that children of noncitizens are not “subject to the jurisdiction” of the United States and therefore not entitled to citizenship.

“The Constitution does not harbor a windfall clause granting American citizenship to … the children of those who have circumvented (or outright defied) federal immigration laws,” the government argued in reply to the Maryland plaintiffs’ suit.

Attorneys for the states have argued that it does — and that has been recognized since the amendment’s adoption, notably in an 1898 U.S. Supreme Court decision. That decision, United States v. Wong Kim Ark, held that the only children who did not automatically receive U.S. citizenship upon being born on U.S. soil were children of diplomats, who have allegiance to another government; enemies present in the U.S. during hostile occupation; those born on foreign ships; and those born to members of sovereign Native American tribes.

In 1924, Congress passed a separate law granting birthright citizenship to Native Americans.

The U.S. is among about 30 countries where birthright citizenship — the principle of jus soli or “right of the soil” — is applied. Most are in the Americas, and Canada and Mexico are among them.

Contributing: The Associated Press; Steve Coogan, MyNorthwest

The collision happened between the S Concourse and the south airport maintenance hangars.

According to a statement from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the right wing of Japan Airlines Flight JL68 struck the tail of Delta Air Lines Flight 1921 while the planes were taxiing at the airport late Wednesday morning.

The aircraft were in an area that is not under air traffic control and the federal agency temporarily paused some flights to the airport as a result of the incident.

The FAA stated it will investigate.

Kassie McKnight, aviation communications and marketing manager for SEA, told KIRO Newsradio the Port of Seattle and police at SEA responded to the incident at approximately 10:17 a.m.

“The incident involved a taxing Japan Airlines aircraft that appears to have struck the tail of a parked Delta Air Lines aircraft,” McKnight explained. “There are no injuries reported at this time as SEA is working with both airlines to safely deplane passengers and bring them to the terminal.” Delta confirmed that detail in a statement sent to KIRO Newsradio.

McKnight added that passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines regarding delays. The FAA offered the same advice and also suggested fliers check its airport status webpage for real-time conditions.

As of 2 p.m. Wednesday, FlightAware, which bills itself as “a digital aviation company that operates the world’s largest flight tracking and data platform is reporting,” says 96 flights out of SEA were delayed Wednesday and 13 more were canceled.

More from the airport: Sea-Tac sees travel at levels ‘even stronger’ than before the COVID-19 pandemic

Japan Airlines issues apology regarding plane collision

Japan Airlines issued a statement Wednesday apologizing for “any inconvenience” and providing a brief report on what occurred with Flight JL68.

“While taxiing upon arrival at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (from Narita International Airport), the right wing of the flight JL68 aircraft came into contact with the tail of another aircraft,” the airline stated in a press memo to KIRO Newsradio. “There were no injuries reported to the customers or the crew onboard, and we sincerely apologize to all involved for any inconvenience. The detailed cause and circumstances are currently under investigation.”

According to Japan Airlines, there were 172 passengers and 13 crew members on the flight, more specifically, three in the cockpit crew and 10 in the cabin crew.

Delta confirms one of its planes was struck

Delta confirmed in a statement sent to KIRO Newsradio that a collision involving one its planes occurred.

“While in sequence for deicing, the tail of a Delta 737 aircraft reportedly made contact with a wing tip of another airline’s aircraft,” a Delta spokesperson stated. “There are no reports of injuries for crew or customers on the flight, and we apologize for the experience and delay in travels.”

The airline also revealed details of the aircraft, stating that Delta flight 1921 is a Boeing 737 aircraft and it was carrying 142 customers. The plane was set to complete a trip from Seattle to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Customers were in the process of being put on a new aircraft.

Delta will work with all aviation stakeholders to investigate the matter further.

McKnight said its too early to tell what exactly went wrong.

“Like I mentioned, there’s minimal impact to the airport operations and no injuries to report so that’s the important part and we’re just working on getting the passengers off the planes and getting them into the terminal,” she added.

Passengers react to the incident at SEA

Garrett Barfield was on the Japan Airlines aircraft that landed prior to the incident. He said the collision was noticeable and it got his fellow passengers’ attention.

“It was a pretty big jolt on the right side of the plane. And then everyone got up to see what it was and, sure enough, the wing of our plane hit the back wing of a parked Delta plane,” Barfield told KIRO Newsradio in an interview Wednesday.

Barfield went on to say the passengers on his plane stayed on the tarmac for at least two hours. Firefighters also came on the plane to check and make sure everyone was OK before everyone departed.

“Yeah, so they brought out those bubble stairs and from there, it was just a bus to the terminal. It wasn’t very far, maybe 100 meters,” Barfield said to KIRO Newsradio.

Barfield added that the recent deadly plane crashes in Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia were a the top of passengers’ minds.

“A lot of people were mentioning about (that). There definitely has been an uptick in plane incidents recently for whatever reason. But … There (were) a fair number of people that were concerned,” Barfield explained.

Barfield added he still feels safe to fly.

A warning to Sea-Tac Airport drivers: Don’t park on the shoulder or tech will soon get you

Jason Chan, one of the passengers on the Delta flight, told The Associated Press the plane “jiggled back and forth” and shook a little bit when the collision occurred. Shortly after, the captain announced that the plane’s tail had been hit. Passengers remained calm, Chan said, and eventually left the plane to be bused back to the terminal.

Chan said the whole incident seemed “surreal,” but that he and the six friends he was traveling with were making the most of it while waiting in the lounge for their rescheduled flight.

At approximately 10:17 a.m. this morning, Port of Seattle Fire, Police and SEA operations responded to an incident on the ramp at SEA on a taxi line between S Concourse and the south airport maintenance hangars. (1/3) pic.twitter.com/lhDKdShN50

— Seattle-Tacoma Intl. Airport (@flySEA) February 5, 2025

A KIRO Newsradio listener texted photos from the scene of the incident that appear to show damage to the Delta jet.

Contributing: Heather Bosch and Frank Lenzi, KIRO Newsradio; Julia Dallas, MyNorthwest; The Associated Press

Jackson will take over on Monday, Feb. 24, the city reported.

The city of Tacoma’s statement highlighted Jackson’s “35 years of law enforcement experience to the role,” noting her extensive leadership with the Pierce County’s Sheriff’s Office.

“Protecting people with compassion, equity, accountability, and trust is one of the most important responsibilities in local government,” Pauli said, the city’s release reads. “Patti Jackson has proven experience most recently leading Pierce County’s Patrol Operations as Chief and prior to that, serving the Corrections Bureau for eight years as Chief …”

Jackson serves as the basic law enforcement academy corrections commander at the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission. She said she is eager to begin her work with the Tacoma Police Department (TPD).

“The Tacoma Police Department has significantly lowered violent crime levels and built strong community relationships, especially in the past few years,” Jackson said in city’s statement. “I look forward to prioritizing public safety while strengthening established relationships and fostering new ones …”

Jackson ran to become Pierce County Sheriff last November before losing to Keith Swank by just under 8,000 votes. After they both advanced to the general election in last summer’s primary, Swank secured 198,565 votes (50.81%) and Jackson garnered 190,695 (48.79%) in November.

Tacoma hires an interim police chief after Avery Moore’s resignation

Avery Moore resigned from his position as the Tacoma police chief on Jan. 28, the city of Tacoma confirmed in a statement.

“Today, I formally submitted my resignation to City Manager Elizabeth Pauli, marking the conclusion of my tenure as Chief of Police in Tacoma, Washington,” Moore’s statement begins. “After 35 incredible years in law enforcement, I have made the heartfelt decision to step away from this noble profession and transition into the next chapter of my life.”

In his statement, Moore thanked members of the TPD for their work while he was the chief.

“To the men and women of the Tacoma Police Department, thank you for your unwavering dedication and professionalism,” he said. “Your commitment to excellence and service has been inspiring, and I leave knowing the department is in capable hands, ready to continue making a positive impact.”

‘We are in absolute chaos’

The announcement comes after “The Jason Rantz Show” on KTTH reported Moore had been absent from duty for nearly two months, but the city said could not provide an explanation.

The absence coincided with a brutal employee engagement survey blasting the chief’s leadership in addition to accusations of “cooking the books” to reclassify drive-by shootings as “vandalism.”

It had reached the point where the union head called for the chief’s termination.

Rantz Exclusive: After ‘chaos’ at Tacoma Police, absent chief resigns

Tacoma Police Union IUPA Local 6 president Sgt. Henry Betts exclusively told “The Jason Rantz Show” the department had been experiencing “chaos” and “dysfunction.”

“We are in absolute chaos with who is leading this place and who is in charge, to the point that we’re calling meetings with executives at the police department to say we don’t know anything,” Betts explained.

Contributing: Jason Rantz, KTTH

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

Trump made the announcement on Truth Social Monday afternoon.

“As a soldier, Green Beret, and CIA Officer, Joe has hunted down terrorists and criminals his entire adult life,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social.

Trump also noted that Kent’s first wife, Shannon, was killed in action.

“Above all, Joe knows the terrible cost of terrorism, losing his wonderful wife, Shannon, a Great American Hero, who was killed in the fight against ISIS, Trump wrote.

Shannon Kent was one of four Americans who died in a January 2019 suicide attack in Syria. Kent served for decades himself, but left the military to take care of his young children after his wife’s death.

Kent responded to the nomination with a short post on X Monday evening, thanking the president and saying he is honored to serve the U.S. again.

“It’s an honor to serve our nation again, time to keep our nation safe & strong,” Kent wrote.

Thank you President Trump!

It’s an honor to serve our nation again, time to keep our nation safe & strong! pic.twitter.com/yxyknrTTMN

— Joe Kent (@joekent16jan19) February 4, 2025

The NCTC is part of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. It has existed in its current form since August 2004 when President George W. Bush signed an executive order at the recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.

Christine Abizaid and then Brett Holmgren led the agency during the Biden administration. Don Holstead is the acting head of the agency now.

Joe Kent ran for Washington’s 3rd Congressional District seat

Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez defeated Kent for the seat in Washington’s 3rd Congressional District twice, once in 2022 and then again in the rematch in 2024.

The Washington Secretary of State’s numbers show Gluesenkamp Perez beat Kent by 16,123 votes 3.9% last November. Gluesenkamp Perez secured 215,177 votes, whereas Kent garnered 199,054.

Kent got closer to beating Gluesenkamp Perez in 2022 as she only won by 2,629 votes, which is a margin of less than a point. Gluesenkamp Perez garnered 160,314 votes (50.14%), whereas Kent secured 157,685 (49.31%). There were 1,760 write-in votes in that election as well, the Secretary of State’s website reports. The Seattle Times called Perez’s 2022 victory “perhaps the most stunning political upset in the country this year.”

Before losing to Gluesenkamp Perez for the 3rd District seat in 2022, Kent defeated 6-time winner Jaime Herrera Beutler in the Republican primary. She was first elected in 2010 and was reelected in five more times before losing in 2022. She was one of the few Republicans who voted to impeach Trump after the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol attack.

“I voted for Representative Beutler to stand firm for my family and our district. She betrayed that trust and made it clear that I needed to act decisively,” Kent wrote on the Green Beret PAC website.

Joe Kent and Donald Trump have supported each other in the past

Kent explained on the Green Beret PAC website that he began earnestly supporting Trump’s “America First” policies after his wife was killed.

“Defending Trump’s policies gave me a taste of the savage fight we face against a hostile mainstream media and deeply entrenched political class,” Kent wrote. “I eagerly sought out the opportunity to defend President Trump when The Atlantic, a well-known publication, printed slanderous accusations about the President.”

Trump was not able to push Kent over the finish line as a winner in 2024, but he has publicly supported Kent. During the last election cycle, Trump helped Kent make his closing argument to voters in the nationally watched race.

After three of his own campaign rallies on a busy day in October 2024, Trump joined Kent in a telephone town hall to voice support for the Republican dueling Gluesenkamp Perez in the 3rd Congressional District, according to The Washington State Standard.

“Joe will be by my side, that I can tell you,” Trump said in October 2024, according to the Standard. Trump went on to describe Gluesenkamp Perez as a “basic disaster.”

Joe Kent’s links to extremism surfaced previously

Kent is also a 2020 election denier. In one 2022 X post, he said, “The 2020 election was rigged & stolen.”

The 2020 election was rigged & stolen. Don’t take it from MAGA, just ask Zuck.

We must bring the corrupt FBI to heel & dismantle big tech. https://t.co/h3M4LBhFQJ

— Joe Kent (@joekent16jan19) August 26, 2022

As The Associated Press (AP) explained in 2022, Kent has also courted prominent white nationalists and posed recently for a photograph with a media personality who has previously described Adolf Hitler as a “complicated historical figure” who “many people misunderstand.”

An AP review of internet postings, court records and campaign finance disclosures at that time “depict a candidate with a more complicated biography than the compelling personal story that turned Kent into a favorite of conservative media.”

Kent stands out for “the breadth of his ties to a deep-seated extremist fringe that has long existed in the Pacific Northwest,” the AP stated in its reporting in 2022.

Campaign finance disclosures reveal Kent paid $11,375 for “consulting” over four months in 2022 to Graham Jorgensen, who was identified as a Proud Boy in a law enforcement report and was charged with cyber stalking his ex-girlfriend in 2018. The charges were dismissed. But a judge in Vancouver, Washington, issued an order of protection requiring Jorgensen to stay away from her, records show.

Kent’s ties to extremism aren’t limited to the Pacific Northwest either, the AP reported.

Matt Braynard, one of Kent’s top advisers who was quoted in the AP story, was the architect of a Washington, D.C., rally in 2021 that sought to build sympathy for those arrested during the insurrection by rebranding them as “political prisoners.” Kent spoke at the rally.

Kent also appeared on a far-right YouTube channel where he echoed sentiments similar to those held by many white nationalists.

“I don’t think there’s anything wrong with there being a white people special interest group,” Kent said during an interview hosted by a group called the American Populist Union.”

Contributing: The Associated Press

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

Jones currently is concluding a nine-year tenure as the chancellor of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

The university’s board had previously authorized Chair Blaine Tamaki to enter into contract negotiations with Jones and an agreement has been reached. Jones’ five-year contract will begin on Aug. 1, the UW said in a statement.

This will be Jones’ third time leading a public research university, the news release from the UW states. In addition to his role at the University of Illinois, Jones served as the president of the University at Albany in New York.

“He is a distinguished scholar, with his research focusing on crop physiology, and a leader in national academic organizations and the Big Ten Conference,” the statement from the university reads.

The university noted it its statement that Jones will become the first African American to serve in the role.

“We are very happy to welcome Chancellor Jones to the UW community and excited to accelerate the UW’s public mission of accessibly, preserving, advancing and disseminating knowledge under his experienced leadership,” Tamaki said in a prepared statement. “His inspiring and barrier-breaking personal journey, highly regarded scholarship and decades of transformative leadership convinced us that Chancellor Jones is the ideal person to build upon President Ana Mari Cauce’s legacy.

The UW noted in its release that while he was the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign chancellor, its enrollment has grown, setting a record in fall 2024 with more than 59,000 students enrolled. The university also called out a myriad of Jones’ accomplishments while working in Illinois, including the opening of the Carle Illinois College of Medicine, the first engineering-based medical school in the world, in partnership with Carle Health.

“I am honored to be joining the University of Washington and excited to lead this extraordinary public university in its mission serving students, families and communities across Washington and beyond,” Jones said in a statement. “The UW is globally renowned as a home of outstanding teaching, research, innovation and patient care. I look forward to working with the UW’s talented and dedicated faculty and staff to support and accelerate their work …”

Ana Mari Cauce said in 2024 she would step down from the University of Washington after 10 years

Current UW President Ana Mari Cauce announced last June her intention to step down from leading the university at the end of her second five-year term in June. Cauce said at the time the leadership transition had been in the works for years. She is expected to return to a faculty position once she leaves her position.

“Ana Mari Cauce is an outstanding president who has led the UW through some of the most tumultuous times in its history,” David Zeeck, Chair of the UW Board of Regents, said in a statement on behalf of the board. “Few university presidents now serve 10 years. The university has been fortunate to have Ana Mari in this position since 2015.”

Her career with UW accomplished many firsts. She was initially hired as an assistant professor of psychology before becoming the first woman to be the department chair of both the psychology department and the American Ethnic Studies department. When she became UW’s 33rd president in 2015, she was the first woman, the first Latina and the first openly gay person to hold the job.

“While I never imagined that my path would lead me here when I arrived as an assistant professor almost 40 years ago, the chance to lead this great public university has been an immense honor and a wonderful experience,” Cauce said in a prepared statement at the time. “I’m deeply grateful to be part of this incredible community that creates so much positive impact in the world.”

‘Blood on your hands:’ UW President Cauce’s home, car vandalized

Cauce, who has worked with Jones in various capacities previously supported the hiring of Jones for this position.

“In selecting Robert as the next president of the University of Washington, the Board of Regents has chosen an inspiring and transformative leader to join our academic community and to advance our mission,” Cauce said, the university’s news release reads. “Having known and worked with him within AAU, APLU and the Big Ten Conference, I know he will bring a deep and demonstrated commitment to scholarship, innovation, research and especially, access to excellence for students regardless of their means or background.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

Contributing: Frank Sumrall, MyNorthwest

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

On Thursday, the locations in Edmonds, Kent and on Holman Road in Seattle will sell the 19-cent burgers.

Three drive-ins per day between Tuesday and Thursday featured the anniversary deal. On Tuesday, the locations in Seattle’s Wallingford neighborhood, on Broadway and in the Lake City neighborhood housed the special.

On Wednesday, the restaurants in Seattle’s Queen Anne neighborhood, Bellevue’s Crossroads and Federal Way hosted the deal.

A piece of burger history: Burgermaster to close its original location in Seattle after 73 years

Dick’s sets the rules to get 19-cent burgers

The chain notes on its website one burger will be sold per customer. So, if a family of five shows up at the window, each family member can get a burger for 19 cents. The site also specifies that “a single customer will not be able to receive two 19-cent burgers if (a) friend is waiting in the car.” Dick’s explains that it has set those limits to “ensure there will be enough burgers for everyone to be able to celebrate our 71st anniversary with us.”

Dick’s also states online the special burger deal will not be available on DoorDash and, going further, “DoorDash for each location will be turned off on that location’s (19 Cent Day) — to ease confusion.”

The chain also suggests customers make sure they go to the right location if they expect to take advantage of the burger deal as it will only be available at the dates and locations listed in this story and on its website.

10th Dick’s Drive-In will open in Everett in 2025

As The Daily Herald in Everett explained last spring, Dick’s Drive-In announced in September 2023 it had plans for a new location in Everett near the corner of Airport Road and Evergreen Way.

Located at 1629 Center Road, the property used to be a restaurant called Corazon Restaurante Mexicano & Cantina. It is near the Home Depot in that area.

Dick’s spokesperson Lena Duckworth told the Herald in an email last year, the new Everett location will be serving customers by summer 2025, “if all goes well.” The Dick’s Drive-In website states that the restaurant will open this summer.

Duckworth added that a new structure will be built at the Center Road address.

10 locations to come: Frozen custard and burger chain Freddy’s is headed to Washington

A quick look at the history of Dick’s Drive-In

As Dick’s Drive-In explained in an earlier news release sent to KIRO Newsradio, the original founders, Dick Spady, Warren Ghormley and Dr. B.O.A. “Thom” Thomas, opened the first restaurant in Wallingford on NE 45th Street on Jan. 28, 1954.

When the eatery opened, they sold hamburgers for 19 cents in “Seattle’s first quick-service hamburger restaurant.”

“The local price for hamburgers at the time was 35 cents,” Jasmine Donovan, president of Dick’s and granddaughter of Dick Spady, said in the statement. “Not many people believed that selling burgers for 19 cents, especially with a commitment to quality ingredients, could succeed. But for our customers it was love at first bite and here we are 70 years later.”

More burger news: In-N-Out plans to open second Washington location, but has no plans to go north

During an appearance on “The John Curley Show” Tuesday, KIRO Newsradio Resident Historian Feliks Banel reported live from the scene at the first Dick’s Drive-in in Wallingford. He brought “fries, ketchup and context” to the conversation, noting Dick Spady jumped on a trend seen elsewhere when he opened Dick’s.

“The 19-cent burger chain came out of California. It was a trend and a fad in the late 1940s,” Banel said while at the Wallingford location. “Dick Spady saw that and opened this restaurant here at this location and then built a big chain all around it. But it was the rise of American car culture right after World War II. We were also in a recession in early 1954. Eisenhower had been in office for about a year. The Korean War had wrapped up and there sort of a post-war recession …”

Head here or tap on the player below to listen to the entire segment live from the first Dick’s Drive-In in Seattle.

Editors’ note: This story originally was published on Tuesday, Jan. 28. It has been updated and republished since then.

Steve Coogan is the lead editor at MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, formerly known as Twitter, here and email him here.

“Today, I formally submitted my resignation to City Manager Elizabeth Pauli, marking the conclusion of my tenure as Chief of Police in Tacoma, Washington,” Moore’s statement begins. “After 35 incredible years in law enforcement, I have made the heartfelt decision to step away from this noble profession and transition into the next chapter of my life.”

In his statement, Moore thanked members of the Tacoma Police Department for their work while he was the chief.

“To the men and women of the Tacoma Police Department, thank you for your unwavering dedication and professionalism,” he said. “Your commitment to excellence and service has been inspiring, and I leave knowing the department is in capable hands, ready to continue making a positive impact.”

Moore also expressed appreciation to the Tacoma community at large for what it did for him while he was the city’s police chief. He also reiterated his future will be outside of law enforcement.

“To the people of Tacoma, it has been my greatest pleasure to serve each of you as your Chief of Police,” Moore stated. “I am humbled by the trust you have placed in me and will forever cherish the relationships and memories forged during my time here. While I am stepping away from law enforcement, my commitment to this community and its success will remain steadfast.”

Moore submitted the letter Tuesday and the resignation will be effective Monday, Feb. 3.

‘We are in absolute chaos’

The announcement comes after “The Jason Rantz Show” on KTTH reported Moore has been absent from duty for nearly two months, but the city said could not provide an explanation. Police union leadership expected an imminent separation announcement ahead of Moore resignation.

The absence coincided with a brutal employee engagement survey blasting the chief’s leadership in addition to accusations of “cooking the books” to reclassify drive-by shootings as “vandalism.”

It had reached the point where the union head called for the chief’s termination.

Tacoma Police Union IUPA Local 6 president Sgt. Henry Betts exclusively told “The Jason Rantz Show” the department had been experiencing “chaos” and “dysfunction.”

“We are in absolute chaos with who is leading this place and who is in charge, to the point that we’re calling meetings with executives at the police department to say we don’t know anything,” Sgt. Betts explained on “The Jason Rantz Show” on KTTH.

Betts said Moore had been absent for about six consecutive weeks and that the city isn’t telling them why.

“I can tell you, in my 22 years, I have never seen that before,” Betts said to KTTH. “Do things happen in people’s lives where they need to be away from work? Yeah, absolutely that happens. But usually, what we would see is there’s kind of a handoff.”

Moore was previously placed on leave in 2024

After being placed on administrative leave on Sept. 25, 2024 without any explanation, Moore resumed his full duties, according to a statement from City Manager Elizabeth Pauli published and distributed about a week later on Oct. 2.

In her statement, Pauli explained she placed Moore on leave to investigate potential personal use of an asset belonging to the city of Tacoma and subsequent statements made relating to the use of that asset. Pauli concluded counseling Moore and allowing him to return to duty was appropriate.

“I have concluded that the facts and circumstances of the use of the asset, subsequent cost reimbursement and statements made around the use and reimbursement, while not intended to mislead, did not meet expected standards of professional judgment,” Pauli’s statement reads. “As a result, I have given a verbal counseling and the Chief will resume his full duties as Chief of Police.”

In a separate statement, Moore acknowledged he was placed on leave and that he has accepted his discipline.

“I was placed on administrative leave to ensure that a thorough and impartial investigation could take place,” Moore’s statement reads. “I accept my discipline and am ready to move forward, fully committed to continuing my work with the Tacoma Police Department and serving the city that I proudly call home.”

Avery Moore’s background

Moore became the chief of the Tacoma Police Department in February 2022. He worked 31 years with the Dallas Police Department (DPD) before coming to the state of Washington.

Specifically, Moore served as the DPD’s assistant chief of police for its investigation bureau. Moore also has held leadership titles including lieutenant of police, sergeant of police and senior corporal of police.

Contributing: Jason Rantz, KTTH

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) announced Monday in a post online that the ambitious plan that will overhaul an eight-mile stretch between Yesler Way and Northgate, addressing critical infrastructure needs on one of the state’s busiest freeways, has been delayed until 2026. It was originally set to get underway in March.

Why is the project that would have slowed I-5 traffic delayed?

The state agency explained in its online post that it’s working to “align construction spending with available budget.” It pointed out that the original plan would “exceed budget projections” and noted “changes in the financial environment” as the reason why the project would have been over budget.

Given the financial constraints, the agency explained it is focusing the scope of this project on its top priority: preserving the Ship Canal Bridge deck. WSDOT also cited this change will give it additional time to work with the community to prepare for future closures.

“We are actively working with our contractor to refine the project to align construction spending with available funding and balance long-term preservation needs while minimizing the impacts to the public,” an earlier portion of the WSDOT blog post read.

The agency also stated this move — or pivot — is the “best path forward” and “what’s needed right now.” It called out the work on the Ship Canal Bridge as its primary focus, saying, “It’s an important step in a much larger effort to Revive I-5.”

The decision to undertake the mammoth project to begin with stems from the freeway’s age and the frequency of emergency repairs. The Ship Canal Bridge alone required 49 emergency repairs between August 2022 and 2023, with nearly 200 emergency repairs on the stretch since 2019.

MyNorthwest traffic: Maps, cameras and more to help navigate the Puget Sound region

There will still be some impact on I-5 traffic for travelers

Initially, WSDOT announced the two northbound lanes of the Ship Canal Bridge would have been blocked off 24 hours per day for nine months. That move would have created a significant bottleneck for drivers. In addition, the express lanes would have only supported traffic moving north at all times during this period. That would have commutes heading south even more challenging.

While that significant part of the project has been delayed, travelers can still expect to see some I-5 traffic impacts leading to delays this year, the agency explained. Commuters can expect to be impacted by overnight work, weekend closures and possible lane reductions.

“In 2025, our contractor may work to accomplish things that can be done without long-term lane closures and that will support the work we have shifted to 2026,” WSDOT stated on its blog.

Given the history of emergency repairs having been made on the Ship Canal Bridge and the current condition of the bridge deck, the agency explained it will likely still need to fix failing expansion joints, fill large potholes and make other emergency repairs.

The state agency also pointed out the bridge’s integrity is not compromised. It added that while the work is critical,  it is about rehabilitating and preserving the bridge deck — or the roadway surface — not the structure of the bridge.

New bill targets unsecured loads: Will big rigs finally be required to cover their cargo?

All lanes will be open during the 2026 FIFA World Cup

WSDOT also made it clear in its online post Monday that since tens of thousands of visitors are expected to visit the state of Washington with Seattle hosting a series of soccer matches in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, long-term lane closures or full shutdowns on I-5 will not take place during the tournament.

Specifically, the agency stated that all I-5 lanes will reopen to traffic for several weeks starting in early June, while construction will resume by mid-July 2026, once the World Cup matches taking place in Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia, have concluded.

WSDOT did acknowledge, however, that with the project delay, there are risks of emergency repairs causing I-5 traffic disruptions leading up to and following the World Cup.

“But, rest assured, we’ll continue to monitor the situation and take action as needed to keep I-5 operational,” WSDOT’s statement reads.

Contributing: Nate Connors, KIRO Newsradio

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

Costco President and CEO Ron Vachris briefly confirmed the major change during the Q&A portion of the company’s annual shareholder’s meeting Thursday. (The question was answered at the 44:24 mark of the presentation.)

“Is the food court truly switching back to Coke products?” one person asked.

“Yes, that is accurate,” Vachris said in response. “This summer, we will be converting our food court fountain business back over to Coca-Cola.”

That means Coca-Cola Classic, Diet Coke and Sprite will soon be available at the fountains instead of Pepsi, Diet Pepsi and Starry.

The confirmation comes after Costco Insider, which often publishes online articles about deals and coupons before Costco does and bills itself as “the No. 1 website on the internet about Costco,” reported last month the change was coming. In its coverage, Cheapism also cited an anonymous user on Costco’s Reddit forum in December alerting people to the change.

CNN reported the deal not only includes the machines and syrup in the sodas, but cups, straws and other products as well.

Costco roundup: Some item prices lowered, more stores coming, big sub for sale

Costco leaves Pepsi after more than a decade

After serving Coke products for decades in its food courts, Costco switched to Pepsi in 2013, as multiple media outlets stated.

“It’s a big shift,” then-Costco Vice President of Food Services Alan Bubitz told beverage publication BevNET in 2013. “They’re the only vendor we’ve ever had for the majority of the business locations.”

Bubitz expected pushback to the change to Pepsi from Coke at the time. But he also told BevNET at that time the change from Coke to Pepsi was being made in an attempt to preserve the iconic deal where customers can get a 22-ounce cup of soda and a hot dog for $1.50.

“You’re not going to be able to please everybody,” Bubitz said to the specialty media outlet. “It’s our job to preserve the integrity of the price point.”

Customers wait in line to order below signage for the Costco Kirkland Signature $1.50 hot dog and soda combo. (Photo: Patrick T. Fallon, Getty Images)

So, will a hot dog and a Coke still cost $1.50 at Costco?

Costco most recently confirmed last May via Executive Vice President and CFO Gary Millerchip in an earnings call the price of the combo will remain the same.

“To clear up some recent media speculation, I also want to confirm the $1.50 hot dog price is safe,” Millerchip said.

Costco is keeping the price of that combo the same despite inflation impacting the wholesale retailer’s cost to produce it.

Business news: Costco successfully defends its diversity policies as other US companies scale theirs back

CNN reported last year that if Costco’s kept pace with inflation, the famous hot dog deal would be three times as expensive as it was in 1985 when the company first set the price — nearly $4.50.

Talking about the deal in 2009 with The Seattle Times, Costco founder and then-CEO Jim Sinegal was asked what it meant if the company increased the price of that deal.

“That I’m dead,” Sinegal responded.

When asked why it was so significant, Sinegal explained to the Times that even then — more than 15 years ago — people brought up how great the deal is.

“Because everybody talks about it,” Sinegal said. “People look at that hot dog and say a buck fifty, this is unbelievable. It’s the same thing you’d spend $7 or $8 at the ballpark for and not get the same quality dog. It’s one of the things that we’re known for.”

The Costco shareholders call Thursday where the change to Coke was announced didn’t reveal any more information about the price of the hot dog deal, but the company did reveal it sold a record 229 million hot dog combos in the 2024 fiscal year.

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

In a news release about the Lynnwood fraud case, the LPD stated that, at its request, the U.S. Marshal’s Service arrested a 41-year-old man in Baldwin Park, California, which is in Los Angeles County, on Dec. 19.

During the department’s investigation, which remains ongoing, the LPD developed probable cause for the arrests of the suspect for first-degree theft and first-degree criminal impersonation.

On the day of his arrest, the suspect, who was not named in the department’s press statement, was booked into the Los Angeles County Jail. He was extradited to back to the state of Washington Thursday and booked into the Snohomish County Jail.

More on the Lynnwood fraud case and tips to avoid future scams

In the course of its probe, the LPD reported detectives learned the victims were prompted by a 1-800 number that led them to believe the caller was a U.S. Treasury Agent demanding money. The department revealed the scam led to more than $600,000 being stolen from the victims, who were retired.

While discussing the Lynnwood fraud case, the LPD’s news release explained these types of scams “are very common, are very sophisticated, and can seem very real.” In addition, potential criminals “frequently targets the elderly and/or vulnerable adult population.”

The FBI has a significant amount of information on its website about elder fraud, noting that “older Americans seem to be disproportionately impacted by scams and fraud.” The law enforcement agency stated more than 101,000 victims 60 and over reported this kind of crime in 2023. Meanwhile, victims under the age of 20 years old seemed to be the least-impacted group, with about 18,000 victims reporting scams and frauds in 2023.

Going further, the FBI also reported the scams targeting people aged 60 and older caused more than $3.4 billion in losses in 2023, which is an increase of about 11% from the year before. The average victim of elder fraud lost $33,915 in 2023.

The FBI outlines several reasons why potential scammers often target seniors, starting with the likelihood of them being nicer and financially secure.

“Seniors are often targeted because they tend to be trusting and polite. They also usually have financial savings, own a home, and have good credit—all of which make them attractive to scammers,” an FBI article states.

In addition, the FBI explains seniors may be less inclined to report crimes for various reasons and concerns.

“Seniors may be less inclined to report fraud because they don’t know how, or they may be too ashamed at having been scammed,” the FBI explained online. “They might also be concerned that their relatives will lose confidence in their abilities to manage their own financial affairs. And when an elderly victim does report a crime, they may be unable to supply detailed information to investigators.”

In its news release about the arrest in the Lynnwood fraud case, the LPD reminds the public law enforcement agencies won’t call seeking money from members of the community. The FBI confirmed that as well in a press statement last June.

“Be advised, federal agencies do not call or e-mail individuals threatening arrest or demanding money,” the release reads. “Scammers often spoof caller ID information, and these phone calls are fraudulent even if they appear to be coming from an agency’s legitimate phone number. Recipients should hang up immediately and report the call.”

While discussing the Lynnwood fraud case, the LPD recommended that if someone identifying as a member of law enforcement asking for money, never reveal any personal information. Instead, those getting those calls should ask the caller for a name, phone number, what agency is being represented and then hang up.

For those who believe they, or someone they know, may have been a victim of elder fraud, the FBI suggests filing a complaint at the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov. However, if it is an emergency, community members should not fill out the online form. They should call 911 or their local police department instead.

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

Joseph Michael Quincy Jefferson, 35, was found guilty of the charge stemming from a 2023 incident following a 7-day jury trial. Jurors deliberated for about 90 minutes before reaching the guilty verdict, a statement from the office of U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman reads.

Jefferson faces as much as 10 years in prison after being convicted on the assault charge. He is scheduled to be sentenced April 10.

What happened April 8, 2023

Court records show on April 8, 2023, Jefferson assaulted the woman he was living with in multiple ways, including punching, pushing and strangling her.

“Sitting on her back he used the crook of his elbow to apply pressure to her neck, strangling her and causing her to black out twice,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office release explains.

After the victim woke up, she ran from the home where the assault took place barefoot in her underwear calling multiple people she knew seeking help. Once she left, the victim went to the Lummi Nation Police Department and to the hospital.

From there, the victim made consistent statements both to members of the police department and to the people providing her medical care that she had been strangled.

“Medical providers documented her injuries that were consistent with being punched, pushed into a metal bookcase, and strangled,” the press statement confirmed.

In addition, the victim’s nose was broken.

Crime blotter: Covering the crimes committed in the Puget Sound region

The Lummi Nation member claimed he acted in self-defense during his trial. The victim minimized Jefferson’s conduct during her testimony.

In closing arguments, prosecutors not only detailed “how the medical records and recorded statements proved the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt,” they also noted how anger and alcohol played a role in this assault.

“He was the aggressor … There is no evidence that he faced immediate use of unlawful force,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Celia Lee said. “This is a case of gratuitous, intentional violence from someone who was jealous, angry, and drunk.”

More information about the case against the Lummi Nation member

Jefferson has been in custody since his bond was revoked last October because of his ongoing contact with the victim, a violation of conditions to be released before his trial, the U.S. Attorney’s Office added in its news release. He is still in custody and will remain there until sentencing.

The Lummi Nation Police Department and the FBI investigated the case and Assistant United States Attorneys Celia Lee and Erika Evans prosecuted it, Gorman’s office noted. Lee serves as a tribal liaison for the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

The news release concludes by stating, “Ensuring public safety on tribal lands is a critical responsibility of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Washington.”

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

In its statement, OSPI Superintendent Chris Reykdal said the Washington agency will do what it can to safeguard all the students regardless of whether or not they are U.S. citizens.

“In Washington state, we will do everything we can to protect our students, no matter their citizenship status,” Reykdal said in the statement. “Our State Constitution ensures access to a basic education for every child residing within our state’s borders. Our Constitution does not identify citizenship as a qualification to receive an education.”

Reykdal added his office has received many questions from all over the state about where it stands since Donald Trump took office Monday as the United States’ 47th president. The agency’s goals remain the same: supporting the state’s students and their families.

“We are receiving a lot of questions and concerns from schools, families, legislators, community members, and other partners,” Reykdal said. “As we monitor the actions of the new federal administration, I want to be clear: Washington state is and will remain a state that is unequivocally committed to supporting all of our students and their families.”

AI in Washington schools: Reykdal introduces statewide ‘human-centered use’

Key practices expected for Washington public schools

In addition to its statement, the agency published its official guidance online as a PDF document that can be viewed here. It includes four key practices for public schools in four different areas.

Under the “enrollment” area, Washington public schools are expected to, “Enroll all students, regardless of immigration or citizenship status, in a timely manner,” the guidance document states.

Looking at “data and record collection,” the document explains state schools are expected to “Collect only data and records required for enrollment purposes and necessary for a student to receive educational services.” Going further, the agency said state schools should not “require or create an impression” that social security numbers or birth certificates are required to enroll or continue enrollment.

In the “services” area, OSPI’s guidance states Washington’s public schools need to provide all enrolled students the same services, regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. Schools should not “chill” any student’s access to school access and services.

Finally, under the “student privacy” area, the agency’s document reminds state citizens that schools have no legal authority to enforce U.S. immigration laws. Additionally, Washington schools should not be requiring students and/or their family members to answer questions regarding their immigration status.

Will new federal practices impact Washington’s immigrant students?

The OSPI press statement also explained it is aware of reports about schools in other states being used to detain and/or identify undocumented students. But, to this point, the agency has not confirmed if that sort of activity has been occurring in Washington or nationwide.

“OSPI is trying to determine the validity of these reports and whether this practice is happening in Washington state,” the statement reads.

The agency reported guidance from the Washington Attorney General’s Office, based on state laws, prohibits the state’s public schools from “initiating engagement with immigration authorities for the purpose of sharing student information.”

Reykdal also expressed support for Washington Attorney General Nick Brown’s lawsuit to challenge Trump’s executive order to end birthright citizenship. A Seattle federal judge temporarily blocked that order Thursday.

“I applaud Attorney General Brown for his swift action this week,” Reykdal said.

The OSPI statement concluded with Reykdal noting the nation’s history with diversity in public schools and the state’s interest in maintaining that going forward.

“Our public schools are a place where students from all different backgrounds come together to learn side-by-side,” Reykdal stated. “This is the rich diversity that America is known for, and we intend to uphold these values in the months and years ahead.”

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

Washington felt its most recent tremor at 1:35 p.m. Tuesday. The epicenter was located more than five miles away from Snoqualmie, the USGS reported. The agency also noted Klahanie (about 10.6 miles away), Sammamish (11.8 miles) and Issaquah (12.5 miles) as “nearby places” to the tremor. It was also about 65 miles away from Olympia.

More information: Check out the MyNorthwest Earthquake Tracker

The earthquake had a depth of over 10.1 miles (about 16.3 kilometers), according to the USGS and the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network (PNSN).

As of 3:15 p.m., Monday, there were over 900 responses to the USGS about feeling the tremor in some fashion. Most of those were felt in 78 different ZIP codes, including in Olympia and some isolated reports on the Olympic Peninsula and on Whidbey Island. There were some reports in Seattle as well.

KIRO Newsradio meteorologist Ted Buehner said he felt the earthquake while sitting in a building in Snohomish County.

“I was seated in a chair on the 14th floor of an Everett building and felt just a subtle butt wiggle for just a moment and I asked myself ‘Was that an earthquake?'” Buehner said.

The PNSN also reported a magnitude 2.0 earthquake about 4.65 miles away from Fall City just before 2:05 p.m. Monday.

PRELIM Earthquake: M3.6, 7.4 km ENE from Fall City, WA at 2025/01/20 13:35 PST https://t.co/3ffNFNT0hi
Did You Feel It?: https://t.co/cokbjMnpRV pic.twitter.com/Qhv2QQtx4s

— PNSN (@PNSN1) January 20, 2025

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

Trump’s swearing-in ceremony, moved indoors due to intense cold, will begin at 9 a.m. But festivities will start earlier when the incoming president arrives for service at St. John’s Episcopal Church.

As The Associated Press noted in its coverage Monday, Trump is going to issue a series of orders aimed at remaking America’s immigration policies, ending asylum access, sending troops to the southern border and ending birthright citizenship, an incoming White House official said. Going further, The Washington Post and ABC News reported Sunday that Trump is preparing to take more than 200 executive actions during his first day back in office.

But it’s unclear how Trump would carry out some of his executive orders, including ending automatic citizenship for everyone born in the country, while others were expected to be immediately challenged in the courts.

Live inauguration coverage: Trump returning to power after unprecedented comeback

The KIRO Newsradio and KTTH hosts who offered comments about Trump’s inauguration to MyNorthwest provided varying opinions, but they all offered their views on what Inauguration Day would be like and what we can expect to see from Trump after he takes the oath of office.

KIRO Newsradio’s Charlie Harger: People shouldn’t be surprised about what they see

Charlie Harger, who hosts KIRO Newsradio’s “Seattle’s Morning News,” said he doesn’t expect the swearing-in to be that unusual even though it will be inside for the first time in decades.

“I suspect the transfer of power will be rather typical,” Charlie wrote. “With the news that the swearing-in will take place inside the Capitol building because of very cold weather, it may look unusual for those of us who watch the ceremony every four years.”

Charlie also openly wondered about what Trump’s first speech as president will be like, particularly given the dark tone and tenor he took in 2017 when he was in this spot.

“I’m curious about how he will approach the inaugural address,” Charlie said. “Eight years ago, when President Trump first took office, the “American Carnage” speech was very much red meat for his base, and they loved it. There’s a strong chance he does something similar this time around. But I wouldn’t rule out a more conciliatory speech, something that attempts to cast him as ‘president of the whole country, not just his most ardent supporters.'”

In addition, Charlie also pointed to the likelihood of Trump signing a series of executive orders after taking the oath of office. He thinks folks shouldn’t be surprised by what they see when Trump signs those orders

“President Trump has promised several executive actions on his first day,” Charlie continued. “They include an order to crack down on illegal immigration; closing the borders; tariffs on goods imported from Canada, Mexico, and China; and clemency for many who took part in the Jan. 6 riots. I take him at his word when he says he’ll do this, and folks shouldn’t be surprised if he follows through with those campaign promises. People may feel a range of other emotions about it (depending on their political persuasion), but ‘surprise’ should not be one of them.”

More on Trump: TikTok restores service for US users based on Trump’s promised executive order

KTTH’s Jason Rantz is looking forward to the Inauguration Day

Jason Rantz, host of “The Jason Rantz Show” on KTTH, made it clear he is looking forward to Trump’s inauguration as he believes outgoing President Joe Biden leaves a damaging legacy.

“Like most voters, I’m looking forward to Inauguration Day,” Rantz said. “Joe Biden’s legacy is one of historic inflation, crime, and illegal border crossings, along with the weaponization of the justice system. With Donald Trump, we’ll have a president who actually will put America and her people first.”

Jason anticipates a different inauguration than what was seen eight years ago when  Trump was in the position.

“I expect we’ll have a positive, future-focused inauguration from a president who is a legitimate cheerleader for America,” Rantz said. “Donald Trump will deliver a strong message to the country that we will come first again, and to the world that we have a strong leader at the helm again.”

Rantz also expects Trump to use his new executive powers quickly to put the U.S. on a different course.

“We already know the Trump will use his executive powers to rapidly undo the damage from the Biden administration, but it will take some time to truly reverse course,” Rantz added. “Biden’s petty staff are leaving the White House having made it more difficult for Trump to set us on the right course again. Who knows what damage they’ve done that we’re unaware of. But he’ll be going into office having successfully pressured Hamas into a ceasefire, which is a major victory – and he wasn’t even president yet when he did it.

“The border will be truly addressed and criminal illegal immigrants are on notice. Most importantly, he’ll signal that America is back; that we’ll no longer let the Radical Left fundamentally rebuild this country,” Rantz continued. “We’ll move away from the identity-obsessed culture that treats people differently on the basis of race, religion, gender, or gender identity. We’ll actually acknowledge there are only two genders and stop the Left’s assault on women’s rights. You can feel the positivity in the air, even in deeply blue Seattle where even they know they’ve gone too far.”

KIRO Newsradio’s Ursula Reutin: Expect Trump to be busy and a braggart

Ursula Reutin, one of the hosts of KIRO Newsradio’s “The Gee and Ursula Show,” maintained some hope about Trump providing a tone that would bring people together instead of driving them apart.

“My hope is that President Trump will stick to his word and make this inaugural speech a unifying one,” Ursula said. “The first one was dark and depressing. We don’t need to hear about ‘American carnage’ or any name-calling of political opponents.”

More on Trump: Biden pardons Fauci, Milley, others in effort to guard against potential Trump retribution

Ursula also made several predictions about what Trump will say and do during his first day.

“My prediction is that he will take credit — again — for the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas,” Ursula stated. “He will also brag about saving TikTok, even though he was among those pushing for a ban in 2020. Trump has already made it clear that he will be signing many executive orders on his first day. I wouldn’t be surprised if he went for a record, so he could add that to his brag list.”

KIRO Newsradio’s John Curley: Biden hiding!

Host of KIRO Newsradio’s “The John Curley Show” John Curley, who went to Washington, D.C., to see Trump’s second inauguration, delivered a message about outgoing President Joe Biden after his farewell speech last week in his comments.

“His legacy will be the truth Americans were not permitted to see,” John said. “His White House hid his mental and physical decline as early as 2021 — from the American people. His White House hid opposing points of view by pressuring social media companies to censor free speech. His greatest accomplishment is the unintended destruction of mainstream media.”

Contributing: The Associated Press

Dozens of customers were lined up out the door at the Renton location Friday eager to get one final taste.

An announcement on the page devoted to the restaurant in Renton on the Shakey’s website states the location “must close it’s doors due to the redevelopment of the property.”

The short statement includes a thank you to those who have visited the restaurant over the years.

“We’d like to extend a heartfelt thanks to our customers and friends who have shared meals and made memories here,” the statement reads.

More news on Puget Sound restaurants: Original Burgermaster in Seattle to close its doors

KIRO Newsradio Resident Historian Feliks Banel visited the Renton restaurant Friday afternoon and reported counting 85 people outside the restaurant waiting to get food. He spoke to customers on the scene and owner Lori Bender.

Bender told Banel she has owned the Shakey’s for nine years and she plans to retire once it closes.

“I’m kind of hoping that a younger person will step in and open up. They need a bigger place,” Bender said.

When Banel asked about the real estate being redeveloped, Bender acknowledged that was going to happen. But when the owner approached her about next steps, the two worked out an agreement.

“When he came in to talk to me, my lease was almost over, so we worked out a deal and I’m very happy with it,” Bender told Banel.

Bender said the lines had been long and extended out the door since Tuesday. She was shocked by the reaction.

“They’re coming from all over the state for a last Shakey’s visit,” Bender said to Banel.

“It’s a good gathering place,” Bender said. “My favorite part is when people were bringing their kids and they say this is where daddy or mom went when they were little. That’s what warms my heart … the generations turning it over and the families that gather again, especially after (the COVID-19 pandemic).”

Banel appeared on KIRO Newsradio’s “The John Curley Show” Friday and he told host John Curley a lot of the people he talked to at the restaurant had been going there for a long time.

“A lot of people told me this is where they’ve come for years,” Banel said. “People say this is their family restaurant in this neighborhood, and Shakey’s was definitely a big thing.”

More on Shakey’s Pizza Parlor

Shakey’s has a long history as it dates back to the 1950s and the veteran who started the business.

“It goes back to 1954,” Banel said. “It was founded by Sherwood ‘Shakey’ Johnson. He got that nickname because during World War II he had malnourishment and developed, literally, tremors. But he embraced the nickname because he was a fun, jovial guy and he loved jazz and he loved pizza.”

John then played a clip of Shakey’s USA Vice President of Marketing Cindy Staats talking more about company’s founder “Shakey” Johnson, from an interview she did with Feliks earlier Friday.

“He embraced the nickname and you know, he was a lover of jazz music, especially the banjo,” Staats told Banel.

All Over the Map: Final hours for the last Sears in Washington

Once the Renton location closes, there will be just one Shakey’s restaurant left in the state of Washington. That one is in the Tri-Cities, in Pasco. A story from The Seattle Times’ archives reported there were 20 Shakey’s restaurants in the Puget Sound region in 1991, 16 of which were in Seattle.

The chain is nearly gone in the state of Washington, but there are more than 40 locations left in Southern California with most of those in the Los Angeles area.

In addition, the brand is alive and well in The Philippines as there are more than 200 stores there as well.

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

The park is changing its fee structure for wilderness permits. Instead of costing $20 per trip, it will now cost $10 per person per night, according to a news release on the National Park Service website. A $6 fee for trips reserved through recreation.gov will stay the same.

Kids under the age of 15 still get in for free.

Those people seeking walk-up permits will need to pay the same new fees as those who have made advance reservations, the statement also says.

Why Mount Rainier National Park is making the change

The news release states the change in the fee structure “ensures equitability.” Going further, the agency stated that when visitors paid the flat fee previously, “smaller groups that had less impact and used fewer resources paid higher costs individually than larger groups who had a greater impact on park resources.”

“These fees directly support the experience of wilderness permit holders,” Superintendent Greg Dudgeon said in the statement. “For instance, they support the work of rangers who patrol the park’s more than 270 miles of maintained trails; manage and transport backcountry users’ food caches; clean, service, and pack out accumulated waste from backcountry toilets; and ensure compliance with permits and regulations that protect park resources and the wilderness experience.”

Wilderness permit reservation fees at Mount Rainier National Park have not changed for 26 years, the statement also noted. The recreation.gov use fee was added in 2021.

The news release stated the park issues about 7,000 wilderness and climbing permits each year.

Earlier coverage: Mount Rainier, national parks receive ‘record-setting’ $1.1 million

More on visiting the park

As the National Park Service website explains, Mount Rainier National Park is open all year, 24 hours a day. Visitation is at its peak in July and August, “when the weather is warm and dry and the wildflowers are blooming,” the website states.

Now that it’s the winter, vehicle access to Mount Rainier is only available from the Nisqually Entrance, in the southwest corner of the park on the way to Paradise, the agency site also explains. In addition, the Carbon River Entrance is open, “but the road within the park boundary is limited to foot and bicycle traffic.” Those interested in visiting the park at this time of year are encouraged to check the road status or alerts pages before trying to get to the park as road conditions are subject to change.

The agency also features different entrance passes and suggestions of which one to procure, depending on the number of times people planning on visiting Mt. Rainier or other national parks. Those planning on visiting the park once should plan on getting a standard pass. People who want to visit the park multiple times during a year should consider paying more for the annual pass. Finally, the America the Beautiful pass is for the visitors who plan on visiting more than one national park in a year, given that all parks have entrance fees.

Contributing: Aaron Granillo, KIRO Newsradio

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

The company made the announcement in a statement published on Facebook.

“After 73 incredible years, it is with a heavy heart that we announce our impending closure of our University District Burgermaster location at the end of February,” Burgermaster’s statement read. “Built in 1952, this was the very first Burgermaster, and it has been an enduring cornerstone of Seattle’s history, serving countless students, families and visitors over the decades.”

KIRO Newsradio Resident Historian Feliks Banel first reported the news in his own Facebook post earlier this week. He stated he spoke to Burgermaster CEO Alex Jensen, who is the third generation in his family to be involved with the chain. His grandfather, Phil Jensen, opened that first restaurant location in 1952.

The reason for the closure is because they don’t own the land where the location sits and it, along with a number of parcels of land that includes the boarded-up Safeway next door to the west, is being bundled up for a new mixed-use development, Banel explained.

Alex Jensen told Banel that 80% of the company’s current employees will get jobs at other Burgermaster locations, which currently are located in Bellevue, Mill Creek, Mount Vernon and along Aurora Avenue in Seattle.

KSL podcasts: Learn more about ‘Unsolved Histories’

Burgermaster’s future includes the new Issaquah location

Looking toward the future, Alex Jensen touted the XXX in Issaquah they’re excited about having taken over.

Banel talked to Alex Jensen about that project last year and the CEO said the company is doing a comprehensive remodel of that XXX building, including undoing some more recent changes to the interior. Specifically, they are restoring portions of the former drive-in that had been converted to office space at some point in the past few decades.

“When they built those offices, it looks like they were pretty careful to leave all of the infrastructure in place,” Alex Jensen told KIRO Newsradio. “I had heard rumors that the original owners kind of wanted to preserve the opportunity for somebody to come back and do this at some point.”

More from Feliks Banel: Remodel project uncovers hidden past of beloved XXX drive-in

Alex Jensen also said the XXX originally was a classic drive-in restaurant where servers took orders from customers while those customers parked under an awning and sat in their vehicles. That covered area where customers are served in their cars, Jensen explained, is called “the ramp.”

The original ramp is still there, Alex Jensen told KIRO Newsradio, and it’s in good shape. Burgermaster’s remodeling work will restore the look and function of the original ramp, Jensen added.

Alex Jensen also told Banel the company plans to open another new location. But he declined to say where that is yet.

Contributing: Feliks Banel, KIRO Newsradio

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

MyNorthwest editors conducted research into other U.S. cities’ homicides after a post from the X account @HomicideSeattle last weekend indicated Seattle was in a rare group of cities that had not seen a homicide so far this year.

San Jose, Seattle and Denver are the last three of the 20 largest US cities without a homicide in 2025.

— Seattle Homicide (@HomicideSeattle) January 12, 2025

Crime blotter: Covering the crimes committed in the Puget Sound region and beyond

Since that post was published online, Denver and San Jose, California, have reported homicides.

A Seattle Police Department (SPD) spokesman confirmed to MyNorthwest Monday the city hasn’t seen a homicide yet in 2025. That spokesman added it is too early to say if this is unusual for the month of January as further data needed to be analyzed.

In addition, the department pointed to its crime dashboard to look at past homicides by month. Its data shows three homicides occurred in January 2024. Going back further, there were five in January 2023, four in January 2021 and 2022, six in January 2020 and three in January 2019.

The SPD also reported the final count for homicides in 2024 stands at 58. However, the department acknowledged the number is subject to change if any victims die due to injuries sustained during any assaults committed in 2024. That number is down from the 64 homicides reported in 2023, which was the most recorded since at least 2008. 

Progress or problem? Seattle’s population keeps growing, but the growth has slowed

25 largest US cities by population

The following is a list of the 25 largest cities by population in the U.S., according to estimates from data released by the U.S. Census Bureau as of July 1, 2023. The research into other U.S. cities identified, based mostly on news stories about crimes in those cities, shows at least one homicide being committed in the other 24 largest U.S. cities since Jan. 1.

New York City (Population as of July 1, 2023: 8.258 million)

Los Angeles (3.821 million)

Chicago (2.664 million)

Houston (2.314 million)

Phoenix (1.650 million)

Philadelphia (1.551 million)

San Antonio (1.495 million)

San Diego (1.388 million)

Dallas (1.303 million)

Jacksonville, Florida (985,843)

Austin, Texas (979,882)

Fort Worth, Texas (978,468)

San Jose, California (969,655)

Columbus, Ohio (913,175)

Charlotte, North Carolina (911,311)

Indianapolis (879,293)

San Francisco (808,988)

Seattle (755,078)

Denver (716,577)

Oklahoma City (702,767)

Nashville (687,788)

Washington, D.C. (678,972)

El Paso, Texas (678,958)

Las Vegas (660,929)

Boston (653,833)

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

Ferocious winds that drove the flames and led to chaotic evacuations have calmed somewhat and were not expected to be as powerful during the day. That could allow firefighters to make progress reining in blazes that have hopscotched across the sprawling region, including massive ones in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena.

During an appearance on “The Jason Rantz Show” on KTTH Thursday, University of Washington atmospheric sciences professor Cliff Mass discussed multiple aspects of the fires, including the failures leading up to them taking off and what’s to come next week. 

Starting off the conversation, Jason noted some media outlets and politicians were blaming climate change for these wildfires despite that not being the case.

“Climate change did not cause this fire,” Jason said. “In fact, they knew ahead of time how bad things were going to be as far as the winds were concerned.”

Saying the National Weather Service put a catastrophic forecast out, Mass agreed with Jason’s assessment speaking directly to the strength of the Santa Ana winds in that area.

“Everybody was looking at the models, knew that there was going to be strong Santa Ana winds, very unusually strong that we’re going to descend down the mountains there with very strong winds, dry air,” Mass said. “All you needed was ignition. So that was very, very clear. So the authorities in the region had the warning and the steps they should have taken, which I suspect they did not take, at least not sufficiently.”

Previous coverage: Wildfires burn out of control across Los Angeles area and kill 5 as thousands flee homes

California wildfires: What should have been done before the winds arrived

From there, Mass spoke to three steps that should have been taken that were not before the arrival of the winds.

“De-energize the region” — Citing photos taken by people as they flew into regional airports, Mass noted fires burning and lights in homes also being on next to them.

“The first thing they should have done was completely de-energize the region that was vulnerable, and they clearly did not do that,” Mass said. “They were talking about taking power down. They did to some neighborhoods, but they didn’t go far enough.”

“Make sure all those fires were out” — Mass went on to discuss the campfires that get set up in Southern California by homeless people who are in the area.

“No. 2 is there are a lot of homeless around there and some of them have fires,” he said. “So the No. 2 thing would be to make sure that there were none of those fires. I mean, you could spot them with infrared. It wouldn’t be hard to see where they were but to make sure all those fires were out, that would be definitely the second thing I’d want to do.”

“Messed up … evacuation plans” — Looking at traffic specifically, Mass spoke about the mistakes made in the plans to get people out of the affected area.

“The No. 3 thing that they definitely messed up was their evacuation plans,” he explained. “They told border areas that they had to evacuate immediately. Well, that caused traffic jams and that completely locked up. It finally got so bad on on one of the roads that they told people as the fire was coming down the hill to abandon their cars, to run to the water.
So, they had all these abandoned cars and they finally had to use bulldozers to push the cars out of the way. I mean, it was not well done.”

As to why the ineffectiveness has existed in the past, Mass didn’t speak to the why, but he did identify a pattern of sorts.

“This has happened time and time again,” Mass said. “Just seems a lot of cities and municipalities are completely ineffective dealing with this kind of threat.”

‘I don’t think this had much to do with climate change’

Mass went on to say during his appearance on “The Jason Rantz Show” he doesn’t think these wildfires had much to do with climate change, citing that there’s no real trend here.

“Well, in fact, I don’t think this had much to do with climate change,” Mass said. “From a meteorological viewpoint, and in fact, one way I can show that is I plotted up at Los Angeles precipitation during the fall over the last 50 years. Well, there’s no trend. If climate change was the key, that would have been a trend. But there wasn’t a trend.”

From there, Mass circled back to the lack of planning municipalities undertake to prepare for these weather events.

“But even if climate change was involved, these kind of conditions, you have to do the planning and the execution that will minimize the problem and they clearly did not do that,” Mass added.

Related news: WA firefighters heading to Southern CA to help fight devestating wildfires

What will happen next in California?

Mass told Jason that while the fires are still going strong as of Thursday night, they aren’t what they were previously when the fire first spread. However, by Tuesday those winds are going to strengthen again, underscoring the need to get this under control soon.

“It’s going to rev up again next week, next Tuesday, it’s going to get strong again,” Mass said. “So they have to work very hard to get the fires out during the next several days and then be ready to make sure they de-energize and do things properly for the Tuesday event. So, it’s the Tuesday events could be a little bit different location a little bit further to the north, but they have to get ready for that one.”

When Jason asked if it was feasible to get these fires under control, Mass struck an optimistic tone but added that getting ready for what’s to come next week in California is vital.

“Oh, I think it’s quite feasible,” he said. “I mean, a lot of resources are coming in, from even up here, going down there. So they have all these firefighters, they have the aircraft that can, that can drop materials that suppress fires so they can hit this very hard right now and probably get it under control, but they need to get ready for next week.”

Head here or click on the player below to listen to additional analysis from Cliff Mass about the California wildfires and the winter in the Pacific Northwest.

Contributing: The Associated Press

Steve Coogan is the lead editor of MyNorthwest. You can read more of his stories here. Follow Steve on X, or email him here.

Listen to The Jason Rantz Show on weekday afternoons from 3-7 p.m. on KTTH 770 AM (HD Radio 97.3 FM HD-Channel 3). Subscribe to the podcast here. Follow Jason Rantz on X, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook.