Investigations A WA worker’s death reveals the limits of safety enforcement A fatal trench collapse in 2016 set precedent for holding employers criminally liable, but officials still struggle to head off repeat violations. by Lizz Giordano / November 29, 2023
Investigations With 3 recent wins, Starbucks union gains traction in Eastern WA Reduced hours and dwindling benefits spur baristas to action as a small Prosser cafe becomes the 27th in the state to vote to unionize. by Lizz Giordano / September 21, 2023
Culture Pacific Northwest Ballet’s new guard brings diversity center stage Seattle’s largest dance company is at a turning point with a fall roster that’s younger and 50 percent BIPOC. by Marcie Sillman / September 13, 2023
Investigations Sound Transit settles whistleblower case over safety complaints The former employee alleged that supervisors retaliated against him for raising concerns about repair records and other safeguards. by Lizz Giordano / July 24, 2023 / Updated at 10 a.m. on Sept. 15, 2023
Culture A “Venn diagram” of genres keeps this Seattle dance fest afloat With an emphasis on local contemporary dance, organizers hope to attract new audiences amid a challenging arts climate. by Marcie Sillman / June 12, 2023
Investigations A new WA law may not cure hospital staff shortages, nurses say Local committees will still set nurse/patient ratios amid new state oversight, but workers argue the current complaint system falls short. by Lizz Giordano / May 25, 2023
Investigations Everett shelter got $3M in COVID relief despite complaints Local officials signed new contracts with The Hand Up Project after two residents died last year and former employees alleged financial mismanagement. by Lizz Giordano / May 22, 2023
Investigations King County prosecutor’s office accused of ‘self-dealing’ promotion An investigation found no hiring policies were violated but noted there is no consistent process for filling leadership positions. by Lizz Giordano / April 13, 2023
Culture Seattle’s Black dance history gets the spotlight in a new show Drawing upon archival photos and old films, Black Collectivity presents an original performance rooted in little-known legacies. by Marcie Sillman / April 5, 2023
Investigations Where the Starbucks union stands after rallies, proposed audit As a new CEO takes over, employees of the Seattle-based coffee giant are taking their demands to the street: Stop union-busting and bargain in good faith. by Lizz Giordano / March 24, 2023 / Updated at 3:50 p.m. March 29