
Spotlight
‘We’re not out of the woods yet’
It’s tempting to think of the pandemic as something that occurred in the past, but the reality is that COVID-19 continues to be a significant burden in the United States. As of last November, there were more than 39,000 new cases, 3,000-lus hospitalizations, and about 350 deaths attributable to COVID-19 each day nationwide. Despite relatively low rates of COVID-19 in recent months in Pierce and King counties, serious cases and deaths are still occurring, and health officials urge the general public to keep their guard up and keep testing to help avoid spreading the virus and protect their own health.
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News

As part of a project that likely will need voter-approved funding, Sumner-area residents are being asked what they want from a new branch library in the city.
The last four digits of the Social Security numbers of 463,000 registered voters in Pierce County accidentally wound up in the wrong hands.

Voters in three school districts in Pierce County and one King County school district are being asked to approve school funding measures in a special election in February.
The “economic climate” gets the blame from the developer for ending an agreement with Pierce County to build a resort at the county’s Chambers Bay Golf Course.
Lifestyles
The older you are, the harder it could be to have friends Over 55? Odds are you only have four friends you can count on.
Food

For farmers and the broader food system, experts say the climate legislation passed by Congress doesn’t go nearly as far as some would like but will still have far-reaching implications.
Adventures

Boosters of the eastern Washington town say winter visits there are a winner.
Health & Fitness

Adults who are well-hydrated are healthier, develop fewer chronic conditions such as heart and lung disease, and live longer, a study confirms.
Personal Finance/Consumers
Retirement plans are sideways with inflation Inflation is being felt practically every way imaginable. That includes retirement, one of the major financial milestones that are being put off.