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Friday, October 15

Vaccine proof or negative test soon required at large events
Starting Nov. 15, people in Washington state will need to either provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test in order to attend large events, Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday. The new order — which Inslee’s staff said is modeled after similar policies in California and King County — applies to indoor events with 1,000 or more attendees and outdoor events that have more than 10,000 attendees. Events will be required to verify full vaccination status or a negative test within the last 72 hours for all attendees who are age 12 or older. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (AP Photo/Ben VanHouten)

Gov. Inslee remains firm on Oct. 18 vaccine deadline for state workers
Despite pressure from lawmakers and industries to extend the deadline for state employees to be vaccinated, Gov. Inslee made clear on Thursday that he’s holding firm to the Monday, Oct. 18 date. Monday, Oct. 4, marked the final day for state employees to either get their second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, or the first and only dose of Johnson & Johnson’s one-shot vaccine, to account for the two-week period needed to achieve full vaccination. The expectation is that state workers who aren’t fully vaccinated by Oct. 18 will be terminated from their positions. Continue reading at MyNorthwest. (Office of the Governor)

Kraken survives Predators’ third-period onslaught to earn franchise’s historic first win
There’s a big difference between beginning a five-game road trip with consecutive losses and responding to the initial loss. On Thursday in Nashville, that difference also happened to be the first victory in Seattle Kraken history. Just like in Vegas, the Kraken came back, but this time, it pulled out a 4-3 win. The Predators jumped out to a 1-0 lead just over three minutes into the contest, but the Kraken stormed back with two power play goals before Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Dean Rutz/The Seattle Times)

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Associated Press
Vaccine proof or negative test soon required at large events

Aberdeen Daily World
Volunteers monitor invasive crab species in South Aberdeen

Bellingham Herald
What’s killing the Northwest’s bigleaf maples? Scientists think they’ve found the answer
With two more COVID-related deaths reported Wednesday, Whatcom reaches dubious milestone
Should Whatcom County expect a large number of Canadians to cross once the border reopens?

Capital Press
Ranchers blocked again from wolf hearing
La Nina forms and likely to stay through winter; cool, wet winter ahead in NW

Everett Herald
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: If U.S. defaults on debt, dollar and more will fall

News Tribune
Score one for Puyallup in dispute over warehouse zoning. City fends off Schnitzer appeal
Pierce County university announces tuition won’t increase for incoming students
Pussyfoot Creek and SR 164 get new bridge. Fish get 9 miles of new habitat
After messy split, Tacoma chooses new manager for historic theaters with $2.4M contract
3 takeaways from the first win in Seattle Kraken history
2 roofing companies working in Pierce County fined for unsafe working conditions

Olympian
Lacey responds to proposed RV site near city, announces expectations for such sites
Local nonprofits partner to get 4,000 trees planted on Nisqually River
WA to require proof of vaccine or negative COVID-19 test at large events statewide
Schools are the focus of COVID policy fight. How Biden administration is responding

Puget Sound Business Journal
Tacoma Housing Authority names interim leader to permanent role
Former Boeing test pilot indicted for fraud in connection with 737 Max crashes
Inslee announces statewide vaccine requirement for large events
Seattle mayoral forum shows how wide business-labor divide has become

Seattle Times
González, Harrell exhibit sharply different views on homelessness, policing in Seattle mayoral debate
Kraken earns historic first win by storming back against Predators
Seattle to begin towing vehicles again, creating big questions for people who live in them
Five I-5 rest areas to close north of Seattle over trash, vandalism
Former Boeing staffer indicted on fraud charges related to MAX crashes that killed 346 people
Seattle school cancels Halloween parade, says it has marginalized students of color
The cruise industry says it’s safer than other vacations. Here’s what COVID experts say
Downtown Seattle’s troubles go beyond the pandemic
What’s slowing down Seattle apartment openings

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit County Superior Court extends order limiting operations
Anacortes to San Juan Islands ferry route to operate on temporary reduced schedule
Contaminated soil being removed from SWIFT Center

The Skanner
City of Seattle Office and Sound Transit Finalize No-Cost Land Transfer for Affordable Housing Development

South Seattle Emerald
COVID-19 numbers show we’re not out of the woods yet

Spokesman Review
Inslee, Murray plan to release dam breaching assessment by next summer
Vaccine proof or negative COVID-19 tests will be required at large events like games starting next month in Washington
Man arrested for alleged attack on Ritzville state senator

Tri-City Herald
Wine shoplifter threatened to infect Tri-Cities store workers with COVID. He kept returning
Washington woman arrested for fleeing Franklin deputies in 130-mph car case
Tri-Cities baby died of brain trauma. Dad charged with homicide by abuse
A fight over a woman ended with 25 shots fired in crowded Tri-Cities mobile home park
With Tri-Cities COVID cases declining, what will it take to reduce restrictions?
Kennewick police looking for robber who pepper sprayed a gas station clerk
With COVID vaccine deadline looming, Tri-Cities schools vow to remain open
Kennewick truck driver dies after being hit by train in Oregon

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Walla Walla Public Schools to begin Educational Effectiveness Survey
New Walla Walla tree plan calls for planting 300 trees per year
Walla Walla County officials report new COVID-19 death

Washington Post
48 hours to live: An Oklahoma hospital’s rush to find an ICU bed for a covid patient
DOJ to ask Supreme Court to block Texas abortion law amid legal fights
British lawmaker dies after being stabbed multiple times while meeting with constituents, police say
Texas school official tells teachers that Holocaust books should be countered with ‘opposing’ views
U.S. prepares to restore ‘Remain in Mexico’ policy along border
Nikolas Cruz to plead guilty to killing 17 in 2018 school shooting in Parkland, Fla.
FDA advisory panel takes up J&J booster; U.S. to lift restrictions for fully vaccinated international travelers
‘Emotionally, physically, mentally tired’: Nurses say morale hits a pandemic low
This inflation is different. These charts explain why.
College students struggle with mental health as pandemic drags on
FDA panel recommends Moderna booster for people 65 and older
Abandoned wells are a huge climate problem
Biden commission on Supreme Court warns of political dangers in adding justices
Eleven questions for Interior Secretary Deb Haaland

Yakima Herald Republic
COVID testing site at State Fair Park in Yakima to open Monday

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington’s border with Canada reopening to vaccinated travelers on Nov. 8
Seattle begins enforcing 72-hour parking rule Friday
J&J booster shots, mixing and matching vaccines in spotlight Friday
Kitsap County offers $500 incentive for its employees who get the COVID-19 vaccine
Seattle business owner fears longer 911 response times ahead of possible police officer shortage
Internal memo says King County sheriff’s employees won’t be immediately fired on vaccine deadline
Inslee to require proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test to attend large events in Washington
Seattle school board could ask state to mandate COVID-19 vaccines for all students

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Gov. Inslee announces vaccine requirement for large events
Jan. 6 panel moves against Bannon, sets contempt vote
Lumen Field to hire 500+ starting at $21/hour

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Seattle Fire Department braces to lose first responders
Puget Sound ferry customers eye deep service cuts as fears of delays rise
King County Councilmember removed from chairmanships after controversial campaign flier
Redmond firefighters seek religious exemption from vaccine mandate as city balks
Man arrested for alleged attack on Ritzville state senator
Boeing pilot involved in Max testing is indicted in Texas

KNKX FM
Inslee orders proof of vaccine or negative COVID-19 test at large events
Washington ferries to slash service due to staffing issues
With hospitals crowded from COVID, 1 in 5 American families delays health care

KUOW FM
Pandemic blog: Updates for Seattle and the NW
Experts recommend that FDA should authorize Moderna COVID vaccine booster

KXLY (ABC)
Proof of vaccination to be required at all large events in Washington starting November 15

Q13 TV (Fox)
Domestic violence homicides in King County on pace to be record breaking number
Veteran Seattle firefighter empties locker after city denies vaccine exemption
1 injured in shooting at Olympia homeless encampment, troopers say
Annual public safety survey for people who live and work in Seattle starts Oct. 15

Web

Crosscut
Being Seattle city attorney is about more than criminal cases

MyNorthwest
King County Metro cancels another 80 early-morning trips on Friday
Seattle resumes enforcement of 72-hour parking rule for first time since start of pandemic
‘Trick or Streets’ return to Seattle for October holidays
Gov. Inslee hopes state lawmakers will ‘be more attentive’ to ferry system’s needs
Lumen Field to hire 500+ people starting at $21/hour
Former Boeing 737 MAX pilot indicted for fraud
Point Roberts grocery store owner ‘hopeful’ with border reopening
Large events in Washington to require proof of vaccination or negative test
Delays at Port of Seattle ‘going to get worse before it gets better’
Estimated 5% of Seattle Fire Department personnel haven’t submitted proof of vaccination
Gov. Inslee remains firm on Oct. 18 vaccine deadline for state workers
What does ‘COVID endgame’ look like in years to come? Seattle researcher lays out road ahead
King County Metro cancels 26 early morning bus trips

Slog
Sawant to Propose Free Parking for Carpenters, Meeting Core Demand of Many Union Workers
The Vera Project Speaks Out About Climate Pledge Arena Construction

West Seattle Blog
WEST SEATTLE WATER TAXI: Here’s what will change in extended season

Thursday, Oct. 14

Washington’s COVID-19 cases down across all age groups
The Washington state Department of Health says COVID-19 cases are down across all age groups, including school-age children. The Seattle Times reports the encouraging trend, revealed Wednesday, comes several weeks after the state passed a peak of infection driven by the delta variant, which health and hospital officials have said brought the highest numbers of infections and hospitalizations yet. Continue reading at The Associated Press. (Rogelio V. Solis)

Seattle agrees to settle lawsuit by family of man killed by police on New Year’s Eve 2018
The city of Seattle has agreed to pay $515,000 to settle a civil-rights lawsuit filed by the estate of Iosia Faletogo, who was shot and killed by police after a foot chase across Aurora Avenue North on New Year’s Eve 2018. Faletogo’s last words, caught on police body cameras — “Nope, not reaching!” — became a rallying cry for protesters against police racism and violence in the weeks after the killing. Continue reading at The Seattle Times.

Washington State Ferries moves to reduced schedule on most routes due to ‘severe’ staff shortage
Washington State Ferries (WSF) announced it is moving to a reduced schedule until further notice due to “severe” staff shortages. “Throughout the pandemic, we’ve worked hard to maintain reliable service, completing the vast majority of sailings,” said Patty Rubstello, head of WSF. “However, to better reflect the service we can currently provide and to minimize last-minute cancelations due to a lack of crew, we made this difficult decision to adjust our schedules.” Continue reading at KING 5.

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Associated Press
Washington’s COVID-19 cases down across all age groups
Judge bars United from putting unvaccinated workers on leave
Washington ferries to slash service due to staffing issues
Seattle police staffing woes prompt emergency dispatch plan

Bellingham Herald
With border restrictions easing, will Canadians start shopping in Whatcom again?
Though U.S.-Canada border will reopen soon, area lawmakers insist work isn’t finished
As news of U.S. loosening border restrictions breaks, Whatcom sees 46 new COVID cases

Capital Press
Dry conditions lead to deep seeding, partial stands for wheat farmers
Sugar beets look good as harvest progresses

Columbian
$1 million grant to help Southwest Washington nonprofit with COVID-19 outreach

Everett Herald
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Bloomberg Comment: Inflation may stick if job and wage growth don’t slow

The Facts Newspaper
Land Transfer for Affordable Housing Development in Rainier Valley

The Inlander
As pandemic rages on, Spokane health district employees say poor leadership is driving dozens to leave agency (Riccelli)
Citizens’ Advisory Council moves closer to getting racist statue removed from downtown Spokane

Islands’ Weekly
County hosts COVID vaccine clinic

Kitsap Sun
Naval Hospital Bremerton closes birth center to fix paging system
Citing staff shortages, Washington State Ferries announces more service cuts

News Tribune
Gig Harbor moves to accommodate homeless shelters, with restrictions

New York Times
‘Lurching Between Crisis and Complacency’: Was This Our Last Covid Surge?
The Most Important Global Meeting You’ve Probably Never Heard Of Is Now
Biden Administration Plans Wind Farms Along Nearly the Entire U.S. Coastline
Biden calls on businesses to ‘step up’ as he expresses optimism about the fight against the virus.
Hundreds of Police Officers Have Died From Covid. Vaccines Remain a Hard Sell.

Olympian
Thurston County finally approves lease for Atrium building. Here’s how it will be used
What’s killing the Northwest’s bigleaf maples? Scientists think they’ve found the answer
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state

Peninsula Daily News
US land borders to reopen in November
Long-term-care facility outbreaks apparently decreasing

Puget Sound Business Journal
Biden announces measures at major ports to battle supply chain woes
Report: Here’s how much tuition-free community college could cost some states
Booming Puget Sound industrial market sets record for space absorption
Sawant bill would require general contractors to cover laborers’ parking
Report: Microsoft salary data leaked for over 1,200 employees in email thread alleging discrimination
Biden to open land borders for vaccinated visitors from Canada, Mexico
R&D will get pricier in 2022 unless Congress acts. Some say it could stifle innovation.

Seattle Times
Seattle agrees to settle lawsuit by family of man killed by police on New Year’s Eve 2018
Washington State Ferries to cut sailings on some routes by half
Group of Redmond firefighters refuses COVID vaccine, asks city to keep them on the job
Brown Paper Tickets misses deadline to repay thousands of customers
A mom died of COVID-19 before making a baby registry. A nurse — and strangers — pitched in.
‘All hands on deck’ at Seattle and Tacoma ports as supply chain bottlenecks persist
Seattle schools may seek statewide vaccine mandate for all Washington students

Skagit Valley Herald
County hits 10,000 COVID-19 cases, 100 deaths

Sol De Yakima
Desprendimiento de la grieta Rattlesnake por Union Gap sigue, pero lento
YVC ofrecerá más clases presenciales en el trimestre de invierno
Heritage University recibe $4.5 millones para mejorar la educación STEM
Habitantes de Yakima donaron 90 mil libras de comida para necesitados

South Seattle Emerald
As shootings increase, local coalition calls for $10M to curb gun violence
Despite roles, CPC, Federal Monitor not kept abreast of OIG ethics complaint developments
Facing arson and vandalism, White Center businesses say King County has ‘forgotten’ them
Officer allegedly behind abusive tweets has history of discipline for problematic behavior
Opinion: Racist deeds without adequate consequences
Opinion: Make public transit accessible for all!

Spokesman Review
‘It’s really about time’: Spokane retirees react to Social Security’s largest benefit increase in nearly 40 years
City vows to fix Spokane’s Community, Housing and Human Services Department as concern mounts
Spokane County COVID-19 testing sites set to open next week
Marchers press Dems for ‘citizenship for all’: Small crowd rallies in downtown Spokane for immigration reform

Tri-City Herald
With COVID vaccine deadline looming, Tri-Cities schools vow to remain open
Radioactive liquid spilled outside Tri-Cities nuclear fuel plant. Here’s what happened
New COVID case numbers continue to drop in Tri-Cities, but remain high
Commissioner Didier’s mask protest tops Franklin County complaints to WA state

Vancouver Business Journal
Construction ongoing at Washington State School for the Deaf

Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber
Vashon school district continues to grapple with COVID cases
Editorial: Pick Your Battles
Comment: Help is available for those facing eviction and foreclosure

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Wall Walla Public Schools to begin Educational Effectiveness Survey
College Place Schools plan redistricting in time for the 2022 elections
With an overworked ambulance staff, College Place considers utility fee to shore up EMTs
With upcoming concrete pour, Rose Street bridge project nearing completion

Washington Post
Senators aim to block tech giants from prioritizing their products over rivals’
Facebook whistleblower eyes state AGs, expanding regulatory threat beyond Washington
White House closing in on former FDA commissioner Robert M. Califf to serve as the agency’s chief
Jan. 6 committee subpoenas key witness in Trump’s Justice Dept.
U.S. overtakes China to become world’s largest bitcoin mining hub, report finds
Biden to meet with pope to discuss coronavirus, climate change, caring for poor

Yakima Herald Republic
Families see more financial help for childcare in Washington state
Teen charged with assault in connection with shooting that triggered school lockdown

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
How effective is natural immunity against COVID-19? Here’s what experts say
Stalled cargo in Puget Sound ports straining businesses and driving up cost of goods
While COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations drop, Washington’s mandates remain in place
COVID-19 was 2nd-leading cause of US deaths in September, analysis finds
Washington State Ferries moves to reduced schedule on most routes due to ‘severe’ staff shortage

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Seattle Fire prepares staffing plans ahead of vaccine mandate deadline
King County murder rates break records as Seattle prepares for even fewer officers
Racist rant captured on camera in Central District
Vaccine mandate is already a struggle for local gymnastics academy
President attempts to tame inflation by having West Coast port open 24/7
Washington State Ferries reducing service on most routes starting Saturday

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Citing chronic staffing challenges, Washington State Ferries to reduce service this week
Seattle Police Department activates Stage 3 emergency operations amid staffing shortage
City of Seattle pays $515,000 settlement in Iosia Faletogo police shooting
Redmond teacher used racial slur in classroom, student says
Puget Sound ports mull measures to help ease supply chain disruptions

KNKX FM
Border residents, families rejoice as U.S. says it will lift travel ban

KUOW FM
Vaccine Exempt Seattle Staff May Not Have ‘Same Job’ or ‘Same Rate of Pay’
Covid infections down among children in King County since school started
Pandemic blog: Updates for Seattle and the NW
Salmon spawning above Grand Coulee Dam a ‘hopeful’ sight
Jan. 6 panel issues subpoena for Trump ally, ex-DOJ official Jeffrey Clark

KXLY (ABC)
WSU granting fewer religious exemptions than the state as a whole

Q13 TV (Fox)
Biden to discuss vaccination progress amid boosters, employer mandates
DOH: Washington’s COVID-19 cases down across all age groups
Temporary ferry schedule changes starting Oct. 16 due to severe staff shortages
King County gun violence has already surpassed 2020’s year-end totals

Web

Crosscut
Washington wineries considering dramatic changes for climate change
Hop growers balance demands of craft beers with climate concerns
Climate change forces WA apple cider industry to adjust
Opinion: Congress, public debt, and the end of neoliberalism
Opinion: We’re living in the age of the megafire
Opinion: The case for long-term protection of Washington forests (Springer)

MyNorthwest
What does ‘COVID endgame’ look like in years to come? Seattle researcher lays out road ahead
King County Metro cancels 26 early-morning bus routes
City of Seattle agrees to pay $515,000 settlement over man killed by police in 2018
King County shootings in first nine months of 2021 surpass historic 2020 level
Washington State Ferries to operate reduced schedules due to staff shortages
With insurance rates at stake, judge rolls back Washington’s executive power
‘Signs of improvement’ for COVID in Washington, with concern for school-age kids
Councilmember Sawant demands contractors pay parking costs for Seattle construction workers

West Seattle Blog
FERRY ALERT: Washington State Ferries downsizes schedules to deal with crew shortages

Wednesday, Oct. 13

2020 Census may have undercounted Black Americans, new analyses say
Two new analyses suggest the 2020 Census may have undercounted Black people at a significantly higher rate than usual, raising concerns about whether minority communities could lose out on fair representation and funding over the next 10 years. The Census Bureau has not yet released data that would allow comparisons of 2020 Census results with earlier estimates to assess the survey’s accuracy. But a simulation comparing the bureau’s estimates for 2020 with results from 2010 indicates that the country’s Black population may have been undercounted at a rate up to three times as high as in 2010. Continue reading at The Washington Post. (Sarah L. Voisin)

U.S. to lift land border restrictions on Canada and Mexico for vaccinated visitors
Visitors from Canada and Mexico who are vaccinated will be able to drive into the United States for tourism and other non-essential travel again starting next month, when the rules for international air travel are also set to change. The new rules for foreign nationals entering by land are expected to be implemented in early November and will go into effect in two phases. A vaccination requirement will go into effect for non-essential travelers next month, while truck drivers and other individuals who cross U.S. borders for work will have until January to be vaccinated. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Warren Sterling)

Big boost for Social Security benefits as inflation rises
Millions of retirees on Social Security will get a 5.9% boost in benefits for 2022. The biggest cost-of-living adjustment in 39 years follows a burst in inflation as the economy struggles to shake off the drag of the coronavirus pandemic. The COLA, as it’s commonly called, amounts to $92 a month for the average retired worker, according to estimates released Wednesday by the Social Security Administration. That marks an abrupt break from a long lull in inflation that saw cost-of-living adjustments averaging just 1.65% a year over the past 10 years. Continue reading at The Associated Press. (Jenny Kane)

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Associated Press
US to reopen land borders in November for fully vaccinated
Retirees to get biggest Social Security benefit increase in decades
Boeing tells workers they must get COVID-19 vaccine
FDA grapples with timing of booster for J&J COVID-19 vaccine
University of Washington settles DOJ claims of grant fraud

Aberdeen Daily World
New COVID cases decline, hospitalizations remain high
Editorial: Single-use plastic bag ban good for environment

Bellingham Herald
Data shows most recent COVID surge hit Bellingham and rest of Whatcom County differently
U.S. to lift land border restrictions on Canada and Mexico for vaccinated visitors
Inslee visits Bellingham’s NW Laboratory, hears these concerns about Whatcom testing demand
Regional banking firms announce merger. Here’s how it will impact Whatcom County
Whatcom improves, but still sees another triple-digit COVID case count over the weekend

Capital Press
Nonexistent manure study sways Washington court
NAWG leader wants to meet with Simpson on Snake River dams

Columbian
Vancouver Police Department close to fulfilling all 84 recommendations from 2020 report

Everett Herald
Doctor clears up common misconceptions about COVID-19 vaccines
Boeing says workers must get the COVID vaccine by Dec. 8
COVID cases decline but local hospitals remain ‘under siege’
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Carpenters strike ends with new contract and a $10 raise

Islands’ Weekly
40th District delegates talk ferry disruptions
Opinion: Childcare – an economic driver in our community

Kirkland Reporter
COVID-19 vaccination or negative test required for indoor recreation starting Oct. 25

Kitsap Sun
Kitsap County commissioners approve $500 payout to vaccinated employees

News Tribune
Dash cameras being installed, but negotiations with Pierce County deputies delay use
Tacoma-Pierce County chamber leader plans end of year exit; search is on for replacement
Gig Harbor takes action on Airbnb-style rental moratorium. Here’s what comes next
City of Tacoma to clean up homeless encampments along Sixth Avenue near Evergreen campus
Arson investigation underway at Islamic Center of Tacoma after fire damages building
Op-Ed: Pell Grants make college attainable for millions of Americans, including here in Tacoma

Olympian
11 more Thurston residents die of COVID-19 in past week as case count trends down
Regional banking firms announce merger. Holding company to be headquartered in Tacoma
Biden council will tell federal agencies to put gender front and center when making policy

Peninsula Daily News
COVID-19 statistics
Complaint filed against Berry
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
State payroll tax to fund long-term care program coming soon

Puget Sound Business Journal
U.S. apartment rents have jumped more than 10% since early 2020
Vaccine-or-testing mandate for large employers one step closer to reality
Boeing requires Covid-19 vaccinations for employees by Dec. 8 federal deadline
UW opens $230M Hans Rosling Center for Population Health (Photos)
Boeing deliveries pick up in September as order streak continues

Salish Current
‘Where’s the ferry?’ islanders ask as crew shortages stymie scheduled sailings (Ramel, Lovelett, Lekanoff)

Seattle Times
U.S. to reopen Canada and Mexico borders for vaccinated travelers — here’s what to expect
‘Disheartening’ rise in King County gun violence has already surpassed 2020’s record toll

The Skanner
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound Names New President and CEO

Sol De Yakima
Hospitales del Valle de Yakima se muestran optimistas ante fecha límite para vacuna de personal

South Whidbey Record
Worker shortage continues to paralyze ferry system

Spokesman Review
Sen. Murray pushes for large federal investment in public health; Idaho sees cautious hope over COVID rates
U.S. borders to open in November to vaccinated travelers from Canada, Mexico

Tri-City Herald
Mental evaluation ordered for suspect in deadly stabbing of Pasco school bus driver

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Immigration-reform activists call on Democrats to ‘Keep Your Promise’ in Walla Walla Tuesday

Washington Post
With Trump gone, advocates flood Justice Dept. with requests to investigate police
Social Security benefits to rise 5.9%, biggest cost-of-living bump in decades
Prices up 5.4% in September over last year, as covid keeps weighing on supply chains
2020 Census may have undercounted Black Americans, analyses say
WHO announces team to reinvigorate battle to understand covid-19’s biggest mystery: How did it first infect humans?
FDA authorizes an e-cigarette for first time, saying benefit for smokers outweighs risk to youths
California set to become first state to ban sale of ‘super polluter’ gasoline-powered lawn equipment
The new deadline to pass Biden’s agenda is coming up fast
House agrees to lift debt ceiling as Democrats spar on broader spending bill

Yakima Herald Republic
2022 budget: Yakima seeks long-term solution for replacing police and fire vehicles
Yakima advocates, law enforcement create coalition to address domestic violence
Yakima County hospitals optimistic as vaccine deadline looms for workers

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Nonprofits call on King County to invest millions more to combat gun violence
Washington’s border with Canada reopening to vaccinated travelers in November after 19 months
Performing artists in Seattle appreciative of strict COVID-19 vaccination rules

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
US to reopen land borders in November for fully vaccinated
OPA opens investigation into troublesome tweets
South Lake Union anxious as Amazon changes work plans
Sheriff’s officials investigating possible arson at Islamic Center of Tacoma

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
King County executive praises vaccine mandate but Snohomish and Pierce are leery
King County vaccine mandate prompts tide of legal questions from firms, employers
WSU: Nearly 90% of employees, 95% of university students are vaccinated

KNKX FM
Rare clash between two distinct kinds of orcas in the Salish Sea — and the endangered fish-eaters won
Pacific NW governors hold fast on vax deadline as more local officials warn of worker exodus

KUOW FM
Most state and hospital workers are vaccinated as Washington’s mandate deadline looms
Pandemic blog: Updates for Seattle and the NW

KXLY (ABC)
Spokane Valley Fire Department keeping all of its firefighters with vaccine exemptions
US to reopen land borders in November for fully vaccinated

Q13 TV (Fox)
US to reopen land borders with Canada, Mexico for fully vaccinated in November
Companies hard-pressed for holiday staff despite millions of job openings

Web

MyNorthwest
Fire at Tacoma mosque being investigated as arson
Seattle area’s year of record-breaking weather continues with coldest early-October day in 125 years
Hope on horizon for struggling Point Roberts community with US/Canada border set to reopen
Exposing children to domestic violence considered a crime in Marysville
King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert removed from leadership roles
Puget Sound area heading into second La Niña winter in a row
Boeing to require all US employees to be vaccinated against COVID
Victoria Clipper suspends fast ferry service until spring 2022
Seattle Public Libraries reports $434K in damage, cites increase in loitering, vandalism

Slog
Op-Ed: Cops Can Take Your Stuff and Not Give It Back. We Must Change That.

Tuesday, Oct. 12

More than 90% of state employees vaccinated against COVID-19 in Washington
Nearly 92% of Washington state employees have proven they have received the COVID-19 vaccine, according to the latest data from the Office of Financial Management. The latest data reflects employee vaccination status as of Oct. 4. It shows a significant jump in the vaccination rate among state employees when compared to Sept. 6, when about 49% of state employees were vaccinated. More than 60,000 state employees are required to prove they’ve been vaccinated by Oct. 18 or they risk losing their jobs. Continue reading at KING 5.

Hit hard by COVID 5th wave, Washington veterans homes now brace for staffing shortages
As the October 18 deadline approaches for state workers to be fully vaccinated, Washington’s Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) is putting in place contingency plans for staffing its four veterans homes. The facilities, which are located in Port Orchard, Orting, Walla Walla and Spokane, serve about 400 veterans, spouses and widows of veterans and parents whose child died while serving in the military. Recently, WDVA sent more than 150 separation letters to staff who’ve not yet confirmed they’re fully vaccinated. That’s about 16 percent of the agency’s workforce. Continue reading at NWNews.

Washington Tribes celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, highlight climate crisis
In celebration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day, communities across Washington state came together to honor Native peoples, their diverse histories and cultures on Monday, Oct. 11. Streamed live from the Lummi Nation Wex’liem Community Building near Bellingham, Children of the Setting Sun Productions hosted a virtual gathering via Zoom and Facebook. “We didn’t come here to gather in a politically correct way. We came here as one — to gather as salmon people, to gather as Indigenous people, to share who we are,” said Jay Julius, former chairman of the Lummi Nation and chief strategist for Children of the Setting Sun Productions. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald. (Natasha Brennan)

Print

Associated Press
Seattle carpenters approve new contract after 3-week strike
State: Nearly 90% of Washington workers vaccinated against COVID

Bellingham Herald
How could a federal bill impact Whatcom and Bellingham’s climate action?
Tremor event arrives early, as thousands of quakes recorded west of Whatcom last 2 weeks
Washington Tribes celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day, highlight climate crisis

Capital Press
Biden administration stays course on wolf lawsuits

The Daily News
About 88% of Washington hospital staff fully vaccinated, survey says
Amtrak train suffers minor derailment near Woodland Monday

Everett Herald
Inslee: No ‘massive disruptions’ as worker vax rates hit 90%
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Big push lands Lake Stevens Food Bank a slice of federal aid
In climate change war, this Bothell man’s weapon is a garden
WaPo Comment: Kids’ vaccine won’t bring schools to ‘normal’ quickly
Bloomberg Comment: Why longer-lasting inflation might be a good thing

High Country News
Afghan refugees find a home in the West

News Tribune
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Monday in Washington state
Pierce County starts week with more than 200 new COVID-19 cases
How many WA health care workers will quit over COVID vaccine mandate? Survey offers estimate

North American Post
Africatown Community Home at Keiro Update

Olympian
Thurston County postpones public meeting on proposed RV site near Lacey

Peninsula Daily News
Advocates protest outside Northwest Detention Center
COVID picture differs in counties
88 percent of state health care workers fully vaccinated, survey finds

Puget Sound Business Journal
The great divide persists between managers and workers. It’s fueling turnover.
Report: Washington among the best states for older workers
Carpenters end strike after approving new contract
Report shows promising signs for seasonal hiring in Western US

Seattle Times
The Seattle area is heading into its second La Niña winter. Here’s what that means
As orders trickle in, Boeing ramps up 737 MAX but 787 deliveries are still blocked
Advice shifting on aspirin use for preventing heart attacks
If you’ve already had COVID, do you need a vaccine?
Americans quit their jobs at a record pace in August
U.S. Supreme Court rejects appeal of Washington state law giving unions access to worker data
FDA review finds Moderna’s booster dose of the coronavirus vaccine strengthens disease-fighting response
‘We are the land’: Indigenous Peoples’ Day gathering at Lummi Nation celebrates survival

Skagit Valley Herald
Library, Sedro-Woolley School District work to improve access to library

South Seattle Emerald
The native history of Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Multifaith coalition will kick off conversation on criminal justice reform with documentary screening
Controversies over Asian American issues at Bellevue College continue
Weekend Long Reads: The vaccine efficacy studies
Open letter to PHX alleges OPA Dir. ‘dangerous,’ urges city to reject him

Spokesman Review
Cathy McMorris Rodgers tests positive for COVID-19, quarantining in Spokane with mild symptoms
On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Spokane City Council hears report on urban Native American population
Who needs monoclonal antibody treatment for COVID-19 and how to get it
Survey: Washington hospitals could lose up to 5% of workforce due to vaccine mandate
Opinion: George Caan and Kent Lopez: Keeping the lights on as we transition to a clean energy future – lessons from California

Tri-City Herald
Richland Fred Meyer workers file to unionize in an Eastern Washington first
COVID ‘breakthrough’ cases climbing among vaccinated Tri-Citians. New details released
Judge allows Franklin County to throw out Latino voting rights settlement
100+ stores on horizon for west Pasco in multi-million development deal

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Walla Walla County to consider fate of Columbus, Whitman statues

Washington Post
Nearly 3% of U.S. workforce quit their jobs in August
Across America, students are back in school. It’s working — but it’s weird.
White House launches climate initiatives to arm communities against floods, extreme weather
What is life like in Taliban-controlled Kabul? Ask The Post’s Afghanistan bureau chief.
FDA review: Moderna’s vaccine booster strengthens disease-fighting response
The delta wave is subsiding but deaths are still high
Already, 18 weather disasters, each costing $1 billion or more, have hit U.S. this year

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima County hospitals optimistic as vaccine deadline looms for workers
Yakama Nation leaders: Energy project near Goldendale threatens sacred site
Immigrant rights activists rally in downtown Yakima to press for a pathway to citizenship
Editorial: Indigenous Peoples Day another step toward justice

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Victoria Clipper suspends Seattle to Canada service until Spring 2022
City calls Green Lake encampment high priority as residents’ fears hit breaking point
Deadline nears for public comment on Washington’s proposed political districts
More than 90% of state employees vaccinated against COVID-19 in Washington
Yes, hospitals can require organ transplant patients and donors to be vaccinated against COVID-19

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Victoria Clipper suspending ferry service until spring 2022
Washington hospitals brace for thousands of employees to leave
Carpenters Union votes to approve new contract
Nordstrom hiring more than 28,000 employees for the holiday season
Report shows 90% of Washington state workers are vaccinated
New survey reveals vaccination rates of Washington’s health care system

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Data shows jump in number of state workers who have received COVID vaccine

KNKX FM
Hit hard by COVID 5th wave, Washington veterans homes now brace for staffing shortages
Moderna and J&J say their data supports COVID vaccine boosters
Why rent help from Congress has been so damn slow getting to people who need it
Get the candy bowl ready. Dr. Fauci says Halloween is a go this year

KUOW FM
Pandemic blog: Updates for Seattle and the NW
Most state and hospital workers are vaccinated as mandate deadline looms
Young, Black Native activists say it’s time to appreciate Indigenous diversity
State attorneys sue to stop postal service from slowing the mail
Pacific NW governors hold fast on vax deadline as local officials warn of worker exodus
Goodbye, Columbus? Here’s what Indigenous Peoples’ Day means to Native Americans

KXLY (ABC)
Washington healthcare facilities brace for shortages as vaccination deadline looms
Data shows spike in Washington employee vaccinations as deadline approaches
Gov. Jay Inslee ‘extremely encouraged’ by state and health care workers vaccine progress
Spokane City Council votes to extend COVID-19 related water shutoffs
Packed In: ‘It’s criminal’: Some think rent caps could help the housing issue, but it’s complicated

NW Public Radio
Pacific NW Governors Hold Fast On Vax Deadline As More Local Officials Warn Of Worker Exodus

Q13 TV (Fox)
King County Councilmember calls on leaders to avoid mass firings by allowing weekly COVID testing

Web

MyNorthwest
Seattle councilmember: Removing homeless camps without shelter options ‘a cruel, wasteful game’
Northwest Carpenters Union votes to approve new contract
Hospitals projected to lose 2-5% of staff after vaccine mandate takes effect
Seattle to open COVID vaccination hub downtown, relaunch mobile teams
Seattle Monorail reopens, prepares for fans from Climate Pledge Arena
Amazon relaxes return to office policy, allows flexibility by department
Local lawmaker pushes alternative for unvaccinated workers ahead of mandate deadline
Seattle police officer being investigated over Twitter account with history of offensive posts
Seattle schools may have to cut two-thirds of bus routes as vaccine mandate approaches
Power outage to blame for state ferries website failure after weekend of delays, reduced sailings

Monday, Oct. 11

Inside the exhausting start to Washington’s school year: COVID outbreaks, school-bus cuts and more
The chicken nuggets come with a side of Pacific Northwest breeze at Hazel Valley Elementary School in Burien. In an unmistakably pandemic scene last week, the external doors to the school cafeteria were propped open during lunchtime. Inside, children sat 6 feet apart at tables. Just outside, kids favoring a meal outdoors sat on opposite sides of repurposed computer tables under a large white tent, several clutching a new style of fidget toy under their tables. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Bettina Hansen)

Prison reform curbs some solitary confinement, but how much?
When a prisoner at the Monroe Correctional Complex was sanctioned for trying to incite a hunger strike last fall, his punishment was supposed to be 20 days in solitary confinement. Instead, he spent 112 days alone inside a cell as a drawn-out disciplinary process unfolded, according to a report by the Office of Corrections Ombuds, a state agency that monitors conditions in Washington prisons. Since July 2020, at least five other people at the Monroe prison were held in solitary for over a month while under investigation for infractions, the report says. Continue reading at The Everett Herald.

Vaccination rates rise at WA agencies ahead of deadline
COVID-19 vaccination rates at state agencies in Washington have climbed in recent weeks, ahead of a deadline for workers to be fully vaccinated or lose their jobs. Under Gov. Jay Inslee’s August order — considered one of the strictest in the nation — state and school workers and hundreds of thousands of health care employees are required to get their shots or lose their jobs on Oct. 18, unless they have received both a medical or religious exemption and a work accommodation. Continue reading at The Associated Press.