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Thursday, Sept. 9

Resettling Afghan refugees in WA: What’s different this time
Individuals migrating across the globe after Afghanistan fell to the Taliban in August are getting resettlement help from groups like World Relief, the International Rescue Committee and Jewish Family Service. Leaders in these organizations have noticed distinct challenges during this wave of immigration because of Washington’s affordable housing crisis and the ongoing threat of COVID-19. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Matt M. McKnight)

‘We should not be overly concerned’ about mu variant of coronavirus, Washington state and local health officials say
While the mu variant of the coronavirus has continued to slowly spread throughout the world over the last several months — including in 49 U.S. states — local and state health officials say Washingtonians shouldn’t be too concerned at this point. The variant was first identified in Colombia in January and has since caused isolated outbreaks in South America, Europe and the United States. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Ted S. Warren)

Washington’s school cafeterias face food, supply shortages due to pandemic disruptions
Pandemic-related supply chain issues are now hitting school cafeterias in Washington state. It’s just one week into the new school year and districts are already experiencing shortages of some staple items and scrambling to come up with fixes. “We don’t know week to week if we’re gonna be able to get the food that we ordered,” said Burlington-Edison School District Food Services Director Mark Dalton. Continue reading at KING 5.

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Associated Press
Idaho hospitals begin rationing health care amid COVID surge
Microsoft return to U.S. offices delayed indefinitely
AP source: Biden requiring federal workers to get COVID shot

Bellingham Herald
Whatcom County surpasses 12,000 COVID cases, 120 deaths with big holiday weekend report
While COVID infection rates drop in 3 Whatcom regions, another region climbs above 1,000
Whatcom health department identifies more COVID cases associated with NW Washington Fair
A Bellingham household cut its energy use by 85% — here’s how they did it
Two more live ‘Murder Hornets’ spotted in Whatcom County — is there another nest?
Port of Bellingham moves forward on waterfront affordable housing, food campus plan

Capital Press
Zippy Duvall: American Farm Bureau President speaks on issues crucial to NW farmers
Wheat crop insurance harvest prices announced

Columbian
Opinion: In Our View: Sexual assault victims finally getting justice

The Daily News
Cathlamet deer refuge wetland restoration a success for salmon, birds, deer and people
Federal unemployment benefits expire, strongly affecting filers with high school diploma or less
Payment plans, assistance available for past-due utility customers in Cowlitz County
SNAP benefits to receive permanent increase, amid pandemic’s temporary additions

Everett Herald
New plan: Lynnwood jail could include a mental health wing
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
As offices reopen, some former ‘super commuters’ aren’t happy
Lake Stevens is still at odds with state over bridge permit
Bloomberg: Needle phobics want COVID vaccines, but injection terrifies them
Bloomberg Comment: Travel during pandemic is a disaster; it shouldn’t be
WaPo Comment: With homeless more visible maybe we’ll do something
WaPo Comment: Texas’ Abbot can’t arrest way out of tough question

High Country News
What rebuilding from wildfire looks like
More national parks won’t solve overcrowding

The Inlander
As Afghanistan falls to the Taliban, Spokanites try, mostly in vain, to rescue their Afghan friends and family
Washington’s first-in-the-nation long-term care program starts in January, with opt-out deadline soon

Islands’ Weekly
State lands honor Public Lands Day with a Discover Pass free day

Kitsap Sun
How to get a COVID-19 test in Kitsap County

Mercer Island Reporter
Mayor approves five proclamations at city council meeting

News Tribune
A PI helped reunite a homeless man with his mom in Tacoma. All it took was a phone call
WA agrees to settle lawsuit about abuse at Green Hill School juvenile facility
Homeless encampment at South 8th and Yakima in Tacoma set to be cleared
After 18 years, News Tribune opinion editor leaves to join another Tacoma institution

Olympian
Olympia area goes nearly three months without substantial rainfall
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Thurston County earns its sixth clean state audit in row

Peninsula Daily News
Peninsula COVID-19 deaths at 42
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
POINT OF VIEW: Current COVID surge is a self-inflicted wound

Port Townsend Leader
Five more COVID-19 deaths reported in Jefferson County
UPDATE | Recent COVID deaths were unvaccinated residents
70 new COVID-19 infections in five days in Jefferson County
Third-dose COVID vaccine clinics coming

Puget Sound Business Journal
Expert View: Sharing courses could help small private colleges survive
Housing starts still forecasted to be above 2020. But supply-chain issues, material costs are affecting builders.
Corporate travel is a ‘moving target’ with Covid cases on the rise
State colleges are reaping billions from corporate sports partners. We follow the dollars.
Ryanair calls off negotiations on Boeing 737 Max deal
SBA, PPP lenders clash over alleged delays in loan forgiveness

Renton Reporter
Renton-based debt collector to pay $1.6 million after misleading letters

Seattle Times
Recent robberies prompt Seattle police to urge caution with OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace meetups
‘We should not be overly concerned’ about mu variant of coronavirus, Washington state and local health officials say
New Seattle law requires third-party delivery apps to get restaurants’ consent to list their menus. Why this matters.
Washington redistricting commission invites public to draw new legislative, congressional maps
Editorial: Biden expands food assistance, but families still go hungry

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit County commits ARPA funding to address court backlog

Snoqualmie Valley Record
Snoqualmie Mill Site poses high risk to human, environmental health

Spokesman Review
After last year’s distance-learning decision, Wednesday was the first day for one of Spokane’s biggest kindergarten classes
‘Nobody is safe in Afghanistan’: Members of Spokane’s Afghan community, supporters gather at Riverfront Park as Taliban seizes power
School is back, and so are COVID-19 cases in Eastern Washington and North Idaho
Haze creeps into Spokane as fires continue their devastating toll on the West
‘Misery’ inside Washington hospitals as COVID patients stretch capacity
Opinion: John Hagney: Sinking wages are threatening democratic capitalism
Opinion: Karen Ferguson: Pharmacy benefit managers must be reined in

Tri-City Herald
25% of COVID tests at Pasco site are positive. New testing opens in Richland to help with surge
Franklin admits commission elections violate WA law by discriminating against Latinos
Kennewick council says ‘no’ to local income tax. But that wouldn’t stop it in the future

Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber
Why burning our trash may not be as bad as it sounds

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Milton-Freewater winery Ducleaux Cellars cancels in-person tastings as COVID-19 surges
Survey says: Walla Walla residents support keeping road taxes, oppose new ones

Washington Post
At least 200 Afghan dual nationals, including Americans, leave from newly reopened Kabul airport
Biden expected to order all federal workers to be vaccinated, with no testing option
Xi Jinping’s crackdown on everything is remaking Chinese society
For thousands of refugees displaced by the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, this is home now
Rape counselors in Texas could be sued under the abortion law. They’re preparing for the worst.
More Americans say 9/11 changed U.S. for worse than better, Post-ABC poll finds

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima County ties COVID hospitalization record, doctors warn of crisis
Yakima council debates how to spend coronavirus relief funds
Opposition in Terrace Heights halts plan to build tiny homes village for homeless people
Yakima City Council weighs new sales tax to fund housing projects

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Clallam County Health Officer receiving threats, hate mail following order requiring proof of vaccination for indoor dining
Sports betting to launch in Washington in time for NFL season
Washington’s school cafeterias face food, supply shortages due to pandemic disruptions
Tacoma working to get homeless youth into the classroom

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Seattle Public Schools reports 44 COVID-19 cases
COVID-19 surge straining primary and urgent care clinics
‘Launching pad’ for next steps on decriminalizing psychedelics in Seattle
WA agrees to settle lawsuit about abuse at Green Hill School juvenile facility
Parents enroll their children in remote learning as COVID-19 cases rise
How educators can play a key role in making the return to school safe, welcoming for LGBTQ+ students

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
First Washington state sportsbook prepares to open as sports gambling becomes reality
Two new Asian Giant Hornet sightings reported in Whatcom County
A COVID-19 case is confirmed at school. How does the district respond?
Tacoma Public School students, staff return to classroom full-time amid COVID-19 concerns
Yakima hospital low on oxygen, fears being forced to ‘ration healthcare’
Judge: Protests banned near Vancouver schools after anti-mask group triggers lockdowns

KNKX FM
Clark County judge bans protests near Vancouver schools, days after rally put 3 schools in lockdown
WA Rural Hospitals Are As Covid-Stressed As Urban Facilities

KUOW FM
Hidden Wireless Technology Keeps Buses Moving in This Rural Washington Town
Pandemic updates for Seattle and the Northwest
A Major Decision From The FDA Today Could Dramatically Reshape The Vaping Industry
Hundreds of Washington schools start academic year with failing grade on quake safety

KXLY (ABC)
Washington state identifies guidelines to prevent activating crisis standard of care
Even with federal staffing resources, Kootenai Health still doesn’t have enough staff for patients
Spokane woman struggles to find COVID-19 test as demand soars
Surge in COVID cases spikes demand for testing

Q13 TV (Fox)
Federal Way Public Schools says dozens of students, teachers have COVID
COVID-19 testing demand significantly higher in Seattle over the last several weeks
Light Rail network growing
COVID-19 deaths overwhelm morgue in Cowlitz County
COVID-19 deaths among first responders continue to increase
US unemployment claims reach another pandemic low as economy recovers
Rise in COVID hospitalizations in rural areas leaving few, if any, beds for other patients
‘We’re all links in a chain:’ Protecting each other’s families from COVID-19 infection
The Divide: Washington’s Congressional delegation split over deadline to leave Afghanistan

Univision Seattle
Estadios de Seattle requerirán prueba de vacunación

Web

Crosscut
Resettling Afghan refugees in WA: What’s different this time
What’s the best way to practice Indigenous land acknowledgement?

MyNorthwest
Redmond residents clash over planned hotel homeless shelter
Seattle council greenlights community-sponsored levy for Capitol Hill cleanup
Two new Asian giant hornet sightings reported in Whatcom County
Snohomish County weighing outdoor mask mandate, possible vaccine requirements

La Raza del Noroeste
Las infecciones irruptivas de COVID-19: cuando algunas personas completamente vacunadas se contagian con el virus

Slog
King County Will Require Proof of Vaccination at Some Businesses. Why the Hell Did it Take So Long?

Wednesday, Sept. 8

‘A lot of these people are not going to make it,’ official warns as Washington COVID hospitalizations continue rising
While recent state data is still preliminary, early reports show COVID-19 hospitalizations throughout the state are up after the Labor Day weekend, pushing hospital leaders to continue their plea for residents to mask up, get vaccinated and be wary of mass gatherings. At a news briefing Tuesday morning, Washington State Hospital Association CEO Cassie Sauer said that after the weekend, hospital officials counted 1,674 Washingtonians hospitalized with the virus, a 7% increase from last week. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Elaine Thompson)

State workers get incentive to comply with vaccine mandate
Washington’s largest union of public service workers has struck a deal with the state to provide employees an incentive to get a COVID-19 vaccination by the Oct. 18 deadline set by Gov. Jay Inslee — and ways for them to avoid getting fired if they don’t. Under the tentative agreement, members of the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE) will receive an extra day off in 2022 if they comply with the governor’s mandate. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (Drew Perine)

UW Medicine tracking new mu variant in Washington
Cases driven by the delta variant are still on the rise, but now health officials are starting to closely monitor another variant called the mu variant. Its mutations are raising concerns that it may be more resistant to COVID-19 vaccines. According to outbreak.info, a Scripps Research website, the mu variant has spread to 49 states, including Washington state. UW Medicine’s virology labs handle the bulk of COVID-19 genetic sequencing in the state. Continue reading at KIRO 7.

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Associated Press
King County moves toward vaccine verification system
Seahawks, Sounders, Kraken to require proof of vaccination
COVID hospitalizations rise, outdoor mask mandates begin
COVID-19 deaths overwhelm morgue in Cowlitz County
WHO chief urges halt to booster shots for rest of the year

Auburn Reporter
King County braces for more wildfires in rural areas

Bainbridge Island Review
COVID cases higher than ever
Opinion: Washington is taking the worry out of long term care

Bellingham Herald
Whatcom County continuing to see more ‘breakthrough’ COVID cases and deaths
Port of Bellingham suggests this may increase container shipping contracts
Whatcom sees second-highest weekly COVID increase of pandemic and another death reported

Capital Press
Skyview students, parents ready to counter anti-mask protesters
Opinion: In Our View: Afghanis should be welcomed to Washington

The Daily News
County to declare emergency to get refrigerated trailer as COVID deaths overwhelm coroner, funeral homes

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
En marcha evacuación de hogares en Bumping River Road por incendio Schneider Springs
Se triplican llamadas a centro toxicológico estatal por ivermectina para tratar COVID-19

Everett Herald
We just surpassed last winter’s coronavirus infection rate
State workers get incentive to comply with vaccine mandate
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Oak Harbor school board disrupted a 2nd time by anti-maskers
VIDEO: Auburn police let suspected vehicle thief go, citing new laws (Johnson)
Editorial: There’s time to fix Social Security, but less now
WaPo Comment: Why vaccine skeptics are all in for ivermectin
Bloomberg Comment: It’s simple; getting covid vaccine can save your life
Comment: What you need to know about COVID-19 booster shots
Letter: Thanks for efforts being made on affordable housing

High Country News
‘Deadbeat dams’ and their impact on cold-water ecosystems

Journal of the San Juan Islands
Some WSF employees threaten ‘sickout’ over busy sailing weekend

News Tribune
20th anniversary of 9/11 observed in local ceremonies

Olympian
Seahawks, Kraken, Sounders, UW, WSU requiring vaccination or negative COVID test for fans
11 more Thurston residents die of COVID-19, 693 more cases reported in the past week
Here are Tacoma, Pierce County restaurants and venues requiring COVID vaccination proof

Peninsula Daily News
Berry critics pack into board meeting
Exhausted health care workers tell of virus surge
Staffing issues make mandate hard for businesses

Puget Sound Business Journal
Seattle sporting events to require full vaccination for fans, employees
Forget vaccine incentives. Many employers are exploring penalties for holdouts.
Vaccine verification policy in the works for some King County businesses
ACBJ Travel Survey: Business Journals readers detail cuts to budgets, uncertainty into 2022
Hotels and airlines dial down hopes for Q4 as flight cancellations mount
Vaccine hesitancy is disproportionately high in the construction industry. Here’s how that’s affected bottom lines.
All eyes on September: Hotel industry expected to see slowdown with close of summer travel season, Delta variant
Opinion: Diversity and inclusion is crucial to a healthy business community

Seattle Medium
Commerce Department Awards $39 Million To Address Homelessness

Seattle Times
‘A lot of these people are not going to make it,’ official warns as Washington COVID hospitalizations continue rising
Seattle native Will Swenson, a Medal of Honor recipient, reflects on the war in Afghanistan now lost
How Washington state’s onetime ‘Most Wanted’ fugitive, in his last act, broke through the vaccine impasse
King County to pay $3.5 million to settle suit alleging deputies left teen at massage parlor, where she was forced into prostitution decades ago
Washington’s Cowlitz County to declare emergency to get refrigeration trailer as COVID deaths overwhelm morgue
Renton-based debt collector to pay more than $1.6 million over ‘deceptive’ letters
Northgate light rail opens Oct. 2. How will the new stations change your travel routine?
King County developing vaccine verification system as more venues require inoculation
Editorial: Standing on the right side of Jan. 6 history

Skagit Valley Herald
Sen. Patty Murray has goal of making community college free
Supply chain issues affect school lunches
Skagit’s economy still recovering as unemployment aid expires

South Seattle Emerald
State plans overhaul of guidelines for attorneys who represent kids in foster care cases
‘Compassion Seattle’ charter amendment won’t appear on November ballot
Opinion: ‘Normal’ isn’t good enough for returning school kids
Opinion: It’s time to put an end to racially disparate police stops and searches
Opinion: Redistricting happens once a decade — let’s increase BIPOC representation

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities hospitals hit record number of COVID patients. Few ICU beds left in WA state
All Richland school open houses canceled by high COVID rates in Tri-Cities
Hanford investigation says toxic waste vapors didn’t sicken workers. Some question that
Benton sheriff applicants asked about loyalty to Trump, COVID vaccine

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Excitement high as Walla Walla High School students make full-day return to classroom
Dixie students join Dayton middle and high schoolers in distance learning, others districts hang on

Washington Post
Biden wants the sun to provide nearly half the nation’s electricity by 2050
Black people are about to be swept aside for a South Carolina freeway — again
Pediatric cases surge in U.S. as students head back to school
The world 9/11 created: The sprawling, dark legacy of U.S. counterterrorism

Whidbey News-Times
Opinion: In Our Opinion: Unvaccinated need to take responsibility for their choices

Yakima Herald Republic
Naches Valley Elementary welcomes kids back to classes after facing fire and flooding
Opinion: What we lost that sunny morning

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Know before you go: COVID-19 policies for western Washington’s largest event venues
What does Idaho’s ‘Crisis Standards of Care’ mean for Washington hospitals?

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
First-ever legal sports wagering coming soon to a tribal casino near you
UW Medicine tracking new mu variant in Washington
New sightings record set after nearly 30 orca whales seen over Labor Day weekend
Local debt collector to repay thousands of Washington consumers in settlement over ‘zombie debt’
Hospital leaders react to growing COVID-19 hospitalizations
Huskies, Cougars, Mariners to require COVID-19 vaccinations for home games

KOIN
Vancouver granted $5 million for new shelter units

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Sen. Warren sends Amazon a letter, accuses it of peddling misinformation about COVID-19
Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation orders in place due to Schneider Springs Fire
Washington Poison Center sees ivermectin related calls triple this year
Over 100 Kennewick students test positive for COVID since start of school
Federal unemployment benefits end, possible turnaround for staffing shortages
State’s largest union voting on agreement giving workers wiggle room with vaccine mandate

KNKX FM
Listen: COVID’s current effect on schools, state workers and hospitals in Washington

KUOW FM
Washington Police Divided on Banning Less-lethal Ammunition Under New Law (Goodman)
Pandemic updates for Seattle and the Northwest
Breakthrough cases have you headed for the bunker? Experts say vaccines are working
Enough With The Climate Jargon: Scientists Aim For Clearer Messages On Global Warming

KXLY (ABC)
‘It is a gut wrenching decision’: Washington scrambles to keep state out of crisis care levels
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination to be required at all WSU, UW athletic events

NW Public Radio
Largest State Employee Union Strikes Tentative Deal Over Inslee’s Vaccine Mandate

Web

Crosscut
How one WA school district boosts the crucial freshman year

MyNorthwest
Dozens at Kirkland school told to stay home after two test positive for COVID
Attendees of Labor Day events in central Washington should get COVID test
Over a year later, poll shows broad support for Seattle’s big business tax
State’s hospitals warn stroke, appendicitis patients seeing delayed care
Tacoma keeps virtual learning option as students return to classrooms
Federal jobless benefits expire for thousands of Washingtonians
UW’s J&J vaccine supply ‘exhausted’ with vaccine mandate cut-off dates looming
Local officials express frustration as ivermectin poison control calls triple statewide
Mayor Durkan leaves newly-passed bill limiting SPD’s use of less lethal weapons unsigned
King County to explore enacting new vaccine requirements for indoor businesses
State employees inch closer to deal with Gov. Inslee on vaccine mandate
Seattle sports teams to require proof of COVID vaccination for fans

Slog
We’ve Been Writing the Same Article About Seattle Homelessness for 124 Years

West Seattle Blog
WEST SEATTLE WILDLIFE: Reminder for beachgoers as seal-pup season approaches peak

Tuesday, Sept. 7

Unvaccinated 49 times more likely to be hospitalized for COVID-19, King County data shows
Amid ongoing debate over vaccine mandates, legal challenges and booster shots, a new dashboard maintained by King County confirms vaccinated residents are significantly better protected from illness, hospitalization and death compared with their unvaccinated counterparts, even as the delta variant surges through the state. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Ellen M. Banner)

Flu shots can thwart ‘twindemic’ punch of COVID and influenza
Last year was the flu season that wasn’t. This year, good question. “You’re asking me to look into a crystal ball. No one really knows what’s going to happen,” said Dr. Yuan-Po Tu, infectious disease specialist at The Everett Clinic. A so-called “twindemic,” a bad flu season combined with the COVID-19 pandemic, didn’t happen in the 2020-21 session. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (Olivia Vanni)

Federal jobless benefits expire for thousands of Washingtonians
More than 7 million Americans have lost their unemployment benefits as several pandemic-related programs expired Saturday. In Washington, there are about 120,000 people without jobs, and as federal programs end, the state is not stepping in to help. Continue reading at KIRO 7.

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Associated Press
Anti-mask protests force 3 schools into lockdown
Baby whale unwell, rule issued to keep boaters away
US to bolster firefighter ranks as wildfires burn year-round
First responders nationwide resist COVID vaccine mandates
Outdoor mask mandates begin in King, Pierce Counties

Bellingham Herald
Whatcom sees second-highest weekly COVID increase of pandemic and another death reported
Whatcom’s demand for COVID-19 testing has tripled in a month — how are sites keeping up?
Which areas of Whatcom County grew the fastest according to the 2020 U.S. Census?
Public comment returning to Bellingham council meetings after YouTube removal. Here’s how
One hundred years after Peace Arch was dedicated, experts worry about COVID-closed border
Artificial intelligence is growing, but wide use at U.S. intersections is still to come
Outdoor recreation industry fears for future as these changes impact the North Cascades
This new Whatcom program could help resolve landlord-tenant disputes before evictions

Capital Press
Grant to target stress, suicide prevention in Washington state
Food industry heading back to Washington Supreme Court
Judge: Sheriff’s use of dogs to kill dangerous wildlife OK’d
Wolf advocate defends WDFW’s plan to cull pack
Risk of large wildfires remains high in parts of West
Yakima reservoirs defy drought, stay high
Washington legislators, staffers get close-up look at Snake River dams
Coronavirus assistance program includes all grass seed

Columbian
Opinion: In Our View: Labor Day recognizes productivity of workers
Opinion: In Our View: Cheers & Jeers: Waterfront, balloons
Opinion: In Our View: Laboratory must restore trust of prosecutors, defendants, public

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Más de 140 estudiantes, personal de Pasco enferman en la primera semana de clases. La mayoría de COVID
Autoridades de Washington piden ayuda al público para evitar incendios en fin de semana festivo

Everett Herald
Closing of reformatory sparks inmates’ fears at Monroe prison
Essential workers to receive up to $1,250 starting Sept. 22
Trooper doesn’t want the vaccine, and locals want to hire him
In Arlington, a stream is born, giving fish a new route
New contract keeps Everett teachers as Washington’s best-paid
Flu shots can thwart ‘twindemic’ punch of COVID and influenza
‘Critical time’: 101 hospitalized here, 25 on ventilators
County’s $80M proposal will prioritize COVID-19 response
Recreational shellfish harvest closed in much of Puget Sound
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Comment: During pandemic we’ve seen ‘union difference’ in action
Comment: Pandemic jobless relief ends when it’s most needed
Comment: Counting Afghanistan war’s costs in blood, treasure
Comment: BPA’s part in infrastructure bill aids clean energy
WaPo Comment: Supreme Court majority has dealt blow to rule of law
WaPo Comment: There is free lunch for students; it must be better
WaPo Comment: Afghanistan’s girls need eyes of America on them
WaPo Comment: Court’s inconsistent shadow-docket use threat to itself
Editorial: Efforts for affordable housing need our support
Letter: Maybe school mask protesters should home-school their kids
Letter: Coverage of protest at school meeting omitted racist acts

High Country News
A California count spars over water, marijuana law and race
National park managers search for answers to overcrowding
The lack of diversity in outdoor rec is systematic and disconcerting

The Inlander
Salmon face deadly hot waters along Columbia and Snake rivers as the call for dam removal grows

Kitsap Sun
Kitsap County jurisdictions receive first installment of COVID-19 relief funding
After Swedish clinic closure, effort underway to draw health care provider to Bainbridge

News Tribune
Ploy or legitimate tactic? Group promotes religious exemption to WA COVID vaccine mandates
Was TPD officer justified in driving through street-racing crowd? Records show chaotic scene
Numerous challenges bogged down investigation into TPD officer who drove through crowd
Murder conviction overturned due to Pierce County prosecutor’s use of ‘racist stereotypes’
Oohs and aahs as kids and parents get their first look at four new Peninsula schools
On Hilltop, the Food is Free Project looks for a new home. ‘We’re trying to feed people’
PenMet Parks to gain 116 acres for recreation; KP lighthouse site will shelter salmon
Tacoma Tideflats need predictable rules to remain backbone of Pierce County economy
Op-Ed: Police presence criminalizes Tacoma schools, contributes to campus-to-prison pipeline

Olympian
Hanford investigation says toxic waste vapors didn’t sicken workers. Some question that
Residents at odds over proposed YMCA camp at Mineral Lake
What to know before you send your kids back to school in person this year
Olympia to sweep some homeless RV residents from road near Providence hospital
U.S. appeals court will hear challenge to Lacey law targeting homeless RV residents
New ‘mu’ COVID-19 variant now found in 49 US states
Seattle Kraken, Climate Pledge Arena to require proof of vaccination
Editorial: Protecting each other — from racism and from COVID-19 — should be our shared priority

Peninsula Daily News
Wild Olympics legislation on upswing (Tharinger)
Aid program for rent, utilities explained
Mandate comment expected Tuesday
Anti-vax concerns prompt courthouse closure
Hundreds gather at Clallam Courthouse
Another COVID-19 death confirmed
Peninsula College to host vaccination clinics
Clallam County housing demand, prices high

Port Townsend Leader
Two more COVID-19 deaths reported in Jefferson County
Third dose of vaccine recommended for some

Puget Sound Business Journal
Tacoma mayor: ‘We aren’t the next big thing. We are the big thing.’
Airlines are scaling back flights in Q4. Here’s what’s happening at Sea-Tac Airport.
Pierce County offers historic building preservation grant funds
Puget Sound region emerging as a satellite capital amid shift to mass production
Providence offers $1,000 bonuses to workers as part of $220M investment
Puget Sound port export value jumps in 2021 after 5 years of declines
Comment: Why drug price controls and forced patent sharing will harm patients

Seattle Times
On 9/11, Robert Ezelle monitored the Western skies. 20 years later, as he leads Washington’s pandemic response, he sees parallels
Ivermectin poison control calls triple in Washington, despite multiple warnings against use for COVID treatment
King County to require masks at large outdoor gatherings, regardless of COVID vaccination status
Seattle homelessness nonprofits struggle to hire, complicating plans to expand shelters and housing
Lower Snake River irrigators propose two-dam drawdown, breaking with some farmers and bargers
Unvaccinated 49 times more likely to be hospitalized for COVID-19, King County data shows
Opinion: Strong unions benefit all workers

Washington Post
Justice Department to protect women seeking an abortion in Texas
Taliban forms acting government in Afghanistan, saying permanent leadership to be named soon, as protests grow
U.S. hospitalizations more than doubled since last Labor Day

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima County jail slowly recovering from financial tailspin caused by pandemic
Hop harvest underway in the Yakima Valley, with growers cautiously optimistic
Forest, firefighting experts call for expanded prevention tactics as fire seasons become more extreme
Comment: The ‘union difference’ is especially important amid this pandemic
Editorial: Happy Labor Day, for whatever it’s worth

Broadcast

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
New mask rules start in King County and Pierce County on Tuesday
Meaning behind first Labor Day motivating local union carpenters to consider strike
Sumner, Bonney Lake students head back to class amid bus driver shortage
Federal jobless benefits expire for thousands of Washingtonians
Justice Department will ‘protect’ abortion seekers in Texas
Washington state workers union agree to COVID mandate terms
Nisqually Tribe buys back land, as watershed struggle
Danger from new Afghan government felt even at local fundraiser

KNKX FM
HEATED: A conversation about how, why we reported our summer heat wave series
Responders Are Gaining On The Caldor Fire, But Now They’ve Got New Blazes To Battle
Largest state employee union strikes tentative deal over Inslee’s vaccine mandate
Desperate times for pet owners and vets as clinics, hospitals are overwhelmed
Baby orca unwell; rule issued to keep boaters away

KUOW FM
A Wildfire Burned 85% of This Washington Town. This Is Their Recovery Story.
Pandemic blog: Updates for Washington state
Planes Chartered To Evacuate Americans And Others From Afghanistan Remain Grounded
6 Tips For Coping With COVID Anxiety This Fall And Winter

Web

Crosscut
PNW hiking and camping upended as wildfires force tough choices

West Seattle Blog
WEST SEATTLE BRIDGE: How the ‘Priority Hire’ plan will work

Friday, September 3

‘We’re living moment to moment’: MultiCare strained by staffing shortages and surge of patients
They’re 300-to-400 staff members short to be fully staffed. The lack of staff, and the sheer number of COVID and non-COVID patients hospitalized right now, has been putting a strain on local hospitals. Continue reading at KXLY.com. (Rania Kaur)

DOH OFFICIALS EMPHASIZE COVID PROTOCOLS TO PROTECT RETURNING STUDENTS AMID DELTA SURGE

Health officials stressed the importance of vaccination as well as practicing social distancing and wearing masks, even in places where people are not required to do so, to protect students as they return to schools amid a spike in coronavirus cases caused by the delta variant across Washington State. Continue reading at South Seattle Emerald. (Image is attributed to dmbosstone under a Creative Commons 2.0 license)

Tri-Cities COVID deaths doubled in August. New infections tripled

In August 6,575 new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed with positive test results were reported in the Tri-Cities area, up from 2,171 the month before. It was more than a three-fold increase. Continue reading at Tri-City Herald. (Benton Franklin Health District)

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Associated Press
King County reinstating outdoor mask mandate because of COVID
108 cases of COVID-19 linked to Northwest Washington Fair

Bellingham Herald
Here’s what you need to know about sports betting at Washington state Tribal casinos
COVID-19 to put WA school districts to test; families advised to model safe behavior
Cancel Labor Day travel if you’re not vaccinated, CDC says. But what if you are?

Everett Herald
Everett to buy 40 more small shelters, expand existing site
Snohomish County sheriff’s deputies will wear body cams
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Edmonds closes city buildings to public as COVID cases rise
Marysville youth are recruited to tackle big social issues
WaPo comment: Roe v. Wade not overturned, but it’s dead in Texas
WaPo comment: Activism behind 1965’s Civil Rights Act needed now
Bloomberg comment: Ida shows climate’s threat to global food supply
Editorial: Purdue opioid settlement far short of justice

News Tribune
COVID-19 to put WA school districts to test; families advised to model safe behavior
Latest COVID-19 surge continues in Pierce County with high numbers of cases, deaths
Editorial: Pierce County mystery: Did several children under age 12 really get COVID-19 vaccines?

North American Post
Hiroshima 75 Years Later: An Interview with Survivor Setsuko Thurlow

Olympian
State lauds Thurston’s Auditor for 2020 election work during emotional meeting
Lewis County Commissioner Gary Stamper in ICU with COVID-19
WA fifth COVID-19 wave could plateau soon, but holiday weekend might threaten progress
Former state Senator Dan Swecker dies at 74
Here’s what you need to know about sports betting at Washington state Tribal casinos

Peninsula Daily News
Vaccinations required to enter Peninsula restaurants/bars

Puget Sound Business Journal
Seattle Children’s outlines plan to eliminate racism in the organization
Amazon gets FCC approval to test antennas for satellite broadband service
Alaska Airlines to require all new hires to be vaccinated
King County extends mask requirement to large outdoor events
Some lending groups push Congress for easier PPP loan forgiveness

Skagit Valley Herald
Without necessary permits, Mount Vernon Christian unable to use portable classrooms

South Seattle Emerald
DOH officials emphasize COVID protocols to protect returning students amid Delta surge

Spokesman Review
‘This is an everybody problem’: Study by WSU researchers links Trump votes with LGBTQ+ bullying in schools
Surge in demand for COVID-19 testing stretches local and regional resources to capacity
Q&A: What will back-to-school look like in the delta surge?

Tri-City Herald
Tri-Cities COVID deaths doubled in August. New infections tripled

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Walla Walla County approves body camera funds for Sheriff’s Office

Yakima Herald Republic
Washington officials need public’s help for a fire-free Labor Day weekend
Yakima County Superior Court readjusts procedures as community COVID-19 cases increase
Opinion: Latino voting lawsuit is a win for the whole county
Letter: Enough of this! Vaccines shouldn’t be optional
Letter: Keep your masks handy to keep Yakima open

Broadcast

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
King County to require masks for outdoor events, regardless of vaccination status
Dick’s Drive-In fined $35K for severe health and safety violations
King County Sheriff’s Office launches new phone app
Puyallup students return to in-person learning with some major changes

KNKX FM
If You’re Unvaccinated, The CDC Wants You To Stay Home This Labor Day Weekend

KUOW FM
Seattle faces shortage of school bus drivers as K-12 classes begin
Pandemic blog: Updates for Washington state
Kids In Illinois Will Soon Be Able To Take 5 Mental Health Days From School

KXLY (ABC)
‘We’re living moment to moment’: MultiCare strained by staffing shortages and surge of patients
Students head back to school during high COVID transmission: Why health leaders say it’s safe
Dept. of Health: Safety protocols kept COVID transmission low in Washington schools

Web

MyNorthwest
Common link among children who’ve died of COVID in Washington

Slog
How the Texas Abortion Ban Could Impact Access in the Pacific Northwest
Floods and Wildfires Show That Climate Change Is To the US What World War Was to the UK

Thursday, Sept. 2

Eviction moratorium limbo worries Seattle renters
A small clutch of people with signs at the corner of Broadway and Pike caught Danielle Rogers’ eye the evening of Aug. 27. The mother of five stopped and accepted a half sheet of paper offered by one of the demonstrators from Cancel the Rent, part of a nationwide movement to relieve millions of households from the crushing burden of rent debt and threat of eviction as the coronavirus pandemic continues to surge. Continue reading at South Seattle Emerald. (Susan Fried)

CDC Recommends That Unvaccinated People Don’t Travel Over Labor Day Weekend
If you’re not vaccinated, you shouldn’t travel over the long Labor Day weekend. That’s the bottom line, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky. “First and foremost, if you are unvaccinated, we would recommend not traveling,” Walensky said at a White House COVID-19 briefing on Tuesday. Continue reading at KUOW. (AP)

More permanent housing needed for newly arrived Afghan refugees
With thousands of U.S. allies and Afghans evacuated from Afghanistan, the rush is on to resettle refugees in Washington state. Big questions remain about how we will find housing for everyone. World Relief Seattle and Lutheran Community Services Northwest and other resettlement agencies have been scrambling to find refugees temporary and permanent housing. They say much more help is needed. Continue reading at KOMO News.