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Tuesday, Oct. 19

As COVID-19 vaccine deadline passes, most Washington state and Seattle workers have gotten their shots
As the formal deadline for Gov. Jay Inslee’s vaccine mandate came and went Monday, the vast majority of state and Seattle employees subject to the orders had gotten vaccinated. That includes 92% of the 62,000 state workers subject to Inslee’s order to get fully vaccinated by Oct. 18. The governor’s mandate also applied to school employees, as well as hundreds of thousands of health care workers. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Ted S. Warren)

The Economic Rebound Is Still Waiting for Workers
Fall was meant to mark the beginning of the end of the labor shortage that has held back the nation’s economic recovery. Expanded unemployment benefits were ending. Schools were reopening, freeing up many caregivers. Surely, economists and business owners reasoned, a flood of workers would follow. Instead, the labor force shrank in September. There are five million fewer people working than before the pandemic began, and three million fewer even looking for work. Continue reading at The New York Times. (Kendrick Brinson)

Some Western cities use trash cleanup to combat homelessness
At her lowest, Resheemah “RoRo” White was living in a tent or sleeping on park benches or beneath an underpass in Oakland, California, fearful that her life had bottomed out and she would never make it back. White had been laid off from her warehouse job at the Port of Oakland, her mother had died, and she could no longer afford an apartment. “I was just a victim of circumstances and that’s why I ended up homeless,” she said in an interview with Stateline. Continue reading at Stateline. (Matt M. McKnight)

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Associated Press
Nick Rolovich out as WSU football coach after refusing to get COVID vaccine
Sinclair hit by ransomware attack, TV stations disrupted

Bellingham Herald
Bellingham’s mayor proposes these climate measures, including $5 million investment
This contract with the local gas utility could help Whatcom further climate goals
Three Whatcom deaths reported in early October were all among unvaccinated residents
WA rural hospitals taking hardest hit with worker exodus from COVID vaccine mandate

Columbian
Clark County school districts see strong vaccine response
Opinion: In Our View: China’s growing power must be countered

Courier-Herald
We’re still learning about natural immunity to COVID-19, but we know vaccines work

Everett Herald
With vaccine deadline here, some fired in Snohomish County
Cyclists highlight Interurban Trail needs before light rail arrival
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance

High Country News
What’s going on with redistricting in the West?

The Inlander
Rolovich out as WSU head coach since vaccine exemption can’t be accommodated

Kent Reporter
City of Kent wins state award for Rally the Valley plan

News Tribune
Sheriff Ed Troyer charged over confrontation with Black newspaper carrier
Pierce County starts week with under 200 new COVID cases; 573 cases reported over weekend
Outage disrupts 911 calls in Pierce County
Some Tacoma residents feel crime is ‘taking over.’ They demand change from the city
Unvaccinated patients stress Gig Harbor hospital, administrator says. ‘We are full’
Amazon comes to Fife with sorting center on tribal land
Colin Powell was vaccinated but died from COVID. Here’s why the rare event is possible

New York Times
The Economic Rebound Is Still Waiting for Workers
Democrats will scale back a proposal to require banks to report balances to the I.R.S.
Mix-and-Match Covid Boosters: Why They Just Might Work

Olympian
Report: WSU football coach Nick Rolovich fired after refusing to take COVID-19 vaccine
Olympia ends agreement with Romano Capital for Boulevard Road housing development
With paid family leave at risk, advocates offer Joe Biden an alternative in spending debate
Bomb threat at state office building closes roads around Quince Street in Olympia

Peninsula Daily News
Mandates may be ‘new normal,’ deputy health officer says
Hospitals, schools comply with order

Port Townsend Leader
Crew shortages force Washington State Ferries to make cutbacks on ferry routes across system

Puget Sound Business Journal
WSU dismisses head football coach for refusing Covid-19 vaccine
Lawmakers ask Amazon CEO whether the company misled Congress in 2019
Amazon looks to hire 2,300 seasonal workers in Washington, 150,000 nationwide
Proposal for free community college faces chopping block as $3.5 trillion reconciliation bill moves forward
Cantwell urges support for green aviation fuels in reconciliation bill

Seattle Times
Seattle, King County officials demonstrate vaccine verification ahead of Oct. 25 requirement
67 troopers, 6 sergeants, 1 captain leave Washington State Patrol rather than comply with COVID vaccine mandate
As COVID-19 vaccine deadline passes, most Washington state and Seattle workers have gotten their shots
Seattle parents rush to find ways to get kids to school after district suspends 142 bus routes
Editorial: Prioritize mental-health care as jails are defunded

Skagit Valley Herald
Demand remains high at Skagit County’s largest food bank

Snoqualmie Valley Record
Do you need to pay for your COVID hospital stay?

Sol De Yakima
Dan terapia con anticuerpos monoclonales a pacientes con COVID en el Valle de Yakima
Jueza rechaza intento para bloquear mandato de vacunación COVID del gobernador Jay Inslee

Tri-City Herald
Here’s how the COVID vaccine mandate is affecting Tri-Cities schools
COVID vaccine mandate could actually help Tri-Cities hospital staffing, says Kadlec official
KEPR TV news broadcasts in Tri-Cities knocked off air by ransomware cyberattack

Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber
Flu vaccine offers best defense for people this season

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Walla Walla Valley workforce slowly rebuilding after the end of federal pandemic unemployment benefits
Christopher Columbus statue will stay at county courthouse, Marcus Whitman statue will come to Walla Walla County
Case numbers are dropping, Walla Walla, Umatilla counties health officials said

Washington Post
The coronavirus is still mutating. But will that matter? ‘We need to keep the respect for this virus.’
Hearing aids without a prescription or an exam? The FDA takes big step toward making that happen.
Rachel Levine, openly transgender health official, to be sworn in as four-star admiral in Public Health Service
Democrats to scale back Treasury’s IRS bank reporting plan amid GOP uproar
FDA to allow ‘mix-and-match’ approach on coronavirus booster vaccines
Russia allows methane leaks at planet’s peril

Yakima Herald Republic
‘It’s all hands on deck’: How Yakima area elementary schools approach pickup time traffic

Broadcast

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
127 employees leave Washington State Patrol due to vaccine mandate
Need a flu shot? Don’t just walk in, health experts say
WSU head football coach Nick Rolovich fired after refusing to get COVID-19 vaccine
Vaccine mandate leads to state worker job losses
Parents frustrated, scrambling after SPS cuts quarter of bus routes
Vaccine verification starts next week in King County: What to expect
Vaccine mandate brings protest outside Seattle City Light
Amazon to hire 150,000 seasonal workers ahead of holiday surge
Service restored after outage affects 911 service in Pierce County

KNKX FM
Unvaccinated Washington state employees face their last day on the job
House lawmakers ask Amazon to prove Bezos and other execs didn’t lie to Congress
Police officers and unions put up a fight against vaccine mandates for public workers

KUOW FM
Pandemic blog: Updates for Seattle and the NW
Why are so many Americans quitting their jobs?
Washington State fires its football coach over COVID-19 vaccine mandate
Most healthcare workers are vaccinated, but mandate fallout could still lead to cuts in services
Live blog: Workers face termination as vaccine deadline lands

KXLY (ABC)
Washington State Patrol loses 127 employees over state vaccine mandate
Deadline arrives for unvaccinated Washington state workers
Washington Dept. of Health encourages flu vaccination
WSU head coach Nick Rolovich fired for failing to meet vaccine requirement
‘We’re taking that leap’: Local families get ready to welcome Afghan kids into their home
Several Spokane firefighters out of a job over vaccine mandate

Web

Crosscut
Some Western cities use trash cleanup to combat homelessness
Opinion: Seattle survey wants to know: How do you feel about public safety?

MyNorthwest
Climate Pledge Arena set for grand opening, Seattle Kraken debut
Police watchdog to investigate photos of SPD vehicles adorned with Gadsden flags
Washington State Patrol terminates 127 employees over vaccine mandate
More staff in hospitals reporting vaccination, but some losses still likely
Seattle school district reports 99% COVID vaccine compliance
Seattle minimum wage will increase on Jan. 1
Seattle fire chief reports high compliance with vaccine mandate, consistent response times
Up next: King County vaccine requirement for restaurants, bars, more takes effect on Oct. 25
Judge denies latest attempt to halt Washington state worker vaccine mandate
Olympia police respond to bomb threat Monday morning

SLOG
So Far, Seattle Police Officers Account for 16% of City Employees Not in Compliance with Vaccine Mandate

West Seattle Blog
First day of fewer bus routes for Seattle Public Schools

Monday, Oct. 18

Employee vaccination rates are high at Washington state’s public universities
At WSU and the state’s five other institutions of higher learning, the vaccination rate for employees as of midweek last week was high — ranging from 88% (at least partially vaccinated) on the low end at WSU to 98% on the high end at the University of Washington and The Evergreen State College. Last week, Washington’s public universities rushed to reconcile the vaccination statuses of their workers, and got ready to cut ties with those who miss Monday’s deadline to comply with Gov. Jay Inslee’s vaccine mandate for government workers. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Steve Ringman)

Child care costs more than college in Washington. Democrats in Congress want to change that.
In Washington, child care for an infant under age 1 costs an average of $14,554 a year while college costs $6,830, according to the Economic Policy Institute, a Washington, D.C., think tank. In Idaho, with the nation’s lowest minimum wage, infant care still costs about as much as college tuition, an average of $7,474 a year. Care for a 4-year-old costs a yearly average of $11,051 in Washington and $6,454 in Idaho. Continue reading at The Spokesman Review. (Colin Mulvany)

Why Public Health Faces a Crisis Across the U.S.
State and local public health departments across the country have endured not only the public’s fury, but widespread staff defections, burnout, firings, unpredictable funding and a significant erosion in their authority to impose the health orders that were critical to America’s early response to the pandemic. While the coronavirus has killed more than 700,000 in the United States in nearly two years, a more invisible casualty has been the nation’s public health system. Continue reading at The New York Times.

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Associated Press
Seattle schools suspending 142 bus routes because of driver shortage
20 federal health care workers to help with COVID in Spokane
EPA unveils strategy to regulate toxic ‘forever chemicals’

Auburn Reporter
King County councilmember proposes program to aid transition of Afghan interpreters who served the U.S. overseas

Bainbridge Island Review
$500 incentive approved for county employees who received vaccine
BI looks at law for waste reduction

Bellevue Reporter
State AG Ferguson leads effort supporting local journalism

Bellingham Herald
Here’s what the global supply chain woes will mean for Whatcom holiday shoppers
Roadside debris is more than litter in Washington state, it’s deadly
How Whatcom stands as state vaccination deadline looms
Vaccination rates in 2 Whatcom regions under 50%, but health department’s not giving up
Whatcom County sees 2 more COVID-related deaths, 58 more cases reported Friday
U.S. expected to loosen border travel restrictions with Canada on Nov. 8
Why did thousands of Chinook salmon die this month in the Nooksack River’s South Fork?
Nooksack Indian Tribe, Whatcom County environmental leaders discuss Tribe’s climate plan

Capital Press
EO Media Group buys The Growers’ Guide
Inslee, Murray to assess Snake River dam breaching

Columbian
Washougal physician assistant’s license suspended over COVID actions
Opinion: In Our View: Inslee should suspend WA Cares program law
Opinion: Cheers & Jeers: Welcome home; don’t meddle

Everett Herald
Union: Community Transit vaccine mandate puts jobs in ‘jeopardy’
Get ready for La Niña and a soggy winter in Snohomish County
Another housing unit at Monroe prison targeted for closure
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Alaska Airlines stalls plan for extra flights in Everett
Some Boeing workers protest in Everett over vaccine mandate
WaPo Comment: What climate science can learn from forecasters
WaPo Comment: Pastors in ‘Blacked-Robed Regiment’ get history wrong
Comment: Computer model shows lives saved by covid vaccines
Comment: Aiding child care businesses key to jobs, recovery
Comment: Domestic violence, abuse is everyone’s concern
Comment: Meager SNAP increase an insult to our nation

Federal Way Mirror
New Sound Transit program helps South King County students learn through the arts

The Inlander
As pandemic rages on, Spokane health district employees say poor leadership is driving dozens to leave agency
Drive-up weekday COVID testing opens Monday, Oct. 18, at Spokane Falls Community College

Islands’ Weekly
State ferry temporary schedule changes starting Saturday, Oct. 16

Issaquah Reporter
Opinion: Why should the threat to Taiwan concern us in WA? | Brunell

Kitsap Sun
Shipyards’ commander: ‘…If you are not vaccinated, you will not work for the U.S. Navy’
As staffing woes plague Washington State Ferries, what can be done to right the ship?

News Tribune
Pierce County allocates all COVID-19 funds, but less than a quarter has been spent
How a fallen redwood became a symbol that will soon sit on the Gig Harbor waterfront
East Pierce Fire responded to 2,500 additional calls this year, asks for levy lid lift
The roofs leak. One office was a bathroom. Puyallup police ask voters for new building
Key Peninsula’s first senior living to use design showing success with COVID rates
Pierce County settles Sheriff’s Department shooting lawsuit for $3.5 million

New York Times
Why Public Health Faces a Crisis Across the U.S.
As Rents Rise, So Do Pressures on People at Risk of Eviction
Biden Administration Plans New Regulations for Toxic ‘Forever Chemicals’
Lawmakers question whether Amazon executives, including Jeff Bezos, misled Congress.
More Lead-Tainted Water in Michigan Draws Attention to Nation’s Aging Pipes
As Manchin Blocks Climate Plan, His State Can’t Hold Back Floods
Democrats Weigh Carbon Tax After Manchin Rejects Key Climate Provision

Olympian
After slow start, Thurston County rent relief dollars now flowing to those in need
Thurston County may get high speed internet thanks to Nisqually tribe
Washington state workers largely comply with Monday’s vaccine deadline, data show

Peninsula Daily News
Monday is state’s deadline for vaccine
Leland, Anderson lakes toxic

Puget Sound Business Journal
Harborview Medical Center to require visitors to show proof of Covid-19 status
Wall Street sees a record-deal spree as reason for optimism
Here’s which Washington state counties are buying the most cannabis in 2021

Seattle Times
Employee vaccination rates are high at Washington state’s public universities
Why is it so hard to find a bathroom in Seattle?
Researchers make surprising discovery while tracking Chinook salmon in Salish Sea, B.C.
Coronavirus daily news updates, October 18: What to know today about COVID-19 in the Seattle area, Washington state and the world
Northwest farmers who lost crops to extreme heat eligible for federal disaster relief
New University of Washington behavioral health facility will expand workforce, access to inpatient psychiatric beds in Seattle
How his twin brother’s deathbed plea was a call to action for Washington state’s insurance commissioner
Washington governor, senator want answers on how to replace benefits of Lower Snake River dams

Skagit Valley Herald
Skagit County records 382 new COVID-19 cases for the week

Snoqualmie Valley Record
County officals say it could be an active flood season in the Valley

Sol De Yakima
Vacunas antigrales son importantes en la pandemia, dice funcionaria de salud de Yakima

South Whidbey Record
Coupeville employees to receive COVID premium pay
State rep to host mental health roundtable (Paul)

Spokesman Review
Three Washington Democrats at center of crafting bill to ‘fundamentally reshape the American economy’
Child care costs more than college in Washington. Democrats in Congress want to change that.
Inslee: Nine out of 10 state workers complied with vaccine mandate
For the first time in a decade, Washington wildlife officials sample for chronic wasting disease on opening day of deer hunting season

Tri-City Herald
Grim record set for Tri-Cities. 23 COVID deaths reported this week
Inslee, Murray plan new report on breaching Snake River dams. ‘We need an answer …’

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Walla Walla Valley workforce slowly rebuilding after the end of federal pandemic unemployment benefits
October is Bullying Prevention Month at Walla Walla Public Schools
Creating a behavioral health map for Walla Walla County

Washington Post
Colin L. Powell, former secretary of state and military leader, dies at 84
Biden administration moves to curtail toxic ‘forever chemicals’
What to know about the covid-19 treatment molnupiravir
Medicare vision, hearing and dental benefits are No. 1 on progressives’ list
Advocates worry Biden is letting U.S. democracy erode on his watch
Ahmaud Arbery’s killing changed his Georgia community. Now three men will stand trial for murder.
How extreme weather and the pandemic have exposed fatal flaws in science communication
Strikes are sweeping the labor market as workers wield new leverage
Opinion: Racial disparities may be emerging in breakthrough infections. We must track them better.

Whidbey News-Times
Mukilteo-Clinton ferry route drops to one-boat service

Yakima Herald Republic
Removal of concrete Nelson Dam set to begin Monday
It Happened Here: Washington becomes nation’s leading apple producer
Yakima County COVID-19 trends improving, but transmission and death totals remain high
Yakima Council to consider making Juneteenth a city holiday
Monoclonal antibody treatment available in Yakima County
Editorial: Some great news you might not have heard

Broadcast

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Deadline for state workers, others to show proof of vaccination is Monday
Olympia police close streets for bomb threat
20 federal health care workers to help with COVID in Spokane
Some first responders start packing up ahead of vaccine requirement
Pierce County settles Sheriff’s Department shooting lawsuit for $3.5 million
Seattle Public Schools to suspend 142 bus routes on Monday
Judge denies request to halt vaccine mandate for Washington state employees
Over 100 King County Metro bus trips canceled

KNKX FM
Colin Powell, a former secretary of state, dies at 84

KUOW FM
When Hospitals Are Overwhelmed and Out of Options, They All Call the Same Number
In King County, rent relief is flowing but funds are drying up
Pandemic blog: Updates for Seattle and the NW
Unvaccinated Washington state employees face their last day on the job
The political fight over vaccine mandates deepens despite their effectiveness
Heat-loving bacteria kills thousands of Washington salmon
What La Niña could have in store for the Northwest over winter 2021

KXLY (ABC)
Monday marks deadline for Washington state employees to be fully vaccinated
Spokane Public Schools seeks input from parents in town halls for district plan

NW Public Radio
Franklin County Latino Population Wants More Redistricting Information In Spanish

Web

Crosscut
The carbon fight’s mundane frontier: Retrofitting homes and buildings

MyNorthwest
Olympia police close streets for potential bomb threat
UW doctor: When to use a PCR versus rapid antigen test for COVID-19
Naval Station Everett welcomes USS John S. McCain
What to know now that Oct. 18 deadline for vaccine mandate has arrived
Last of Seattle Public Library branch closures from pandemic comes to an end
New rules for visitors to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle
Seattle Police Chief asks officers to submit vaccine paperwork
Boeing employees protest vaccine mandate in Everett
With focus on ‘preservation,’ Wallingford inches closer to historic district designation
Judge denies request to halt vaccine mandate for Washington state employees
Machinists union set to bargain over COVID vaccine mandate with Boeing

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)