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Monday, Sept. 13

Idaho’s COVID crisis becomes Washington hospitals’ problem
Surgeries to remove brain tumors have been postponed. Patients are backed up in the emergency room. Nurses are working brutal shifts. But at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Washington, the calls keep coming: Can Idaho send another patient across the border? Continue reading at The New York Times. (Sgt. Kaden D. Pitt / U.S. Army)

Unvaccinated people were 11 times more likely to die of covid-19, CDC report finds
People who were not fully vaccinated this spring and summer were more than 10 times more likely to be hospitalized, and 11 times more likely to die of covid-19, than those who were fully vaccinated, according to one of three major studies published Friday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that highlight the continued efficacy of all three vaccines amid the spread of the highly contagious delta variant. Continue reading at The Washington Post. (Matt McClain)

Second ‘Murder Hornet’ nest in Whatcom County destroyed, but ‘our work is not complete’
For the second time this year, the Washington State Department of Agriculture destroyed a nest built by Asian Giant Hornets — commonly known as “Murder Hornets” — over the weekend and found a third nest in Whatcom County that it plans to eradicate soon. “The second Asian giant hornet nest of 2021 has been eradicated. It had four combs,” a Department of Agriculture Facebook post Saturday, Sept. 11., read. Continue reading at The Bellingham Herald.

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Associated Press
State settles juvenile facility sex abuse lawsuit for $2.1M
King County to fund theaters, arts with $20 million in COVID aid
Second Asian giant hornet nest destroyed near Blaine
Judge: Capital gains tax challenge can move forward
Washington employees union ratifies vaccine deal with state

Auburn Reporter
Masks required at big outdoor events; vaccine mandates expanded
Auburn City Council approves $14.8 million spending plan
Opinion: Back to the classroom during abnormal times | Roegner

Bainbridge Island Review
Kilmer roundtable: Working to modernize Congress for the 21st century

Bellevue Reporter
Bellevue to have new private school by 2022 school year

Bellingham Herald
Friday’s destructive two-alarm church fire in Bellingham being investigated as arson
Second ‘Murder Hornet’ nest in Whatcom County destroyed, but ‘our work is not complete’
An iconic tree is dying off in Whatcom — what’s causing it and how can you help save it?
How will new Bellingham rules affect some food-delivery services and area restaurants?
‘We still are at that cusp’ — Bellingham hospital asks for help avoiding a COVID crisis
Bellingham petition drive seeks to Save the Trails, but raises ‘interesting legal issues’

Capital Press
Agriculture braces for mandatory vaccinations
WSDA plans to destroy third Asian giant hornet nest
Washington state to require masks for large outdoor events

Columbian
Opinion: In Our View: Ivermectin dumb, dangerous COVID ‘treatment’
Opinion: In Our View: Superfund consideration is welcome news
Opinion: In Our View: Cheers & Jeers: Good recycling; bad company
Clark County residents commemorate anniversary of Sept. 11th attacks (Cleveland)

The Daily News
Doctors urge caution, vaccination as pregnant COVID patients increase in Washington
Alabama Street residents being moved Monday for campsite cleanup

El Sol De Yakima
Exigirán mascarilla en la Feria Estatal del Centro de Washington en Yakima
Oposición en Terrace Heights detiene plan para construir mini casas para indigentes
Latinos celebran acuerdo que creará nuevos distritos para la comsión en el condado de Yakima
Opinion: Consecuencias de no vacunarse contra la COVID-19

Everett Herald
20 years haven’t dulled the horror and heartbreak of 9/11
One union OKs deal with state on governor’s vaccine mandate
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Census: All but 2 Snohomish County ZIP code populations grew
Many local police departments looking to get body cameras
Lawsuit: Home Depot doesn’t give workers enough breaks
HopeWorks to offer career training for child care workers
Police: Man stunk up the protest zone at Planned Parenthood
Faster trips, more service in store for Community Transit
Editorial: A message to the unvaccinated and unmasked
Opinion: In a Post-Truth World what do we hold as self-evident?
Comment: Nearing a crisis, our hospitals need your help
Comment: Lawmakers need to correct reforms hampering police
Comment: New CCC could provide jobs, confront climate change
Comment: Healing on both ends of 9/11 therapy sessions
Comment: Viewpoints: Teaching 9/11 to those who hadn’t been born yet
WaPo Comment: One legacy of 9/11? How conspiracies spread online
WaPo Comment: U.S. met 9/11 with old fights and familiar illusions
Letter: Is this how believers are called to act during a pandemic?

High Country News
Searching for the lost: The people called to find missing migrants

Journal of the San Juan Islands
Editorial: Back to school in the era of COVID

Kent Reporter
Sound Transit Fare Ambassador Pilot Program begins
Twenty-two new COVID cases in San Juan County

Kitsap Sun
Bremerton City Council backtracks on police chief appointment, will skip public job search
Regeneron, effective in treating COVID-19, arrives in Kitsap County

News Tribune
Here are Pierce County businesses that would fall under federal COVID vaccination rules
$500K litter, graffiti clean-up effort starts Monday in these Tacoma business districts
Thousands without power in central and north Tacoma, map shows
Washington is coming out of a dry summer, what does that mean for Tacoma?

Olympian
Greenstein to Lacey City Council: ‘I am 100 percent opposed to a councilmanic tax’
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Friday in Washington state
Here’s how COVID-19 surged and cases more than tripled in August in Thurston County
Olympia’s interim police chief to retire
Democrats unveil new EV tax credit proposal with boost for unions
Editorial: Thoughts on vaccines, joyful events and inane protests

Peninsula Daily News
Physicians: It’s in hands of community
Seven nursing homes hit with COVID outbreaks
Where to get your COVID shot
COVID-19 deaths overwhelm Cowlitz County morgue
Doctor: ‘That could have been me’
Ceremonies mark 20th anniversary of 9/11
EYE ON JEFFERSON: County to hear about housing programs
EYE ON CLALLAM: Sequim City Council to consider measure against health orders

Port Townsend Leader
UPDATE | Mixed response on mandate to show proof of COVID-19 vaccinations
Also not on the table: Mandate for employee jabs
Two more JeffCo residents die from COVID-19

Puget Sound Business Journal
Amazon to provide employees paid tuition, skills training in bid to fill front-line positions
Northwest Carpenters Union votes to strike in Western Washington
Biden’s employer mandate: Who will foot the bill for weekly Covid testing?
SBA has forgiven more than half of all PPP loans
The 25 most expensive colleges in the US show how ‘the business model of higher education in the U.S. has been broken since 1635’

Renton Reporter
City of Renton accepting applications for 2022 tourism promotion grants

Seattle Medium
Mayor Durkan Announces $9.8 Million To Minority – Led Community Organizations
King County Working On Vaccine Verification Requirements For Non-essential Indoor Business Activities

Seattle Times
A quarter of a million long commutes disappeared during the pandemic in the Seattle area
Idaho’s COVID crisis is straining hospitals across the border in Washington
B.C. government continues logging of old growth as 2-year protest in the woods drags on
COVID cases show up in Washington schools, but it’s too early to say how schools are doing at reducing transmission
‘Sophie’s choice, over and over’: Death panels are the new phase of the pandemic
Opinion: How Texas is a frightening bellwether for all 49 other states
Opinion: An underfunded Seattle Harbor Patrol needs public support

Skagit Valley Herald
New COVID-19 cases in Skagit County remain above 300 for fifth consecutive week
Record number of COVID-19 patients puts strain on hospitals throughout the region
With funding on the way, cities and county plan to work together on homelessness

South Whidbey Record
Rep. Larsen stops by earmarked projects
Island Transit buses just got a little cleaner
Opinion: In Our Opinion: Servers need higher wages, even if it means $10 shakes

Tri-City Herald
‘Overwhelming.’ Tri-Cities ICU nurse is seeing very few COVID victories
New Pasco warehouses will be 2 of largest in North America. But what will they hold?
‘Things were going to change.’ Former PNNL director reflects on 9/11 after 20 years
‘Overwhelming.’ Tri-Cities ICU nurse is seeing very few COVID victories
The largest employer in Tri-Cities requiring its 5,000+ workers to get the COVID vaccine

Washington Post
Delta variant stress tests back-to-school plans
Most Americans support vaccine mandates for office work and schools, poll shows
Afghan American woman’s escape highlights secretive CIA role in Kabul rescues
American lawyer imprisoned in Hong Kong speaks out about his treatment
College students reported record-high marijuana use and record-low drinking in 2020, study says
Unvaccinated people were 11 times more likely to die of covid-19, CDC report finds
Opinion: Biden’s covid order for big employers isn’t unconstitutional. It’s ordinary.

Whidbey News-Times
School Board delays decision on Pledge of Allegiance
Rotary bridge costs over $120,000

Yakima Herald Republic
Rental assistance in Yakima County helps renters avoid eviction
PNWU students hold September supply drive for Afghan refugees
Yakima School District raises Yakama Nation flag at district headquarters
Editorial: Ignore the howls. These COVID orders will help

Broadcast

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Statewide outdoor mask mandate now in effect
Kitsap ferry delayed due to man refusing to wear mask
$500K litter, graffiti clean-up effort starts Monday in these Tacoma business districts
Seattle police officer remembers firefighter uncle who died saving others on 9/11
‘A lot of people stepped up to help there.’ Local EMT shares service, sacrifices after 9/11
‘Don’t focus on hate’: World marks 20th anniversary of 9/11

KNKX FM
Surviving 9/11, coming home to Seattle and ‘transforming trauma’
More kids are getting COVID; here’s how you can protect them

KUOW FM
Pandemic updates for Seattle and the Northwest
I Got A ‘Mild’ Breakthrough Case. Here’s What I Wish I’d Known

KXLY (ABC)
Washington’s new outdoor mask mandate now in effect

Web

Crosscut
Seattle police intervening in fewer mental health calls, data show
Memories of Japanese American incarceration guided U.S. response to 9/11
Washington schools: Masks, reopening and other FAQs
Opinion: COVID-19, ‘murder hornets,’ and other thoughts on invasions

MyNorthwest
Business groups ask governor to intervene before long-term care tax takes effect
Statewide outdoor mask mandate at large events takes effect Monday
Seattle councilmember proposes changes to city budget to address SPD staffing crisis
Orcas return to Puget Sound, signal ‘remaining health to these waters’

West Seattle Blog
SCHOOLS: Parents pushing district to expand online option – and to not kick out their kids in the meantime

Friday, September 10

Millions of workers, businesses to face Biden’s new coronavirus vaccine and testing rules
The Biden administration’s far-reaching announcement mandating coronavirus vaccines or rigorous testing for larger businesses prompted a mix of critical and supportive responses from companies, employers and corporate advocacy groups. The White House is compelling businesses with more than 100 employees to require their workers be vaccinated against the novel coronavirus or subjected to weekly testing. Companies that ignore the policy could face penalties of up to $14,000 for each violation, according to a senior administration official. Also, companies would be required to give workers paid time off to get the vaccine. Continue reading at The Washington Post. (The Washington Post)

Masks required at big outdoor events; vax mandates expanded
Masks will soon be required at large, outdoor events across Washington, Gov. Jay Inslee announced Thursday. Effective Monday, all attendees, regardless of vaccination status, at gatherings of 500 or more people must mask up to blunt the spread of COVID-19’s fifth wave, which is being driven by the unvaccinated and pushing hospitals statewide closer to crisis standards of care. Continue reading at Everett Herald. (Ted S. Warren/AP)

Editorial: Root for Washington teams’ stadium vaccine mandates
The spike of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations as the delta variant courses through Washington, and across America, makes an undeniable case that more people must get vaccinated. Washington state sports teams, professional and collegiate, deserve fans’ support for making vaccination or a clear COVID screening a requirement for admission. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Jennifer Buchanan/The Seattle Times)

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Associated Press
King County to fund theaters, arts with $20M in COVID aid
King Co. settles suit over deputies leaving teen for $3.5M
Analysis: Biden takes fight to unvaccinated in virus battle

Bellingham Herald
Report cites possible causes of December’s fiery oil train derailment in Whatcom County
Bellingham woman convicted in federal court of placing train shunt in late November
Whatcom County sees another COVID-related death, 10 hospitalizations reported Wednesday

Capital Press
Stemilt Growers settles back pay claims for $3 million
Cattle mutilations: One researcher’s theory on what’s happening
Washington GOP senators decry mandatory shots for 4-H volunteers

El Sol De Yakima (Available in English via Google Translate)
Condado de Yakima empata récord de hospitalizaciones por COVID, médicos advierten sobre crisis

Everett Herald
Masks required at big outdoor events; vax mandates expanded
Harvey Field runway gets a makeover, the first in 40 years
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo comment: Study shows masks work, widespread use is possible
Bloomberg comment: Workers can have say on jobs and wages; for now
Editorial: Unforgettable stories ensure we will ‘Never Forget’

High Country News
6 things you should know about the 2021 Native American Voting Rights Act

News Tribune
Should sightseeing aircraft be part of the Rainier, Olympic national parks experience?
COVID-19 surge continues as Pierce County’s daily case numbers remain in triple digits
Tacoma parents launch petition calling for stronger COVID-19 measures in schools

Olympian
Remember ‘missing middle’? Lacey set to advance housing action plan
WA state prison guard is suspected violent outlaw motorcycle gang leader
New statewide outdoor mask requirement for large crowds starts Monday amid Delta surge
So you have COVID? Providence is offering one treatment at this Olympia clinic

Peninsula Daily News
Antibody treatment available for some
COVID-positivity rate drives OMC hospital admissions
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Biden issues vaccine mandates for 100 million Americans
State to require masks for large outdoor events

Puget Sound Business Journal
Poll finds overwhelming support among Seattle voters for JumpStart tax
Biden’s vaccine mandate puts Washington’s largest employers in a tough spot
Biden’s vaccine push: What you need to know
SBA raises EIDL limit as part of sweeping changes to Covid-19 relief program
What Biden’s vaccine mandate means for employers

Seattle Times
‘It’s a beautiful sight’: Kraken’s $80 million Northgate practice facility set for open house, public skating
‘Fall is coming’: A cooler week (and maybe even some rain) in Seattle-area forecast
COVID mask rules: Where you need to mask up in Washington state
Twenty years after 9/11, Seattle and America transformed
King County to distribute $20 million of COVID aid to theaters, arts organizations
Washington Gov. Inslee announces mask requirement for outdoor gatherings of 500 or more as COVID cases persist
Opinion: On the 20th anniversary of its Superfund listing, the Duwamish River faces a triple threat
Editorial: Root for Washington teams’ stadium vaccine mandates
Biden vaccine mandate for firms with 100-plus workers gets mixed reviews in Washington state

Skagit Valley Herald
Swinomish threaten to sue over salmon habitat
Work continues on fish passage projects in east Skagit County

The Skanner
Judge Halts Protests Near Schools in Vancouver

South Seattle Emerald
Cascade Behavioral Health staff strike against unsafe working conditions continues
Durkan won’t sign crowd-control weapons bill, raises specter of court challenge
COVID-19 forces pro sports teams to mandate vaccine proof for fans
Fall sports are back: how to safely support our local teams

Spokesman Review
As COVID-19 superspreader events become more common, state reinstates mask mandate for large outdoor gatherings
‘These fires are no longer rare’: Washington fire officials ask Sen. Patty Murray for more resources
Preventing fires from destroying entire towns will take communities learning to live with fire
Why the Spokane County fair is still a go even as COVID-19 patients overwhelm hospitals
Man suspected of two Spokane Valley arsons harbors ‘strong aversion and anger’ to face masks
Rural Idaho bracing for the worst as COVID patients flood small facilities
Opinion: Denise Caruzzi: Suspension of ban on evictions magnifies importance of emergency rent relief funding

Tri-City Herald
Richland 12-year-old celebrates her ‘vaccine’ birthday
WA state prison guard is suspected violent outlaw motorcycle gang leader
Sickest patients overflowing ICU at Tri-Cities largest hospital. Almost all unvaccinated
Tri-Cities Habitat for Humanity gets $100K donation after lumber prices soar

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
New $1,000 vaccine lottery in Walla Walla: ‘A town so nice we got vaccinated twice’
Nearly 20 years after 9/11, Afghanistan, mental health advocates hope Walla Walla veterans reach out

Washington Post
Millions of workers, businesses to face Biden’s new coronavirus vaccine and testing rules
Justice Breyer calls Supreme Court decision on Texas abortion law ‘very, very, very wrong’
A convoy to the Kabul airport, hostile Taliban and the faint hope that the gates to escape would swing open
Democrats take early steps toward new paid leave program, as work continues to craft $3.5 trillion bill
Let’s get real about Robert E. Lee and slavery

Yakima Herald Republic
Event in Toppenish will honor veterans and their families on Sept. 11
Opinion: City’s affordable housing idea is worth pursuing

Broadcast

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Seattle School District plans to share COVID-19 data by school
Inslee orders new mask mandate as COVID-19 cases surge
‘We’re in a tough stretch’: Biden announces new COVID-19 mandates for millions of Americans
New ‘Order SEA’ system features robot delivery of food directly to flight gate
Local health officer receiving threats over proof of vaccination order

KNKX FM
Black Opioid Overdose Deaths Are Increasing Faster Than Whites, Study Finds
Inslee orders mask usage at larger outdoor events
Hundreds of Washington schools start academic year with failing grade on quake safety

KUOW FM
Mask Mandate Returns for Large Outdoor Events in Washington State
ICE detained immigrant children in Washington state. New documents pierce its secrecy
Pandemic updates for Seattle and the Northwest
A Judge Has Blocked The ‘Anti-Riot’ Law Passed In Florida After George Floyd Protests
The 2021 wildfire season is keeping veterinarians in the PNW busy
Air hugs. No singing. Lunch outside: School in the time of coronavirus
Biden Will Require Vaccines For Federal Workers As Part Of A New COVID Strategy

KXLY (ABC)
Masks, face coverings required at all large outdoor events in Washington
Amazon to pay hourly workers’ college tuition

Web

Crosscut
When catchy names for insects sting — think ‘Asian giant hornet’

MyNorthwest
‘Not a time for baby steps’: Gov. Inslee ‘actively considering’ expanded vaccine requirements
Changes coming soon to Seattle’s ‘Keep Moving Streets’ at popular parks
Gov. Inslee expands statewide mask mandate to include outdoor events
Private long-term care insurance all but impossible to get ahead of new state tax
Bellingham woman convicted of railroad sabotage, placing shunt on tracks
Kshama Sawant recall campaign turns in signatures, sets sights on winter vote
Tim Eyman announces new ballot initiative seeking to invalidate state’s capital gains tax
Seattle Public Schools creates COVID dashboard to track cases among students, staff
Police: Surveillance video shows officer intended target of shooting
Redmond residents clash over planned hotel homeless shelter
Seattle council greenlights community-sponsored levy for Capitol Hill cleanup

La Raza del Noroeste
Declaración sobre la capacidad de los hospitales y los estándares de atención para el abordaje de crisis

Slog
Cornish Staff Unionization Effort Faces Resistance from Administration Ahead of Ballot Count on Tuesday

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.