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Monday, Aug. 23

Out of war-ending chaos comes a wave of new Americans
Irshad Hamidi is getting a phone call. He has been dealing with a lot of surprises lately. “I wish it’s a good one, come on,” Hamidi says into his phone Tuesday afternoon outside a Lynnwood apartment complex. The next words out of his mouth are, “Whoa, whoa.” An apartment has opened in the building where he’s been staying with his cousin since arriving Aug. 5 from Kabul, Afghanistan. Continue reading at The Everett Herald. (Olivia Vanni)

Washington state’s indoor mask mandate now in effect
A statewide indoor mask mandate went into effect Monday for all individuals age 5 and up — regardless of vaccination status. Gov. Jay Inslee announced the mask requirement last week as COVID-19 hospitalizations in Washington have reached a new peak, and as every county in the state has been categorized as substantial or high risk for transmission by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Amanda Snyder)

US regulators give full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine
The U.S. gave full approval to Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine Monday, a milestone that could lift public confidence in the shots and spur more companies, universities and local governments to make vaccinations mandatory. The formula made by Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech now carries the strongest endorsement from the Food and Drug Administration, which has never before had so much evidence to judge a shot’s safety. Continue reading at KING 5.

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Associated Press
US regulators give full approval to Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine
Official: Pentagon to mandate COVID-19 vaccines
State employee union raps Inslee over vaccine mandates (Keiser)
U.S. extends ban on nonessential crossings at Canada, Mexico borders

Aberdeen Daily World
$4 million approved by Chehalis Basin Board for Hoquiam levee
Washington hospitals filling up as pandemic labor shortage strains health care system
Hoquiam City Council meetings return to Zoom-only on Aug. 23
Sea Mar receives $50,000 donation to advance health care equity

Auburn Reporter
Message from state superintendent regarding school employee vaccinations

Bellevue Reporter
Editorial: The UN climate report, ‘The Lorax’ and us

The Daily News
Aid efforts come together as Afghan refugees head to Washington
Cowlitz County police, mental health providers concerned about new law’s changes to crisis response
Governor Inslee extends clemency authority to vacate simple drug possession convictions

Everett Herald
State gets feds’ environmental OK for second I-405 toll lane
County pays $600,000 to settle 7 claims of deputy misconduct
Out of war-ending chaos comes a wave of new Americans
Family loses newly purchased dream home to eminent domain
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
After 100,000 lost jobs, aviation industry aims to roar back
Snohomish County COVID cases still surging in fifth wave
Editorial: Differing points on mandates need reason, respect
WaPo Comment: PTA helped build U.S. schools; it’s needed again
Comment: Deceit, delusion common themes in our recent wars
Letter: Less government, regulation but only when wealthy benefit?
Letter: ‘Good ol’ days’ weren’t always so, and we should admit that

Islands’ Weekly
Regional transportation authority weighs passenger-only ferry options
Cantwell outlines big wins for Washington state’s infrastructure, salmon, economy

Kitsap Sun
Census data shows Kitsap County is attracting more people while becoming more diverse

Peninsula Daily News
Grant sought to help housing
Port Angeles City Council pledges funds for Peninsula Behavioral Health project
Health officer: All indoor spaces high risk for unprotected
US keeps ban on nonessential border crossings to slow COVID
Students offered gift cards at vaccination clinics
Public schools ready for in-person fall classes
Clallam County seeking volunteers
PUD to raise rates in ‘22,’23
Clallam PUD issues water alerts for six systems

Puget Sound Business Journal
Report: Seattle has 6th-most IT jobs per capita among US metros
T-Mobile now says 53 million people affected by data breach
Delta variant creates new headwinds for event and meeting industry

Seattle Times
Washington state’s indoor mask mandate now in effect
Washington is poised to accept a wave of Afghan refugees. How will they be received?
Tension over visible homelessness has risen in Seattle — and the country
Opposing rallies in Portland result in clashes between protesters
If you have unvaccinated kids, act like ‘nobody in household’ is vaccinated, experts urge — and more back-to-school advice
More meth, cocaine contamination found at Washington state toxicology lab
Southeast Asian immigrants grow crops in Seattle’s P-Patches to produce familiar flavors for their families
Editorial: A glimmer of back-to-school joy

Skagit Valley Herald
Rate of new COVID-19 cases in Skagit County remains high
Possible changes in juvenile justice system has county preparing to adjust
Vaccine requirement may cause staffing issues at county’s fire departments

Snoqualmie Valley Record
Opinion: Financial reality about re-introducing mask mandates
Census data shows population growth in Snoqualmie Valley

South Whidbey Record
County adopts new pandemic-related pay bump
Langley council extends outdoor dining past summer
Letter: Disgusted by fiasco created by withdrawal

Tri-City Herald
Former Tri-Cities teacher finds new way to build more affordable townhouses for renters
Tri-City Herald letter writers upset with Richland School Board candidate Audra Byrd
Firefighting boat will make a stretch of the Columbia River near Tri-Cities safer
WA state employee union raps Inslee over vaccine mandates
A Tri-Cities jail has a new incentive for COVID vaccines. Inmates are eating it up
Highest number of new COVID deaths in Tri-Cities in five months. 2 were in their 40s.
Ben Franklin Transit cancels all bus rides to Tri-Cities fair over COVID concerns
Developer that’s turning Tri-Cities motels into apartments is buying yet another one

Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber
For first time in 2021, wildfires brought bad air to Vashon

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
School officials: vaccine mandate presents challenge to small districts in Walla Walla area
Masks debated during public comment at Walla Walla School Board meeting
Walla Walla Community Hospice learns to adapt as COVID-19 case numbers spike
Stop smoking sessions slated at Providence Southgate Medical Park in Walla Walla
Builders deal with skyrocketing prices, supply and labor shortages in Walla Walla Valley
Back to school: Hot lunch is on the menu at Walla Walla area schools this fall

Washington Post
Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine wins full FDA approval, potentially persuading the hesitant to get a shot
Taliban rejects extending Aug. 31 U.S. pullout, calling it a ‘red line’
Big business pledged nearly $50 billion for racial justice. A tiny fraction went to organizations focused on criminal justice reform.
Census data suggests America’s hunger problem may be waning, but food assistance continues to top pre-pandemic levels
Heavy rains swamp eastern U.S. as Henri moves inland
Oregon doctors make emotional plea to the unvaccinated: ‘We cannot keep fighting this fight without your help’

Whidbey News-Times
Opinion: Meetings should be recorded, posted online even after COVID

Yakima Herald Republic
Former Yakima Training Center commander recalls early work in Afghanistan, worries about those left behind
Josh Elliott: Pulling out of Afghanistan the right move, even it it wasn’t perfectly executed
Opinion: Construction ahead: WSDOT’s budget is wearing thin
Letter: Walk your talk, Sheriff — don’t bother the hospital

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Washington veteran helps Afghan women, children escape Taliban rule
Q&A: Seattle COVID-19 vaccine expert answers questions about booster shots
67,500-acre wildfire in Yakima Valley forces residents to evacuate

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Afghan families make tough decision, start resettling in Seattle area
Cash incentives being offered for new Seattle school bus drivers, amid nationwide shortage
Average daily COVID deaths in Washington still low as cases and hospitalizations rise
Washington’s mask mandate goes into effect Monday
More than 30 Pierce Co. inmates test positive, hundreds quarantined at jail
Local Vietnamese Americans host, sponsor Afghan refugee families

KUOW FM
EPA to ban neurotoxic pesticide sprayed on NW apples and Christmas trees
Covid blog: Pandemic updates for the NW
The Focus Must Stay On Evacuations, Not On The Exit From Afghanistan, Harris Says
The Pentagon Is Calling On 6 U.S. Airlines To Help With The Afghan Evacuation Effort
This Is How The White Population Is Actually Changing Based On New Census Data
They Faced Racial Bias In Military Discipline. That Can Impact National Security
Pfizer’s COVID Vaccine Gets Full Approval From The FDA
Covid makes a rebound, Washington begins planning for refugees, and mosquito anxiety, this week
No word yet on refunds for people fined under now-void WA drug law

KXLY (ABC)
FDA grants full approval to Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine, opening door to more vaccine mandates
Masks now required indoors across Washington state
WSU to drop personal, philosophical exemption as Pfizer vaccine gains full FDA approval
Educators speak on Gov. Inslee’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate

Web

Civic Skunkworks
The $7.25 Federal Minimum Wage Is a National Embarrassment

MyNorthwest
Could FDA approval lead to student vaccine mandate in Washington?
Protesters in Olympia say they ‘will not comply’ with COVID mandates
King County rent relief dollars expected to start flowing faster
Point Roberts loses second tourist season with border closure extension
Washington AG’s office IDs hundreds of sex offenders who failed to give up DNA
Seattle school district, teachers union reach tentative deal on COVID mandates
Anxiety expected to be high as Washington students prepare to return to school
US extends ban on non-essential travel across Canadian border
New hotel spaces fuel 132% increase in Seattle homeless shelter referrals

Friday, Aug. 20

Jennifer Luxton / The Seattle Times

Editorial: As police reforms hit resistance, law-enforcement leaders need to step up
Depending on their interpretations of the state’s new police reforms, law-enforcement agencies are responding to 911 calls with vastly different equipment and tactics, sometimes putting public safety at risk. Some disagreeing law-enforcement leaders should stop obfuscating over the laws and put safety of their communities ahead of their political agendas. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Jennifer Luxton / The Seattle Times)

Washington hospitals nearing capacity, seeing largest number of COVID-19 patients ever
The Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) painted a bleak picture for the state’s medical facilities during a briefing Thursday as hospitals approach 100% occupancy amid a new wave in the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading at KING 5.

US keeps ban on nonessential border crossings to slow COVID
The U.S. government on Friday extended a ban on nonessential travel along the borders with Canada and Mexico to slow the spread of COVID-19 despite increasing pressure to lift the restriction. Continue reading at KOMO. (Ryan Remiorz/The Canadian Press via AP)

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Associated Press
First Asian giant hornet nest discovered near Blaine
Sheriff contracts COVID-19, still plans to fight mandates
Do I need a booster shot if I got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?
Fed’s Powell: There’s no returning to pre-pandemic economy
US keeps ban on nonessential border crossings to slow COVID
US to erase student debt for those with severe disabilities
Klickitat County Sheriff contracts COVID-19, still plans to fight mandates

Bellingham Herald
Woman sentenced after distributing fentanyl that led to Bellingham boys’ overdose death
A new tiny home village is being built in Bellingham
On day Inslee expands mask mandate, Whatcom County sees 70 new confirmed COVID cases
COVID delta variant more prevalent in Whatcom, as reported cases triple from last week

Capital Press
WSDA finds Asian giant hornet nest
Expect higher commodity prices amid Western wildfires, says farm lender

Everett Herald
Unpermitted bridge work stalls project in Lake Stevens park
Edmonds mayor chooses interim police chief for permanent job
Lake Stevens police chief retires; deputy succeeds him
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Klickitat Co. sheriff with COVID-19 still fighting mandates
Schwab: Biden kept promise of other presidents to get out
Bloomberg Comment: Taliban say they’ve changed, but so has Afghanistan
Bloomberg Comment: Taliban only pretending their barbaric days are over
Bloomberg Comment: Opinion polls show path forward on immigration
WaPo Comment: Afghan soldiers didn’t quit; we left the battle first

News Tribune
Pentagon offers mental health resources to military as Taliban takes over Afghanistan
Got an idea to draw tourists? Here’s how to get Gig Harbor taxes to help pay for it
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state
Mask Q&A: When and where you should wear a mask in Pierce County
Investigation complete into Tacoma officer who ran over 6 at street-racing event
COVID-19 cases among Pierce County children increase; rural areas see outbreaks
Get vaccinated or lose job, Peninsula School District staff are told

New York Times
Live Updates: Biden to Address Afghan Crisis as Desperation Builds at Kabul Airport
As Childhood Covid Cases Spike, School Vaccination Clinics Are Slow Going
Cutting off jobless benefits early may have hurt state economies.
E.P.A. to Block Pesticide Tied to Neurological Harm in Children
Western Drought Will Last Into Fall or Longer

North American Post
A-Bomb Survivor A Message from a Life Saved: Take Off, My Dream!

Olympian
About to lose unemployment benefits next month? Washington won’t keep the program going
School workers included in WA state vaccine requirement; masks are back for everyone
Thurston County workers may have to get vaccinated or test weekly to retain their jobs
Despite the rise in COVID cases, the state fair will still go on. Bring a mask
Netted and tagged with a tracker this so-called ‘murder hornet’ led the state to its nest
Here’s how Washington Tribes are updating their COVID measures

Peninsula Daily News
Clallam County hits another record with virus case rate

Puget Sound Business Journal
Remaining Boeing 747 production hits single digits
Facebook rolls out virtual meetings platform as companies grapple with hybrid work
NASA, SpaceX agree to pause on lunar lander contract after Blue Origin lawsuit
New college disclosures highlight years of enrollment declines, schools in distress heading into pandemic

Seattle Times
Editorial: As police reforms hit resistance, law-enforcement leaders need to step up

Skagit Valley Herald
Reps. Larsen, DelBene talk American Rescue Plan Act
Mount Vernon event to provide COVID-19 vaccine information in Spanish

South Seattle Emerald
State mandates vaccinations for school system employees, expands mask-wearing indoors
Opinion: We need the flexibility gig work promises and basic rights
We can be heroes: The summer blood shortage and why it’s vital for bipoc to donate
‘Hai! Japantown 2021’: Honoring the past and reviving the present
Opinion: From Somalia to Afghanistan, we stand with our newest neighbors

Spokesman Review
Spokane’s Monroe Street Bridge focal point for suicide, mental health awareness
The statewide mask mandate is back for everyone, but there are some exceptions. Here’s where you need to wear a mask in Washington
Opinion: Nicholas Goldberg: We can’t blame the unmasked and unvaccinated for being irresponsible? Really?

Tri-City Herald
‘Just getting tired.’ Kadlec employees plan picket after months with no contract
Prestigious NASCAR-style event will launch NW’s newest raceway in Tri-Cities
‘Explosive growth’ in Tri-Cities COVID cases called ‘a crisis.’ Vaccinated people at risk
Benton Franklin Fair events kick off with Tri-Cities parade. Here’s what to expect
Historic link made from $17B Hanford treatment plant to radioactive tank waste
Coalition wants Oregon governor to deny Easterday dairy permit near Tri-Cities
Update: Health officials recommend canceling the Benton Franklin Fair, other large events

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Providence medical center in Walla Walla names new officer
Walla Walla teen allegedly molested by unfamiliar woman on her front porch
School officials: vaccine mandate presents challenge to small districts in Walla Walla area

Yakima Herald Republic
With Yakima Valley Memorial nearly full, doctors urge people to wear masks and get vaccinated

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
US extends COVID-19 border restrictions with Canada, Mexico through Sept. 21
COVID-19 testing demand in King County doubles amid delta variant spread
Pierce County pharmacy continues push to get people vaccinated against COVID-19
Washington’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate among strictest in the US. Here’s who is exempt
Washington hospitals nearing capacity, seeing largest number of COVID-19 patients ever

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Wazzu’s Rolovich says he intends to follow vaccine mandate
Capitol standoff: Man who claimed to have bomb outside Library of Congress surrenders
US to erase student debt for those with severe disabilities
FBI Seattle launches campaign for awareness, reporting of hate crimes

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
State entomologists find Asian giant hornet nest, plan to eradicate it next week
Washington frontline workers feeling effects of battling fifth wave of COVID-19 surge
Delta variant raises concerns for large events
Large gatherings fueling COVID-19 surge, hospitalizations at all-time high
Gig Harbor cancels remaining summer events amid COVID-19 surge
‘Tremendous volume of patients’ puts Longview hospital at max capacity
Seattle nears record number of fires set at homeless camps this year

KNKX FM
Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition calls on EPA to maintain standards set in 2014

KUOW FM
COULD A NEW FISH PASSAGE SYSTEM HELP SNAKE RIVER SALMON?
At WA Ferries, vaccine mandate looms amidst ‘unprecedented’ worker shortages
Covid blog: Pandemic updates for the NW

KXLY (ABC)
COVID-19 hospitalization surge, staffing shortages push hospitals to their limits
Firefighters across the area potentially quitting over vaccine mandate

Q13 TV (Fox)
Teacher against the state’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate plans to claim exemption
Officials: COVID filling hospital beds statewide while vaccine newcomers come around
COVID-19 or RSV? Symptoms parents should watch for in kids

Web

Crosscut
Decolonizing your plate
Descolonizar el plato
More mosquitoes in WA could come with hotter, longer summers

MyNorthwest
US extends ban on non-essential travel across Canadian border
New hotel spaces fuel 132% increase in Seattle homeless shelter referrals
Washington’s new mask mandate takes effect Monday: Here’s what you need to know
Shoreline woman charged in hate crime arrested, held on bail
First Asian giant hornet nest of 2021 found east of Blaine
Police arrest woman for breaking court order protecting Seattle mayor
Despite delta variant, fall travel expected to take off, says local analyst
WSU football coach could face choice between getting vaccinated or losing his job

Ms. Magazine
Reforming Law Enforcement Training Could Reduce The High Rate of Sexual Assault Case Attrition (Orwall)

Slog
Washington Superintendent Basically Tells Brandi Kruse that Teachers Can Easily Lie Their Way Out of Inslee’s New Vaccine Mandate
Seattle and Washington State Scramble to Assist Afghan Refugees

Thursday, Aug. 19

School workers included in WA state vaccine requirement; masks are back for everyone
Gov. Jay Inslee on Wednesday expanded the state’s COVID-19 vaccine requirement to include K-12 school staff, most childcare and early learning staff, and higher education, as the state struggles to contain a rising tide of COVID-19 cases. The governor also expanded the state indoor mask mandate to include everyone again in indoor settings, regardless of vaccine status. Continue reading at The Olympian. (Ted S. Warren)

Opinion: Vaccination, mask rules are burdensome, but necessary
Yes, new state rules requiring indoor masking for everyone and vaccinations for school and child care employees feel like a step backward in our seemingly endless battle against COVID-19. Yes, they’ll certainly be met with howls of protest. But yes, they’re unquestionably the fastest and safest way to reclaim our lives. So let’s all stop whining, suck it up and run this virus out of town once and for all. Continue reading at Yakima Herald-Republic. (Evan Abell)

‘Are we going to really be able to prevent eviction?’ Community groups brace for next housing crisis
There’s more than $300 million in rental assistance available for renters and landlords before Washington state’s eviction moratorium expires. But the money has been so slow to reach eligible people in Seattle and across King County, community groups are bracing for another housing crisis. Jeanice Hardy is dogged by a question this money was meant to answer: “Are we going to really be able to prevent eviction?” Continue reading at KUOW. (Megan Farmer)

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Associated Press
Washington requires COVID-19 vaccination for teachers, staff
Appeals court overturns ruling against Value Village
Washington wildfires grow, prompt evacuations, burn homes
Govt sharpens antitrust attack against Facebook with filing
Desperation, pressure for aid increase in Haiti after quake
Biden to require vaccines for nursing home staff

Aberdeen Daily World
Federal infrastructure bill includes $1 billion for culvert grants
Letter: Tsunami siren network

Auburn Reporter
How you can help Afghan refugees in the Puget Sound area

Bellevue Reporter
Some people qualify for third shot of vaccine, says health department
Governor reinstates indoor mask rule, whether you’re vaxed or not

Bellingham Herald
Whatcom health department ‘very concerned’ by growing COVID hospital rate among vaccinated
This ‘monumental’ step toward more sustainable shipping taken in Bellingham
COVID-19 outbreak at Whatcom County Jail spreads to corrections deputies
Whatcom weather’s a marked change from last week’s heatwave. What that means for summer
These Whatcom regions are seeing the most COVID-19 cases and highest infection rates

Bothell-Kenmore Reporter
Group demands accountability following Seattle Children’s racism investigation

Capital Press
Biden’s EPA to ban pesticide chlorpyrifos
FDA rejects request to regulate hemp extract as dietary supplement
Washington AG: Farmers can’t contest capital gains tax until they pay it
Mega wildfires threaten water supplies
First in-person wheat trade team tours PNW’s ‘unusual’ crop

Columbian
Washington teacher union backs vaccination mandate
Clark County Public Health: Delta’s footprint unclear
Opinion: In Our View: State should help protect Afghans who fled

Courier-Herald
Enumclaw Council debates two issues involving multi-family housing

The Daily News
State law provides for OSPI to withhold funds for ‘noncompliance’
Cowlitz County Office of Public Defense hires more attorneys to deal with Blake resentencing, pandemic caseload
Herrera Beutler speaks about vaccines, infrastructure during phone town hall

El Sol De Yakima (available in English via Google Translate)
Inslee revives use of mask in the state; requires vaccination for school personnel
More “get out now” evacuations are issued for Schneider Springs fire

Everett Herald
Inslee reinstates indoor mask rule, whether vaxxed or not
Fewer renter protections after Monday, but help is available
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
WaPo Comment: Afghan allies must be rescued before it’s too late
WaPo Comment: Parents again anxious about kids’ return to schools
Editorial: Our duty and privilege to accept Afghan refugees
Letter: Vaccines, masks are right thing to do for all of us
Letter: Comparing covid vaccinations to Holocaust is absurd

The Facts Newspaper
Delta variant drives dramatic spike in cases, further exhausting hospital capacity across the state

Federal Way Mirror
King County COVID-19 testing sites see surge in visitors

The Inlander
Equity vs. Equality: It’s all about fairness and the recognition that different people may need different tools

Kitsap Sun
‘A worthy adversary’: Kitsap COVID-19 virus activity hits pandemic-long high point

News Tribune
Tacoma selects new manager for its historic theaters. Not everyone is happy with pick
Tacoma schools, teachers’ union move to comply with Inslee’s COVID-19 vaccine order
Time to mask up: Here’s what the new mask directive means in Pierce County
Editorial: Don’t overlook Tacoma area military families left ‘raw and sad’ by Afghanistan exit

New York Times
Biden Says Troops May Stay in Kabul Longer to Assist Evacuations
Covid Live Updates: W.H.O. Official Blasts Plans For Booster Shots
U.S. Takes a New Stab at Facebook Antitrust Suit
Biden Announces Virus Measures for Schools and Nursing Homes

Olympian
School workers included in WA state vaccine requirement; masks are back for everyone
About to lose unemployment benefits next month? Washington won’t keep the program going
Inslee’s new vaccine mandate raises temperature on WSU football coach Nick Rolovich
Thurston County workers may have to get vaccinated or test weekly to retain their jobs
Here are the latest COVID-19 numbers confirmed Wednesday in Washington state

Peninsula Daily News
Mandate for health care workers sparks protest
Teachers ordered to be vaccinated
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance

Port Townsend Leader
Gov. Inslee announces mandatory COVID-19 vaccinations for all public school employees

Puget Sound Business Journal
Infrastructure bill could bring in billions for Puget Sound-area port projects
King County rent-relief program is underway, but falling short of need
Workers, in demand, have a new demand of their own: A career path
Inslee expands mask mandate, announces vaccine requirements for teachers
SBA’s PPP loan forgiveness portal sees surge. It’s also putting pressure on lenders to join.

Seattle Medium
Inslee Announces Educator Vaccination Requirement And Statewide Indoor Mask Mandate

Seattle Times
What to know about Washington state’s new mask mandate, vaccine requirement for school and child care workers
King County lags in distributing rent assistance for tenants, landlords
USDOT deputy secretary promotes electrification in Seattle, tours West Seattle Bridge
Hundreds in Tri-Cities, Olympia protest Washington mandates on masks, COVID vaccines
Washington’s COVID vaccine mandates ordered by Gov. Jay Inslee are among the strictest in the nation (Keiser)
Here’s how to help new local arrivals fleeing Afghanistan
When a homeless encampment was cleared, no one went to a shelter. The reasons are complicated
Opinion: Listen to the AMA and remove sex labels from birth certificates in Washington state

Skagit Valley Herald
Census: Skagit County population is growing and more diverse
People rally against school mask mandates
Groups vow to continue fighting Navy over jet noise

Snoqualmie Valley Record
Snoqualmie Valley School District runs slight budget deficit

Spokesman Review
Washington Supreme Court mandates COVID-19 vaccines for workers, encourages lower courts to do same
Masks required indoors again, as local hospitalizations and cases continue to climb
Inslee: Teachers and staff must receive COVID-19 vaccine by mid-October
Coordinated effort helps vaccinate Spokane’s homeless
Spokane Valley anti-mask protest erupts after Inslee’s new COVID mandates: ‘When is this going to end?’

Tri-City Herald
Officials recommend large Tri-Cities events cancel due to COVID. What that means for the fair
Hundreds rally in Tri-Cities against WA school mask mandate — and new vaccine rules
300+ new COVID cases reported in 1 day in Tri-Cities area, as hospitals overwhelmed
Prosecutor rules in ‘troubling’ Richland bypass shooting of unarmed man. New details released
Crews start emptying radioactive waste from massive, leak-prone Hanford tank

Vashon-Maury Island Beachcomber
Get the shots or not? Decision impacts fire chief, others

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
School officials: State vaccine mandate presents challenge to small districts in the Walla Walla area
Masks debated during public comment at Walla Walla School Board meeting
Walla Walla city leader’s weekly COVID-19 videos strengthened community during pandemic
Umatilla County reaches 100th COVID-19 death

Washington Post
Afghans waving national flag stage protests in several cities, defying Taliban rule
The wildfire was everywhere. Could a school bus driver and 22 kids find a way out?
Biden to get coronavirus booster as U.S. recommends third shot to Americans
Divisions emerge among Republicans over how to handle Afghan refugees
‘Active bomb threat’ near U.S. Capitol; Cannon, Madison and Jefferson office buildings evacuated
How to cope with the existential dread of climate change
Opinion: The Taliban says it will respect women. But we Iranians have seen this movie before.

Yakima Herald Republic
School vaccination requirement met with relief, frustration in the Yakima Valley
Yakima County has 297 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, the highest since early January
Opinion: Vaccination, mask rules are burdensome, but necessary

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Masks required for all Washington residents in indoor public settings regardless of vaccination status
Inslee makes COVID-19 vaccine a requirement for all school employees
Vaccine mandate for Washington school workers comes amid staffing shortages
Seattle restaurants and bars work to navigate another mask mandate
Sen. Cantwell tours West Seattle Bridge damage, hears plan for repairs

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Capitol Police investigating ‘active bomb threat’ near Library of Congress
Gov. Inslee: All teachers required to be vaccinated; indoor mask mandate
Vaccine breakthrough cases rise in Washington
Black wine bar owner focused on sustainability, paving way for underrepresented entrepreneurs
Health director issues mask directive for Pierce County

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Gov. Inslee revives indoor mask mandate, orders all school workers to get COVID-19 vaccine
Pierce County issues mask directive even for those vaccinated for COVID-19
New COVID-19 mandates don’t go over well with all Washingtonians
Q2 results set new records for Seattle’s homeless outreach efforts
Redmond mayor backs controversial homeless shelter plan despite vocal opposition
Delta variant now makes up nearly all new COVID-19 cases tested in Washington
Will Washington’s new indoor mask mandate be enough to combat fifth surge of COVID-19?

KUOW FM
Washington Issues Vaccine Mandate for K-12 Staff and New State Mask Requirement
Washington leaders urge action to welcome Afghan refugees (Jinkins)
Covid blog: Pandemic updates for the NW
EPA Will Ban A Farming Pesticide Linked To Health Problems In Children
Could a new fish passage system help Snake River salmon?
‘Are we going to really be able to prevent eviction?’ Community groups brace for next housing crisis
COVID-19 Booster Shots Will Roll Out In September In The U.S.

KXLY (ABC)
Parents statewide participate in rally against the mask mandate in schools
‘We kinda saw it coming around the corner’: Local business owners react to new mask mandate
Spokane Mayor Nadine Woodward responds to Gov. Inslee’s COVID-19 mandates

NW Public Radio
Washington Issues Vaccine Mandate For K-12 School Employees And Statewide Mask Mandate
Could A New Fish Passage System Help Snake River Salmon?

Q13 TV (Fox)
Inslee announces COVID vaccine requirement for educators, return of indoor mask mandate
‘Ruthless:’ Tacoma man shocked over 60% rent hike
Dozens of parents rally against masks in schools in Ferndale

Web

Civic Skunkworks
Kroger Can Easily Afford to Pay Higher Wages. They’re Giving $1 Billion to Wall Street, Instead.

Crosscut
Fish struggle to survive as water issues worsen in Klamath Basin
WA mandates vaccines for teachers, other school staff
Opinion: We need our own climate emergency research center

MyNorthwest
As mask mandate returns, delta variant now makes up 98% of state’s COVID cases
Gov. Inslee: ‘No reason to abandon a career’ over COVID vaccine mandate
Washington state adds 22,700 jobs in July, unemployment down to 5.1%
Gov. Inslee mandates vaccines for educators and staff, orders all vaccinated to mask up
Pierce County issues new mask mandate for indoor public spaces
Seattle council backs investigation of Indigenous human rights violations

Slog
Seattle and Washington State Scramble to Assist Afghan Refugees
Washington’s Public Long Term Care Program Is Good, Actually, and You Should Opt In

Wednesday, Aug. 18

Washington hospitals filling as pandemic labor shortage strains health care system
The labor shortage roiling American industries from restaurants to retail stores is now stressing the health care system, causing a ripple effect among Washington hospitals of severe overcrowding. The state’s hospitals are at near maximum capacity, forcing administrators to shuffle patients to other facilities, cancel surgeries and fill hallways with rented beds. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Elaine Thompson)

Washington wildfires grow, prompt evacuations, burn homes
Strong winds on Monday led to fire growth in central and eastern Washington that prompted new mandatory evacuations and burned homes, fire officials said. A fire northwest of Spokane that started Sunday near the town of Ford caused residents to scramble to leave their homes on Monday, The Spokesman-Review reported. Continue reading at The Associated Press. (Joseph O’Sullivan)

CDC: COVID-19 booster shots recommended for all after 8 months
U.S. health officials Wednesday announced plans to offer COVID-19 booster shots to all Americans to shore up their protection amid the surging delta variant and signs that the vaccines’ effectiveness is falling. The plan, as outlined by the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other top authorities, calls for an extra dose eight months after people get their second shot of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. The doses could begin the week of Sept. 20. Continue reading at KING 5.

Print

Associated Press
Washington wildfires grow, prompt evacuations, burn homes
US health officials call for booster shots against COVID-19
Fueled by winds, largest wildfire moves near California city
Death toll from Haiti’s weekend earthquake rises to 1,941
House Dems plan budget vote next week, defying moderates

Aberdeen Daily World
Fifth wave of COVID pandemic impacts Grays Harbor County
Aberdeen mayor, council member clash over comments

Bellingham Herald
Whatcom County sees 70 new confirmed COVID cases, 11 hospitalizations reported Tuesday
As hospital sets new pandemic record for COVID patients, Whatcom sees another big weekend
Work continues on this new tiny home village in Bellingham

Capital Press
Wheat tops $10 per bushel, but will it stay there?

Everett Herald
COVID-19 patients are again filling Snohomish County ICUs
Everett council evaluates city responses to homelessness
High-density housing isn’t coming to Mukilteo
WaPo Comment: It’s hubris to focus on ‘America’s humiliation’
WaPo Comment: U.S. again faces moral obligation to aid refugees
Letter: County’s mask mandate seems pretty clear; please follow it

The Inlander
What is wildfire smoke doing to our health?

Islands’ Weekly
Bipartisan bill hopes to improve rural veterans’ access to health care
County to host vaccine clinics next week

Kent Reporter
Residents debate police reform laws at Kent town hall

Kitsap Sun
City of Port Orchard restricts large-scale event permits for the rest of the summer

Mercer Island Reporter
City council to delve into draft sign code update on Sept. 21

News Tribune
Snopes co-founder tied to Tacoma company accused of fraud against homeless veteran
Troyer asks County Council to cover legal fees in criminal probe. Here’s what it decided
Opinion: Washington has a long history of welcoming refugees. Afghanistan should be no different (Jinkins, Thai)
Editorial: Election fraud hysteria persists in Washington, and Pierce County takes center stage
Op-Ed: Tacoma teachers, like me, must be vaccinated against COVID-19 for good of all

Olympian
Firefighters respond to fires in 2 Olympia area homeless encampments
UPDATE: Thurston County 911 dispatch unable to receive landline calls for hours Tuesday
Human remains found on JBLM-based plane seen surrounded in Afghanistan, Air Force says
Olympia hospitals have limited beds, ventilators available, health officials say
Can people with diabetes get a third COVID shot? Here’s what CDC guidance says

Peninsula Daily News
‘Consider your neighbor’
Broadband meeting set in Brinnon tonight
WHAT WE KNOW: Coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Third doses of COVID vaccine for those at risk in works

Puget Sound Business Journal
Tacoma council approves plans to spend $2.8M in state, federal recovery funds
Seattle area ranks among country’s most EV-friendly metros
Aerospace manufacturers seek to retain workers lured by high-growth tech firms
Seattle eases restrictions in bid to fill empty downtown storefronts
Rep. Duerr and Sen. Frockt: Opinion: An innovative new tool for Washington communities to create jobs

Seattle Times
Washington hospitals filling as pandemic labor shortage strains health care system
Three Alaska Airlines employees die of COVID as leadership moves toward vaccination mandate
Tuesday was Seattle’s coolest day in more than 2 months. Is fall weather here to stay?
How to end America’s longest war the right way, Washington state style
Seattle-area Afghans enduring sleepless nights, terrified for family in hiding under Taliban rule

Skagit Valley Herald
Anacortes to Sidney ferry service won’t return until 2022
County seeking applicants for Planning Commission
COVID cases, hospitalizations continue to surge

South Seattle Emerald
Program expands in South King county to offer rides to transit centers and more
Weekend Long Reads: The climate change report
Seattle Children’s Hospital workforce protest for full Covington report
The South End guide to reducing our carbon footprint: safety to walk and roll
Ask a Therapist: How to live in a turbulent new normal
Advocates push for systemic change in face of rising hate crimes in Seattle
Opinion: Climate anxiety is not a diagnosis, it’s a new reality

South Whidbey Record
Oak Harbor man credits vaccine for mild symptoms during 2nd bout with COVID-19
Langley council discusses bringing back mask mandate

Spokesman Review
Those with invalid drug possession convictions can petition Inslee to eliminate remaining supervision, likely paving way for 1,200 commutations
‘Despair, doubt and uncertainty’: As Afghans rush to evacuate Taliban-controlled capital, Spokane volunteer awaits their arrival in Virginia
Crosswalk Youth Shelter plans big move out of downtown Spokane

Tri-City Herald
Can people with diabetes get a third COVID shot? Here’s what CDC guidance says
Crews start emptying radioactive waste from massive, leak-prone Hanford tank
UPDATE: Benton commander who backed Hatcher’s recall named interim sheriff
COVID patients flooding into swamped Tri-Cities hospitals. New cases swelling
Tri-Cities survey shows which city is resisting the COVID vaccine the most and why
Tri-Cities voters won’t see transit sales tax cut on their ballots

Walla Walla Union Bulletin
Two Umatilla County women die with COVID-19, at ages 29 and 82
PLAZA WAY SERIES FINALE: Plaza Way roundabout now open in Walla Walla

Washington Post
With the Taliban now in control, here’s what Afghans are seeing in Kabul
How CDC data problems put the U.S. behind on the delta variant
Vaccines show declining effectiveness against infection overall but strong protection against hospitalization amid delta variant
Haiti earthquake survivors, stranded by storm, search for shelter
A mom of 4 who died of covid days after her husband makes one final wish: ‘Make sure my kids get vaccinated’
Federal mask mandate for planes, buses and trains to extend into next year

Whidbey News-Times
Letter: Parents ‘experts’ when it comes to protecting kids
Letter: Sharing views of anti-masker is ‘irresponsible’

Yakima Herald Republic
Census data shows Latinos now make up more than half of Yakima County’s population
CWU awards $10,000 in scholarships to fully vaccinated students
Three Alaska Airlines employees die of COVID as leadership moves toward vaccination mandate
Wildfire Resources for the Yakima Valley
Crews continue carving lines as Schneider Springs Fire prompts more evacuations
Air quality alert in effect through noon Wednesday for Yakima and Kittitas counties
Letter: Stop mincing words: they’re parasites, not patriots
Letter: Privileged protesters forget how lucky they are

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
COVID-19 booster shots recommended for all after 8 months
‘If it’s your child, it should be your choice’: Rallies across Washington call for end to school mask mandates
Younger, unvaccinated COVID-19 patients fill ICU at Seattle’s Harborview Medical Center
Asian American woman files suit against Shoreline neighbor alleging racial harassment
Pacific Northwest nonprofits prepare for refugees from Afghanistan

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Shoreline victim in anti-Asian hate crime; family files lawsuit
Booster shot recommendations could create vaccine logjam in the Pacific Northwest
Afghan refugees to be resettled in Seattle and Tacoma
Seattle man desperate to get family out of Afghanistan
New UW study says pregnant and breastfeeding woman do well with the COVID vaccine

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Protesters ask Redmond mayor to halt plans for homeless housing at former motel
Charges filed against suspect accused of threatening to kill Black man

KNKX FM
They want to tell the real history, celebrate vibrant people of the Coast Salish
In a hot NW housing market, even isolated Point Roberts is seeing prices sizzle

KUOW FM
Your Garden Might Be a Fire Hazard
Covid blog: Pandemic updates for the NW
America’s Security May Depend On Critical Minerals. But Mine Workers Are Scarce
Senators Demand TikTok Reveal How It Plans To Collect Voice And Face Data
A Seattle-area Afghan American reacts to ‘stolen hope’
WATCH: Biden Delivers Remarks On Afghanistan
Hazy skies and heat blanket the Pacific Northwest

KXLY (ABC)
Gov. Jay Inslee to hold press conference with state superintendent Chris Reykdal

Q13 TV (Fox)
Family files civil lawsuit against neighbor who is criminally charged for hate crime
COVID-19 booster shots: US recommends booster for all Americans starting in September
Some parents pulling their kids out of school due to lack of remote learning options
Biden extends 100% federal reimbursement of states’ COVID-19 costs
Supporting housing needs for Afghan refugees resettling in Western Washington

Web

MyNorthwest
Douglas County judge set to hear oral arguments for lawsuits against capital gains tax
Shoreline family suing neighbor charged for alleged anti-Asian hate crime, years of bullying
More than 100 homes evacuated in Lake Chelan due to wildfire
Washington parents’ group plans to protest mandatory masking in schools
Criticism for U.S. government as next border closure decision looms
Masks required for tourists, employees at any National Park
Gov. Inslee offers clemency for drug possession convictions invalidated by court ruling
Seattle council votes to move parking enforcement away from SPD

Slog
New Data Visualization Tool Shows Just How Bad the Recent Explosion of Transphobic Bills Is
Is Hope to Be Found in America’s Shrinking White Population?

Tuesday, Aug. 17

New Washington laws aim to break foster care-to-prison pipeline
What unites the group of imprisoned men seeking change isn’t addiction recovery, making amends or anger management. Instead, it’s a shared childhood experience: foster care. “State-Raised” is the name of the group they’ve formed with the goal of disrupting the foster care-to-prison pipeline. Washington legislation passed this spring is designed to help that mission, the group’s founder, Arthur Longworth, said on a recent call from the Monroe Corrections Complex. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Elaine Thompson)

Inslee commutes more convictions to clear backlog left after Washington state’s drug-possession law struck down
Gov. Jay Inslee has commuted the sentences of more than 125 people on community supervision whose drug convictions have been deemed unconstitutional by the Washington Supreme Court. That is part of a broader push to grant as many as 1,200 commutations for people on supervision whose convictions were invalidated by the court’s ruling in February, Inslee announced Monday. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Ken Lambert)

More protection: US likely to authorize COVID booster shots
After struggling for months to persuade Americans to get the COVID-19 vaccine, U.S. health officials could soon face a fresh challenge: talking vaccinated people into getting booster shots to gain longer-lasting protection as the delta variant sends infections soaring again. As early as this week, U.S. health authorities are expected to recommend an extra dose of the vaccine for all Americans eight months after they get their second shot, according to two people who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations. Continue reading at KING 5.