Click here for our Daily E-Clips policy.

Monday, August 17

Study: Virus cases must drop for state’s schools to safely reopen
Driving down Washington state’s COVID infection rate would make it much safer to resume some in-person classes this fall, a study released Friday found. So if you want schools to reopen at any point this year, wear a mask and stop going to parties and other social events, health leaders said. Continue reading at The Bothell-Kenmore Reporter. (File)

Getting There: As WSDOT warns of ‘crisis,’ hard decisions lie ahead about new construction, preservation
On one hand, Mike Gribner is sounding the alarm bells about a severe lack of adequate funding to maintain the deteriorating highway infrastructure in Eastern Washington, where he heads the regional office of the Washington State Department of Transportation – and about the severe consequences it could have for the region’s economy and quality of life. Continue reading at The Spokesman-Review. (Dan Pelle)

The pandemic is hitting Black renters harder, Census data shows
“We’re seeing that [COVID-19] has affected black renters more now because a lot of people that are being put out of their jobs, those are jobs that marginalized people and Black people are employed at, and when they’re put out of jobs they have no money to pay their rent,” said Ty Brown, a community organizer with Washington Community Action Network and a member of Black Leaders in Action and Solidarity in Thurston County (BLAST). Continue reading at The Olympian. (David Zalubowski)

Print

Associated Press
The home front: Virus stalks nurses after they leave work
Quarantine requirements may delay return to in-person school
Politics slows flow of US virus funds to local public health
Pelosi to call House back into session to vote on USPS bill
Q&A: What’s happening at the US Postal Service, and why?
576 new coronavirus cases reported in Wash., 15 more deaths
Washington state officials assure Postal Service delays likely won’t affect mail-in votes
Crash, conflict blocks away from peaceful Portland protest
Gorge wildfire destroys 11 homes; crews battle rising temps
Officials: 2nd Oregon inmate dies after contracting COVID-19
US approves oil, gas leasing plan for Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
Riot declared, dozens arrested and officers injured in Portland, Seattle, Chicago protests
Washington health officials report 576 new COVID-19 cases
Police: 3 officers injured, 18 arrests in Seattle riot
Portland police declare riot, use smoke to clear crowd
Coronavirus hasn’t devastated the homeless as many feared
Black Portland reflects on role of white allies in movement
Trump to withdraw Pendley’s nomination as public lands chief
Protesters skirmish, fire pepper spray in Portland
Cars getting towed at crowded recreation areas, trailheads
40 COVID-19 cases reported at care facility in SW Washington
US allows killing sea lions eating at-risk Northwest salmon
Canada U.S border restrictions extended to at least Sept.

Aberdeen Daily World
New chamber CEO believes there is opportunity during pandemic
Port of Grays Harbor ends July strong, remains focused on marine terminals

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Did you lose health insurance with your job? Here’s how to get coverage in Washington
Washington health officials report 576 new COVID-19 cases
Here’s how to get an appointment for Whatcom Health’s COVID-19 mobile testing
Stuck at the border, Point Roberts residents may get this help getting to the mainland
We all endured Whatcom’s record heat Sunday, but did you feel the quake this morning?
CDC finds 40% of adults report COVID-19 mental health issues. There’s help in Whatcom
Whatcom County has six more positive COVID-19 cases, state says Saturday
Mobile COVID-19 testing is still in trials but here’s when it could go Whatcom-wide
Whatcom County has five new COVID-19 cases, state says Friday
Washington Health Department says COVID-19 cases are beginning to plateau
COVID schools report from researchers in Washington looks at hybrid K-5 class model
Border travel restrictions extended as B.C. now dealing with rise in COVID-19 cases
Washington state reports 576 new cases, 15 deaths
Washington state reports 746 new COVID-19 cases and 11 deaths on Saturday
Insurance Commissioner extends order requiring coverage for telehealth, drive-up tests
Gorge wildfire destroys 11 homes; crews battle rising temps
Emailing error leads to over 640 client accounts being exposed, DSHS says
Washington state reports 800 new COVID-19 cases and 19 deaths on Friday
Coronavirus updates: State reaches 67,461 cases, 1,781 deaths
Some parents will get a $500 stimulus check this fall, IRS says. Here’s what to know
No need to quarantine for up to 3 months after recovering from COVID-19, CDC says
Bloomberg: Trump charts Arctic drilling rights sale in likely election row

Bothell Reporter
Study: Virus cases must drop for state’s schools to safely reopen

Capital Press
Washington traps another Asian giant hornet
Inslee sets up COVID-19 fund for farmworkers
Forecasters: Odds improve for La Nina by fall

Columbian
In Our View: Trump undermining U.S. Postal Service
In Our View: Cheers & Jeers: Not all economic news dreary
In Our View: Forge a consensus, call legislative session

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Would a 5,300-acre county park be a good thing for U.S. 2?
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Study: Virus cases must drop for schools to safely reopen
Commentary: With liberty and face masks for all
Inslee directs $40 million to aid the undocumented
Comment: Hybrid plan to reopen school may be riskiest

Islands’ Weekly
Lopez Black Lives Matter signs vandalized a third time
Hot topic 27- Fact check on Face shields

Journal of the San Juan Islands
Coming of age in a pandemic

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Rep. Michelle Caldier cleared of alleged ethics violations
Ethics board dismisses complaint against lawmaker who attended Black Lives Matter protest
From zero symptoms to fatal complications, Kitsap community members share their experiences with COVID-19
Crowd gathers to mourn death of David Pruitte, killed in officer-involved shooting
Supporters wave flags, chant ‘back the blue’ at law enforcement appreciation event
Western Washington University to close SEA Discovery Center in Poulsbo temporarily
Amazon considering relocating its Seattle employees outside the city

News Tribune (subscription required)
Pierce County reports 55 new COVID-19 cases, no deaths
Ability to get meals, services to quarantined school kids at risk, WA superintendents say
It was one shift, but first all-female West Pierce Fire crew hopes it’s not the last
Fife food bank thought it had suffered crushing loss. Sharp-eyed officer saves the day
See which industries have had the most COVID-19 outbreaks in Pierce County since June
Tacoma Catholic parish whose iconic church is slated for demolition declared unviable
Opinion: Repealing Tacoma bike helmet law is wrongheaded decision
Opinion: Tacoma-Pierce public health chief should improve communication, stop scary anecdotes
Tacoma filmmaker gets $20,000 grant for movie with hopes to shoot in Washington state

New York Times
Trump Administration Finalizes Plan to Open Arctic Refuge to Drilling
A Private Security Company Is Detaining Migrant Children at Hotels
Looming Fee Increase Could Thwart Many U.S. Citizenship Applications

Olympian (subscription required)
Deschutes encampment landowner in talks to donate property to conservation group
Coronavirus updates: State reaches 67,461 cases, 1,781 deaths
The pandemic is hitting Black renters harder, Census data shows
Washington state reports 576 new cases, 15 deaths
Coronavirus updates: State reaches 67k cases; cars getting towed at crowded trailheads
Thurston County ends week at 76 COVID-19 cases, lowest weekly total since early July
Officials warned the hotel not to evict residents, but people are still being forced out
Downtown merchants ask for support as survey paints grim picture for businesses
First phase of Brewhouse tower repairs foreshadow a new Tumwater
Emailing error leads to over 640 client accounts being exposed, DSHS says
Insurance Commissioner extends order requiring coverage for telehealth, drive-up tests
Did you lose health insurance with your job? Here’s how to get coverage in Washington

Peninsula Daily News
PA students third grade and older to start school online only
Drive-thru testing in Port Angeles
Swan School takes education outside
Clallam records 10 new COVID-19 cases
Port Townsend City Council to consider process today
Peninsula Tribal dental clinics receive grants
COVID-19 takes a life on Peninsula
‘Drive-through’ Back to School Fairs set in Port Angeles, Sequim
Jefferson County Library to receive CARES Act funding
Peninsula schools deciding on reopening plans
EYE ON JEFFERSON: Board of Health to discuss racism
Clallam County provides relief funds to PUD customers

Skagit Valley Herald
Face masks, gloves join increasing load of pandemic litter
Burlington, Skagit County to assist in expanding fiber optic network
August COVID-19 cases matching July count so far

Snoqualmie Valley Record
Editorial: Tax credit proposal would aid local journalism

Spokesman Review
Getting There: As WSDOT warns of ‘crisis,’ hard decisions lie ahead about new construction, preservation (Fey)
As battle over mail-in voting heats up, Washington offers example of how to avoid the disaster many states fear
Restaurants and hoteliers from Pullman to Spokane to feel sting of no fall football
‘Plateauing is not enough’: State health officials say return to school depends on ‘sustained decline’
‘We just want a choice’: Protesting parents demand in-school learning option
State agency initiates investigation into farmworkers exposure to chemical drift in Mattawa
‘We are going through a collective trauma’: Foster children in Spokane face major stresses during pandemic
Editorial: Overdue pandemic relief for undocumented immigrants

Tri-City Herald
‘In harm’s way.’ Tri-Cities agricultural workers bearing heavy COVID-19 burden
Kennewick has double the COVID rate of Richland. Pasco is even higher
Protesters call for justice and change for the man shot to death by Kennewick police
Editorial: Reckless parking lot crowd is sabotaging Tri-Cities fight against COVID
Op-Ed: Washington license requirements favor the rich

USA Today
Pelosi calls on House to return to vote on bill that would stop changes at Postal Service
‘Brilliant and politically savvy:’ The roles of African American women in the fight to vote 100 years ago
COVID-19 will hit colleges when students arrive for fall semester. So why open at all? Money is a factor.

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Thermal scanners a new tool for Dayton’s school year
Walla Walla Regional Airport operations are still taking off during pandemic
Editorial: State governments shouldn’t count on federal aid

Yakima Herald Republic
Evacuations issued for fire on Ahtanum Ridge; crews also fighting other blazes
Yakima County is doing more COVID-19 tests than most counties statewide. But more tests still need to be done
New Yakima County COVID-19 cases continue downward trend with 26 Sunday
Ecology seeking public comment on Yakima Training Center cleanup plans
It Happened Here: KKK stages events at Capitol Theatre, Ahtanum farm
Mexican workers who left mid-harvest describe a COVID-ridden cherry season in Okanogan County: ‘It was like we were disposable’
Yakima reaches record high of 102 Sunday. Heat warning remains in effect through Tuesday
Yakima Health District reports 54 new COVID cases, extending double-digit stretch to 21 days
Census scramble: Participation is low, so push is on in Yakima area
Home prices still rising as COVID-19 keeps available homes low

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Police: 3 officers injured, 18 arrests in Seattle riot
Park legally at Oregon, Washington recreation areas or get towed

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Riot declared during anti-police rally in Seattle, 18 arrested
Trump administration to cut money for National Guard
Pelosi signals she will recall House for USPS vote this week
SPD: Man arrested for allegedly assaulting officer at Cal Anderson Park
Portland police declare riot, push protesters from building
USPS boxes removed in Portland but not yet in Seattle
Tensions continue to rise on Seattle’s Capitol Hill; 4 people arrested
Extreme heat triggers Red Flag fire warnings
Ability to get meals, services to quarantined school kids at risk, WA superintendents say
Private schools alter plans as Pierce County health department requires remote learning
Researchers project COVID death toll in U.S. could reach nearly 300,000 by end of year
Young Black activists say time for change is now
Inslee issues proclamation for COVID-19 Food Production Paid Leave Program

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
4 SPD officers hurt, 18 protesters arrested in violent clash Sunday night in SoDo
Evacuations ordered for wildfire near Yakima
Lucha Libre stars encouraging mask use in Pasco between battles

KNKX FM
Washington tribes working for strong turnout in 2020 US Census

KUOW FM
Pelosi Calls Lawmakers Back To Block Postal Service Changes
Blog: Protests for racial justice in the Seattle area
Updates on the Covid-19 pandemic in Washington state
130 Degrees: Death Valley Sees What Could Be Record Heat
Democrats Warn Of ‘Assault’ On The Postal Service As Election Nears
Need A Laptop? Colleges Boost Loaner Programs Amid Pandemic
Can Testing Students For Coronavirus Twice A Week Prevent Campus Outbreaks?
Can Air Conditioners Spread COVID-19?
Mail machines removed from Washington state post offices, workers worry about November ballots
How Should I Cover My Face? A Deeper Look Into Neck Gaiters And Face Shields

NW Public Radio
President Trump To Withdraw Polarizing Nominee To Lead Bureau Of Land Management

Q13 TV (Fox)
18 arrested, at least three officers injured in Seattle riot Sunday night
Seattle police officer opens up about morale and concerns over his job
One school district in Kittitas County plans to fully reopen amid COVID-19 pandemic
Infection modeling suggests schools could reopen, but not without significant risk

Web

Crosscut
Chief Best’s departure shines light on generous police pensions
Pandemic pushes WA foster care group homes into lose-lose dilemmas

Seattle P.I.
Downtown business organizations ask city council to reconsider ‘Amazon Tax’

Slog
Cops Clear Homeless, Mutual Aid Protest Group from Cal Anderson Shelterhouse
UW Protesters Embark on Month-Long Art Installation at George Washington Statue

Friday, August 14

Inslee presses message in Brewster, where nearly a quarter of residents have COVID-19
Gov. Jay Inslee flew to Brewster Thursday, an Okanogan County town of 2,300 people, 518 of whom have tested positive for COVID-19. There, Inslee met with community leaders and pressed his message that residents should adhere to masking and distancing directives to help bring the high infection rate down. Continue reading at The Spokesman-Review. (Jennifer King)

Most Americans won’t be able to get a coronavirus vaccine until well into 2021
Even if the most optimistic projections hold true and a COVID-19 vaccine is cleared for U.S. use in November, the vast majority of Americans won’t be able to get the shots until spring or summer next year at the earliest. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Hans Pennink / The Associated Press)

Pandemic pushes WA foster care group homes into lose-lose dilemmas
With COVID-19 spreading into Washington’s system of group homes for foster kids, operators of the homes say they are in a precarious position and fear “retaliation” by state child-welfare officials who ended state funding to a home that turned away COVID-positive youths. Continue reading at Crosscut. (Dougal Brownlie for Crosscut)

Print

Associated Press
Inslee visits latest COVID-19 hot spot in state
House Republican leader says he had COVID-19
Trump gives credence to false, racist Harris conspiracy
Columbia Gorge Fire grows, 10% contained
We’re still not allowed to go to Canada
Trump’s suggestion to eliminate payroll tax doesn’t add up
Trump admits he’s blocking postal cash to stop mail-in votes
Human-caused Columbia River Gorge fire prompts evacuations
State police exit Portland after 2 weeks of protest duty
State sees decrease in initial, total jobless benefit claims
Justices overturn $2.9M award to Yakima nurses for unpaid OT
Outbreak of biotoxin closes some beaches in Washington state
NCAA cancels fall championships as major football marches on
For Americans waiting on virus aid, no new relief in sight
Seattle to build 600 new units to house chronically homeless
Portland State disarms campus police after Black man’s death

Aberdeen Daily World
Mixed reactions to president’s push to open schools
Pacific County Public Health will accept rent assistance applications starting Monday
Pacific County reports 12 COVID-19 cases the week of Aug. 5-12
Confirmed Covid numbers in GH County

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
COVID-19 a deadly disease that has these long-term complications, Washington state says
Watch: Gov. Jay Inslee spoke Thursday about Washington state’s COVID-19 response
Washington state reports 637 new COVID-19 cases and 12 deaths on Thursday
Bellingham home prices continue to skyrocket. Here’s why
Report shows Whatcom COVID-19 deaths, cases associated with long-term care facilities
Here’s how CARES funds are helping Bellingham and Whatcom Housing Authorities
Whatcom County has seven new COVID-19 cases, state says Thursday
Hand sanitizers made in China, Texas, North Carolina now on the FDA’s Do Not Use list

Capital Press
USDA to give out 8 million RFID ear tags
WDFW to cull Leadpoint wolf pack

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Slowdown ahead for port as COVID pummels aerospace industry
Inslee directs $40 million to aid the undocumented
COVID-19 updates for parents and guardians
Bloomberg Comment: Covid’s spread may involve more than ‘bad’ behavior
Editorial: Court order a threat to law that protects press
Letter: Without action by Congress, wave of evictions looms

Islands’ Weekly
New COVID-19 case confirmed on Orcas
Lopez School goes virtual
An open letter to the council-elect | Letter

Journal of the San Juan Islands
Town offers flexible utilities payment plan

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
Poulsbo officer who killed Stonechild Chiefstick to face no discipline, can return to work
‘Gender equality pioneers’: Influential women from Washington includes state and Seattle politicians

News Tribune (subscription required)
Puyallup voters will be asked in November to raise their taxes to support schools
Puyallup School District: Distance learning could continue until March 2021
COVID-19 exposure at Madigan pharmacy limits hours, causing long delays for medicine
Tacoma and Pierce County must learn from Seattle’s ‘defund the police’ fiasco
Tacoma police dog dies after being shot by homicide suspect
Washington state reports 637 new COVID-19 cases and 12 deaths on Thursday
Pierce County sees 72 new COVID-19 cases, one new death

New York Times
Coronavirus Live Updates: C.D.C. Guidance Shows Three-Month Window of Safety After Recovery
Nursing Home Families Yearn to Visit Loved Ones Again
America’s Retirement Race Gap, and Ideas for Closing It

Olympian (subscription required)
Coronavirus updates: State says virus has long-term complications; Inslee discusses mail-in-voting
Port of Olympia sues Washington state ferry owner in federal court
Local land trusts form partnerships to preserve farmland and river and stream habitat
I-5 traffic near Olympia blocked for an hour as man runs through north and south bound lanes
COVID-19 a deadly disease that has these long-term complications, Washington state says
Enough peanut butter to make 3M sandwiches stored in Fife as part of state food reserve
Local activists help Olympia City Council rethink how it creates social justice group

Peninsula Daily News
State primary election turnout massive
Two new cases each in Jefferson, Clallam counties
Clallam County provides relief funds to PUD customers
U.S. Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound command changes
Roadwork continues on 101 near Discovery Bay

Puget Sound Business Journal
Google, Facebook and others broaden group to secure U.S. election
Labor Department lawyer says Trump appointee intervened in Oracle case
‘The aerospace business just dried up’ : Boeing supplier in Kent shutters, hundreds of jobs to vanish
PPP is over. And the Main Street Lending Program is no cure-all for businesses.
Grocery properties face pricing upheaval as landlords respond to Covid-19
PPP forgiveness aside, we need a new bankruptcy category
Seattle office building managers prepare for workers return, new safety measures
$400 unemployment supplement is really $300, and won’t arrive soon
Worried lenders pounce on landlords unable to pay their loans
Opinion: These are the impacts of Covid on the office, retail and industrial markets
Seattle aims to build 500 units of supportive housing in just 16 months

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Amazon considers relocating some employees out of Seattle
Passions on display during listening session over Seattle police response to protests
Most Americans won’t be able to get a coronavirus vaccine until well into 2021
Six months into pandemic, Washington state still struggles with COVID-19 data
What type of mask is best? How often should I wash it? Answers to your questions about masks
Washington park employees and volunteers are working overtime as people flock outdoors amid COVID-19

Skagit Valley Herald
Swinomish police chief resigns

Spokesman Review
Inslee presses message in Brewster, where nearly a quarter of residents have COVID-19
‘The door is open’: New homeless shelter opens in Emerson/Garfield, as arena site shuts down
Spokane superintendent acknowledges funding, teaching uncertainties as atypical school year approaches

Tri-City Herald
‘Getting it done.’ U.S. energy secretary marks milestone at Richland radioactive waste plant
Tri-Cities voter turnout was the highest in a decade. What changed?
Trend shows Tri-Cities kids could be back in classrooms by late fall. 1 more death reported
Downtown Kennewick streets close for 8 weeks. Open-air dining and shopping take over
Benton sheriff’s deputies want their boss kicked out of office. Judge puts off decision

USA Today
What’s going on with the post office? Here’s what we know

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Walla Walla COVID-19 cases up by 11; Umatilla County’s grow by 27
Quarantine limitations impede area musicians’ livelihoods
Editorial: Curbing spread of coronavirus at penitentiary is top priority

Washington Post
Record Arctic blazes may herald new ‘fire regime’ decades sooner than anticipated

Yakima Herald Republic
Yakima County making plans to restart jury trials in September
No post office closures, layoffs in Yakima area, but operation changes in the works
90 new COVID-19 cases, two more deaths reported Thursday in Yakima County
Editorial: Mabton school rehabilitation: Anything is possible

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
Gov. Inslee allocates $43 million to help protect undocumented, agricultural workers during COVID-19 pandemic
Families sue Washington state over remote learning rules for special education
Lengthy San Juan Islands ferry delays frustrate riders and residents
City of Everett faces $18 million budget deficit heading into 2021

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
Councilmember Kshama Sawant releases statement in response to Chief Best’s retirement
Coronavirus: Inslee issues proclamation for COVID-19 Food Production Paid Leave Program
WA attorney general suing California e-juice company for potentially selling to minors
Human-caused Columbia River Gorge fire prompts evacuations

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Parents of kindergarteners consider keeping kids in pre-k during distance learning
Gov. Inslee concerned about new state COVID hotspot in Okanogan County
Seattle mulls how to dismantle Navigation Team after City Council budget cut
State sees decrease in initial, total jobless benefit claims

KUOW FM
Exclusive: After Quitting Last Year, Senior U.S. Intelligence Official Now Talks
New California Financial Watchdog Would Take Aim At Predatory Lenders Amid Pandemic
Trump’s Comments On USPS Funding Has Voters Worried
News Brief: Israel And UAE Deal, Biden’s Lead On Trump, USPS Funding
How’s our country’s health care? Not the worst, or the best
Council Member Mosqueda on the Best resignation, rethinking Seattle public safety
CDC Director Warns This Fall Could Be The Worst Ever For Public Health
As Journalists Work From Home, Their Newsrooms Are Shutting Down
DOJ: Yale Discriminates Against Asian American and White Applicants In Admissions
COVID-19 Death Rate For Black Americans Twice That For Whites, New Report Says
Department Of Justice Seizes Bitcoin, Websites From Terror Groups
Trump Administration Rolls Back Obama-Era Restrictions On Methane Emissions

Q13 TV (Fox)
Skyway single mother among thousands still waiting for unemployment
Everett Mayor: Difficult decisions ahead to fill $18 million budget shortfall
Gov. Inslee visits Brewster, latest COVID-19 hot spot in Washington

Web

Crosscut
Pandemic pushes WA foster care group homes into lose-lose dilemmas

Slog
Mutual Aid Group Occupies Cal Anderson Shelterhouse to Serve Homeless

Thursday, August 13

‘It’s not just dollars, it’s lives’: Officials hope COVID-19 pandemic will change way public health is funded
In 2018, the Washington Department of Health identified a $30.8 million funding gap for assessment and surveillance of such public health threats, part of a $227 million shortfall for all public health needs in the state. Public health workers past and present are hoping history doesn’t repeat itself with the novel coronavirus, and that emergency funding is replaced with a more reliable stream of support to prepare for future pandemics. Continue reading at The Spokesman-Review. (Dan Pelle)

The impossible choice facing local schools deciding whether to open their doors
The question has no right answer. The test is rigged. If Julie Ancona-Shepard sends her son to school this fall, she risks him carrying home a virus that’s already killed more than 150,000 Americans. If she keeps him home, he’ll fall further behind and may never catch up. Continue reading at The Inlander.

State changes negative test reporting
The Washington State Department of Health announced COVID-19 testing data will soon be reported using the total number of tests completed. This is a change from the current reporting, which reflects the total number of unique individuals ever tested. Continue reading at The Olympian. (George Calin)

Print

Associated Press
Primary turnout in Washington state highest seen in decades
Columbia River Gorge wildfire prompts evacuations
Seahawks finally ready to take field at training camp
Washington families say law hurts students with disabilities
Man stopped by ICE agents near courthouse files federal suit
Police order crowd to leave amid Portland protests
Detectives use family tree to ID cold-case shooting victim
Residents told to evacuate as wildfire in Gorge area grows
Seattle school board approves fall online learning plan
Tear gas at Portland protests raises concern about pollution

Aberdeen Daily World
Aberdeen adopts plan for school year
Staff member at Pacific Care in Hoquiam tests positive for COVID-19
Grays Harbor College receives $2.68 million federal grant for student services
Lewis County narcotics team investigating possible local circulation of ‘monster meth’

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Lawsuit: Washington COVID-19 rules deny basic education to kids who can’t learn remotely
Bellingham police officers used man with mental health issues for prank, records show
Seattle school board approves fall online learning plan
Whatcom County has nine new COVID-19 cases as total reaches 1,000, state says Wednesday
Washington state reports 551 new COVID-19 cases and 8 deaths on Wednesday
Washington state health officials cautiously give ‘good news’ at weekly COVID briefing
Washington state creates COVID-19 relief funds for these two vulnerable groups
Face masks with valves or vents don’t help prevent spread of coronavirus, CDC warns

Capital Press
Southwest Washington farmers test malting barley market
Trump’s executive orders: Can he do that?
Investigation continues to unravel seed packet mystery

Columbian
In Our View: Blame failed virus policy for nixing of sports
Clark County Council hears from residents about systemic racism
Vancouver’s financial hit from coronavirus milder than expected so far
Clark County reports 39 new COVID-19 cases, new demographic data

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Latest COVID spike may have peaked in July, data shows
New help during COVID: Counselors reach out with resources
WaPo Comment: During Covid, cancer patients now face lonely fight

Highline Times
Prosecutor issues warning on prostitution scam calls

The Inlander
After a deluge of Spokane women call out alleged rapists and sexual abusers on social media, what comes next?
The impossible choice facing local schools deciding whether to open their doors

Islands’ Weekly
New rental housing for Lopez

Issaquah Reporter
King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office warns about scam calls
26% of foster care students disengaging from school during COVID-19

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
COVID-19 restrictions leave Kitsap alleys to wonder if they’ll ever bowl another frame
Friends of David Pruitte recall a funny, sensitive soul
Deputy who shot David Pruitte involved in two other shootings from 2017
“It’s a huge game-changer”: How CHI Franciscan’s Bremerton clinic has embraced telehealth

News Tribune (subscription required)
These Pierce County police continue to use neck holds after deaths of Floyd, Ellis
Homicide suspect, police dog critically injured after pursuit and shootout in Tacoma
Sterud returns to role of chairman with Puyallup Tribal Council
‘You wish that people would be adults.’ Businesses walk fine line with mask enforcement
Smile! Pierce County simplifies restaurant inspection signs
Lincoln Hardware, an iconic Tacoma mom-and-pop, will soon close its doors for good
Mask fashion, fatigue, politics in Gig Harbor

New York Times
Coronavirus Live Updates: U.S. Reports Nearly 1,500 Daily Deaths, Reflecting Continued Toll of Summer Surge
New Weekly Unemployment Claims Dip Below 1 Million: Live Updates

Olympian (subscription required)
Coronavirus updates: State changes negative test reporting
Health advisory in effect for Lake Lawrence due to toxic algae bloom
Pregnant patients at Madigan’s OB/GYN clinic sent elsewhere due to staffing shortfalls
Washington state health officials cautiously give ‘good news’ at weekly COVID briefing
With no sports through 2020, here are biggest questions facing UW and Pac-12
Lawsuit: Washington COVID-19 rules deny basic education to kids who can’t learn remotely
Rent aid program will launch August 24 in Thurston County

Peninsula Daily News
NatureBridge outdoors program shuts down
Jefferson County schools prepare to open
New Jefferson County order gives teeth to masking rule
Naval Magazine Indian Island to conduct security training exercise
Costco employees save woman with defibrillator
Clallam County primary voter turnout just over 60 percent
Jefferson County primary voter turnout over 66 percent
PREPS: Fall seasons officially pushed to spring 2021

Puget Sound Business Journal
New US jobless claims dip below 1m for first time since March
Publisher’s notebook: Seattle City Council’s knee-jerk legislation will cost us
Public health officials: It’s time to start treating Covid-19 like the new normal

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Seattle-area parents form ‘learning pods’ to keep kids from falling behind, but coronavirus-driven trend raises equity concerns
Washington state to change how it counts negative coronavirus test results
Opinion: The Seattle City Council owes Police Chief Best an apology
Families with students receiving special education file lawsuit asking court to overturn emergency pandemic rules

Skagit Valley Herald
Mountain goat relocations complete
Mobile COVID-19 testing may be added for Skagit County
Biotoxin closes most local shellfish harvest

Spokesman Review
‘It’s not just dollars, it’s lives’: Officials hope COVID-19 pandemic will change way public health is funded
Washington’s COVID case counts are declining, but health officials warn there’s a long way to go
‘This is the bulk of what we need’: School disruptions don’t hinder Salvation Army effort to hand out backpacks, supplies
Spokane Valley residents will soon be eligible for utility, mortgage, rental assistance after city contracts with non profits to provide COVID-19 aid
Senators seek clarity on Postal Service’s treatment of election mail (Tarleton)

Tri-City Herald
Editorial: Sheriff Hatcher, your leadership is toxic. Resign so Benton County can heal
Washington state reports 551 new COVID-19 cases and 8 deaths on Wednesday
4 more COVID deaths raise Tri-Cities death toll over 150. But new cases drop
Opinion: Energy Secretary: Hanford progress shows Trump Administration’s commitment

USA Today
Unemployment claims slip below 1M for first time since March but job losses remain high as Congress wrangles over more aid
Coronavirus live updates: Most deaths in a day since May; anxious teachers draft wills; CDC director warns of ‘worst fall we have ever had’
‘This is a crisis’: National Urban League finds persistent racial disparities exacerbated during pandemic

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Community roundtables to address school, childcare and job issues in the time of COVID-19
Port of Walla Walla pivots, applies for remaining federal aid

Washington Post
Abortion, transgender rights likely to land back before Supreme Court
The Finance 202: Trump’s push to cut capital gains taxes highlights scattered coronavirus relief effort

Yakima Herald Republic
40 new coronavirus cases in Yakima County; Testing capacity set to increase
Officials break ground on Yakima County’s East-West Corridor
Discussions continue about Virginia Mason-CHI Franciscan merger
Q&A: The latest on child care availability in Yakima County and what it means for kids out of school

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
REI won’t move into new Bellevue headquarters and focus on remote working instead
Will smoke from Siberian wildfires impact air quality in western Washington?
Seattle City Council overrides Mayor Durkan’s veto, approves smaller amount from city reserves
Seattle School Board approves remote learning plan to start the school year

KIRO7 TV (CBS)
King County Councilmember requests a ‘Chief Carmen Best Day’ in early September
Who is taking over for Carmen Best? Here’s what we know about Interim Chief Adrian Diaz
REI plans to put its brand-new headquarters up for sale
Seattle Council overrides Durkan veto of COVID relief bill
Durkan announces city investment in 600 new permanent housing units for homeless

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Fred Hutchinson study: 80% of infected people do not spread COVID-19
Seattle Public Schools announces plan for remote learning this fall
Seattle Councilmembers call for unity amid growing ‘friction’ with Mayor Durkan

KNKX FM
Working parents in Washington scramble to find child care as schools plan remote learning
Health department says many people mask up in Pierce County, but it’s still not enough
She followed the rules and takes COVID seriously. But now an Olympia gym owner is ‘freaking pissed

KUOW FM
New Jobless Claims Dip Below 1 Million For 1st Time Since March
With More Transparency On Election Security, A Question Looms: What Don’t We Know?
Can Military Academies Serve As A Road Map For Reopening Colleges?
Seattle schools will continue remote learning in the fall, could later implement outdoor education
Bright spots (If we can call it that) in pandemic news
Funding For Postal Service, Mail-In Voting Stall Coronavirus Relief Talks

Q13 TV (Fox)
Black Seattle Police recruit who brought Chief Best to tears ‘nervous’ about future with force
Lawsuit filed against Washington state for ‘denying basic education’ to special needs children amid COVID-19
Seattle schools officially go online this fall but some specifics remain elusive
REI to sell new headquarters in Bellevue and ‘normalize’ remote working model

Web

Crosscut
Opinion: Empower King County youth to invoke their rights with police

Slog
Waterfront Park Closed to Public Until 2024, Questions of Stability Remain
Portland Lifts Ban on Duplexes, Triplexes, and Fourplexes
At Last, Some Good News (For Fish)
The Two Times I Watched Kamala Harris Make History

Wednesday, August 12

Will unemployed Washingtonians ever see the extra $400 coronavirus payment?
on’t expect to see the extra $400 unemployment benefit President Donald Trump announced anytime real soon in Washington. If it is eventually added to the weekly payments thousands of state residents receive, it could cause new problems for Washington’s already-troubled financial situation, according to Gov. Jay Inslee’s office. Continue reading at The News Tribune. (Ted S. Warren)

School district distributes thousands of extra meals amid pandemic
As schools across Washington state were shuttered last spring, a federal waiver allowed every K-12 student to get free breakfasts and lunches through a summer food program. But Congress hasn’t acted to renew that program, which ends on Aug. 31, even as the coronavirus pandemic drags on. Continue reading at The Federal Way Mirror. (File)

Expanding broadband access is critical
The pandemic has made it clear that in a world of physical distancing and contactless commerce, reliable, high-speed internet connection is not a luxury — it is essential. To emerge from this pandemic safely and successfully, our leaders in Congress must prioritize legislation that modernizes broadband infrastructure. Continue reading at The Tri-City Herald. (Andrew Harnik)

Print

Associated Press
U.S. judge: Cities cannot fine people for living outside
Antibody drugs to treat COVID-19 could roll out by early fall
Governor creates $40 million relief fund for undocumented immigrants
Promising COVID-19 treatment sends Seattle biotech company’s stock soaring
Big Ten pulls plug on fall football amid COVID-19 concerns
Former Washington state mayor accused of stealing funds
No charges for many arrested at ongoing Portland protests
Supreme Court stops Oregon redistricting ballot measure
Probe: Interior held back Bernhardt records sought by court
No prosecution for many arrested at Portland’s protests
Seattle media companies appeal police protest subpoena
State sets aside $40M in relief for undocumented residents
In Seattle, a Black police chief resigns over budget cuts
Prosecutor won’t act on low-level Portland protest arrests
Updated COVID-19 guidance issued for religious services
Limited attendance on outdoor fitness classes announced
Washington state to kill more wolves that attack livestock

Aberdeen Daily World
Hoquiam to switch to online building permit system
Business survey shows big impact from pandemic
State seeks feedback on 2021 halibut season

Bellingham Herald (subscription required)
Inslee: $40 million Immigrant Relief Fund to help those who can’t get stimulus money
Pac-12 Conference cancels fall football season, all sports through end of 2020
Second person cited in scuffle at Whatcom County Black Lives Matter rally
14 DNR firefighters quarantined as 1 tests positive for COVID-19 after NE Wash. blaze
Last Whatcom public school announces plans for the start of school year amid COVID-19
Whatcom County has one new COVID-19 case as death count fluctuates, state says Tuesday
As racist vandalism continues in Bellingham, ‘we’re not going to be intimidated’

Capital Press
Fitbits for chickens: Tiny ‘backpacks’ detect parasite infestations
Some win, some don’t, as USDA spreads COVID relief

The Daily News
Kelso school board approves plan for online start, passes $73.6 million budget
Cowlitz County breaks 500 COVID-19 cases Tuesday

Everett Herald (subscription required)
Relieve the pandemic coin shortage: Bust open the piggy bank
What seniors can expect as new normal in a post-vaccine world
What we know: Washington coronavirus outbreak at a glance
Oak Harbor Public Schools decide on plan for fall opening
WaPo Commentary: Absence from classroom is harming kids
Bloomberg Comment: What many fear of ‘cancel culture’ is being silenced
Harrop: Payroll tax cut a threat to Social Security, Medicare
Letter: Everett police officer scoffed at mask order, duty to protect

Federal Way Mirror
School district distributes thousands of extra meals amid pandemic

Highline Times
Seattle Police Chief Carmen Best resigns after 28 years with the department

Islands’ Weekly
Inslee announces education recommendations

Journal of the San Juan Islands
Pulling species back from the brink of extinction

Kitsap Sun (subscription required)
‘It’s going to take a team effort’: Kitsap Health Officer Dr. Gib Morrow takes over with pandemic in full swing
Seattle police chief blames City Council as she steps down after vote to cut $4 million in budget, 100 officers
Pac-12 Conference cancels fall football season

News Tribune (subscription required)
Is chemical that caused deadly explosion in Beirut stored in Tacoma, Seattle ports?
Here’s how you can help make it easier to access Mount Rainier National Park
Pac-12 Conference cancels fall football season, all sports through end of 2020
$7.5M in grants available to Pierce County businesses hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic
Surge in kids falling from windows blamed partially on COVID-19 quarantines
$10K signing bonus helps Pierce County Sheriff’s Department nab needed patrol deputies
Armed man fatally shot by Pierce County sheriff’s deputy in Graham is identified
Will unemployed Washingtonians ever see the extra $400 coronavirus payment?
Pandemic puts Tacoma economy in the toilet, but TAGRO is a shutdown success story

New York Times
925 Quarantined for Covid. Is This a Successful School Reopening?
Advisers Consider Whether Trump Can Cut Taxes Without Congress
The Scramble to Pluck 24 Billion Cherries in Eight Weeks
How American Guns Are Fueling U.K. Crime

Olympian (subscription required)
Coronavirus updates: State passes 64k cases; Inslee announces Immigrant Relief Fund
Inslee: $40 million Immigrant Relief Fund to help those who can’t get stimulus money
Washington state reports 504 new COVID-19 cases and 19 deaths on Tuesday
13 new cases of COVID-19 increases Thurston County total to 802
Rosie’s Place shelter reopening after COVID-19 shutdown
Gov. Inslee updates, clarifies guidance for safe religious and fitness services

Peninsula Daily News
Port Angeles School Board to vote on reopening plan Thursday
Infection rates reached through formula
No new COVID-19 cases on Peninsula
Search for fishermen off Cape Flattery continues
Port Townsend City Council approves ad hoc work plan

Puget Sound Business Journal
The nation wanted to eat out again. Everyone has paid the price.
Colleges reverse campus plans as enrollment numbers, financial storms worsen
Seattle Police Chief Carmen Best says forced cutbacks led to her abrupt retirement
New studies measure Covid’s impacts on commercial real estate

Seattle Times (subscription required)
Governor creates $40 million relief fund for undocumented immigrants
Seattle police Chief Carmen Best says City Council’s budget cuts, lack of respect for SPD drove her retirement decision
Seattle media companies appeal police protest subpoena to state Supreme Court
374 Seattle Police Department employees made at least $200,000 last year; here’s how
Washington’s coronavirus data reporting problems persist: State hasn’t had complete testing tallies since Aug. 1

Seattle Weekly
Inslee lifts visitation ban at long-term care facilities
School district distributes thousands of extra meals amid pandemic

Skagit Valley Herald
Private schools prepare for in-person learning
Members of Congress call for more COVID relief
School boards approve fall plans
MV Mayor Boudreau appointed to Association of Washington Cities

Snoqualmie Valley Record
SVSD distributes tens of thousands of extra meals amid pandemic

Spokesman Review
Single platform, more child care, class meetings: SPS expected to adopt new distance-learning model
Inslee announces $40 million pandemic relief fund for Washington immigrants
Boeing deliveries slow to a trickle, while 737 Max cancellations grow
‘Great for working parents’: Spokane district to offer distance learning at school sites

Tri-City Herald
Judge tosses Didier and Eyman lawsuit against Inslee’s ‘unconstitutional’ stay-home order
14 DNR firefighters quarantined as 1 tests positive for COVID-19 after NE Wash. blaze
Another COVID death, even as new cases drop in Tri-Cities area
Benton County installs fever-detection kiosks to prevent coronavirus spread
Opinion: Expanding broadband access is critical

USA Today
‘Leaving us behind’: High-risk students ask, why can’t all college courses be offered online?

Walla Walla Union Bulletin (subscription required)
Umatilla reports 31st COVID-19 death; Walla Walla County cases up by 12
Pac-12 Conference cancels all sports through end of 2020
Transportation plan aims to move region forward
14 DNR firefighters quarantined as 1 tests positive for COVID-19 after NE Wash. blaze
Walla Walla Catholic Schools announces contingency plans for fall
Editorial: Postal Service should continue treating ballots like first-class mail
Yakima Herald-Republic: Washington apple crop in 2020 similar in size to last year

Washington Post
White House clarifies limits of jobless aid plan as talks with Congress dim
Quoting ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ judge strikes down Trump administration rollback of historic law protecting birds
Trump weighs blocking Americans at the Mexico border, but legal authority is shaky and no decision has been made

Whidbey News-Times
Fall out: Whidbey’s three high schools postpone sports
Oak Harbor Public Schools decide on plan for fall opening

Yakima Herald Republic
Selah Council gives mayor the ability to hire outside investigator for Wayman
Q&A: The latest on child care availability in Yakima County and what it means for kids out of school
Yakima Valley Libraries to roll out curbside checkout in full on Aug. 24
Yakima County sees another day of COVID-19 counts below 100, with 41 new cases
Wapato, Naches Valley to start school remotely this fall
More than 70 small businesses in Yakima eligible for grants

Broadcast

KING5 TV (NBC)
‘Seattle has made a tragic mistake’: Trump reacts to departure of Police Chief Carmen Best
La Conner sees 10% of its small businesses disappear due to coronavirus

KOMO4 TV (ABC)
Cuts to Seattle police department face potential problems from federal authorities
Seattle council members wish Chief Best well but say they stand by their budget vote
President Trump on Chief Best’s retirement: ‘Seattle has made a tragic mistake’
Interest in homeschooling has ‘exploded’ amid pandemic
Report: Coronavirus cases rising among older adults in Wash. state
Alaska Air flight delayed after several passengers refuse to wear masks

KNKX FM
Parents sue two state agencies, saying students are being deprived a basic education
Health department says many people mask up in Pierce County, but it’s still not enough

KUOW FM
Seattle Now: Chief Best steps aside
Carmen Best and the big picture: Not ‘just a story about a police chief resigning’
Reactions in the wake of the police chief’s resignation
Postal Workers Decry Changes And Cost-Cutting Measures
Seattle’s Waterfront Park closes permanently after inching out to sea
Payroll Tax Delay To Boost Take-Home Pay, But Don’t Spend It Yet
How The Coronavirus Has Upended College Admissions

NW Public Radio
Census Canvassers Fan Out In The Inland Northwest Ahead Of September Deadline
Wildlife Managers Will Kill More Wolves In Northeastern Washington After Livestock Killings

Q13 TV (Fox)
Nationwide search for SPD Chief Carmen Best’s replacement on hold

Web

Crosscut
Black Seattleites react to police chief’s resignation with rage, hope
A Seattle photographer takes portraits of SPD’s ‘less lethal’ weapons
Opinion: Seattle international students caught between Trump and COVID-19

Seattle P.I.
Coronavirus cases in Washington rising among older adults: report

Slog
Why Did SPD Chief Carmen Best Call It Quits?
Biden Picks Kamala Harris to Run as Vice President

Tuesday, August 11

Seattle Police Chief Carmen Best says she will retire amid protests, City Council cuts
Seattle Police Chief Carmen Best will step down, she has announced, in the wake of protests against police brutality, criticism over the Police Department’s response and votes by the City Council to shrink the police force and cut her wages. “This was a difficult decision for me, but when it’s time, it’s time,” Best wrote in a Monday night message to Police Department employees. Continue reading at The Seattle Times. (Mike Siegel)

Why did it take more than 2 months to stop the largest fraud in Washington state history?
Revelations last week that this spring’s $576 million unemployment fraud, the largest in state history, started much earlier than previously acknowledged have spurred a storm of new questions over the handling of the crime. Data released Aug. 3 by the state Employment Security Department shows that criminals were filing fake claims in the first week of March. Continue reading at The Walla Walla Union-Bulletin. (Mike Siegel)

With no end to the pandemic in sight, coronavirus fatigue grips America
Parents lie awake, their minds racing with thoughts of how to balance work with their newfound role as home-schoolers. Frontline health workers are bone tired, their nerves frayed by endless shifts and constant encounters with the virus and its victims. Senior citizens have grown weary of isolation. Unemployed workers fret over jobs lost, benefits that are running out, rent payments that are overdue. Continue reading at The Washington Post. (Nick Otto)