Hugs in the time of Delta Vaccines have made it a lot safer to be physically close to people again. But that's prompting all sorts of conversations about people's comfort level with physical touch. Do you go in for a hug, or keep your distance? Sonya Sheptunov
'It's not our rule. We're just abiding by it.' Statewide mask mandate returns to Washington This week Washingtonians are once again required to wear face masks inside businesses and at indoor gatherings. Governor Jay Inslee made the decision as covid hospitalizations in the state are at an all time high in the coronavirus pandemic. Casey Martin
Covid makes a rebound, Washington begins planning for refugees, and mosquito anxiety, this week Bill Radke discusses this week's news with Crosscut Science and Environment Reporter Hannah Weinberger; South Seattle Emerald reporter and co-host of Clap Back Culture on Converge Media, Mike Davis; and Kitsap Sun Military Reporter Josh Farley. Alec Cowan
Heat wave likely killed far more people in Washington state than reported Hundreds more people died in Washington state during the last heat wave than previously reported, new analysis reveals. Gracie Todd
NW hospitals stock up on ice and 'prepare for the worst' of heat-related illnesses Local hospitals could see another influx of patients as the Northwest enters the summer’s second heat wave. Anna Boiko-Weyrauch
Seattle opens dozens of cooling centers ahead of another heat wave The heat this week won’t be anywhere near what the Pacific Northwest saw in June. Still, with temperatures forecasted to be in the mid-90s, cooling centers have reopened all over town for people to get out of the heat. Casey Martin
UW study links fine particulate air pollution to dementia Air pollution is often associated with respiratory illness. But a new University of Washington study adds to a growing body of evidence that links air pollution to greater risk for dementia. Ruby de Luna
Misinformation could be behind trailing youth vaccinations in WA Youth ages 12 to 17 years old are lagging behind when it comes to COVID-19 vaccinations. According to data from the Washington State Department of Health, the majority of eligible youth are not vaccinated so far. Esmy Jimenez
Seattle restaurants are feeling the pressure with Covid cases on the rise again It's been a month since Washington fully reopened - a month of bars, restaurants and other businesses once again being allowed to operate at full capacity. So, how's it going? Kate Walters
The northern border remains closed (for some), Bezos goes to space, and wildfire season is officially here. All that, this week. Bill Radke reviews the week’s news with Seattle Times investigative editor Jonathan Martin, political analyst and contributing columnist Joni Balter, and Seattle Met deputy editor Allison Williams. Alec Cowan
