Spokane Wildfires & Public Safety: County leaders flew over Old Trails and Fairview damage, saying retardant drops helped protect structures and renewing warnings to keep drones grounded so aircraft can fight fires. Misinformation Watch: A misleading Spokane “data center” map circulated online, with addresses placed in the wrong locations and outside evacuation zones. Criminal Case: Prosecutors say arson suspect Aaron Farinacci confessed he planned the Old Trails Fire for weeks, with charging limited by state “single unit” rules. State Courts—Income Tax Repeal: A Thurston County judge upheld the ballot’s public investment impact disclosure for Initiative 645, keeping the budget trade-off language in place for November. Local Governance: Battle Ground City Council voted 4-3 to terminate City Manager Kris Swanson’s contract without cause after a rushed special meeting. Seattle Public Safety: Interim SPD Chief Andre Sayles addressed criticism after the Bite of Seattle shooting, promising a better communication plan between police and the mayor’s office. Tribal Recognition: Seattle, Tukwila and Renton proclaimed Aug. 8 “Cecile Hansen Day” honoring Duwamish Tribe chair Cecile Hansen. Sports & Culture: The WNBPA condemned hate toward transgender people amid the Sophie Cunningham backlash, saying the union won’t be used as political pawns.