Seattle: Weekend Events and Housing Market

The weekend in Seattle is packed with events from Comic-Con to a festival of colors. The war in the Middle East has pushed mortgage rates back up, cooling the housing market. Comedian Martin Short’s daughter has died.

Seattle weekend guide: from Comic-Con to the festival of colors

The upcoming weekend in the Seattle area promises to be incredibly busy, offering a range of events for every taste — from large pop-culture festivals to cozy local celebrations. If you haven’t decided how to spend the days yet, our guide will help you navigate the variety of happenings.

At the center of attention, of course, is Emerald City Comic Con, which has already begun and will run through the weekend. It’s a grand celebration of pop culture, with panels, workshops and celebrity appearances, including William Shatner and Hayden Christensen. Tickets are still available, and additional tips for having the perfect day at Comic-Con are available in the original guide on MyNorthwest.com. On Saturday, the Chinatown-International District (CID) invites you to celebrate Lunar New Year in Hing Hay Park. Admission is free, and attendees can enjoy a food walk featuring more than 40 restaurants and businesses, live performances including traditional lion dances and martial arts demonstrations, and numerous vendor booths. For music lovers, the Northwest Record Show will take place Sunday at the Seattle Center Armory, with vinyl records, CDs and collectibles offered at more than 50 tables. Admission is $3, but you can get a $1 discount by bringing nonperishable food for the Northwest Harvest charity. Early-entry tickets are available for those who want to get in at 8 a.m.

On Sunday in Redmond, the Festival of Color will celebrate Holi, the Indian festival of colors. There will be mass color powder tosses every half hour, along with contests, giveaways, flash mobs, dancing and treats. The event is free but requires pre-registration on the event website. For families with children, Kent Commons will host Kent Kids Arts Day on Saturday: for $10, children from preschool through fourth grade can try 12 different hands-on art projects led by professional artists. Admission is free for adults and children under 2. Also on Saturday, Lacey Cultural Celebration will be held at Saint Martin’s University in Lacey — a free event with music, dance, food from around the world and craft booths. Children can get a “traveler’s passport,” filling which gives a chance to win a prize.

The weekend is also marked by events honoring International Women’s Day, observed on Sunday. On Saturday, Edmonds Waterfront Center will host a luncheon, and W Seattle hotel will hold See Her Be Her, an event dedicated to women in electronic music. On Sunday at 11 a.m., the Women’s March in Seattle will begin at Cal Anderson Park. Finally, sports fans can catch a hockey game Saturday evening at Climate Pledge Arena, where the Seattle Kraken will face the Ottawa Senators. As you can see, there’s a huge selection — everyone can find something to enjoy during these lively Seattle weekends.

Middle East war and hopes for lower rates: how the conflict affected Seattle’s housing market

The real estate market in the Seattle area, which had recently been encouraged by a dip in mortgage rates, has again faced uncertainty due to the geopolitical crisis. A short-term drop in interest rates below the psychologically important 6% threshold was undone by the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, illustrating how fragile a recovery can be amid global instability. This situation created a unique moment in which seller momentum is not being matched by buyers, who remain constrained by high prices and economic uncertainty.

In February, U.S. mortgage rates fell to 5.98%, the lowest level in three and a half years, which, Freddie Mac reported, gave hope to the stalled market. That decline prompted many homeowners who had delayed selling for years to list their homes, hoping for better conditions for their next purchase. As Redfin chief economist Daryl Fairweather noted in The Seattle Times, “Sellers had long wanted to move but had been waiting for lower mortgage rates.” As a result, new single-family home listings in King, Snohomish and Kitsap counties rose 19%, and in Pierce County they rose 13.5% year over year. However, that seller enthusiasm was not matched by buyer activity. Closed sales in February fell: down 4.5% in King County, 8% in Snohomish and nearly 1% in Kitsap. The only exception was Pierce County, which saw a 1.3% increase.

A turning point came when U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, one of the world’s largest oil exporters, sparked a jump in oil prices and, consequently, pushed mortgage rates back above 6%. Redfin economist Chen Zhao explains that the effect of the conflict on rates can be twofold. On one hand, rising energy prices can strengthen inflation expectations and push rates higher. On the other hand, geopolitical instability sometimes pushes investors toward safe-haven bond markets, which can put downward pressure on rates. Thus, the long-term effect of the current crisis remains unclear, but a prolonged war and disruptions in the oil market could have lasting consequences for borrowing costs.

Even with rates relatively low by recent standards, the market remains sluggish because of high housing costs and broader economic uncertainty. Single-family home prices largely continued to rise: the median price increased 2.3% to $936,000 in King County, 5% to $578,250 in Pierce County and nearly 4% to $561,250 in Kitsap County. In Snohomish, the price fell 4.5% to about $745,000. As Fairweather emphasizes, even with lower rates, housing remains unaffordable for a median-income family in each of these counties, even with a 20% down payment. “It changed things, but not enough to influence the decisions of most buyers,” the economist says.

The market shows unevenness. While aggregate data point to a slowdown, some realtors note a surge of interest from buyers drawn by lower rates and increased inventory. Seattle agent Emily Anderson says many buyers were “ready to act” this year, and the most attractive properties in neighborhoods like Green Lake and Phinney Ridge received more than a dozen offers. Dana Fitzpatrick, an agent with Compass, also notes an influx of buyers but points out that demand is uneven: well-priced homes sell quickly while others linger on the market. Redfin data confirm that buyers gained more negotiating power: about half of homes in the Seattle metro in 2025 sold below their initial asking price. However, discounts average only about 5.7%, the lowest rate in the nation, indicating a certain balance of expectations.

The picture is particularly bleak in the condominium market. Despite an increase in new listings, closed sales in February fell sharply: down 23% in King County, 9.6% in Snohomish and 22.2% in Pierce. Median sale prices also declined: down 11% to $545,000 in King and 9% to $375,000 in Pierce. In the most condo-dense areas, the drop is even more pronounced: on the Eastside, prices plunged nearly 23% and sales dropped more than 39%. Fairweather explains this by buyers’ concerns about rising maintenance costs for aging buildings and slowing appreciation for apartments. For many, monthly rents for a one-bedroom are lower than mortgage payments for a comparable condo, making renting the more rational choice.

Thus, Greater Seattle’s housing market is caught between a brief respite from lower rates and the harsh realities of geopolitics, high costs and uneven demand. Hopes for a spring revival now depend not only on U.S. economic indicators but also on developments on the other side of the world, making forecasts for buyers, sellers and investors more uncertain than ever.

Death of Kathryn Short: Martin Short’s daughter has passed away

The entertainment world is in mourning: Kathryn Short, the eldest daughter of renowned actor and comedian Martin Short, has died at age 42. Her family said in an official statement that Kathryn was beloved by everyone and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world. Details of the tragic news were reported by KIRO 7 News Seattle.

The news has been a blow not only to the family but also to fans of Martin Short, known for projects like Saturday Night Live and numerous comedic film roles. In their brief but heartfelt statement, the family emphasized Kathryn’s inner qualities rather than public achievements — her ability to brighten the lives of those around her. Often in such tragic circumstances, families request privacy, and this statement, which omitted details about the cause of death, reflects a desire to preserve dignity and focus on fond memories.

The loss of a child, especially at this age, is an indescribable tragedy that transcends fame and celebrity. Martin Short, whose career has been built on making people laugh, now faces personal grief shared by his loved ones and colleagues in the industry. This news is a reminder that behind the bright images on screen are real people with joys and sorrows. The bright memory of Kathryn Short, that “beloved by all” soul, will remain the most important legacy, outshining any Hollywood achievements of her father.

❮ ❯

Washington governor backs tax on millionaires

Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson announced he is prepared to sign a bill to introduce a new income tax on residents whose annual earnings exceed one million dollars. The decision came after prolonged negotiations with leaders of the Democratic majority in the legislature, who had previously been unable to agree on how to allocate the tax revenue. Ferguson, who had earlier voiced concerns about the proposal, has now approved its latest version, calling the move historic for correcting an unfair tax system. The current system is considered unfair because Washington has no traditional personal income tax regardless of income level. Instead, the state relies mainly on sales and property taxes, which place a heavier burden on low-income people, while the wealthiest residents pay a smaller share of their income in taxes. A capital gains tax for high incomes was recently introduced, but it is not a general income tax.

Under the proposal, a state income tax of 9.9% would be imposed on individual earnings over $1 million per year. It is expected to affect roughly 30,000 taxpayers, with collections starting in 2028. Annual revenues, estimated at about $4 billion, are planned to be partially directed to fund free breakfasts and lunches for all students from kindergarten through 12th grade, with 5% of the funds earmarked for child care and prekindergarten programs.

The latest version of the bill, released by House Democrats, underwent changes. It expanded tax breaks for some families and businesses, but excluded funding that had previously been intended to cover rising city and county costs for state-appointed counsel in court cases. Governor Ferguson praised these adjustments, saying they will make life in the state more affordable for families and small businesses.

Despite the governor’s support, the bill still must pass a vote in the House, which could take place as soon as Monday. Senate Majority Leader Jamie Pedersen, the state senator representing the 43rd District (which includes part of Seattle), expressed support for the changes. As a senator, his role is to craft, propose, debate and vote on bills that regulate life in the state, as well as serve on key committees and work with colleagues in the House and the governor. However, he warned that the vote could be unpredictable due to stalling tactics by Republicans and possible new amendments from Democrats that could complicate final passage.

Opponents of the tax have already promised to challenge it in court and launch a citizens’ initiative to repeal it. Democrats included a provision in the bill banning the issue from being put to referendum. A successful initiative would require collecting twice as many signatures as a referendum, making that path more difficult but not impossible.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA ‘millionaires tax’ headed for passage as Ferguson says he’ll sign it

Washington bans forced microchipping of employees

The Washington State Legislature unanimously approved a law prohibiting employers from requiring, offering, or encouraging the implantation of microchips in their employees. The bill, which has already passed the House of Representatives, is now headed to the desk of Governor Bob Ferguson. The Democratic governor, whose political stance traditionally combines support for technological innovation with active protection of workers' rights, plays a key role in shaping such policy. Earlier, as the state attorney general, he frequently took on cases against large corporations, reflecting his approach to balancing the interests of business and society. If signed, Washington would become the 14th U.S. state to proactively ban this practice in the workplace.

The bill’s sponsors emphasize that it is preventive in nature and is intended to protect workers’ bodily autonomy. “It simply says, ‘Don’t chip me,’” said Senator Rebecca Saldaña. The bill’s sponsor in the House, Representative Brianna Thomas, noted that while the idea may sound like science fiction, technologies are developing rapidly, and it is important to put legal protections in place ahead of time. Their active stance in promoting preventive legislation is directly related to Washington’s economic profile, which is a global technology hub with companies such as Microsoft and Amazon. The state’s dependence on the tech sector creates a need to proactively regulate potential issues at the intersection of privacy, ethics, and working conditions, to protect residents while also supporting the innovative environment that is critical to the economy.

Despite overwhelming support, the law met some resistance. Six legislators, including Representative Joel McEntire, voted against it. McEntire acknowledged the need for discussion but expressed concern that the ban could limit technological innovation and personal choice. He questioned how to strike a balance between protecting rights, keeping the economy competitive, and allowing companies to develop new technologies.

It is currently unclear how widespread the practice of implanting microchips in workplace settings is. One known example is the Swedish company Biohax, which in 2018 implanted about 4,000 rice-grain-sized microchips to store contact information or electronic tickets. However, that company went bankrupt in 2021, casting doubt on the commercial viability of such services.

Thus, the Washington law is part of a growing trend in the U.S. to regulate new technologies at the intersection of labor relations and personal privacy. Its passage reflects lawmakers’ desire to set ethical and legal boundaries before such practices potentially become commonplace, a concern that is especially relevant for a state with such a powerful technology base.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA legislators vote to prohibit microchipping of workers

Seattle to invest billions in Skagit hydropower and river restoration after century-old...

Seattle's utility Seattle City Light, a municipal utility owned by the city and accountable to its government, has agreed to invest about $4 billion over the next 50 years. The goal is to continue operating its three hydropower dams on the Skagit River, located roughly 60 miles north of Seattle. Historically the city acquired these lands and built the dams in the early 20th century to supply power to a growing population, and the Skagit basin remains a critically important resource for electricity generation.

The long-awaited agreement was reached with Indigenous tribes, as well as state and federal agencies, after years of negotiation. It includes large new commitments for salmon assistance, ecosystem restoration and compensation for harms to Native peoples. Final approval of the document is expected from the Seattle City Council, after which it will be sent to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for a new license that could be issued around 2030. That federal agency regulates hydropower projects nationwide, and its license — affirming compliance with environmental and legal standards — is legally required for the dams to continue operating.

Under the deal Seattle will allocate $979 million to create a “trap-and-haul” system to transport adult and juvenile salmon and other fish around the dams both upstream and downstream. An additional $200 million is earmarked for restoration of natural habitat throughout the Skagit basin, including projects long advocated by tribes. The utility, balancing ecological and economic responsibilities as a municipal enterprise, also commits to managing reservoir levels and river flows in ways that better protect fish, especially threatened Chinook salmon and steelhead.

For Seattle electricity customers, these commitments could lead to rate increases of about 0.5% per year from 2027 through 2032. Longer-term financial impacts are harder to predict due to uncertainty about future costs. The Skagit hydropower plants currently provide about 20% of Seattle’s electricity, helping keep local rates below the national average. However, their construction more than a century ago caused irreparable harm.

The dams inflicted deep damage on salmon populations and on the spiritual and cultural sites of Indigenous peoples whose lands lie along the Skagit. The community of Newhalem, whose modern significance is tied to tourism and water-resource management, was built directly on the site of the Upper Skagit tribe village Daxʷaliłb. The Gorge dam diverted the river through a tunnel in the mountain, draining a sacred canyon. That hydropower project encompasses the creation site for the Upper Skagit people and other culturally significant locations.

Formal talks over the dams’ future began in 2019, before the current license expires in 2025. During the process the tribes, federally recognized Indigenous nations with sovereign status, filed several lawsuits. They increased pressure on the city, demanding more action to help salmon and address a century of cultural and spiritual harms. Over that time the tribes’ treaty-guaranteed fishing opportunities — established by historical treaties with the U.S. government — have been greatly diminished.

Public outcry intensified after an Upper Skagit tribal member launched a petition with nearly 50,000 signatures calling for removal of the Gorge dam. Investigations also found that Seattle City Light misled the public about the dams’ environmental impacts. The tribes used both traditional ecological knowledge — centuries of observation and holistic understanding of ecosystems — and Western science to demonstrate the need for effective fish passage for recovery, especially in the context of climate change.

The Upper Skagit, Swinomish and Sauk-Suiattle tribes insisted on strong provisions for fish passage and habitat restoration. “As the Salmon People, restoring and maintaining the health of the Skagit River will always be our highest priority,” said tribal representatives, whose treaty rights to fish and access resources are protected by the U.S. Constitution.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle City Light proposes $4 billion for Skagit River hydropower dams

Court upholds couriers' rights in Seattle; new rules remain in effect

A U.S. federal appeals court has upheld the legality of Seattle’s rules protecting the rights of drivers and couriers who work through platforms like Uber and Instacart. The law, passed in 2023, was designed to regulate the so-called gig economy and to prevent unfair deactivations. The court rejected a lawsuit by companies that argued the new rules violated their constitutional rights and ruled that the law remains in effect.

Under the new legislation, companies are required to develop a clear and “reasonable” policy explaining why and under what conditions a courier can be deactivated from the platform. The law prohibits terminating workers for reasons such as low hours worked, frequent declines of orders, or past driving-record issues, unless they are directly related to safety. In addition, companies must provide advance notice of deactivation and offer a chance to appeal. This measure is part of a broader package of city initiatives aimed at improving working conditions in the short-term work sector. Seattle has previously implemented a minimum pay for delivery workers, protected their right to keep full tips and bonuses without deductions, and launched programs providing benefits to such workers, including paid sick leave.

Judges unanimously rejected the companies’ argument that the requirement to write a “reasonable” policy violates their free speech rights (the First Amendment). The court held that the law is a permissible economic regulation and does not restrict the companies’ right to criticize it. Seattle’s city attorney welcomed the decision, emphasizing that every worker deserves clarity and fairness from the companies that profit from their labor.

A spokesperson for Instacart expressed disappointment with the ruling, calling Seattle’s rules “burdensome” and harmful to both couriers and customers. Notably, the political context has shifted: since 2024 the majority on the Seattle City Council that originally passed the law has changed. After the 2023 elections, new members joined the council, resulting in a more moderate composition compared with the previous progressive majority. This new council pays less attention to active regulation of platform employment, shifting focus toward finding a balance between protecting workers and business interests, which may slow the adoption of further initiatives to expand gig-economy worker rights.

❮ ❯

Based on: Federal court upholds Seattle’s delivery driver rights law

Washington energy-saving programs: paying customers to reduce usage

State utilities in Washington are rolling out innovative programs designed to ease strain on the grid during peak demand periods. These initiatives, known as demand-response or flexible consumption programs, offer customers financial incentives to voluntarily cut their energy use—especially during cold snaps when people return home from work and turn up the heat. Participation is entirely voluntary, and subscribers can opt out at any time.

There are two main approaches: time-varying rates, where electricity costs more during peak hours and less at other times, and direct payments in exchange for allowing utilities to remotely adjust settings on devices like thermostats, water heaters or electric-vehicle chargers. The Seattle Times, as part of its Climate Lab initiative, is now collecting feedback from readers who have taken part in these programs to understand whether such trade-offs are worthwhile and how people feel about giving up control of their appliances.

❮ ❯

Based on: Some WA utilities are paying customers to turn down the heat. Did you sign up?

Seattle: Vandalism, Offices and Shelters

In Seattle, a drunken vandal with a knife was arrested, Amazon is cutting office space, and the mayor is pushing to speed up the creation of 1,000 shelter beds for the homeless.

Arrest in Seattle: drunk vandal with a knife and Fireball seized after bridge damage

An incident in nighttime Seattle has again raised questions about public order and safety. A young man, heavily intoxicated, committed an act of vandalism and then tried to flee from law enforcement, resulting in his arrest with a set of physical evidence.

Early Thursday morning, at about 1 a.m., a Seattle police patrol officer noticed suspicious activity under a bridge on West Marginal Way South in the South Park neighborhood. According to a KOMO report, a 20-year-old man was spray-painting graffiti on public property. When the officer approached, the suspect attempted to flee, triggering a prolonged foot chase through the quiet neighborhood streets. The officer eventually detained the runner. Traces of light-blue paint were found on the suspect’s hands, matching the fresh drawings under the bridge, providing physical evidence of his involvement.

The detainee’s condition left no doubt—he was heavily intoxicated and could barely stand. A more troubling discovery was a weapon: a knife was found on him. Police note that the individual is already known to law enforcement in connection with violent crimes, which adds gravity to the incident. In addition to the knife, a bottle of Fireball whiskey—a popular high-proof cinnamon-flavored spirit often associated with rapid intoxication—was seized. The act of vandalism—spraying graffiti on the bridge—is destruction of property, a criminal offense.

As a result of the incident, the young man was taken to the King County jail. He faces charges of destroying property, obstructing justice (for attempting to flee an officer), and importantly, possession of alcohol by a minor. Although the age of majority in most U.S. states is 21, the 20-year-old arrestee is considered underage in the context of alcohol laws. The case has been turned over to detectives, who forwarded the materials to the city prosecutor for final charging decisions.

This case goes beyond simple hooliganism. It shows how public intoxication, vandalism, and possession of a weapon can create a dangerous situation for public safety. The fact that the suspect is known to police on violent-offense charges raises questions about the effectiveness of preventive measures. The incident also underscores the work of patrol officers who, responding to what may seem like a minor act of vandalism, can prevent more serious threats. For South Park residents, it’s a reminder that police monitor neighborhood order even at night; for city officials, it’s a prompt to revisit issues related to youth, alcohol, and crime prevention.

Amazon cuts office space: new trend or necessary measure?

Recently, large tech companies have increasingly reassessed their office-space policies, and Amazon is no exception. As KIRO 7 News Seattle reports, the e-commerce giant is cutting office space as part of a broader post-COVID-19 industry trend. This decision reflects a shift in corporate culture where remote and hybrid work are becoming the new norm, displacing traditional models with strict in-office schedules.

Analysis indicates that Amazon’s reduction of office space is more than just a cost-saving move; it’s a strategic step to adapt to changing labor-market conditions. The pandemic accelerated adoption of remote-work technologies—cloud services and virtual collaboration tools—allowing companies to maintain productivity without employees’ physical presence. For Amazon, which had already invested in digital infrastructure pre-pandemic, the transition was relatively smooth, but now it requires reassessing real estate holdings. Reducing space can yield significant savings on rent and maintenance—important given economic uncertainty and rising inflation. However, this process presents challenges: companies must balance employee flexibility with maintaining corporate culture, which often relies on in-person interaction.

This article also mentions the “Millionaires Tax,” which recently passed the Senate; while seemingly a separate regional policy issue in Washington State (where Amazon is based), Governor Bob Ferguson has noted progress in allocating revenue from that tax and is seeking further changes to ensure funds are effectively returned to the community. Although a direct link between this tax and Amazon’s office cuts is not obvious, both developments reflect broader economic and social-policy shifts as companies and governments adapt to new realities. For context: the “Millionaires Tax” is a proposal to impose an additional income tax on very high earners to reduce inequality and fund public programs, which can influence the regional business climate.

Key takeaways include that hybrid work models are likely to persist long-term, forcing companies to optimize real-estate assets. Data show many employees value remote-work flexibility, which can increase job satisfaction and reduce turnover. For Amazon, this is also an opportunity to reallocate resources toward innovation, such as AI development and logistics networks. The consequences could be significant: office-space reductions may affect commercial real estate in cities like Seattle, where Amazon is a major tenant, potentially lowering rents and reshaping the urban landscape. Overall, the move highlights how tech leaders are shaping the future of work by combining efficiency with adaptation to employee needs.

Seattle mayor proposes accelerating creation of 1,000 shelter beds for the homeless

Seattle officials are taking a new step to address the homelessness crisis, aiming not just to move people along but to provide real help and shelter. Mayor of Seattle, Kshama Sawant — correction: Katie Wilson (note: keep original name as in the article: Katie Wilson) — presented a package of legislative measures intended to rapidly create 1,000 new shelter and temporary housing units with comprehensive social services.

At a Wednesday press conference, Mayor Katie Wilson, flanked by community leaders, neighbors and social-service providers, announced plans to sharply expand the city’s shelter network. The centerpiece of her initiative is a bundle of three ordinances sent to the Seattle City Council. These measures are intended to clear bureaucratic obstacles and speed the opening of 1,000 new shelter beds and placements for the homeless during the current year. As Wilson said, the goal is not simply to move people from place to place, but to provide them with a roof and supports to achieve long-term stability. “We are moving faster than ever, but I want to see construction start, hammers pound, and fewer people sleeping in doorways and tents,” she said, according to MyNorthwest.com.

Proposed measures include streamlined procedures for leasing spaces, reduced bureaucracy for organizing shelters and tiny-home villages, and increasing shelter capacity limits from 100 up to 150 and 250 people where appropriate. To fund these plans, $4.8 million would be redirected from underused funding sources. A key aspect of Wilson’s plan is an emphasis on wrap-around services. This means that beyond shelter, people in the new facilities will receive help with employment, addiction treatment, psychiatric support, and other social services—boosting chances for successful reintegration.

The Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) called Wilson’s plan “a bold first step.” DSA President and CEO John Scoles said in a statement that “adding supportive services is a critically important component of this plan, increasing the likelihood that residents will get on a clearer path to long-term stability.” He also noted that too many people still sleep on the streets, and the plan should help more people move indoors and receive needed assistance. Interestingly, after her 8.5-minute speech, Mayor Wilson left the event without taking reporters’ questions, which may indicate a desire to move quickly to action or reflect the tension around this complex issue.

Wilson calls solving the homelessness crisis the top priority of her administration. In her remarks she clearly stated the approach philosophy: “The city must ensure everyone can use our parks, trails, sidewalks and other public spaces. But we cannot keep simply moving people from place to place and call that progress. The most important thing we can do to address the homelessness crisis in our city is rapidly expand emergency housing and shelters with supportive services.” The proposed ordinances now face discussion and votes in the City Council, which will determine whether the mayor’s administration can implement this ambitious plan within the stated timeframe.

❮ ❯

Zahilay strengthens financial oversight in King County after grant scandal

King County Executive Girmay Zahilay, the county’s highest elected official and chief administrator, announced the creation of a new internal auditor position and a package of measures aimed at strengthening oversight of the county’s finances. The steps respond to a high-profile audit last year that found serious failures in the management of hundreds of millions of dollars in grants in the Department of Social and Human Services, resulting in unauthorized payments and possible fraud.

As part of the reforms, in addition to hiring an internal auditor who will start work at the end of March, a special “sub-cabinet” is being created to boost accountability and compliance. New internal controls over the distribution of grant funds will be introduced and the training program for staff who oversee contracts will be expanded to cover ethics and fraud prevention. Zahilay stressed that the new auditor will work proactively with all departments to identify potential risks.

The executive described these changes as part of a response to the county’s ongoing budgetary challenges, which in recent years have moved from one deficit to another. The budget’s vulnerability—largely funded by property and sales taxes plus federal and state transfers—stems from its sensitivity to economic downturns. At the same time, major expenditures such as health care, social services, public safety and transportation are mandatory and difficult to cut. Zahilay said that while the county will eventually need to seek new revenue sources, it must first demonstrate responsible spending, identify savings opportunities and deliver concrete results. His directive also requires each department to conduct a comprehensive review of its budget.

Last year, the county’s projected general fund deficit exceeded $150 million and was resolved only after state officials allowed increases in local taxes. Zahilay noted that the next two-year budget cycle will again face a projected deficit, so the new oversight measures are intended to rebuild trust and ensure systemic resilience.

❮ ❯

Based on: Zahilay creates new King County auditor position and oversight controls

Ferry Walla Walla returns to service after hard landing

The ferry Walla Walla, which made a hard landing in the Port of Edmonds Wednesday morning, sustained damage that led to the cancellation of several sailings and two-hour delays for motorists. After a thorough inspection, the U.S. Coast Guard declared the vessel fit for continued operation and cleared it to return to the route by that evening. There were no injuries, but while damage assessment and necessary repairs were underway, the critical Edmonds–Kingston crossing was left with only one operating ferry.

Key evening sailings were canceled, causing major disruption on the state of Washington’s second-busiest ferry route. While the Walla Walla was in dry dock, the ferry Puyallup carried the entire load, but that proved insufficient — by 3 p.m. queues on both sides of the crossing were estimated at two hours. The situation only eased after the damaged vessel received formal permission to resume service at 5:30 p.m.

The incident is the latest in a string of technical problems plaguing the aging ferry, which was built in 1972. Earlier this year a broken propeller blade was found on the Walla Walla, keeping the vessel in dry dock for more than a week. In 2023 the ferry suffered a serious accident — it grounded near Bainbridge Island after a loss of power and control caused by biological contamination of fuel tanks, and later that same year it again lost a propeller. These incidents underscore the broader issue of the state’s aging ferry fleet.

❮ ❯

Based on: Walla Walla returning to Edmonds-Kingston route after hard landing

Seattle rains will bring long-awaited snow to the mountains

Seattle residents can expect gloomy, rainy weather with occasional downpours through at least Sunday. Temperatures will remain close to seasonal normals. The irony is that this period coincides with the first 6 p.m. sunset of the year, when daylight begins to lengthen, yet the sun is largely obscured by clouds. Forecasters say these precipitation amounts aren’t record-breaking, but they are steady.

There is, however, an important upside to the gray outlook: rain in the lowlands means much-needed snow in the Cascade Mountains. Current snowpack is only about 30–40% of the typical level for this time of year. The first weather systems have already brought a few centimeters of snow to the Snoqualmie and Stevens passes, which is a promising start.

The main and heavier snowfalls are expected from Sunday into Monday. Forecasts call for up to 30 centimeters of snow in the high-elevation areas from Snoqualmie Pass to Mount Baker. Areas closer to Mount Rainier could see 10–15 centimeters. Forecasters say the particularly encouraging sign is that snowy conditions in the mountains will likely continue into next week, helping to replenish the snowpack deficit.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle weather: first 6 p.m. sunset, lowland rains, snow in mountains

Eastside light rail resumes service after daylong outage

After nearly a daylong interruption caused by a power outage, Sound Transit restored service on its Line 2 light rail Wednesday morning. The disruption on Tuesday had completely halted service between South Bellevue and Spring District stations in Seattle’s eastern suburbs. Separately, Wednesday afternoon saw the resumption of trial runs on the extended route from Lynnwood to Redmond through downtown.

The service restoration allowed agency staff to conduct a large-scale inspection of two new stations — Judkins Park and Mercer Island — which are scheduled to open to passengers later this month. More than half of Sound Transit employees personally tested trains, elevators, escalators and wayfinding. A company spokesperson noted that participation was a record high in recent years, and one of the agency’s service dogs crossed the floating bridge on light rail for the first time in history.

The day, however, was not without minor complications. Wednesday evening Sound Transit briefly announced increased headways on Lines 1 and 2 to 15 minutes due to a mechanical issue. The problem was promptly resolved before 8 p.m., and normal service resumed.

❮ ❯

Based on: Eastside light rail reopens after day of disruption

Bill Banning Masks for Police Passes Washington House

The Washington state House of Representatives approved a bill that would bar law enforcement officers from concealing their faces during routine public interactions. SB 5855, passed by a 56-37 vote, is aimed at increasing police transparency and accountability, particularly amid rising criticism of federal agents operating in masks. The measure now returns to the Senate for approval of the amendments made.

Two key amendments were adopted during debate: one allows the wearing of religious head coverings that cover the face, and the other permits the use of protective helmets, for example while biking. Supporters of the bill, including its sponsor Julio Cortes, emphasize that the public has a right to know who is protecting them, especially after incidents involving unidentified officers. Republicans, however, oppose the measure, arguing that it endangers officers and limits their effectiveness.

If the Senate approves the changes, the bill will go to Gov. Bob Ferguson for his signature. Its passage would represent a compromise between the need to protect officers and the demand for public accountability, reflecting heated debates over balancing security and transparency in law enforcement.

❮ ❯

Based on: Bill barring masked law enforcement passes WA House, with tweaks

Starbucks and Seattle: new offices and homelessness fight

Starbucks is expanding its footprint by opening a corporate office in Nashville while keeping its headquarters in Seattle. Meanwhile, Seattle’s mayor has unveiled a plan to create 1,000 new shelter spaces to speed assistance to those in need.

Starbucks opens new corporate office in Tennessee

Coffee giant Starbucks, whose global headquarters are in Seattle, announced plans to open a new corporate office in Tennessee. The decision reflects the company’s strategy to strengthen its presence in the fast-growing Southeast U.S. market while underscoring its continued commitment to Seattle as a central hub for global and North American operations.

Starbucks chose Davidson County, Tennessee, home to the state capital Nashville, for the new corporate operations office. According to a press release reported by The Seattle Times, the move is intended to support the chain’s growth and meet rising consumer demand, particularly in the Southeast. The company confirmed it has no plans to relocate its global headquarters from Seattle, where it recently renewed a lease in the SoHo area. Starbucks spokesperson Lori Torgerson made clear: “Seattle remains our headquarters to support North American and global operations.”

The new Nashville office will focus on teams responsible for direct and indirect procurement and supply for North American operations. This is a logical expansion into a region that has already attracted other corporate giants, including Amazon and Nissan. Starbucks Chief Operating Officer Mike Grams called Nashville “an ideal location” to establish a more strategic presence, highlighting the area’s “deep, talented and growing workforce.” Tennessee Governor Bill Lee linked the decision to the state’s “strong values and fiscally conservative approach,” which he said is business-friendly.

The announcement comes amid mixed context for Starbucks in Washington. Last year the company closed 31 stores in the state, including flagship locations such as the Reserve Roastery on Capitol Hill, as part of a network optimization across North America. Opening a new office in Tennessee can therefore be seen as part of a broader strategy to reallocate resources and invest in regions with high growth potential. The decision underscores the growing economic appeal of southern states, which companies view as offering a favorable business climate and access to skilled labor. For Starbucks, this means strengthening operational infrastructure to support ambitious expansion plans while Seattle remains the company’s strategic global nerve center.

Starbucks opens new Nashville office: a strategic move to the U.S. South

Starbucks, the global coffee-industry giant, announced it will expand its corporate presence by opening a new office in Nashville, Tennessee, later this year. The move is part of a broader strategy to bolster the company’s position in North America, with particular focus on the central, southern and northeastern U.S. regions. The decision, disclosed in an internal company memo, marks not merely the opening of a new branch but a strategic relocation of some jobs from Starbucks’ historic headquarters in Seattle.

The Nashville office will be a hub for teams managing Starbucks’ North American supply chains. As Chief Operating Officer Mike Grams said, Nashville is viewed as ideal due to its deep, talented and growing workforce and its appeal as a location. The city is already home to major employers like Bridgestone and HCA Healthcare, underscoring its status as an important business center. Details of the plan were first reported by The Wall Street Journal. The company says the move will consolidate current and future procurement roles (both direct and indirect) in a geography that offers better access to talent and closer proximity to key suppliers.

Importantly, Seattle will retain its status as the global headquarters and support center for North American operations. The move is not a full exodus but represents strategic diversification. Employees based in Seattle will be offered opportunities to relocate to Nashville, and the company also plans to post new jobs locally in Tennessee over time. For those who choose not to relocate, severance packages and opportunities to apply for other open positions within Starbucks will be available. The decision comes alongside encouraging signs for the company: according to Fox Business, U.S. sales are growing again after two years of decline, suggesting the recovery plan is working.

Governor Bill Lee welcomed the decision, saying the state’s business environment—rooted in strong values and a fiscally conservative approach—continues to attract major corporations. He thanked Starbucks for choosing the “Volunteer State” and creating quality jobs for its residents. The move fits a broader trend: for example, In-N-Out plans to open an eastern office of about 100,000 square feet near Nashville this year. Thus, Starbucks’ decision reflects a wider corporate migration to regions with favorable tax climates and an expanding talent pool. The strategic maneuver aims to optimize logistics, reduce costs and strengthen supplier relationships, ultimately supporting the company’s ambitious growth plans in a key U.S. market.

Seattle mayor announces plan to create 1,000 new shelter spaces

Seattle officials are taking a new step in addressing the chronic homelessness crisis that has shaped the city for years. Mayor Katie Wilson unveiled a package of legislative actions intended to rapidly create 1,000 new shelter spaces and related support services. The plan, detailed in a KOMO News report, is an attempt by the city administration to break a situation that many acknowledge has become stuck.

At a Wednesday news conference, Mayor Wilson, flanked by community leaders and service providers, outlined a three-part strategy designed to accelerate the process of bringing people indoors. The administration sees the core problem as bureaucratic inertia and outdated regulations that slow the opening of new shelters. The first legislative measure directly targets this: it will give the director of the Department of Finance and Administrative Services the authority to sign lease agreements with property owners directly. This should significantly speed up the creation of new shelters, reducing timelines by an estimated 5–12 months. The second proposal concerns increasing shelter capacity. Currently, Seattle has a limit: no shelter, including tiny-house villages and safe RV parking sites, may house more than 100 people. Wilson called this cap outdated and inconsistent with best practices in cities like Los Angeles, Tampa and Austin. Her plan temporarily raises the limit to 150 people and allows one site in each city district to house up to 250 people. “We cannot just keep moving people from place to place and call it progress,” the mayor said.

But alongside these administrative measures are skeptical voices that tie political declarations to the harsh reality of the streets. Staci Hammons, who—along with others—was displaced from a camp on 41st Street in Ballard last month, said nearly all those moved simply relocated to a new, larger camp a few blocks away and received almost no help from the city. “If you want to end homelessness, give people homes, give people housing,” Hammons said. “They don’t actually give anyone housing.” Her comment highlights a key dilemma: expanding shelters is not the same as providing permanent affordable housing, which many activists consider the only long-term solution.

The third element of the plan concerns funding. Councilmember Cathy Moore (the article notes a possible typo in the original naming: Councilmember Cathy Moore, not Wilson) said her team identified $4.8 million in existing city funds to support new shelters and wraparound services. Of that amount, $3.3 million will be reallocated from an underused revolving loans program and $1.5 million from the Downtown Health and Human Services Fund, which has been unused for a decade. Wraparound services are a key concept in modern homelessness approaches. They mean not just a roof over someone’s head but a coordinated set of supports: addiction treatment, psychiatric and medical care, employment assistance and social integration services delivered simultaneously.

The mayor’s initiatives have already received public backing from some city council members. Rob Saka, who represents districts including West Seattle, SoDo and Pioneer Square, said the scale of the crisis requires action and that his constituents are bearing much of the burden. He expressed particular support for expanding alternatives like tiny-house villages and safe RV parking sites, noting that “tiny-house villages work, and many people prefer them.” Downtown Seattle Association President John Scholes also backed the package, saying “too many people are sleeping on the streets of our city, and this plan will ensure more people get shelter and access to the help they desperately need.”

In conclusion, Mayor Wilson’s plan represents an attempt at an administrative breakthrough in Seattle’s prolonged fight against homelessness. It combines procedural streamlining, increased scale of intervention and reallocation of funding. But it also highlights the fundamental debate between expanding temporary shelter systems and activists’ demands to focus on providing permanent housing. The success of the initiative will depend not only on the speed of legislation but on its ability to deliver real, sustainable transitions off the streets, rather than cyclical movement between cleared camps and new tent encampments. Notably, the mayor did not take questions from reporters after the announcement, leaving room for questions about details and potential obstacles to implementing the ambitious plan.

❮ ❯

Employers urged to discuss support for women during perimenopause

Employer benefits, such as health insurance, play a key role in employees' quality of life, especially for women. Recently, in addition to more established programs for infertility treatment and postpartum care, the issue of support during perimenopause — the phase when the body prepares to end menstruation — has been raised more often. Symptoms can begin as early as the 30s, making this topic relevant to a wide range of working women.

The Seattle Times has launched a survey among residents to find out which perimenopause-related benefits they would like to see in the workplace. The newsroom plans to use the responses for further reporting, obtaining participants' consent before publishing details. This initiative aims to help shape more inclusive health policies at companies.

❮ ❯

Based on: What employer benefits would you like to see for perimenopause? Tell us

Federal funds to help Seattle transit handle World Cup crowds

Seattle will receive $8.4 million from the U.S. federal government to support public transit operations during the FIFA World Cup 2026. The funds will help city transit systems cope with an expected influx of hundreds of thousands of visitors. The funding is part of a larger $1.2 trillion spending package recently approved by Congress.

The money will be distributed through the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) — a voluntary association of local governments that coordinates long-range transportation, land-use and economic development planning across four counties (King, Pierce, Snohomish, Kitsap). The council’s primary role is to develop the regional transportation plan and allocate federal funding to transportation projects. PSRC must determine which local transit agencies and to what extent will receive money to reimburse costs related to increased service during matches and associated events, and it must do so by June.

The 2026 World Cup will be held in 11 U.S. cities, including Seattle, as well as in several cities in Canada and Mexico. The amount of federal funding for each U.S. host city depended on stadium capacity and the number of matches. Seattle, which will host six games, received the smallest amount among all U.S. cities. The city is expected to receive between 400,000 and 750,000 visitors over the course of the tournament.

Federal funds can be used for a wide range of needs: logistics planning, hiring additional staff (drivers, mechanics, dispatchers), improving wayfinding, purchasing security equipment or leasing extra vehicles. However, the funding will not cover increased-fare services, private shuttles, or transport provided exclusively for fans and not open to the general public.

The primary beneficiaries in Seattle will be agencies such as King County Metro and Sound Transit, which operate bus routes and the light rail system. A key route is Sound Transit’s Link light rail line, which connects downtown Seattle to Stadium station within walking distance of Lumen Field. The same line links downtown with Seattle–Tacoma International Airport, the University District, and the suburbs. By 2026 a new East Link extension to Bellevue and Redmond is expected to be completed. The stadium is also served by King County Metro bus routes and Sounder commuter trains. Funding must be used for expenses incurred through the end of July 2026, and it does not require local matching funds. These investments should help ensure smooth transit operations during the region’s largest sporting event.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle’s World Cup duties draw $8M in federal transportation money

A new way to travel: fast TSA-free flights between Seattle and Spokane

Starting March 9, SeaPort Airlines will launch a unique direct service between Seattle and Spokane. Flights will operate from the smaller Boeing Field and Felts Field airports on Pilatus PC-12 aircraft, allowing passengers to completely avoid the lengthy TSA screening procedures typical of major airports. This is the first regular commercial service from Felts Field since 1946. Boeing Field, which primarily serves private and charter aviation as well as cargo, is not a major passenger hub, so it does not require the same strict screening procedures as Seattle–Tacoma International Airport.

The airline plans to operate up to four round trips per day, which is especially convenient for business travel. As CEO Kent Craford noted, you can now “wake up in Spokane, spend a full workday in Seattle, and be home for dinner.” The key idea is to offer an alternative to congested Seattle–Tacoma International Airport, saving travelers time and stress. This route is especially valuable given that Seattle and Spokane—separated by nearly 450 kilometers (about 280 miles) and the Cascade Range—represent different economic regions: a tech hub in the west and an important center for healthcare and logistics in the eastern part of the state. The flight takes about an hour, a significant time savings compared with the 4–5 hours by car.

The lack of TSA screening is possible because the aircraft have a small capacity—just nine passengers. Under FAA rules, such flights are regulated as charter operations. Passenger screening will be similar to checks on buses or ferries. Additional conveniences include free parking at the terminal and the ability to check in as little as 20 minutes before departure. One-way fares start at $299.

The flight itself also promises to be comfortable. Chief pilot Ian Fisk, who calls the PC-12 his “sports car,” notes the aircraft can fly up to 28,000 feet, above bad weather. The cabin is quiet and warm, and every passenger effectively has both a window seat and an aisle. Pilots know passengers by name, creating an intimate, personalized atmosphere.

About 500 people travel daily between Spokane and Seattle. Spokane Airport director David Haring believes a calmer, faster travel option will be in high demand. He sees the project as a sign of dynamic changes in the aviation industry and does not rule out that this convenient regional model could spread to other U.S. cities.

❮ ❯

Based on: Airline to offer TSA-free flights from Seattle’s Boeing Field to Spokane

Start of Training Season at Emerald Downs

On Monday at the famed Emerald Downs racetrack in Washington state, the first day of spring training for Thoroughbreds kicked off. Trainers, including Vince Gibson, who was working with his horse Secret Hottie, began preparing the horses for the upcoming season. Most horses that were turned out for the winter will need about 60 days of intensive training before they are ready for the official season opener scheduled for May 2.

❮ ❯

Based on: Sun, speed and Aloha Breeze: First training day at Emerald Downs

Rare lunar eclipse lights up Washington sky

Early Tuesday morning, residents of Western Washington and much of the United States witnessed a rare astronomical event — a total lunar eclipse, commonly called a "blood moon." This happens when the Sun, Earth and Moon line up and our satellite passes through the darkest part of Earth's shadow. Although lunar eclipses occur about twice a year and are visible to more people than solar eclipses, total eclipses remain relatively uncommon events.

The next total lunar eclipse worldwide will not occur until late 2028, but Seattle residents will be out of luck — they won't be able to see it in full. Seattle will get a full "blood moon" spectacle only in 2029. Nevertheless, at the end of August this year, on the night of the 27th to the 28th, observers can catch an "almost" total lunar eclipse, which also promises to be an impressive sight for astronomy enthusiasts.

❮ ❯

Based on: ‘Blood moon’ sails over sky as total lunar eclipse hits WA

Seattle: rankings, tragedies and sports

A news roundup from Seattle: the city was named the most livable in the U.S., a fatal bus crash occurred, and an analyst named the most likely candidate for a new contract with the Seattle Seahawks.

Seattle named the most livable U.S. city: clean air, nature and stable incomes

A global study placed Seattle first in the U.S. and eighth in the world for livability. This city, known as the Emerald City, received high marks for healthcare, quality of life and residents' disposable income. While European cities such as Zurich and Copenhagen topped the global ranking, Seattle was the only American city in the top ten aside from Boston, which took tenth place.

According to research conducted by the digital platform JB and published on Travel + Leisure, Seattle was recognized as the best place to live in the U.S. The analysis of 45 cities worldwide was carried out across six key parameters: overall quality of life, safety, access to healthcare, air pollution levels, unemployment rates and average monthly disposable income. Seattle not only led the national ranking but also placed eighth globally, outranking many large and expensive metropolises. The city scored highly for an excellent healthcare system and a high quality of life, but its disposable income figure stood out — on average $2,703 per person per month. This is the second-best result among the top ten after Zurich, which partly offsets Seattle’s well-known high cost of living.

Researchers note that Seattle’s success is the result of a fortunate combination of natural advantages and economic stability. Its coastal location, proximity to mountains and abundance of greenery not only create scenic views but directly affect residents’ health and well-being by providing easy access to outdoor recreation. Unsurprisingly, in 2024 Seattle was already named the most friendly U.S. city for active recreation. Economically, the city relies on stable sectors: technology, healthcare and education. This diversification ensures low unemployment and allows investment in social infrastructure and environmental standards. It is this balanced approach, rather than leadership in any single metric, that allowed Seattle to outperform other cities.

To clarify the term “disposable income” — it is the portion of earnings that remains after taxes and mandatory payments (such as rent and basic utility bills) and can be spent at a person’s discretion or saved. A high figure of $2,703 indicates significant financial resilience for the average resident, even considering high rents and prices. It’s also worth noting that “quality of life” in such studies is a composite index that often includes subjective satisfaction measures, access to leisure, culture and education, which go beyond simple economic metrics.

The key takeaway from the study is that in the modern world the most attractive cities are those offering a balance between economic opportunity and environmental well-being. Seattle, with its strong economy, investments in healthcare and unique natural landscape, is a striking example of this trend. Its success relative to other American metropolises points to the growing value not only of jobs but of clean air, green spaces and the ability to lead an active lifestyle. This can serve as a signal to urban planners worldwide that the future belongs to integrated development, where economic growth goes hand in hand with improved ecology and public health.

Fatal bus crash in Seattle: video and details of the tragedy

A tragic bus crash occurred in Seattle, taking one life. The incident drew public attention and law enforcement, which are working to clarify the circumstances.

According to a report by KIRO 7 News Seattle, a man died after colliding with a bus. The piece also mentions a separate incident involving a person’s death during an attempted robbery, which may cause confusion. However, the primary focus in the available material is the traffic accident. Although the details of the crash in the provided text are sparse, the presence of video and the death of a person indicate the seriousness of the event. An attorney quoted in the article speaks about the deceased: “Paul Masters was a good person with a kind heart.” However, that quote, judging by the context, refers to the person who died under different circumstances — as a result of a failed robbery attempt, when his body was found hanging head down from a building. The attorney added: “Unfortunately, he had a terrible drug addiction that consumed him and obviously led to his death.” This is an important note that likely points to deeper social problems often underlying such tragedies, whether accidents or criminal incidents. Including information about two separate cases in one story can illustrate the crime and traffic situation in the region. It is important for readers to distinguish the two events: first — the bus crash (for which, according to the headline, there is video), and second — the death during an attempted robbery. The consequences of such incidents are always severe: they prompt police investigations, raise questions about road and city safety, and bring grief to the families of the deceased. The tragedy underscores the fragility of human life and the complex web of causes that can lead to it, from chance on the road to the destructive effects of addiction.

Who will stay in Seattle? Analyst names the most likely candidate for a new contract

Ahead of the NFL free-agency market opening next Wednesday, Seahawks fans are focused on six starting-level players whose contracts are expiring. Among them are star names like running back Kenneth Walker III and cornerback Riq Woolen, but the expert believes the most likely candidate to remain in Seattle is the less flashy cornerback Josh Jobe.

Former NFL quarterback and current analyst Brock Huard, on the Seattle Sports show Brock and Salk, gave Jobe an 85% chance of re-signing with the Seahawks. As noted in the Seattle Sports article, the key factor here is financial. While the market value for players like Woolen or pass-rusher Boye Mafe is estimated at $18–19 million per year, and Walker and returner/receiver Rashod Shakied at $13 million, the projected annual cost for Jobe and safety Coby Bryant is about $10 million. That makes them more affordable for the club under the salary cap — the limit on a team’s total player payroll.

Jobe’s career in Seattle is a story of rise. He began the 2024 season on the practice squad, then worked his way into the rotation and by midseason secured a role as the third cornerback. After that he signed a one-year $2 million contract with the Seahawks and in the 2025 season became one of the primary outside cornerbacks. His statistics are impressive: according to Stathead, last season he posted the 12th-lowest completion percentage to his coverage (49.5%), the 16th-lowest yards allowed per target (5.7), and the 25th-lowest opposing quarterback rating (77.0) among qualifying cornerbacks in the league. These metrics demonstrate his reliability in pass coverage.

Huard emphasizes that the arrangement is mutually beneficial. “I think he’s the most likely candidate, especially if both sides realize that this is the best option for me,” the article quotes him. “And again, this is a guy who’s been in a lot of other places, both in college and in the pros. He’s seen the other side and knows he has something here. Last year they signed him when there wasn’t much of a market for him. So yeah, I think he’s the most likely.” Retaining Jobe also has strategic value for roster construction. Because the Seahawks will likely be unable to retain star Riq Woolen due to his high cost, keeping Jobe means the team would need to find a replacement for only one, not two, cornerbacks. As Huard explained, this will improve the club’s drafting position in April by allowing them to focus on strengthening the line of scrimmage. “It’ll slightly reduce the urgency of what you’ll be doing in that draft and get you back to (focusing on) the line of scrimmage, line of scrimmage, line of scrimmage,” the analyst said. Thus, the decision on Jobe’s contract could set the tone for the Seahawks’ entire off-season strategy, shifting priorities toward bolstering run defense and quarterback pressure.

❮ ❯

Perfect time to watch herons in Seattle

Now is the ideal moment to observe the great blue heron in the park near the Ballard Locks in Seattle. The birds are actively preparing to nest, and while the trees have not yet filled out with dense foliage, they are easily visible from the ground. Experts recommend enjoying the sight before the herons lay eggs and hatch their young — after that the thick greenery will completely hide the nests from observers' view.

❮ ❯

Based on: Nesting season at Ballard Locks

Ice Age mammoth dig site opens to tourists near Tri-Cities

Tickets have gone on sale for unique tours to the mammoth excavation in Coyote Canyon in the Tri-Cities area — the urban agglomeration in the dry southeastern part of Washington state made up of Kennewick, Pasco and Richland. This region, with its semi-arid climate, flat landscapes and steppe expanses, is a striking contrast to the wet, forested western Washington where Seattle is located. Tours, which often sell out quickly, are scheduled over eight days from mid-April through the end of June. Two-hour tours costing $10 per person include a visit to the dig site itself and to the research center, where visitors can see the lab and key finds. Registration for additional tours from July through October opens June 1, and all proceeds fund scientific work.

The site is of enormous scientific value: archaeologists are excavating the skeleton of a Columbian mammoth that researchers believe died during a massive glacial flood about 17,000 years ago. That catastrophe was part of a series of giant Missoula floods near the end of the last ice age. Those floods occurred when an ice dam holding back the huge Lake Missoula failed, releasing colossal volumes of water that carved canyons and shaped the distinctive landscape of eastern Washington. Water constricted by the narrow Walla Walla Canyon inundated what is now the Tri-Cities area. The mammoth likely drowned, and its carcass was deposited on a hillside slope as the waters retreated, becoming buried in sedimentary deposits characteristic of such surges. The elevation of the dig site is about 320 meters, consistent with a possible level of the ancient flood.

The recovered skeleton has remained relatively intact — bones are not scattered over a wide area. Researchers believe it was a large male about 40 years old, standing 3 to 4 meters at the shoulder, making it larger than modern elephants. In addition to the giant’s bones, scientists are carefully collecting smaller but no less valuable finds from the surrounding matrix: wings of ancient beetles, squirrel teeth, mouse bones and mollusk shells, all of which help reconstruct a detailed picture of the ecosystem at that time.

The dig functions not only as a scientific field site but also as an active educational venue for schoolchildren, teachers and volunteers. The exact location is not disclosed publicly to protect the site from possible vandalism — coordinates are revealed only after registering for a tour. You can book an individual or group tour and check the current schedule on the project’s official website, mcbones.org.

❮ ❯

Based on: Tours open for mammoth research dig site in Tri-Cities

Oregon plans to buy famous privately owned Abiqua Falls

State lawmakers in Oregon have taken a major step toward making the famed Abiqua Falls accessible to the public. They set aside $2.135 million to buy the land around this natural wonder, which has been in private hands for nearly a century. The goal is to prevent the site from falling into private ownership and to preserve it for future generations.

The deal would involve acquiring two parcels. The primary parcel is 40 acres that include the 92-foot waterfall itself, owned by the nonprofit Abbey Foundation affiliated with Mount Angel Abbey. The second parcel, 160 acres, is owned by timber giant Weyerhaeuser. That company’s extensive landholdings in the Pacific Northwest stem historically from 19th-century federal land grants, economic returns from logging, and a long-term investment strategy; it’s typical in the U.S. for forest resources to be privately held for industrial use. The foundation has already confirmed it is ready to complete a sale, while Weyerhaeuser has not yet commented on any formal agreements.

However, the allocated funds are only the beginning of a long process. The funding must still be approved by the Legislative Assembly’s budget committee, then pass votes in the state Senate and House of Representatives, and receive the signature of Governor Tina Kotek. Only after that can the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department officially offer money for the land.

The parks department, which would likely manage the property, has already expressed serious concerns. Abiqua Falls is in a very remote and difficult-to-access location. The agency fears that managing such a site would place a heavy burden on an already strained and underfunded state parks system. These challenges — limited funding, complicated logistics, ensuring safety in isolated areas, and environmental preservation — are common across the Pacific Northwest, where many parks are located in mountainous or forested areas with harsh climates.

Difficult access is one of the main issues. A rough road that requires a high-clearance vehicle leads to the trailhead. The short but strenuous hike requires rope work to descend to the riverbed. Those geographic conditions, shaped by the Cascade Range, dense forests, heavy precipitation, and rugged terrain, are typical of many natural areas in western Oregon and Washington, making them attractive to visitors while posing serious infrastructure challenges. The site draws thrill-seekers, which has already led to serious injuries and rescue operations.

Given budget constraints, the set-aside funds are intended only for land purchase, not for development or management. The parks department could transfer management to another state agency or even a private company. Before any deal proceeds, the parcel will undergo a thorough appraisal, including environmental and archaeological assessments.

Despite the difficulties, lawmakers such as Senator Fred Girod and Representative Ben Bowman still envision creating a state park, Abiqua Falls State Park. The current allocation of funds is a critically important first chance for the state to ensure this natural gem remains in public ownership and is open to everyone.

❮ ❯

Based on: Oregon sets aside $2 million to buy privately owned Abiqua Falls

March events and sports news

Overview of Pacific Northwest events in March 2026, plus the tragic death of an NFL player and the Seattle Seahawks’ draft strategy.

Your guide to Pacific Northwest events for March 2026: from comic cons to food festivals

March in Washington state is a time when fickle weather alternates between heavy rains and glimpses of spring sun. That’s why it’s useful to have a list of interesting events to attend regardless of the changing skies. As Seattle Refined notes in its detailed guide, the month promises to be full, combining traditional holidays, culinary discoveries and large cultural events.

One of the month’s headline events is undoubtedly Emerald City Comic Con (ECCC), taking place March 5–8 at the Seattle Convention Center. Even if you don’t plan to buy a ticket, watching the streams of brightly costumed cosplayers filling Seattle’s streets becomes an entertaining show in itself. For music and nostalgia fans, the Seattle Symphony has prepared a special program honoring the 75th anniversary of the Peanuts comics, performing famous soundtracks from the cartoons and special editions. Theater and circus fans can catch the mesmerizing Cirque du Soleil “ECHO” show at Marymoor Park, which finishes its run in early March.

March’s culinary palette is incredibly diverse. Residents and visitors are invited to Plate of Nations in South Seattle — a festival uniting more than 50 restaurants under the theme “Global menus, local venues.” It’s a unique chance to take a culinary trip around the world without leaving the city. Seafood and fine-drink lovers should mark Seafood & Bubbles at The Admiral’s House on March 19, and wine enthusiasts should consider the Snohomish Wine Festival. Special mention goes to Taste of Washington’s The New Vintage — an event showcasing the best from local food and drink producers.

March is also rich in cultural celebrations that reflect the Pacific Northwest’s diverse community. The lineup includes the colorful Festival of Color (Holi), Balkan Night Northwest, celebrations for the Persian New Year (Nowruz), the Polish Spring Bazaar and even the Tartan Ball honoring Scottish traditions. These events, scattered across locations from Hing Hay Park in Seattle to the Washington State Fairgrounds in Puyallup, offer deeper immersion into different peoples’ traditions.

For active and curious people there’s plenty to do: from Spring Into Adventure in Issaquah to the science-focused BrainFest at the Pacific Science Center. For those thinking about home improvement, expos like the Tacoma Remodeling Expo or the West Coast Homesteading Expo will be useful. Don’t forget classic March entertainments such as the Moisture Festival (a burlesque and comedy festival) and numerous concerts in the Hot Java Cool Jazz series.

Thus, March 2026 in the Seattle region and beyond offers more than shelter from bad weather — it provides opportunities to live each day actively and enjoyably, filled with music, flavors, colors and discoveries. The events calendar is so full you can build a unique plan for every weekend, whether it’s a trip to the balloon festival in Winthrop, visiting a miniatures exhibit, or sampling soups from Seattle’s sister-city chefs.

Shocking death: NFL player Rondeal Moore found dead

Sudden and tragic news came from the world of professional sports: the body of NFL wide receiver Rondeal Moore was found in his hometown in Indiana. Local authorities reported this, shocking fans and the sports community. The young athlete, whose career over the past two years had been marred by serious knee injuries that ended his seasons before they began, died in the prime of his life.

According to a KIRO 7 News Seattle report, Rondeal Moore was found dead. He was known for his standout college play at Purdue University before being selected by the Arizona Cardinals. His professional start looked promising, but the subsequent two years were extremely difficult due to injuries. In each of the last two training camps he sustained knee injuries that required surgery and ended his season before it began. These recurring injuries were undoubtedly a huge psychological and physical trial for the athlete. The NFL (National Football League) is the top professional American football league in the U.S., where a player’s career often carries a high risk of serious injury. Training camp is an intensive preseason period where players prepare for the regular season, and an injury during this time robs them of the opportunity to play in upcoming games.

At the time the original source was published, the circumstances of Moore’s death had not been disclosed, leaving room for questions and grief. His passing is not only a loss for his family, friends and the teams he played for, but also a grim reminder of the pressure, pain and uncertainty professional athletes face, especially when their careers are interrupted by a string of setbacks. Moore’s story is a tragic paradox: a player with brilliant prospects whose physical gifts and talent brought him to the top of the sport was broken by injuries. It prompts reflection on mental health support systems in elite professional sports, where physical recovery is often prioritized and the psychological consequences of injuries and forced time away may receive less attention. As investigators determine the details, the sports world mourns another young life cut short.

What should the Seattle Seahawks do with the No. 32 pick in the NFL draft?

Discussion about the Seattle Seahawks’ strategy for the upcoming NFL draft has centered on one key question: how best to use the No. 32 pick the team received as Super Bowl champions. Seattle sports radio analysts Michael Bumpus and producer Curtis Rodgers, on the “Bump and Stacy” show, explored possible options in detail, leaning toward the idea that defense should be prioritized, even though last season that unit ranked among the league’s best in points allowed.

The main argument for selecting a defensive player is tied to impending roster changes. With the new league year starting March 11, several key defensive players — including edge rusher Boye Mafe, cornerbacks Riq Woolen and Josh Jobe, and safety Coby Bryant — will become free agents. There’s also a possibility veteran edge rusher Demarcus Lawrence could depart. As Curtis Rodgers noted, the offense appears more stable: aside from running back Kenneth Walker, nearly all offensive players could remain with the team. Therefore, strengthening the defense seems a logical step to maintain competitiveness. Rodgers also expressed confidence in new head coach Mike Macdonald’s ability to develop young talent, citing safety Nick Emmanwori, a second-round pick in the 2025 draft, as an example. The player, whose potential has been compared to star Kyle Hamilton, had an outstanding rookie season, which bodes well for future selections.

Michael Bumpus supported that view, emphasizing that the Seahawks have no glaring offensive holes and should continue to build their identity around a powerful defense. “When you think of this team, the first thing that comes to mind is an unbreakable defense. So Mike Macdonald should get his players who fit his scheme,” Bumpus said. Both analysts, however, did not rule out picking an offensive lineman if a suitable candidate is available at No. 32.

The possibility of trading was discussed separately. The Seahawks currently have only four draft picks, making trading the No. 32 pick quite plausible. Rodgers suggested the team could move down a few spots to acquire one of the early second-round selections. That would save on player contract costs (rookie salaries are higher in the first round), avoid the fifth-year option obligation for a first-round pick, and potentially gain an additional selection in the middle rounds (for example, third or fourth). Such a maneuver could help the team replenish its draft capital.

A full discussion is available in the audio recording of the show on the Seattle Sports website. Thus, the club faces a dilemma: pick the best available defender for immediate reinforcement, or show strategic flexibility by moving down to accumulate assets. The decision will depend on how the draft itself unfolds and which players remain available when the Seahawks’ pick comes up.

❮ ❯

Public grocery stores: a solution for Seattle's food deserts

In the Seattle area, access to groceries is becoming an increasing concern. Just two corporations control the major supermarket chains, creating risks for consumers. Store closures, such as Fred Meyer — the superstore-format supermarket and department store chain owned by national corporation Kroger — in Redmond and Lake City have been a blow to entire communities. These stores were popular for one-stop shopping, and their loss deprived residents not only of a place to buy groceries but also of affordable pharmacies. The impact has been particularly hard on older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income families.

Beyond Fred Meyer and its parent company Kroger, which also owns the QFC chain, Seattle is dominated by networks such as Safeway (Albertsons), Whole Foods Market (Amazon) and Costco. Traditionally Kroger and Albertsons have taken a large share of the market, while regional chains like PCC Community Markets and Trader Joe's also play a notable role.

In response to this problem, the idea of creating public, or municipal, grocery stores is gaining traction. Many imagine something like Soviet-era ration stores with long lines, but in the U.S. a successful model of public grocery stores has existed for more than 150 years. This refers to the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) system, which, according to expert Errol Schweitzer, is highly effective and popular.

The DeCA system’s principle is simple: public funding covers operating expenses, and large-volume procurement keeps wholesale prices low. As a result, prices in such commissaries are usually lower than in private chains. In 2024, a network of 235 such stores handled 72 million transactions, ranking highly in customer satisfaction ratings.

The problem of food affordability is becoming more acute. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, food prices have risen 30% compared with the pre-pandemic level. A survey in Washington State showed that 70% of low-income consumers are forced to cut back on food quality and quantity due to financial hardship. The scale required to reduce prices is a key factor that small pilot projects fail to address.

The idea of public grocery stores has received political support: it has been proposed by the mayors of New York and Seattle. Seattle’s current mayor, Bruce Harrell, is broadly focused on supporting small businesses and tackling inequality, backing programs to expand access to healthy food in underserved neighborhoods. A bill was considered in the Washington State Legislature that would have allowed cities to create such stores in problem areas, but it did not pass — often due to a lack of votes, committee decisions, or the absence of political compromise. Meanwhile, Atlanta has already opened its first municipal store, Azalea Fresh Market, operating via a public-private partnership.

Retail workers’ unions see strong potential in the public-private partnership model. A city could lease land or space at a reduced rate to a local grocery store in exchange for its operation in an underserved area. Key items, such as bread, milk, or baby formula, could be subsidized, and a contract could guarantee the store’s long-term presence.

Experts propose other measures to ensure food access. For example, authorities could ban restrictive lease terms that prevent a new grocery store from opening in the location of a closed one. Consideration should also be given to regulating algorithmic pricing, which research has shown can lead to price differences of up to 20% on the same item for different customers in the same store.

Ultimately, access to fresh and affordable food is not a luxury but a basic human need, like water or electricity. As union representative Joe Mizrahi noted, ensuring this need should be regarded as a responsibility of society and the state, regardless of who directly provides the service.

❮ ❯

Based on: Public grocery stores could be oases in Seattle’s food deserts

Last Sunny Day in Seattle Before a Week of Rain

Residents of Seattle and surrounding areas can expect one last truly springlike day on Monday, with clear skies, sunshine and temperatures around 15°C. But starting Tuesday, rain will return to the region and, according to the National Weather Service, is expected to last through the end of the week. After a cool February with occasional snow, this rainy system will mark the beginning of a wetter period, although meteorologists say the chance of snow for the remainder of winter remains very low.

On Tuesday rain and wind gusts up to 32 km/h are expected, especially north of the city in the Everett area. On Wednesday there is a small chance (10–15%) of thunderstorms. Temperatures will remain mild: daytime highs from Tuesday through Saturday will range from 10°C to 12°C, and nighttime lows will stay above freezing, hovering around 4–7°C. In short, the week will be cloudy and rainy but without any sharp cold snaps.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle weather: One last day of sunny skies before rain rolls in

Family of patient who died after stem-cell treatment awarded $24M

A King County jury in Seattle awarded $24 million to the family of a man who died the day after a procedure at a local stem-cell clinic. The suit was filed against US Stemology, which owned the clinic, its owner Dr. Tami Merali, and several other medical spas and clinics. Such private clinics offering experimental treatments are relatively common in Seattle and Washington state, especially in affluent neighborhoods. Their reputation is mixed: they are popular among some people seeking innovative approaches but are often criticized by medical experts for a lack of scientific evidence and potential risks. The verdict concludes years of litigation that began in 2022.

Mike Trujillo, a 62-year-old electrician from Colorado, learned in 2017 that he had amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Despite the diagnosis, he continued to work and stay active. In early 2019, after seeing an online advertisement for the Seattle Stem Cell Center, which offered treatments for many serious conditions including ALS, Trujillo signed up for a free consultation and placed his hopes in the therapy.

According to the lawsuit filed in King County Superior Court — a court of general jurisdiction in Washington state that handles civil matters within the county, including medical malpractice issues — Trujillo told the clinic he was taking the blood thinner Coumadin. However, before two procedures performed in February and early April 2019, he was not instructed to temporarily stop taking the medication. The suit alleges that a spinal injection given in April caused a massive brain bleed, and the following day Mike Trujillo died.

“We flew to Seattle with hope, and I flew home alone,” recalled words reported to the jurors by the late man’s widow, Carmen Trujillo. The verdict includes $4 million to Mike Trujillo’s estate, $5 million to his widow, and $3 million to each of their five children, ages 32 to 46. The family’s attorney, Dylan Cohn, said the jurors were deeply moved by the family’s story and not impressed by the clinic’s position.

This is not the first legal action against US Stemology. In 2022 the state attorney general’s office filed a suit accusing the company of deceptive advertising for unproven treatments. That case ended in a court settlement imposing permanent marketing restrictions on the company and an $800,000 fine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved stem-cell therapy for only certain blood disorders, not for the conditions treated by the clinic. FDA oversight in this area is limited, which allows some clinics to operate in a “gray area.”

Carmen Trujillo said she feels relieved after the verdict and hopes the case will serve the public and spare other families from similar tragedy. According to a representative of the attorney general, the clinic ultimately closed and Dr. Merali now runs a new company focused on “hormone health.” Dr. Tami Merali is known in Seattle as a practicing physician who manages companies in the alternative medicine space. For the region’s medical community, where academic medicine and commercial clinics coexist, such a shift in focus from stem-cell therapy to anti-aging and wellness services is not unique and reflects adaptation to market demand in tech-advanced cities.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle jury awards $24M in lawsuit against stem cell center

Unusual Therapy and Sporting Battles

News roundup: from a scream club in Seattle as a method of stress relief to sporting events — an NHL game and UCLA’s strong start at a softball tournament.

Scream Club in Seattle: an unusual therapy gains popularity

In today’s world full of stress and tension, people are increasingly looking for unconventional ways to release emotions. One such method is the “Scream Club” in Seattle, which, despite initial public bewilderment, has been growing and expanding geographically.

When West Seattle Blog first reported on the initiative’s launch in September, reactions were mixed: some raised eyebrows in confusion, others raised voices in support. The idea of gathering on the beach in Lincoln Park to, essentially, scream seemed eccentric. However, six months on the project is gaining momentum. At a recent meeting organizers counted more than thirty participants, indicating growing interest. Moreover, the success inspired a second location — monthly gatherings now also take place in North Seattle (third Sunday of the month at 11:30 a.m. in Golden Gardens Park). As seen in the video accompanying the article, participants all scream together three times, then disperse peacefully. This ritual, despite its simplicity, serves an important therapeutic function by allowing people to safely release built-up emotions within a group of like-minded individuals. The club’s growing popularity points to the need for simple and accessible stress-relief methods in urban environments, where traditional forms of psychological relief may be inaccessible or intimidating.

Upcoming game: Carolina Hurricanes at Seattle Kraken

On Monday, March 2, the Carolina Hurricanes begin a west coast trip, starting with a game against the Seattle Kraken. This clash of the Metropolitan Division leader with a solid middle-of-the-pack Pacific Division team promises to be tense and entertaining.

The game will start at 10:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) and will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network South and via the FanDuel Sports Network app. Radio broadcast will be available on 99.9 The Fan and via the Hurricanes app. Carolina enters the game in excellent form, leading the Metropolitan Division with an impressive 82 points (38-15-6). In their most recent game the team convincingly defeated the Detroit Red Wings 5-2. The Seattle Kraken, fourth in the Pacific Division with 65 points (28-22-9), have also been playing well, routing the Vancouver Canucks 5-1 in their previous game. For those unfamiliar with NHL standings: points are awarded for wins (2 points) and overtime or shootout losses (1 point), which makes the 17-point gap between the teams significant but not a guarantee of an easy win for the leader. A key factor in this matchup will be the confrontation between Carolina’s powerful offensive machine, known for its aggressive and disciplined style, and the hosts’ organized defense. Detailed information about the game is available in the preview on NHL.com. The game matters for both teams: the Hurricanes aim to solidify their lead, while the Kraken are fighting for a playoff spot, making the upcoming meeting consequential and unpredictable.

UCLA softball opens Judi Garman Classic with confidence

No. 8 nationally ranked UCLA softball began its campaign at the prestigious Judi Garman Classic in Fullerton with two wins in one day. The team showcased its high level by defeating BYU and Seattle, confirming its status as one of the favorites not only for the tournament but for the entire NCAA season. More details on the games can be found in the official UCLA release.

The UCLA Bruins, based in Los Angeles, are traditionally one of the strongest college softball programs in the U.S. Their participation in the Judi Garman Classic is always a significant event, as the tournament brings together leading collegiate teams and serves as an important test before the decisive part of the season. Two wins on the first day are a confident statement of intent. While specifics such as scores, key players, and turning points are not detailed in the provided content, the fact that they beat BYU and Seattle speaks volumes. BYU (Brigham Young University) and the University of Seattle are serious opponents, and victories over them require coordinated work both offensively and defensively.

For context, the NCAA is the National Collegiate Athletic Association, which governs college and university athletic programs in the U.S. Softball, particularly women’s softball, is one of the most popular and competitive NCAA sports. The ranking that places UCLA at eighth is formed based on the opinions of coaches and sports journalists and reflects the team’s current strength nationwide. Tournaments like the Judi Garman Classic, named after a legendary coach, allow teams from different conferences to face each other, which is especially valuable for selection to the national championship.

A strong start at such a tournament has several key consequences. First, it boosts team morale and confidence. Second, it positively affects rankings, which can provide advantages in future tournament seeding. Third, it demonstrates roster depth and the coaching staff’s ability to prepare the team for heavy competition — five games during a tournament require good rotation and endurance. For UCLA fans and alumni, these wins are a source of pride and confirm that their team remains at the top of collegiate sports. This successful day sets the tone for the tournament and the season as a whole, showing that the Bruins are ready to compete for the highest goals.

❮ ❯

Seattle: World Cup 2026 at Risk and Fan Celebrations

Geopolitics is calling Iran’s participation in Seattle’s World Cup matches into question, while the city has announced a large program of free fan zones. Against this backdrop, an armed robbery occurred in the city center.

Uncertainty over Seattle World Cup match after U.S. strikes on Iran

Plans to hold FIFA World Cup 2026 matches — one of which is scheduled for Seattle — are in doubt amid an escalation of the military conflict in the Middle East. After the United States and Israel carried out a series of strikes on Iranian territory, including the confirmed killing of the country’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the participation of Iran’s national team in the tournament has become uncertain. Iran Football Federation President Mehdi Taj said that after this attack the team is unlikely to look toward the World Cup with optimism, the Associated Press reported via sports portal Varzesh3. KOMO News covers this situation and its potential consequences for Seattle in detail in its article.

The Iranian team is set to play Egypt at Lumen Field (which will be called Seattle Stadium for the World Cup) on June 26, after two other matches in Los Angeles. That schedule is now under threat. The problem is compounded by the fact that fans from Iran have already been barred from entering the U.S. due to the immigration ban introduced during the Trump administration. So even if the team travels, it would have no fan support in the stands. FIFA, the outlet reports, is monitoring developments but has not issued official statements. Seattle’s local World Cup organizing committee has not yet commented either, though its CEO Peter Tomodzawa has previously emphasized that safety is the top priority for all matches and events.

It’s important to clarify that Lumen Field is the home stadium of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks and was chosen as one of the venues for the upcoming World Cup. And the immigration ban (the so‑called “Muslim ban”) enacted in 2017 restricts entry to the U.S. for citizens of several countries, including Iran, creating additional barriers not only for the team but also for its fans attending this global sporting event.

Despite the political tensions, Seattle authorities and law enforcement say they are prepared to ensure security for events of any scale. Jim Fuda of Crime Stoppers of Puget Sound, who has extensive experience in security and law enforcement, explained that a comprehensive security plan for the World Cup has been developed involving local, state, and federal agencies coordinating intelligence to monitor potential threats. Fuda notes that the likelihood of a national security threat on U.S. soil remains low, but any incident would have “high consequences.” As a preventive measure he recommends that spectators develop situational awareness: identify secondary exits in advance and plan actions for potential emergencies such as active shooter incidents or terrorist attacks. He says these skills are especially important in crowded public venues.

The key insight in this story is how geopolitical conflicts directly affect major sporting events that are traditionally marketed as platforms for unity and peace. Statements from Iranian football officials reflect a deep political subtext: sport becomes a hostage of international relations. For Seattle, which is actively preparing to host the World Cup, the cancellation of a match or the nonparticipation of a team would be both an organizational and reputational loss. At the same time, the emphasis on security by local authorities shows an understanding of the heightened risks in the current international situation. The outcome is still unclear: it will depend on the further course of the diplomatic and military crisis between the U.S. and Iran, as well as decisions by FIFA and Iran’s football leadership.

Seattle prepares for football festivities: free fan events announced for World Cup 2026

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with matches to be held in Seattle, the city has announced a large program of free fan events. Organizers plan to turn the city into a unified celebration zone accessible to all residents and visitors. According to MyNorthwest.com, the local organizing committee SeattleFWC26, together with city officials, sports clubs, and business partners, will create a network of fan zones at key locations.

“In just over 100 days Seattle will hum as fans from around the world pour into our city for an unforgettable summer,” said Peter Tomodzawa, CEO of SeattleFWC26. He stressed that the approach reflects Seattle’s innovative, inclusive, and community‑oriented spirit. The main idea is not just to host the tournament but to “bring the game to everyone,” creating free gathering points where people live, work, and play.

The central hub of the celebration will be Seattle Center, which will launch the family festival Let’s Play SEA ’26. A large screen will be installed in the Armory building, along with a food area and seating zones. “Seattle Center is where our city comes together for important moments,” said Acting Director Diametris Winston. Additional activities will take place near the Mural Amphitheater with views of the Space Needle and at the International Fountain, featuring DJs and performers.

Pacific Place mall will host a “Seattle Soccer House” with a giant four‑story LED screen inside its five‑story atrium. Surrounded by interactive zones and information booths, this space will become a lively soccer hub in the heart of the city. Events there will run daily through the final match in Seattle on July 6.

On the new waterfront promenade at Pier 62 in Waterfront Park, organizers will launch the Meet Me at Waterfront Park program, using the park’s full 20‑acre area. Events reflecting Seattle’s spirit and diversity will be held with participation from the Seattle Sounders FC, Seattle Reign FC, and RAVE Foundation.

A special atmosphere is promised at Seattle’s Matchday Live in Victory Hall in the SODO neighborhood, organized by the Seattle Mariners baseball club. Located just a block from Lumen Field where World Cup matches will take place, fans can watch games on a 23‑foot screen and literally hear the stadium roar next door. “The Mariners have long believed in the power of sport to bring people together,” said Kevin Martinez, the club’s president of business operations.

Special attention is being given to the U.S. national team match in Seattle on June 19 — Juneteenth. Former Seattle Sounders star Lamar Neagle has been tapped to chair the advisory council for that celebration. In an interview with KIRO Newsradio, Neagle said this is an opportunity to highlight the contributions of the Black community and create a legacy by working with former Black U.S. national team players. He expressed hope that watching the World Cup will spark a lasting inspiration in local children to pursue sports.

In sum, Seattle is preparing not just to host World Cup matches but to build a large citywide festival that connects neighborhoods and communities. All events will be free and open to the public, reflecting the stated principles of inclusivity and accessibility. The partnership between the city, sports organizations, and businesses aims to deliver a diverse program for both avid fans and families seeking to join the soccer celebration.

Shooting and robbery in Seattle: man shot in Pioneer Square over a chain

In the early hours of Wednesday, an armed robbery in Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square ended in a shooting. A 23‑year‑old man was shot in the leg during a struggle for his chain with an armed suspect wearing a ski mask. The incident, detailed by KING5.com, raises renewed concerns about safety in the downtown area.

Seattle police said a call about shots fired came in around 12:40 a.m. in the 500 block of 2nd Avenue, near Pioneer Square. Officers arriving on scene found the victim with a gunshot wound to his right thigh. He received first aid from Seattle police and fire personnel before being transported by medics to Harborview Medical Center. The man’s condition was stable. Investigators determined the victim had just left a bar and was getting into the passenger seat of a friend’s car when a suspect approached. The assailant, whose face was concealed by a ski mask, was armed and demanded the chain. During the subsequent struggle for the necklace the suspect shot the young man in the leg. The shooter then fled in a vehicle, taking the chain with him; police estimate its value at about $20. Detectives from the robbery investigations unit responded to the scene and to the hospital to continue the investigation.

This incident — in which a person was injured over inexpensive jewelry — shocks with its brutality and senselessness. Pioneer Square is the historic heart of Seattle, known for bars, restaurants, and nightlife, but incidents like this cast a shadow over its reputation and raise questions about crime levels. The fact the crime occurred during peak nighttime activity, when many people were still on the streets, points to the suspect’s boldness and audacity. The use of a ski mask and a firearm indicates preparation and willingness to use extreme measures. It is especially troubling that the shooting was over an item with a very low market value — just $20 — highlighting how easily a person’s life can be put at risk over something trivial. The victim’s stable condition is of course good news, but the physical and psychological trauma from such an event will last. The investigation continues as police work to find the suspect who fled in a vehicle. This case is another alarming signal to city officials and residents about the need to strengthen public‑safety measures, especially at night.

❮ ❯

Seattle: History, Sports and Crime

News from Seattle: a historic sign gets a new life, baseball teams prepare for the season, and police investigate a brazen armed robbery.

The iconic Alaskan Way Viaduct sign will once again light up Seattle

Seattle preserves its history carefully, even amid major infrastructure changes. A striking example is the project to preserve and reinstall the sign from the old Alaskan Way Viaduct — a structure that defined the city’s waterfront for decades.

According to KIRO 7 News Seattle, the Seattle Department of Transportation is giving the historic artifact a second life. This is the sign that once towered over the Alaskan Way Viaduct — a two-level highway running along the Elliott Bay waterfront between South King Street and Battery Street. The massive structure, part of State Route 99, was dismantled in 2019 after decades of use and significant damage sustained in the 2001 earthquake. Its replacement — the “Bertha” tunnel — became one of the most complex and debated engineering projects in the city’s history.

The sign rescued by city officials will be installed in a new location: it will be positioned over Bell Street, near the intersection with Western Avenue. This is symbolic, since this part of the city, the Belltown neighborhood, was once cut off from the waterfront by the massive viaduct structure. Now the sign, fitted with a new lighting system, will — according to officials — perform the opposite function: “welcome people to Belltown.” Installation work is expected to be completed by Sunday.

This decision is more than a nostalgic gesture. It reflects the city’s desire to preserve the material memory of key stages in its development. The Alaskan Way Viaduct, despite its shortcomings (noise, shadow, vibration, and risk of collapse), was an important transportation artery and a recognizable Seattle symbol for 66 years. Moving the sign into a bustling pedestrian neighborhood transforms it from a simple road marker into a public monument to the industrial era and a reminder of the large-scale transformation the urban environment has undergone. Projects like this help residents and visitors feel a connection across time, showing how the engineering heritage of the past can be integrated into a renewed, more open and welcoming urban landscape.

Live: Texas Rangers vs. Seattle Mariners in spring training

On Saturday, March 1, 2026, baseball fans had the chance to watch a live spring training game between the Texas Rangers and the Seattle Mariners. The broadcast came from the sports complex in Peoria, Arizona, where teams hold preparatory games before the start of the new Major League Baseball (MLB) season. Spring training is a special time when teams not only check players’ physical readiness but also test new tactical schemes, give young talents a chance to shine, and gradually build form for official games. The live stream, available on MLB’s official site, allowed fans worldwide to see how two American League teams are preparing for upcoming challenges.

Spring training games, such as the live stream of the Rangers vs. Mariners, often serve as an important indicator for coaching staffs. In these games, the focus is less on the result and more on individual player metrics, on-field interaction, and the practice of specific elements. For newcomers, it’s a chance to make a statement and compete for a spot on the roster, while veterans can steadily return to game rhythm after the offseason. Broadcasting these events has become standard practice in MLB, demonstrating the league’s effort to be closer to fans by offering unique content even during the prep period. By analyzing these games, experts can make early predictions about team strength for the upcoming season, noting the form of key pitchers, the productivity of young hitters, and overall team cohesion. For the teams themselves, this is invaluable experience that helps identify weaknesses and adjust training before the regular season, which traditionally begins in late March or early April.

Armed robbery and shooting over a $20 necklace in Seattle

A disturbing incident occurred in downtown Seattle that raises concerns about street safety. Early morning in the Pioneer Square area, a man was the victim of an armed robbery and was shot over an inexpensive piece of jewelry.

According to an official statement posted on the Seattle Police Department’s website, detectives are investigating a robbery and shooting in which a 23-year-old man was injured. The incident occurred around 12:40 a.m. on the 500 block of 2nd Avenue. Patrol officers found the victim with a gunshot wound to his right thigh. After first aid by Seattle police and firefighters, he was transported in stable condition to Harborview Medical Center.

The investigation found that the victim had just left a bar and sat in the passenger seat of a friend’s car. At that moment, a suspect wearing a ski mask approached him, armed with a firearm, and demanded the necklace. A struggle over the chain ensued, during which the suspect shot the victim in the leg. The shooter then fled by car, taking the necklace with him — a piece of jewelry the police say is worth only about $20. That fact is particularly shocking: such a trivial material value prompted the use of deadly force. Robbery detectives worked both at the scene and at the hospital. Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to call the Major Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000; anonymous tips are accepted.

This case, filed under report number 2026-57536, is a stark example of how quickly an everyday situation can turn violent. The incident took place in Pioneer Square — a historic but often troubled neighborhood known for its nightlife. The fact that the robbery occurred after the victim had already gotten into a car points to the suspect’s boldness and recklessness. The use of a ski mask to conceal identity and a firearm indicates preparation for criminal activity. A shooting over such an insignificant item as a cheap chain underscores extreme aggression and disregard for human life. Events like this raise serious questions for authorities and the community about the effectiveness of public safety measures, street crime prevention, and firearm accessibility. For the victim, even in stable condition, the injury — both physical and psychological — may have long-term consequences.

❮ ❯

How to Maintain Emotional Balance in a World Full of Pain

A reader asks how to cope with heavy feelings when you see human suffering every day — for example, homeless people struggling with severe addiction — but feel unable to change anything. This question about empathic distress and secondary trauma concerns many people in a modern world where social inequality and crises are often visible. In Seattle, Washington, this reality is especially pronounced. Central parts of the city, such as Downtown, the area around Third Avenue and Pine Street, and zones along Interstate 5, are most affected by the homelessness and addiction crisis. Everyday life here encounters an increase in sidewalk and park encampments, safety and sanitation problems, creating pressure on local businesses and public services.

The author, a professional psychotherapist, admits she faces this difficult issue daily in her practice. She thinks not only about those who witness suffering from the outside, but also about clients who have personal experience of addiction or who are supporting loved ones in such situations. Realizing one’s own powerlessness in the face of the scale of others’ problems can cause feelings of defeat. This feeling is exacerbated by visible social inequality, when the luxury office towers of tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft sit alongside tents of the homeless. High incomes in that sector have driven a sharp rise in housing costs, which directly worsened the affordability crisis and intensified debates about fairness and corporate responsibility.

A common reaction to pain — both among those who have experienced trauma and among witnesses — is its “minimization.” This is a defense mechanism that helps temporarily distance oneself from unbearable emotions. However, if you constantly downplay your own and others’ experiences, it interferes with fully feeling and building deep connections with yourself and others.

When witnessing suffering that cannot be directly influenced, people experience a whole range of feelings: from sadness and fear to anger and a desire to immediately “fix” the person or situation. That desire to help can be motivating, but it also becomes a source of pain and disappointment when quick solutions are impossible, especially when it involves loved ones in cycles of addiction. In Seattle, local organizations are actively working on systemic solutions, such as DESC (Downtown Emergency Service Center), which provides emergency housing and mental health support, and Plymouth Housing, which focuses on permanent supportive housing. Their work creating supportive housing is considered one of the most effective long-term responses to the crisis.

If you are in a relatively stable emotional state, you can practice a cycle of working with feelings: acknowledge the emotion, give it expression, and then let it go. It’s important to accept the fact that no one has the power to change another person against their will. This does not negate the possibility of helping through volunteering or support, but it recognizes the limits of our control. At the same time, collective efforts often run up against local specifics. The so-called “Seattle process” — a tradition of prolonged public discussions and consultations — according to critics, often leads to delays and bureaucracy, slowing urgent decisions about building housing or opening shelters.

A key element in this work becomes faith. The author, as a practitioner, cultivates a resilient faith in the possibility of change. This faith is based on personal experience observing people overcome extremely difficult circumstances and on the conviction that each person instinctively moves toward a better version of themselves — both personally and socially.

Systemic solutions are indeed necessary for large-scale change. Collective well-being would improve significantly if everyone’s basic needs were met: safe housing, access to clean water and food, a sense of security, and social connections. Working to build such a future requires not succumbing to despair over the current state of affairs.

Ultimately, the author invites the reader to consider a counter-question: what helps you keep faith personally? Perhaps it’s a practice of acceptance, working with suppressed feelings, or activity in your community. Finding your own answer is part of the path to emotional balance.

❮ ❯

Based on: How to cope when you’re surrounded by suffering | The therapist is in

Art That Awakens in the Rain: Seattle’s Magical Rainworks

On a recent overcast day, passengers waiting at a bus stop in the Beacon Hill neighborhood witnessed a small miracle. The neighborhood, known for its cultural diversity, historic architecture and panoramic views, is often chosen for public-space and transit projects because of its accessibility and population density. When a heavy rain began, pale outlines of two sea lions appeared underfoot on the darkening asphalt beneath the shelter. The unusual images lasted exactly as long as the rain did, then vanished without a trace.

These pieces are called “rainworks” — street art that becomes visible only when the surface is wet. They seem to appear out of nowhere during a downpour or from water splashes. The idea’s creator and founder of the company Rainworks is Seattle resident Peregrine Church.

It all began in 2013, when a young Church, interested in stencil art, learned about superhydrophobic coatings. These coatings repel water, and he began to wonder about their artistic use. After finding an eco-friendly formula that is invisible when dry, he and friends started secretly applying the first pieces at night. His first sidewalk message read: “STAY DRY.”

After a video about the project went viral in 2015, Church and his cofounder launched a crowdfunding campaign to sell kits to anyone who wanted them. From that point the hobby became a sustainable business that has been operating for more than a decade. Rainworks are temporary, like chalk drawings — they fade in dry weather and last two to four months without leaving any trace.

Today Rainworks sells kits worldwide and accepts commissioned artworks. The project’s interactive map shows hundreds of pieces in different countries: a globe in China, a flower in Nigeria, a crocodile in Scotland. In Seattle they once held a haiku contest and engraved the winning poems at a library so they would appear in the rain.

One recent project was a collaboration with the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT). That department handles not only roads but also sidewalks, bike lanes, street lighting, traffic-calming projects, transit integration, and urban design, including public plazas and art installations. In January, four rainworks were installed on a pedestrian plaza on Beacon Hill: sea lions, an orca, an image of a tidal wave and a 25-foot maze. The project is funded by city programs aimed at improving transit hubs. The plaza itself is an example of a transit plaza — a public space integrated with a transit hub that includes passenger amenities and artistic elements to make transfers more pleasant.

The designs were chosen deliberately. SDOT asked students at Mercer Middle School, a public school with a strong academic reputation on Mercer Island, what they would like to see on the plaza. Many of the students’ ideas and memories were tied to water, which inspired the marine creatures. The maze also contains hidden images, such as an oyster with a pearl at its center.

According to SDOT staff, reaction to the project has been very positive both on the plaza and on social media. They found that “small moments of joy matter,” and that involving youth in planning public spaces yields great results. The art became a first step toward making the transit plaza more welcoming.

For founder Peregrine Church, projects like these are a perfect embodiment of Seattle’s spirit. “Rain is an integral part of this city’s culture and personality,” he says. “But there are also very kind and passionate people here. I like to think Rainworks represents both traits: yes, we’re rainy and cloudy, but we make the best of it.” It isn’t the only example of creative engagement with the local climate. The city also hosts projects like the Cloud Rings installation in Olympic Sculpture Park, which interacts with fog and wind, and the stained glass Seattle Cloud Cover at a transit stop, depicting clouds. Rain gardens with green roofs that blend ecology and design are also popular.

On the Beacon Hill plaza the rain ended soon that day and the sun broke through the clouds. The outlines of the sea lions and other creatures faded, then fully dissolved into the pavement. But they won’t have to wait long for their next appearance — forecasters are promising rain again.

❮ ❯

Based on: This Seattle-based art project is hidden, until it rains

Seattle: Sports and Weather

News from Seattle: the Seahawks face tough choices on free agents, Sunday will start foggy but turn sunny, and Real Salt Lake will begin their home campaign against the Seattle Sounders.

Seattle’s difficult puzzle: which key free agents will the Seahawks keep?

The Seattle Seahawks, fresh off a Super Bowl win, enter the offseason with a thorny dilemma. Six starters are set to become free agents, and the club — despite having a healthy amount of salary-cap room — cannot realistically keep them all. The decisions management makes in the coming weeks will shape the team for years.

As reported by Seattle Sports, Seattle’s list of key free agents includes running back Kenneth Walker III, safety Kobe Bryant, receiver/returner Rashid Shaheed, pass-rusher Boye Mafe, and cornerbacks Rick Wolen and Josh Jobe. Although the club has roughly $59.5 million in cap space (sixth-best in the league), a sizable portion of that will likely go toward long-term deals for the 2023 first-round breakout stars Jackson Smith-Njigba and Devon Witherspoon. That forces careful weighing of the pros and cons for each veteran.

The most prominent name is Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III. After a stellar end to the season — averaging 77.1 rushing yards over the last six games — his price has risen. Projections range from $9 to $13 million per year. On one hand, Walker has finally paired elite talent with consistency, evidenced by the NFL’s best missed-tackle rate (33.6%). On the other, the running back position in today’s league is often viewed as highly replaceable, and Walker has a history of injuries. The situation is further complicated by a knee injury to fellow back Zach Charbonnet, who may miss part of the season. “In short, it’s unlikely the Seahawks can find a replacement as talented as Walker. The question is how much they’re willing to pay,” the piece concludes.

Rashid Shaheed’s fate is similarly interesting. Since his 2025 trade, he’s become a formidable special-teams weapon, returning three punts/touchdowns. However, as a receiver his numbers were modest — 18 catches for 266 yards across 12 games. An expected price of $13–14 million per year might be high for a specialist, especially given the presence of young, speedy Tory Horton on the roster and a deep wide-receiver class in the upcoming draft.

On defense the key figures are safety Kobe Bryant and pass-rusher Boye Mafe. Bryant, who successfully transitioned from cornerback, has recorded seven interceptions over two seasons and become a versatile piece valuable to coach Mike Macdonald’s scheme. His projected cost is around $10–14 million per year. The Seahawks have a cheaper alternative in T.J. Okada, who has performed solidly as a backup. Mafe, who showed early career flash, has seen his sack production dip in recent seasons (just 5.0 over the last 32 games), though he still rates well by other metrics. With an expected price tag up to $18 million per year and a deep pool of young edge rushers in the draft, Seattle can afford to let him walk — especially with the possible departure of veteran DeMarcus Lawrence and other cap complications.

The most controversial figure appears to be cornerback Rick Wolen. His career has been a roller coaster: over four seasons he has 10 interceptions and 50 passes defensed, but has also allowed 15 touchdowns. His costly mistake in the NFC championship — drawing an unsportsmanlike penalty and immediately giving up a long touchdown — may have sealed his Seattle future. With projections up to $19 million per year and 14 talented cornerbacks in the top-100 of the draft, the club will likely look for a replacement. His teammate Josh Jobe, despite an inspiring rise from the practice squad, is unlikely to command $9–10 million given low Pro Football Focus grades.

Thus the Seahawks face a tough strategic choice: pay up for proven but imperfect players, or bet on internal replacements and a deep draft, risking some of the championship-level depth. Each decision will balance financial responsibility with the desire to remain among the NFL elite.

Seattle weather: foggy Sunday morning gives way to a sunny day

Sunday in Seattle will begin foggy, but it’s a short-lived phenomenon that will give way to a lovely sunny day to close out the weekend. The change will be driven by a high-pressure area that will bring dry conditions.

According to the FOX 13 Seattle forecast, clear skies Saturday evening into Sunday morning will allow morning fog to form. However, it should lift fairly quickly, yielding abundant sunshine. Temperatures will be contrasting: nights and mornings in many neighborhoods will drop to near freezing, but by midday temperatures should warm to a comfortable +13…+15°C, and in some spots up to +16°C. That will create ideal conditions for outdoor walks and enjoying mild spring sun.

The forecast also carries pleasant reminders about seasonal changes. Seattle is gradually moving out of the “big darkness” — a local nickname for the dark winter months with very short daylight. In a few days sunsets will occur after 6:00 PM, and in a week, with the switch to daylight saving time, daylight will extend until 7:00 PM. That’s an important psychological milestone for residents.

The start of the week should continue the mild, sunny trend: Monday is expected to reach about +16°C. However, by Wednesday conditions will deteriorate — rain returns and the day will be damp. A high chance of precipitation is expected to persist into the following weekend. So Sunday and Monday may be the last truly sunny, dry days before the Northwest’s typical rainy weather comes back.

Real Salt Lake kicks off 2026 home campaign against Seattle Sounders

As Real Salt Lake prepares to start its 2026 MLS home slate, all eyes are on the match against archrival Seattle Sounders. The Utah side, having lost their opening away match in Vancouver, hopes to get back on track at home, where they traditionally perform well. As noted on the club’s official preview, the match is scheduled for Saturday, February 28, 2026, at America First Field — a venue where the Sounders haven’t won since 2012.

Under Pablo Mastroeni, now in his sixth year in charge, Real Salt Lake has shown impressive resilience. During his tenure the club has lost consecutive matches only 18 times in 184 games, and after losses has recorded 31 wins and 16 draws. That ability to rebound will be crucial after the opening defeat. Home season-openers have historically been a strength for RSL: they’re 10 wins, 2 losses and 9 draws in such matches. The head-to-head record in Utah against Seattle is especially encouraging: 13 wins, 1 loss and 4 draws in regular-season meetings. The last away win for Seattle in Utah dates to 2011, and in the 2012 playoffs Seattle did prevail 1–0.

Tactically the team has shifted. Mastroeni has moved away from the 4-2-3-1 used the past two years toward a more attacking 3-5-2 with three central defenders and two wingbacks. That frees creative midfielder Diego Luna (who, however, may miss the match with a knee issue) from excessive defensive duties and lets him focus on creating under the two strikers. The new system should increase attacking flexibility, particularly given the versatility of players like young talent Xavier Goz, who will likely start at right wingback, and the expensive new acquisition — Uruguayan Juan Manuel Sanabria — on the left flank.

Unfortunately, injuries and paperwork problems plague the start of the season. In addition to Diego Luna, defender Lucas Engel (knee) is doubtful, while Sanabria and newcomers Stian Spørings and Morgan Gillavogui are delayed by visa formalities. That opens opportunities for homegrown academy players. In the Vancouver match five homegrown players started, including 17-year-old Luka Moisu and 18-year-olds Xavier Goz and Aiden Hezarkhani, underlining the club’s emphasis on youth.

A key factor against Seattle could be who scores first. Last season RSL came back to win only once after conceding first. When they scored first, their record was strong: 12 wins, 6 losses and 5 draws. In the Mastroeni era the numbers are even more convincing: 46 wins, 10 losses and 18 draws when scoring first. However, in 2025 the team sometimes squandered leads, indicating areas for improvement in preserving results.

The defense in the new system will rest on an experienced core. The three central defenders will be led by veteran and club icon Justen Glad, flanked by newcomer Lucas Engel (with MLS experience at Cincinnati) and DeAndre Yedlin — an experienced defender and two-time World Cup participant with the U.S. national team. In goal, as in the previous season, will be the ever-present Rafael Cabral, who in his debut MLS year played all 40 club matches across all competitions without substitution — all 3,600 minutes.

For Real Salt Lake this match is more than a game: it’s a chance to set the tone for the home season and extend an impressive streak of five consecutive playoff appearances (the active Western Conference record). A win over a long-time rival, who hasn’t had much success in Utah lately, would be an ideal start and would reinforce America First Field’s reputation as a fortress.

❮ ❯

Seattle: hockey, shooting and fake mail carrier attack

In Seattle three high-profile incidents occurred: a heavy loss for the Kraken in the NHL, a school-area shooting that resulted in a death, and a violent home assault by a man disguised as a mail carrier who demanded Bitcoin.

Liam Ohgren scores against Seattle, and Ryan Lindgren misses his first game of the season

In an NHL regular-season game, the Seattle Kraken suffered a heavy 5–1 loss to the St. Louis Blues, and the game produced two notable storylines. First, Minnesota newcomer Liam Ohgren scored against the Kraken, likely an important personal milestone for the young forward. Second, and perhaps more consequential for the result, Seattle defenseman Ryan Lindgren was forced to miss his first game of the season due to injury or other reasons, weakening the club’s defensive alignment.

According to Yahoo Sports, the Seattle Kraken fell 5–1 to the St. Louis Blues, marking the team’s second straight loss. A key factor in the defeat was the absence of one of the team’s main defensemen, Ryan Lindgren, who had played every game of the season up to that point. His absence undeniably disrupted the usual defensive pairings — in hockey, “defensive pairings” refers to the coordinated defensive play of a unit or pairing of defensemen. Meanwhile, on the other bench Minnesota’s young player Liam Ohgren stood out by scoring. For promising rookies like Ohgren, every goal is an important step in adapting to the highest level and fighting for a permanent roster spot.

Lindgren’s absence is a serious loss for the Kraken. He is known as a reliable, physical defenseman, and his unavailability often forces a redistribution of defensive workload to other players, which can lead to mistakes and conceded goals, as happened against the Blues. The 5–1 scoreline highlights Seattle’s problems both defensively and, perhaps, in organizing offense. For a team that in past seasons produced impressive results and even reached the playoffs, consecutive losses like this are a worrying sign. The coaching staff must now not only find a solution at Lindgren’s position if his absence continues but also restore the team’s confidence to snap the losing streak. Ohgren’s goal, though scored in a losing effort, underscores the growing potential of the league’s young talent and adds intrigue to the competition for roster spots at top clubs.

Shooting near Seattle school: suspect accused of stalking dies after shootout with police

A tragic incident near an elementary school in Seattle ended with a man’s death. What began as a stalking complaint escalated into a shootout involving police, and the case is now being investigated by an independent review group. The story highlights not only the specifics of this confrontation but also broader questions about use of force and safety in public spaces.

According to official reports, 62-year-old Christopher Bowman died on February 25 from wounds sustained earlier. The incident occurred the evening of February 12, when an 18-year-old woman told police that her ex-boyfriend, Bowman, was stalking her and was possibly armed. Police responded to a call in the area of NW 28th Avenue and NW 62nd Street. Officers who arrived made contact with Bowman on the street. Court documents indicate a witness reported that an officer ordered him to take his hands out of his pockets. Body-worn camera footage shows Bowman apparently reaching into his pocket and pointing something at an officer, after which shots were fired. Officers returned fire, wounding Bowman. A firearm was found at the scene. During the shootout one officer suffered a minor grazing wound to the leg, was taken to hospital and soon released. Bowman was taken into custody and, while under King County jail supervision during treatment, was formally charged with assault with bail set at $3 million, but he did not survive to face trial. The case is being investigated by the King County Independent Force Investigation Team (IFIT) — a specialized body formed to examine such police-involved incidents to ensure objectivity. The incident occurred in close proximity to Adams Elementary School. In an email to families, school principal Douglas Sohn said a bullet struck a teacher’s lounge window, underscoring the public safety risks. More details are available in the KING5.com report. This case once again raises difficult societal questions about intimate-partner violence, arrest procedures, and measures to prevent such tragedies in urban environments.

Fake mail carrier charged in violent Seattle assault demanding Bitcoin

A case in Seattle resembled a crime-thriller more than reality. A man disguised as a mail carrier entered a home, violently assaulted a married couple and demanded cryptocurrency. The incident, detailed by KING5.com, shocked the local community and law enforcement with its planning and brutality.

31-year-old Ian Alexander Blair of Auburn is charged with first-degree burglary, first-degree extortion, two counts of second-degree assault and first-degree criminal impersonation. Bail was set at $1 million. The incident took place on February 20 in a Seattle residential neighborhood. According to investigators, Blair, dressed in a full United States Postal Service uniform and carrying a mailbag, approached the house and handed the homeowner a letter, insisting the man open it in his presence. The letter demanded payment of ten bitcoins — five immediately and five after the delivery of certain information — and threatened to deliver compromising material to a “third party,” which would supposedly cause legal trouble. Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency often associated with anonymous transactions, likely the reason it appealed to the perpetrator.

When the homeowner began reading the letter, prosecutors say Blair shoved him into the house, and a struggle broke out, leaving the homeowner with a fractured sternum, a possible broken rib and a broken big toe. The homeowner’s wife ran in at the sound of the commotion, and according to testimony, Blair struck her in the face multiple times and briefly strangled her with one hand, cutting off her breathing for several seconds. Neighbors heard cries for help and called the police. When officers arrested Blair, authorities found a Tyvek protective suit under his uniform — a disposable coverall typically used for handling hazardous materials — suggesting premeditation to conceal evidence.

Investigators were particularly alarmed by the contents of Blair’s mailbag. Inside was a so-called “cellular signal jammer” — a device that blocks mobile phone signals, which would have stopped the victims from calling for help. The bag also contained Gorilla tape, two rolls of heavy-duty black plastic bags, four large zip ties, two stun guns, a tourniquet, a prepaid phone, a mask, sunglasses, two Faraday bags and a box of black plastic gloves. Faraday bags are shielded containers that block electromagnetic fields, often used to isolate electronic devices from external signals, for example to prevent tracking. As prosecutors note, all of this points to a “high degree of sophistication and planning” in the crime. Prosecutors believe the extortion was connected to information related to an ongoing civil lawsuit involving the victim homeowner. When asked after his arrest whether he worked for the postal service, Blair reportedly replied only, “Attorney.” He is currently held in the King County Jail and his case is moving toward trial, reminding the public of new forms of cyber-enabled crime spilling out of the digital realm into real-world violence.

❮ ❯

Seattle: Rescue, Protests and New Fees

In Seattle, three people were rescued from a wrecked car, rallies both for and against strikes on Iran took place, and ferries are introducing a card-payment fee.

Three rescued after car plunged into a ditch near the Arboretum in Seattle

On Friday, Feb. 27, Seattle saw a crash that required a complex rescue operation. A car left the roadway and ended up in a ditch on a busy street, leaving three people trapped inside the vehicle. Fortunately, thanks to the quick work of firefighters, all were rescued.

The incident occurred near the intersection of Lake Washington Boulevard East and East Foster Island Road, close to the famed Washington Park Arboretum and Botanical Garden, according to KOMO News. Responding firefighters found three people trapped in the damaged vehicle. Specialized techniques were required to free them: rescuers stabilized the vehicle to prevent further movement and then removed the car’s roof to safely extract the occupants. This method, known as vehicle extrication (often referred to as cutting the roof or “depacking” the vehicle), is standard when doors are jammed or the body is deformed to the point that a normal exit is impossible. All of the injured were reported to be in stable condition at the time of rescue, Seattle Fire Department representatives said.

The crash occurred in the area between the upscale neighborhoods of Montlake and Broadmoor, causing expected traffic disruptions. Authorities urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency personnel to work unimpeded. While details about the cause of the crash or possible injuries were not released, the successful rescue without serious harm highlights the importance of rapid response by professional rescue teams and their technical capabilities for working in difficult roadway situations—especially in urban areas where every minute counts.

Car caravan in Seattle: Iranian diaspora backs U.S. strikes while activists call for peace

On Saturday, an unusual and divisive scene unfolded on the highways around Seattle: more than 300 cars decorated with U.S., Israeli and Iranian flags formed a large caravan in support of recent U.S. military strikes on targets in Iran. At the same time, in the city center at the famous Pike Place Market, another group of protesters demanded an immediate halt to U.S. and Israeli military actions. These parallel demonstrations, reports KING5.com, highlighted deep divisions in American society and among diaspora communities over the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East.

The motorcade, organized by the group “Voice of Iran in Washington,” started from a Bellevue parking lot and drove along I-5 and I-405, drawing attention from other drivers with honking and waving flags. This nonprofit advocates for democracy in Iran and supports international intervention aimed at changing the current regime. For many participants, such as Iranian refugee Arash Seifiandju, the event was a historic moment. “I have waited for this moment my whole life,” said the 46-year-old organizer, who fled Iran due to religious persecution. He explained that people like him in Iran lack basic rights, such as access to schooling or university. Seifiandju, who has lived in the U.S. since 2004, expressed support for the strikes, hoping external pressure will lead to political change, the collapse of the theocratic government and a transition to a peaceful democratic system.

The strikes in question, according to NBC News, were carried out by U.S. Central Command forces by air, land and sea in the early morning Eastern time. Targets included facilities of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (Iran’s elite military force reporting directly to the Supreme Leader), air defense systems, missile and drone launchers, and military airfields. U.S. officials described the operation as a measure to eliminate imminent threats to American forces and interests.

Not everyone in Seattle shares that view. Almost simultaneously, an antiwar rally was held at Pike Place Market organized by the coalition “Seattle Against the War,” which includes local chapters of the Democratic Socialists of America, Students for a Democratic Society and Veterans for Peace. Participants characterized the strikes as an unprovoked attack, warning of the risks to civilians and further escalation in the region. Their main demand was “Hands off Iran,” along with calls for the U.S. Congress to oppose further intervention. Washington Sen. Patty Murray joined those calls, urging Congress to convene urgently and vote to end what she called a “war with Iran,” warning against slipping into a conflict without clear objectives or strategy.

Saturday’s events in Seattle thus became a microcosm of the global debate. On one side, part of the Iranian diaspora that has suffered persecution sees U.S. actions as a chance to liberate their homeland from an authoritarian regime. On the other, left-wing activists and antiwar groups fear another cycle of violence and American imperialism. Both sides appeal to values of peace and human rights but diverge sharply on the methods to achieve them. This polarization, visible on the streets of American cities, shows how complicated and emotionally charged U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East remains.

Washington ferries’ new fee: what changes for passengers starting March 1

Against the backdrop of a setting sun at the Fauntleroy terminal, Washington State Ferries (WSF) are preparing a small but noticeable change for passengers. Beginning Sunday, March 1, WSF is introducing an additional fee for paying fares with bank cards. The change, initiated by state lawmakers, could affect the wallets of thousands of daily riders—especially those accustomed to cashless payments.

The decision to charge the new fee was made at the state legislative level, and ferry leadership, according to West Seattle Blog, is informing riders through regular communications. In a weekly bulletin, WSF director Steve Navy explained details of the forthcoming change. A technical nuance drew particular attention from readers: many assumed such fees could not apply to debit-card transactions. However, WSF clarified that their infrastructure does not support processing debit cards in their pure form. Therefore, when paying with a debit card the transaction is processed as a credit transaction and the new fee will apply. To explain: the difference between debit and credit cards in this context lies in how the payment is processed by the acquiring bank. The ferry system technically does not distinguish between them, which leads to a single rule for the fee. This change reflects a broader trend of transportation and government services shifting some operational costs related to bank fees onto end users. The introduction of the fee may push some passengers to seek alternative payment methods if available, or to plan trips more carefully. While the specific fee amount was not provided in the excerpt, the mere fact of its introduction signals adjustments in funding for one of the region’s key transportation arteries on which many West Seattle and other waterfront residents depend.

❮ ❯

Rebecca Benaroya, philanthropist who reshaped Seattle’s cultural landscape, dies

Rebecca “Becky” Benaroya, whose philanthropy permanently altered Seattle’s cultural landscape, died Wednesday in Palm Springs, California, at the age of 103. Together with her late husband, developer Jack Benaroya, she was a driving force behind dozens of arts, humanitarian and civic organizations.

The family’s best-known contribution was the creation of a concert hall for the Seattle Symphony. Founded in 1903, the orchestra long served as a central figure in the city’s cultural life, performing in various venues but lacking a permanent acoustically superb home. After a lunchtime conversation between her husband and then-music director Gerard Schwarz in the early 1990s, the Benaroyas pledged $15 million to build a new hall. Benaroya Hall opened in 1998, finally giving the orchestra — which played a key role in popularizing classical music — its own home, and it became one of the city’s landmarks.

Benaroya’s philanthropy extended beyond the symphony. The couple were early supporters of the Pilchuck Glass School, the world-renowned educational center founded in 1971 that elevated the craft into a form of contemporary fine art. The school became the epicenter of the studio glass movement, attracted international artists, and solidified the Puget Sound region’s reputation as a global center for glass art. The pair also supported ACT Theatre and the 5th Avenue Theatre, as well as educational institutions including the University of Washington. In 2016, at age 93, Becky Benaroya pledged 225 works from her art and glass collection to the Tacoma Art Museum along with $14 million for museum expansion.

Medical research was another major focus: the couple funded the Benaroya Research Institute and the Benaroya Center for Diabetes at Virginia Mason Medical Center. In Palm Springs, where Benaroya spent winters in recent years, she supported the McCallum Theatre, Eisenhower Medical Center and the local art museum, and volunteered for 28 years reading to elementary school students.

A daughter of Sephardic Jews who immigrated to Seattle from Turkey and Greece, Becky Benaroya was a tireless champion of the local Jewish community. That community, formed in the early 20th century primarily by immigrants from the island of Rhodes and from Turkey, preserved unique cultural and religious traditions, built its synagogues and created strong mutual-aid networks. Becky and Jack Benaroya actively supported it, donating funds to preserve culture, education and charity, strengthening Sephardic heritage within Seattle’s multicultural mosaic. Her advocacy briefly touched a controversy in 2022 when the University of Washington returned her $5 million donation to an Israel studies program after the program director signed a statement criticizing Israel’s actions in Gaza.

Becky Benaroya is survived by three children, four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She inherited her philosophy of generosity from her family. In a 2001 interview she recalled lessons from her beloved Turkish grandfather, who believed that money is a gift to be shared and that the most important thing one can leave behind is a good name.

Her legacy is not only buildings and collections but a living spirit of generosity that continues to shape cultural and civic life in Seattle and beyond. As the chair of Benaroya Hall’s board noted, Becky’s love of the arts and extraordinary generosity touched countless lives.

❮ ❯

Based on: Rebecca ‘Becky’ Benaroya, Seattle philanthropist, dies at 103

U.S. Small Business Administration Helps Washington Flood Victims

Special assistance centers are opening in Western Washington for businesses and residents affected by the destructive December floods. The federal agency — the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) — is operating these centers in five counties: King, Lewis, Skagit, Snohomish and Whatcom. These counties, located between the Puget Sound coastline and the Cascade Mountains, are particularly vulnerable to flooding because of numerous rivers flowing down from the mountains, frequent "atmospheric rivers" from the Pacific, low-lying valleys, and the combination of heavy rains with mountain snowmelt. The primary purpose of the centers is to help with completing applications and to answer questions about obtaining low-interest recovery loans.

There are two main types of loans: for compensation of physical damage to property and to cover economic losses caused by the disaster. The deadline to apply for the first type is April 27, and for the second is November 24, 2020. This gives those affected sufficient time to assess the full scale of the financial impact.

The assistance centers will operate in libraries, municipal buildings and other public locations in the listed counties. Their exact addresses and detailed schedules can be found on the SBA’s official website. Applications can also be submitted entirely online through the portal sba.gov/disaster, which is especially convenient for those who cannot visit a center in person.

Loan terms are favorable. Small businesses and non-profit organizations may be eligible for up to $2 million to repair real estate, equipment or inventory. Homeowners can receive up to $500,000 to repair primary residences and an additional up to $100,000 for personal property. For renters, the maximum loan amount to replace belongings is also $100,000.

A key benefit of the program is the ability to increase the loan amount by 20% of the physical damage amount to fund measures that prevent future disasters. In Western Washington, such measures, adapted to local terrain and infrastructure, typically include strengthening levees and floodwalls, improving drainage systems, restoring natural floodplains, upgrading bridges and roads, river channel diversion projects, and implementing early warning systems. Interest rates are very low: from 4% for businesses to 2.875% for individuals, and repayment terms can be up to 30 years. In addition, loan payments do not begin until 12 months after the initial disbursement.

The scale of damage from the December flooding is significant. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson, as the state’s chief executive, is coordinating relief by declaring a state of emergency and requesting federal support. He has formally requested about $173 million from the federal government to repair roads, levees and to prepare for similar events in the future. In addition to the SBA, response and recovery typically involve FEMA, the state disaster relief fund, the Department of Transportation, the National Guard, local authorities, the Red Cross and volunteer organizations. A preliminary estimate of total statewide damage is $182.3 million, and officials are still awaiting a decision on additional federal aid.

For more information about the SBA assistance program, contact the service center at 800-659-2955 or by email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. For people with hearing or speech disabilities, the telecommunications relay service is available at 711.

❮ ❯

Based on: SBA opens centers for December flood recovery loan applications

Behind the Scenes of Green Promises: How Big Tech Fights Data Center Regulation

In Washington state, where tech giants' data centers are placing growing strain on power grids and water resources, lawmakers in a short 60-day session—meant for budget adjustments and urgent matters—proposed an ambitious regulatory package. But, as an investigation by The Seattle Times found, companies like Microsoft and Amazon are conducting active behind-the-scenes lobbying to weaken or block these new rules, contradicting their public image as environmental stewards.

Bill HB 2515 would have required utilities to impose special, higher electricity rates on data centers so they would pay for necessary grid upgrades and protect ordinary customers from rising bills. Rates and interconnection decisions for such large customers in the state are regulated by the Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC), which balances demand and environmental impacts. The bill also originally proposed a half-cent-per-kilowatt-hour charge to help low-income customers and fund "green" projects.

Publicly, tech companies say they are willing to "pay their bills" and invest in clean energy. Microsoft president Brad Smith wrote about working with utilities and being transparent. However, internal documents show that Microsoft, through its lobbyists, pushed to remove or weaken the bill provisions that would raise rates and impose new energy obligations.

Microsoft lobbyist Lauren MacDonald argued that the prescriptive nature of the requirements would remove flexibility and could have "unintended consequences." The company says it supports the bill's goals, but disputes wording details that it believes could effectively ban construction of new data centers in the state.

Amazon Web Services also actively influenced the process. An AWS lobbyist helped introduce amendments that significantly diluted the original text. That maneuver, however, sparked a backlash among House Republicans, who felt used. Tech giants typically lobby both major parties in the state, but the ethics and transparency concerns raised by this incident strained Republican relations with Amazon.

Industry representatives, such as Dan DeRio of the Data Center Coalition—an industry group lobbying on behalf of data center operators on energy use and regulation—call the accumulation of regulations "death by a thousand cuts." They argue the bill is intended to curb industry growth or push it out of Washington and advocate for incentives instead of strict mandates, while acknowledging that billions of dollars in investment are at stake.

As a result of lobbying pressure, the bill has already lost key provisions. The per-kilowatt-hour charge and a clause that would have allowed utilities to deny interconnection if a data center's demand exceeded grid capacity were removed. Negotiations produced significant concessions in favor of the industry.

Nevertheless, several contentious elements remain. These include rules requiring data centers to cut energy use during shortages, invest in new energy projects, increase transparency about resource use, and purchase emissions allowances. Those issues will be major flashpoints in further discussions.

Democratic Senator Sharon Shewmake, an influential legislator from the 32nd District known for her environmental work, is disappointed by the scale of the rollbacks. Still, she believes that even in its pared-down form the bill will establish meaningful oversight of the industry and help protect consumers and the environment, including regionally important species such as salmon, whose protection is a key ecological and cultural priority for Washington.

The weakened version of the bill has already passed the House. It is now under review in Washington state's Senate committees. To become law, it must pass the full Senate by March 6—the deadline for bills originating in the opposite chamber during the current short session—setting up a tense final stage of debate and lobbying in Olympia.

The situation in Washington mirrors a national trend: as public skepticism about data centers grows, tech giants are ramping up lobbying campaigns at the state and federal levels to shape or block policies affecting their multibillion-dollar investments.

❮ ❯

Based on: Tech companies gain ground in fight against WA data center regulations

New mental health crisis center to open in South King County

King County officials, who oversee public health for the region, have announced the operator selected for the third mental health crisis center. The center will be built in the southern part of the county, serving the cities of Auburn, Covington, Kent, Federal Way and Renton. The operator will be the local nonprofit MultiCare Behavioral Health. The center will be part of a large network of five similar facilities where anyone can seek urgent help for mental health crises or substance use problems, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.

MultiCare is a large nonprofit health system headquartered in Tacoma that operates several hospitals and clinics in the state. The organization already has substantial experience in behavioral health, including managing the specialized Wellfound hospital in Tacoma and affiliation with the Navos Behavioral Health network. County officials emphasize that choosing a provider already known and trusted by residents is especially important for one of the fastest-growing regions.

A specific site for the new center has not yet been determined; it will be chosen in coordination with local officials. During the planning process, MultiCare will do active community engagement, including forming an advisory board of local residents. This step responds to criticism the county faced when planning the center in the Capitol Hill area of Seattle. That historic hub of progressive movements and the LGBTQ+ community traditionally has high civic engagement, with residents actively advocating on land use, affordable housing and preservation of the neighborhood’s character. Local residents and businesses complained about insufficient involvement in the process, which is now being addressed in planning the new facility.

At present, King County’s network already includes one crisis center in Kirkland, and a second is planned for Seattle. Officials are also seeking operators for a center in East King County (the Bellevue and Redmond area) and for a separate youth-focused center. The county’s plan calls for all five centers to be open by 2030.

❮ ❯

Based on: King County announces operator for third crisis care center

New beer available only on Washington ferries

To mark the 75th anniversary of Washington State’s ferry system and ahead of World Cup matches in Seattle, local brewery Bale Breaker has released an exclusive beer. This special West Coast IPA-style ale will be sold only aboard ferries running across Puget Sound. The company chose this unusual route to celebrate two major events this summer and to pay tribute to an iconic transportation artery. Washington’s ferry system is the largest in the U.S. and operates as part of the state network, serving thousands of residents daily and standing as an important symbol of regional identity.

The new beer, at 6.8% ABV, is brewed using popular hop varieties Simcoe, Citra and Mosaic, grown in the famed Yakima hop-growing valley. This major agricultural region east of the Cascade Range is known for its ideal hop-growing climate and produces about 75% of all U.S. hops, making it one of the world’s leading centers for elite hop varieties. The can’s design directly references the reasons for celebration: it features a ferry, a soccer ball and Seattle’s symbol, the Space Needle. Due to alcohol laws, a purchased 16-ounce (about 470 ml) can must be consumed onboard, which suits the longer crossings perfectly. State-run ferries have historically been an exception and are classified as vessels with dining areas where alcohol sale and consumption are permitted, unlike other public transit.

The idea for the special drink came from Brian McDonagh, general manager of Sodexo Live!, which supplies food services to the ferries. He approached Bale Breaker brewers with a proposal to collaborate, wanting to create something truly unique and available only to passengers. Although the World Cup partially inspired the project, it has no official connection to the sporting event.

To launch sales, 3,600 cans of beer (150 cases) were shipped to all ferries. Organizers are confident it will sell well: last year passengers drank nearly 277,000 cans of beer in ferry concession areas. Despite the relatively high price of $8.75 per can, demand is expected to be strong. A portion of the proceeds from each sale will go to the state ferry system’s budget, which can be seen as a contribution to the public good.

Bale Breaker brewers are already working on a draught version of this ale, which will also be available only on ferries and should appear in about a month. At the same time, Sodexo is partnering with Winsome Ciderworks of Woodinville to create a special cider dedicated to the same events. That drink is expected to be released within a few weeks and will be priced at the same $8.75.

Thus, this new beer is more than just a beverage: it’s a special project created for Puget Sound ferry passengers. It lets people mark the anniversary of an important state transportation artery, feel the spirit of a major sporting celebration and simultaneously support ferry operations, with part of the sales revenue going toward their upkeep and development.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA ferry system gets its own beer

Seattle: Threats and Events

In Seattle, officials discussed the city's vulnerability to earthquakes 25 years after the Nisqually quake, and an investigation into the death of a dangerous repeat offender after a shootout with police has concluded. At the same time, fans are following MLB spring training.

Live: Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Seattle Mariners in Spring Training

Right now in Peoria, Arizona, one of the Major League Baseball (MLB) spring training games is taking place between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Seattle Mariners. Although these games do not count toward the regular season standings, they are a crucial part of team preparation for the new season. Spring training is the time when coaches assess player form, test new tactical schemes, and give playing time to both stars and young prospects trying to secure a spot on the main roster.

The broadcast is available on the official MLB site, where viewers can watch the game live. For new fans, it’s worth explaining that spring training games are a traditional stage that precedes the start of the MLB regular season. Teams hold them in February and March, most often in Arizona or Florida, which allows players to readjust to game rhythm after the offseason in favorable weather. The matchup between the Diamondbacks and the Mariners is more than a friendly exhibition; it’s an opportunity for managers to finalize the season roster, for pitchers to fine-tune their deliveries, and for batters to get their timing back. The key insight about these games is that the final score is secondary — individual player metrics and overall team cohesion matter far more. A live stream like the one on MLB.com lets fans around the world see their teams’ first steps in the new year, evaluate newcomers, and form impressions of the club’s potential ahead of serious competition. Even in February, baseball gives supporters a chance to immerse themselves in the sport, and for teams it’s an indispensable readiness check for the long and grueling regular season.

A quarter-century after the earthquake: why Seattle is still vulnerable

It’s been 25 years since the Nisqually earthquake shook Washington state, but, it turns out, time has stood still for many buildings. Despite cracked roads and collapsed masonry in the historic Pioneer Square neighborhood, the vast majority of Seattle’s old brick buildings have not been retrofitted, leaving thousands of people at risk in one of the most seismically active regions in the United States.

Amanda Herzfeld, who manages the city’s masonry retrofit program, admits she is haunted by footage of that 6.8-magnitude quake, especially when she looks at the real numbers. According to her, Seattle has more than 1,000 unreinforced masonry buildings — the kind typical of historic districts. Yet since 2001 only about 79 of them have undergone official retrofits. As noted in the KATU piece, the problem is not the technology: “It’s a very simple engineering solution to prevent this,” Herzfeld says, pointing to steel ties and braces on a Pioneer Square building. The problem is money and political will. The estimated cost to retrofit all the city’s vulnerable buildings reaches an astronomical $2 billion. For owners, many of whom lease space to small businesses or provide relatively affordable housing, such investments are unaffordable without a city mandate that would allow cost recovery through higher rents. However, as Herzfeld notes, “there is simply no political will right now to impose mandatory retrofit requirements.” Instead, the city offers guidance, streamlined permits, and fee reductions.

Experts are particularly alarmed by Seattle’s growing population, many of whom may not be aware of the full extent of the risk. Herzfeld reminds people that Mount Rainier on the skyline is not just a pretty picture but direct evidence of an active subduction tectonic zone, where one tectonic plate dives beneath another. It is this Cascadia zone that is capable of producing megathrust earthquakes, compared with which Nisqually could seem like a mild jolt. The scale of the problem extends far beyond Seattle. Herzfeld estimates there could be up to 33,000 such vulnerable buildings statewide. An attempt to address the issue at the state level, bill HB 1810, which would have studied financial incentives for retrofitting and created a statewide inventory of vulnerable buildings, failed to advance — it wasn’t even scheduled for hearings in the current legislative session. That means systematic work is postponed, and time is working against preparedness. The Nisqually quake, with an epicenter northeast of Olympia, caused between $1 billion and $4 billion in damage. The next major seismic event in a densely populated and still poorly prepared region could have far more catastrophic consequences for both infrastructure and human lives.

Death of a dangerous repeat offender after shootout with police in Seattle

A man with a long history of violent crimes, accused of attempting to kill police officers, has died in Seattle. The incident in the Ballard neighborhood has renewed sharp questions about law enforcement operations and criminal recidivism.

According to the independent King County Independent Force Investigations Team (IFIT-KC), 62-year-old Christopher Michael Bowman died Wednesday from wounds sustained during a shootout with officers. As reported in a KOMO News article, Bowman had been in critical condition at Harborview Medical Center since the early-month incident when officers tried to take him into custody. By that time, he already faced charges of first- and second-degree assault. Notably, at the time of the shooting Bowman had an active extradition order from Kansas related to prior convictions.

Bowman’s criminal record reads like a chronology of serious offenses. Court documents show his history of violent crime dates back to the 1990s. In Kansas he was convicted of rape, armed robbery, kidnapping with aggravating circumstances, unlawful possession of a firearm, and trading prohibited items in a correctional facility. He also has a first-degree robbery conviction in Missouri. That record makes him a typical example of a “violent repeat offender” — someone who repeatedly committed serious crimes despite prosecution and imprisonment.

The investigation into the incident continues. IFIT-KC is processing evidence and reviewing officers’ body-worn camera (BWC) footage. The King County medical examiner’s office is determining the exact cause and nature of death. Investigators have pledged to provide weekly updates until the case is closed. The death of a suspect under such circumstances always draws public scrutiny and requires a thorough, transparent inquiry to establish all the details. This case highlights the complex challenges law enforcement faces when attempting to detain armed and dangerous offenders with long histories of defying the law.

❮ ❯

Viral Kindness: Baristas Treated Every Shelter Dog

In the U.S. state of Washington, employees of the coffee chain Dutch Bros performed a touching act that moved the entire internet. When a volunteer from the local animal shelter, Julie Saraceno, ordered three servings of whipped cream for the dogs, the baristas surprised her. Instead of small treats, they gave her an entire jar of whipped cream, a large cup of dog biscuits, and enough cups so that every one of the shelter’s 35 furry residents could get a treat.

Julie Saraceno, who runs popular social media accounts to help homeless animals, filmed the dogs enthusiastically accepting the gift and posted the clip online. The video instantly went viral, racking up more than a million likes across platforms. The story even drew attention from major outlets like People and the popular dog-lover community We Rate Dogs.

The act of kindness didn’t go unanswered. Touched by the baristas’ gesture, Julie returned to the coffee shop to leave them generous tips. Dutch Bros itself, inspired by the story, began a partnership with the volunteer to deliver 50 sets of similar treats to other shelters. “There’s been so much sadness in the world lately that I’ve been feeling down a lot. This was a bright reminder that there are still so many good people in the world,” Saraceno shared.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA baristas’ doggone good deed goes viral with happy pups, 1 million humans

The Power of Vulnerability: How Eddie Vedder Fights a Rare Disease

Eddie Vedder’s first solo tour without Pearl Jam was a trial filled with doubts and on-stage mistakes. The turning point came from advice by Bruce Springsteen, who said that vulnerability while performing is not a weakness but a strength that can be harnessed. Nearly two decades later, Vedder applied that lesson at two sold-out benefit concerts in 2023 held in Seattle, the city that played a key role in shaping Pearl Jam’s sound and identity as part of the 1990s grunge movement. Those emotional performances took place at Benaroya Hall, known for its acoustics and frequent use for charity events, and were dedicated to finding a cure for a rare genetic skin disease — bullous epidermolysis (BE) — which forms the basis of the new Netflix documentary Matter of Time.

Bullous epidermolysis makes the skin so fragile that even light friction causes painful blisters and open wounds. In severe cases it can lead to serious complications, including skin cancer. There is no cure. It was to fund research and support patients that Eddie and his wife Jill founded the EB Research Partnership in 2010. The foundation collaborates with research institutes around the world, including institutions in Seattle and Washington state such as the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. “These kids feel seen and understood,” Vedder says. “They realize they don’t have to be feared.”

For Jill Vedder, who leads the foundation, the mission is deeply personal. She has attended funerals for children lost to the disease. The impetus for starting the organization came when she learned that the son of a childhood friend and co-founder of the foundation had been diagnosed with BE. “Every time I speak with these families I cry, because you can’t stay indifferent,” Jill shares.

Eddie Vedder has long been known for his philanthropic work. For example, he spent 15 years fighting for the release of wrongfully convicted teenagers known as the West Memphis Three. “Back then I thought we’d solve it in a couple of years, but it took patience,” the musician recalls. “Now we’re applying that patience again in our work with the foundation. You learn not only the science but the scientists, their dedication to the cause.”

The foundation’s CEO compares their progress to a butterfly effect: one small but powerful action can create a “monsoon” of change on the other side of the world. The documentary Matter of Time aims to be such an action, combining the power of Vedder’s music with personal stories of families to draw global attention to BE.

Despite active philanthropy, Eddie Vedder confirms that Pearl Jam, for whom Seattle remains a spiritual home, will continue making new music. “Right now we’re tighter as a band than ever,” he said. Thus, his artistic vulnerability on stage and undying hope in the fight against the disease continue hand in hand, inspiring fans around the world.

❮ ❯

Based on: Eddie Vedder turns solo vulnerability into a powerful plea in Netflix’s ‘Matter of Time’

Capitol Hill park reopens after major overhaul

Seven Hills Park in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood reopened to the public Thursday after being closed for several months. City crews carried out a comprehensive cleanup and renovation at the request of local residents. Work included pressure-washing surfaces, updating landscaping, removing graffiti, mowing lawns, weeding and fully replacing trash and recycling bins.

The drastic measures followed numerous neighbor complaints about long-term homeless encampments that made the park difficult to access and unsafe. Residents reported incidents of antisocial behavior, threats and acts of violence, as well as drug use on the premises. Some linked the increase in tent encampments to the proximity of a hospital and a rehabilitation center. The issue was particularly acute for nearby daycares, which could not use the park as they had before the pandemic.

Now, after the renovation, the park has not only restored its recreational function but will also be one of the stops on a new neighborhood walking route called the “Healthy Capitol Hill Walk.” In addition, by summer the site is expected to receive fitness equipment for people and dogs, along with other natural landscaping elements. Similar improvements are planned for several other Seattle parks.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seven Hills Park on Seattle’s Capitol Hill reopens after cleanup

Seattle: Weekend Events and Drivers' Protests

The weekend in Seattle offers scream therapy, festivals and hockey, while Uber and Lyft drivers protest market oversaturation and falling incomes.

Your Seattle weekend guide: scream therapy, roller skating, comedy and more

On the doorstep of spring, the last February weekend in Seattle and its surroundings offers a packed lineup of events for every taste — from unusual psychological practices to athletic battles. If you’re looking for ways to spend time that nourish both body and soul, here’s an overview of the most interesting happenings.

On Sunday at 5:00 p.m. an unusual event will take place in Lincoln Park — a gathering of the Seattle Scream Club. As the event description on MyNorthwest.com says, the collective scream is seen as a way to release emotion and reset the mind and body, and the shared action creates a special bond. After the group scream participants will have closing remarks. The club plans to meet every first Sunday of the month. For film lovers, SIFF Cinema Uptown is hosting the Sea Slug Animation Festival these days, dedicated to independent animation from around the world, with a special emphasis this year on works by Pacific Northwest creators. Tickets are available for individual screenings as well as for the entire festival.

Events marking Black History Month are also continuing. On Sunday the Hyatt Regency will host the Fourth Annual Black Makers and Creatives Event, featuring art, music, dance, a fashion show, and food pop-ups by Black entrepreneurs. Proceeds will go to the Family First Community Center. Tickets are $10. On Saturday at 7:00 p.m. Elliott Bay Book Company will hold the 34th annual group reading of the African American Writers’ Alliance, with authors, poets and storytellers. Admission is free but registration is required.

On Saturday the Tacoma Dome will host a free family celebration of the Asian Pacific Islander New Year with two stages of live performances, including music and martial arts, workshops, games, opportunities to try on traditional clothing, and plentiful treats from numerous food vendors. For active recreation fans, the first open roller-skating session of the year will take place Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Tacoma Armory. Admission is $10 and equipment rental is available. At 12:30 p.m. a $5 beginner lesson from the Tomorrowland Junior Roller Derby team will teach basics of skating, safe falling and braking.

Those 21 and over looking for laughs can head to The Growler Guys in the Lake City area for the Seattle Comedy Showcase. Local and touring comedians will perform Friday and Saturday, and between sets you can sample more than 60 draft beers. Finally, on Saturday evening the Seattle Kraken return home to the Climate Pledge Arena for a 7:00 p.m. game against the Vancouver Canucks.

Drivers vs. platforms: how taxi market oversaturation in Seattle is leaving drivers without pay

In downtown Seattle, amid evening bustle, the sounds were not the usual honks but voices of protest. Dozens of drivers working for Uber and Lyft rallied, demanding that the companies stop signing up new drivers. They say the market has long been oversaturated and supply far exceeds passenger demand. This is not just a protest of the disgruntled — it’s backed by a report based on analysis of nearly a million trips that paints a troubling picture: most miles driven by Uber drivers in the Seattle area are now empty, and the number of drivers is growing almost seven times faster than the number of trips.

For drivers like Umaru Sako, the situation has become a financial disaster. “Last week from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. I earned just $5,” he told KING5.com. “How am I supposed to pay my bills with that?” He says he sometimes waits three to four hours without getting a single request and fears ending up on the street if nothing changes. The report, titled “Empty Miles: Why Too Many Ride-Hailing Cars Means More Air Pollution, More Congestion and Less Pay for Drivers,” documents a rise in deadheading per passenger trip over the past three years. The key problem the authors point to is the lack of any limits on the number of drivers that Uber and Lyft can connect to their platforms, regardless of the real market situation.

Washington Drivers Union president Takele Gobena notes the trend became noticeable two to three years ago, and now the data only confirm what drivers have felt in practice. “They need to balance the number of drivers with the growth in trips,” he says. “This isn’t a job for fun. It’s their livelihood. If they don’t drive, many don’t have another set of skills to find work elsewhere.” The union is calling for a pause on onboarding new drivers until the market stabilizes and also urges passengers to remember to tip where possible to help support drivers’ incomes.

Uber, however, disputed the report’s conclusions in a response to the outlet, calling the data sample used “extremely small and unrepresentative.” The company says the decline in trip demand is not due to an oversupply of drivers but to higher fares. A representative noted that Uber does not “hire” drivers in the traditional sense — people register themselves in the app. The company also pointed to minimum pay standards introduced in Seattle in recent years, which it says led to about a 40% increase in trip costs for riders. According to Uber, Seattle now has the highest ride-hailing prices in the country, and that — especially among lower-income riders who have fewer alternatives — has reduced demand. This dispute highlights a fundamental conflict: on one side, efforts to ensure drivers a decent minimum income through regulation; on the other, market dynamics where higher prices can deter customers. While companies and drivers seek to assign blame, ordinary drivers like Umaru Sako are left alone with empty accounts and growing debts, and the city’s streets are filling with ever more cars that most often drive without passengers.

Protest in Seattle: Uber and Lyft drivers demand a stop to the market “flood”

A protest organized by Uber and Lyft drivers took place in downtown Seattle on Wednesday. Workers demanded that the ride-hailing giants stop adding new drivers, arguing the market is already flooded, which is driving down their earnings. The action coincided with the release of a new report showing a worrying trend: most miles drivers travel are so-called “empty miles” — driving without passengers. These deadhead miles not only increase road congestion and air pollution but also directly hurt drivers’ pay.

According to the report by Drivers Union, representing more than 30,000 drivers in Washington state, empty miles per passenger trip have been rising for the third year in a row. Meanwhile, the number of Uber and Lyft drivers is increasing almost seven times faster than the growth in trip requests. This creates a vicious cycle: the more drivers on the road, the fewer requests each receives, and the more time and gas they waste searching for customers. Drivers gathered during rush hour outside Uber’s engineering offices on 2nd Avenue and Seneca Street, chanting their demands through megaphones to draw public attention to the issue.

“The information in this report confirmed what we see every day — a flooded market, clogged streets and falling earnings,” Drivers Union president Takele Gobena said in a press release. He emphasized that the situation affects the entire community and called for fair rules to create a balanced market that benefits everyone. Uber, in its comment to GeekWire, sharply criticized the report, calling its data sample “extremely small and unrepresentative.” The company also tied the problems to local regulation. According to an Uber spokesperson, Seattle’s driver pay rules led to a roughly 40% increase in trip prices for riders, making the city the most expensive for ride-hailing in the country. “As prices rose, demand for trips fell — and with fewer overall requests, drivers began earning less stable income,” the company representative explained in the GeekWire piece.

Thus, the protest in Seattle highlighted a key conflict in the gig-economy industry. On one side, drivers whose incomes are becoming less predictable demand protection from an unlimited influx of new labor that dilutes their earnings. On the other, companies like Uber see the root cause in regulation that, in their view, artificially raises prices and deters customers. The situation raises difficult questions about the future of work on digital platforms, the balance between flexibility and stability, and the role of local authorities in setting the rules of the game. Meanwhile, as the sides exchange arguments, drivers continue to spend time and resources on empty miles across Seattle’s crowded streets, a development that harms not only their personal finances but also the city’s environment.

❮ ❯

Scandal and Hat-trick: Seattle News

In sports: the St. Louis Blues routed the Seattle Kraken, with Dylan Holloway the main star after scoring a hat-trick. In politics: Washington State House Majority Leader Joe Fitzgibbon apologized for appearing at work intoxicated.

St. Louis Blues rout Seattle Kraken after Olympic break

After the break for the Olympic Games, the NHL returned to regular-season play, and the Seattle Kraken’s return proved unsuccessful. The team suffered a second straight loss, this time falling heavily to the St. Louis Blues, 5-1. Dylan Holloway was the game’s protagonist, recording a hat-trick in his first game back from injury.

The game in St. Louis was the Kraken’s second contest since returning from the Olympic break, and it ended in a second consecutive defeat. If the night before the team lost 1-4 in Dallas, the loss to the Blues looked even bleaker. Seattle conceded to Dylan Holloway in the first period — Holloway having just returned from an ankle sprain. Kaapo Kakko managed to tie the score, but in the second period the Blues scored twice in 23 seconds — first Jordan Kyrou, then Holloway again — which effectively decided the outcome. In the third period Peirce Suter increased the lead, and Holloway completed his hat-trick into an empty net. This hat-trick was the Blues’ first of the season and Holloway’s 11th goal of the campaign. According to Seattle Sports, Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer stopped 26 shots, but it wasn’t enough.

For those unfamiliar: a hat-trick in hockey is three goals scored by a single player in one game, a significant individual achievement. An “empty net” refers to when the trailing team pulls its goalie late in the game to add a sixth skater and bolster the attack, risking a goal into an unguarded net — which is what happened to the Kraken. Veteran Blues defenseman Cam Fowler also featured in the game; it was his 1,100th NHL game, putting him among the ten active defensemen in the league to reach that milestone.

The key insight from this game was Holloway’s brilliant return: he didn’t just come back from injury but immediately became the primary architect of his team’s victory, contributing four points (three goals and one assist). His activity tore apart the Kraken’s defensive structure. For Seattle, the main problem appears to be inconsistency after the break — two losses in a row with a combined goal differential of 2-9 point to serious gaps in both offense and defense. A telling stat: two Blues goals in 23 seconds in the second period broke the visitors’ resistance. In the near term, the Kraken will need to correct mistakes in a home game against Vancouver on Saturday, while the Blues will also play at home against New Jersey. Separately, the Kraken announced the signing of two-year contracts with forwards Ben Meyers and Ryan Winterton, possibly an attempt to bolster the roster for the remainder of the season after a poor start to the second half.

State House Majority Leader admits to being intoxicated at work

A scandal erupted in Washington state politics involving one of the state’s leading Democrats. Joe Fitzgibbon, the influential House majority leader, admitted to being intoxicated at the workplace during an important committee hearing. The incident, made public via a video recording, undermines trust in elected officials and calls into question professional standards within the legislature.

In a statement released by the House Democrats’ office, Fitzgibbon issued a profound apology, acknowledging the seriousness of his misconduct. He said: “I deeply regret and apologize for having consumed alcohol before the conclusion of the Appropriations Committee on Wednesday, and the result was obvious. This was a serious mistake for many reasons. Being intoxicated in that situation harmed my work and my colleagues.” The lawmaker called the experience a painful and shameful lesson and promised it would not happen again. The video of the hearing, which showed signs of his impaired state, was released by TVW and quickly spread across media, including West Seattle Blog.

Joe Fitzgibbon is an experienced politician: he has represented the 34th Legislative District (West Seattle) in the House for 15 years and has served as majority leader for the past three years. His political standing is underscored by recent election results: in 2024 he was re-elected with 84% of the vote, defeating Republican Joli Lansdown. Despite this incident, Fitzgibbon has already filed to run in this year’s election, making the situation particularly delicate amid the campaign.

Leadership of the Democratic caucus reacted quickly. House Speaker Laurie Jinkins (D–Tacoma) also issued a statement emphasizing expectations of professionalism in the workplace. She noted that while Fitzgibbon did not meet that standard, he admitted his behavior was unacceptable and apologized. “People in Washington expect and deserve their legislators to be fully focused and thinking clearly while doing the work on their behalf,” Jinkins said. “House Democratic leadership supports Fitzgibbon as he takes the necessary steps to ensure his wellbeing.” This wording essentially expresses cautious support for a colleague, shifting focus to the need for personal remediation rather than immediate political or disciplinary action.

The incident raises important questions about accountability and workplace culture in legislative bodies. Consuming alcohol before or during official hearings, especially in a key committee like the Appropriations Committee, which oversees state finances, calls into question the quality of decisions being made and respect for voters. Although Fitzgibbon issued a public apology, the real consequences for his career and reputation remain to be seen. In politics, where trust is a key asset, such admissions can have long-term effects on support from colleagues and constituents. For now, the Democratic caucus has taken a stance that combines condemnation of the act with support for the lawmaker’s personal efforts, suggesting a desire to contain the scandal without dramatic personnel moves. However, public reaction and further media coverage are likely to pressure all parties to provide clearer assurances that this will not happen again.

State representative apologizes for attending committee meeting after drinking

An incident in Washington state politics has sparked discussion about norms of behavior and the responsibility of elected officials. Representative Joe Fitzgibbon of the 34th District found himself at the center of attention after admitting he drank before a budget committee meeting.

Democrat Joe Fitzgibbon, who represents a district that includes West Seattle, White Center and parts of Beacon Hill, publicly apologized for his actions. In a statement to FOX 13 Seattle he called it “a serious mistake for many reasons.” Fitzgibbon emphasized that working in a state that could be perceived as impaired harms not only his own work but also that of his colleagues. “This was a painful and humiliating lesson I will not forget, and I will not put myself or others in that situation again. I apologize once more,” he said. The incident occurred during a House Appropriations Committee meeting where the state operating budget was being discussed. During his remarks, as seen in the transcript, the representative made speech hesitations that may have drawn initial attention. He spoke about the importance of a budget that remembers people who often lack a voice in the political process. It remains unclear whether the incident will result in disciplinary action against Fitzgibbon, especially with only two weeks left in the 60-day legislative session. In political practice, such situations can be treated as violations of ethical norms, and any sanctions would be decided according to the internal rules of the legislature. Fox 13 Seattle reports that this case raises questions about professional discipline and personal accountability for politicians whose work directly affects constituents’ lives. While the representative’s apology appears sincere, it is unlikely to fully dispel concerns about the acceptability of such behavior during weighty legislative duties.

❮ ❯

Seattle: construction, shooting and scandal

News from Seattle: the transit agency is buying land for light rail, a teenager carried out a shooting at a pizzeria, and the state House majority leader admitted he voted on the budget while intoxicated.

Sound Transit moves forward: acquires land for Ballard and West Seattle light rail expansion

A new practical phase has emerged in Seattle’s ambitious light rail expansion projects. The board of the transit agency Sound Transit approved purchases of key parcels needed for future lines to the fast-growing Ballard and West Seattle neighborhoods. These decisions, detailed in the KING 5 report, mark a shift from planning to active infrastructure preparation despite ongoing financial challenges and long timelines.

For the Ballard line, the purchase of the property at 101 Westlake Avenue N was authorized. This site was designated a “protective acquisition” because the owner, Vulcan Real Estate, had already filed permits to build a mixed-use development. The agency decided that waiting for all environmental and design reviews to conclude could result in the site being developed in ways that would complicate or preclude its use for rail. Notably, the developer responded understandingly, calling the decision “encouraging news” for the system’s future expansion, underscoring the project’s strategic importance for the city. The parcel is needed for the construction, operation, and maintenance of infrastructure in the central segment of the line. Alongside the land transactions, active geotechnical investigations are underway. Specialists are drilling boreholes and conducting pump tests in Midtown, Denny, and Ballard. These studies are critical to understanding soil composition, groundwater levels, and other subsurface conditions that directly affect the design of stations, tunnels, and support structures. For example, such work already led to the temporary closure of the Interbay golf center in February. The fully completed Ballard line—approximately 12.4 kilometers with nine new stations and a second center tunnel—is not expected to open until 2039, with final design and the environmental impact statement anticipated in 2026–2027.

A separate board decision concerns a residential parcel at 3704 20th Avenue SW needed for the West Seattle line. This acquisition has a humanitarian context: the agency noted that priority was given partly because of the current owners’ medical circumstances and difficulties selling a property already located in the future construction zone. Sound Transit is taking responsibility for providing relocation counseling and compensation for residents, a standard but important practice in such infrastructure projects. The West Seattle line—about 6.6 kilometers with four stations—is at a more advanced stage: the final environmental impact statement was completed in 2024, and a federal Record of Decision was issued in April 2025, a key document that completes the environmental review and clears the way for final design.

A key insight is the growing divergence in timelines for two seemingly parallel projects. While the West Seattle line has reached final design stages, the Ballard direction remains in conceptual engineering. This illustrates how project complexity and scale (a second center tunnel, dense development) affect schedules. Financial pressures are the backdrop for both projects. Multibillion-dollar budgets for such initiatives always face scrutiny due to construction cost growth and inflation risks. Approving land acquisitions, particularly the Vulcan parcel, is not only a technical step but a strong signal of the agency’s intent to move forward, securing necessary resources in advance and minimizing future risks and conflicts. These actions lay the material groundwork for transforming Seattle’s transit system, which—albeit over the long term—should significantly improve city connectivity and reduce car dependence.

Teen arrested after pizzeria shooting and attempted carjacking in Seattle

A troubling incident in Seattle involved a 16-year-old teenager. Early Thursday morning he opened fire at a popular Capitol Hill pizzeria and then attempted to carjack a taxi driver at gunpoint. Fortunately there were no fatalities, but several staff and patrons suffered minor injuries from shattered glass. Details from FOX 13 Seattle paint a picture of reckless and dangerous behavior.

Events began around 1:40 a.m. when police received reports of shots fired near 11th Avenue and East Union Street. Officers arriving on scene found a pizzeria struck by several rounds. According to the police report, the teenager had earlier been at a nearby bar, drinking with friends. the bar’s security suspected he was using a fake ID and ejected him. He was escorted to a nearby parked Maserati and sat in the back seat. However, as the car started to pull away, the teenager allegedly leaned out of the rear passenger-side window and fired several shots toward the security staff on the sidewalk. Bullets struck the restaurant’s facade. Police later located the abandoned Maserati nearby; it showed signs consistent with firearm damage and shell casings were found inside. The vehicle was seized as evidence.

While officers were processing the scene, the suspect unexpectedly returned to the area. Seeing police, he tried to flee but tripped and was detained. Shortly afterward a taxi driver approached officers and reported that the same teenager had attempted to take his vehicle at gunpoint. The driver managed to leave and was unharmed. During a search near the arrest site, police found and seized a firearm believed by investigators to have been used in the shooting.

The teen was arrested on suspicion of felony assault and robbery and placed in a juvenile detention center. Detectives have not ruled out additional charges related to illegal possession and use of a firearm as the investigation continues. The incident highlights troubling issues: minors’ access to alcohol and possibly fake IDs, and the ease with which a young person obtained a weapon. That the shooting occurred in the busy Capitol Hill nightlife area raises further concerns about nighttime safety. Fortunately no one was directly struck by gunfire this time, but broken glass caused injuries and serves as a reminder of how quickly a situation can spiral out of control.

Washington House majority leader admits he was intoxicated during budget vote

A political scandal has erupted in Washington state over the conduct of a senior legislative official. House Majority Leader Joe Fitzgibbon, a Seattle Democrat, issued a public apology after appearing visibly intoxicated at an evening session of the budget committee. The incident, reported by The Seattle Times, calls into question professional standards and accountability for elected officials at a critical moment—while discussing and voting on supplemental operating budget measures.

The event occurred Wednesday evening at a House Appropriations Committee meeting that ran until about 10 p.m. TVW video of the lawmakers’ session captured Fitzgibbon with a glazed look and slurred speech as he addressed colleagues prior to the crucial vote to move the proposed budget out of committee. Reportedly he left his seat several times and at times sat slumped; a Republican lawmaker who requested anonymity said Fitzgibbon even slept during part of the discussion. In a Thursday statement, Fitzgibbon acknowledged a serious mistake, saying he “deeply” regrets having consumed alcohol before the committee finished its work and that “the result was obvious.” He noted his intoxication harmed his work and colleagues and promised it would not happen again.

Possible disciplinary action remains undecided. House Speaker Laurie Jinkins, also a Democrat, said the caucus expects professionalism in the workplace, and while Fitzgibbon did not meet that standard Wednesday, he acknowledged the misconduct and apologized. She added that Washington residents expect and deserve lawmakers to be fully focused on the work they do on their behalf, and that party leadership supports Fitzgibbon as he takes necessary steps to ensure his well-being. For context: Joe Fitzgibbon has served as a representative since 2010 and became majority leader in 2022, making him a key player in the state’s legislative process.

This incident goes beyond a personal lapse. It casts a shadow over the process of making major state decisions—in this case the budget, which determines funding for a variety of programs and services. A lawmaker’s intoxicated state during a vote raises doubts about the clarity of judgment and the ability to faithfully perform duties. Expressions of support from party leadership may be seen as collegial and understanding of human frailty, but they may also prompt questions about double standards and whether an apology is sufficient in such circumstances. The public has the right to expect the highest accountability from its elected officials, especially when it comes to the distribution of taxpayer money. This case is a painful reminder that public service requires constant vigilance and self-control, and that trust damaged by a single episode is far harder to restore than a public apology.

❮ ❯

Voice of Greenland in America: fear and hope in the face of threats

Simon Linge, a musician from Greenland who has lived in Washington state for nearly twenty years, unexpectedly became an unofficial ambassador for his homeland in the U.S. That happened after repeated statements by former and current U.S. President Donald Trump about a possible annexation of Greenland. Linge, who holds U.S., Danish and Greenlandic citizenship, found himself in a unique position, watching these threats frighten his relatives on the distant island and confound many Americans. In Washington state itself, where he lives, there is no significant Greenlandic diaspora — the Greenlandic community in the U.S. is overall very small and largely concentrated in Denmark — so there has been virtually no public reaction from a local diaspora.

Tensions began back in 2019, when Trump first expressed interest in buying the autonomous Danish territory. After his re-election in 2024 the rhetoric hardened: he called control of Greenland "an absolute necessity," not ruling out the use of military force to confront China and Russia. In response, Greenland’s prime minister said the island "is not for sale."

These threats already have real consequences. According to Linge, his relatives and friends in Greenland are terrified by the prospect of military invasion. People are buying guns and ammunition, making evacuation plans. Foreign troops and warships can be seen in and around the capital Nuuk and its fjords — unprecedented activity for a peaceful territory.

Linge, who was raised in a hunting-and-fishing culture, fears most not bloodshed but cultural erosion. He worries that American annexation, even if peaceful, would trample Greenland’s unique values rooted in a close relationship with nature and communal spirit. He embodies that culture, recalling how at six he took his first seal. His emphasis on Greenland’s sovereignty, Indigenous rights and environmental threats resonates in Washington state’s progressive, environmentally minded climate, aligning with the values of many residents, especially climate and social-justice activists. That gives him an attentive audience and potential support from local groups, though there is no official backing from state authorities.

Experts link growing interest in Greenland to global warming. Melting ice opens new shipping routes and makes rich mineral deposits accessible, sharply increasing the island’s strategic and economic value. But Linge suspects another factor matters to Trump — Greenland’s impressive size on maps, which flatters his personal ambitions.

At first many Americans took Trump’s threats as a joke, but perceptions are changing. Linge increasingly hears apologies even from strangers when he says he’s from Greenland. He speaks about the issue actively on social media, feeling responsible as a public figure connected to the small Greenlandic community whose leaders he knows personally. Academic circles, environmental activists and organizations supporting Indigenous rights, such as the Seattle Indian Health Board and the Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, have shown interest in his position. Although formal partnerships aren’t publicized, his statements likely draw attention from these organizations.

The crisis has negatively affected the musician’s creativity, pushing it into the background. It has also complicated already difficult discussions about Greenland’s colonial past and its pursuit of greater independence from Denmark. Ultimately, while experiencing this stress personally, Simon Linge expresses one simple hope: that Greenland be left alone and allowed to determine its own destiny.

❮ ❯

Based on: What a Greenlander in WA thinks about Trump’s threats

Sunny weekend in Seattle and snow in the mountains

Seattle's weather is finally settling into its spring pattern after a recent brief cold snap with snow. While the city itself can expect clear and sunny weekends, the Cascade Mountains are still seeing snowfall. However, meteorologists say these precipitations only slightly make up for the overall snowpack deficit observed this season.

On Thursday, Seattle will experience windy conditions with gusts up to 30 miles per hour and variable clouds, but by the weekend the sky will clear completely. Meanwhile, mountain passes have received between 4 and 12 inches of snow over the past few days. In particular, Stevens Pass and Mount Baker could pick up an additional 4 to 10 inches of precipitation through the end of Friday.

Despite the mountain activity, the accumulated snow is still insufficient to make up the seasonal normal. A winter weather advisory remains in effect through Friday morning for parts of the Cascades in Whatcom and Skagit counties.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle weather: Sunny weekend ahead, snow in the mountains

Judge orders protections for Columbia River salmon from harm caused by dams

A federal judge in Portland on Wednesday ordered changes to the operation of eight dams on the Columbia and Snake rivers to reduce harm to salmon populations. The decision came after the Trump administration in June last year withdrew from a landmark pact that had been intended as a roadmap for salmon recovery in the river basin.

Salmon and steelhead populations in the Columbia River basin are imperiled, and hydroelectric dams are a key cause of the problem. Litigation over the operation of those dams has been going on for decades, but the fish situation continues to worsen. Native tribes’ treaty rights to salmon, established in 1855 treaties with the Yakama Nation and the Nez Perce Tribe, are the supreme law of the United States and form the basis for modern legal claims to protect rivers and fish.

In his order, Judge Michael Simon wrote that salmon—one of the defining symbols of the West, a critical resource for recreation, culture and the economy, and a treaty-guaranteed heritage of several tribes—are disappearing from these lands. He lamented that court battles over the issue have proceeded “largely as they have for the last 30 years.”

In 2023 the Biden administration reached a Columbia Basin Prosperity and Sustainability Agreement with several tribes, the states of Washington and Oregon, and conservation groups. But the Trump administration in 2024 scrapped the deal, which would have dedicated $1 billion to salmon restoration and tribal clean-energy projects.

In fall 2023 fishing and conservation groups and the state of Oregon renewed litigation, asking the court to alter dam operations to reduce harm to salmon. Joining them as amici curiae—providing expert views to the court—were the Yakama Nation, the Nez Perce Tribe and the state of Washington. The sovereign status of those nations lends special weight to their position in cases affecting their historical treaty rights.

The plaintiffs sought increased spill—releasing more water over the dams—so juvenile salmon could pass over them and avoid lethal turbines, and lower reservoir levels to shorten the time fish spend in warm, predator-filled backwaters. Defendants, including the Public Utility Districts, opposed some measures, citing threats to grid reliability in hot months with low flows. They note that hydroelectric dams on the Columbia and Snake produce about 70% of Washington’s electricity, providing reliable, low-cost power for the region, including Seattle.

Judge Simon granted nearly all of the plaintiffs’ requests to increase spill, which will mostly mirror 2025 operations with some modest increases. He did not grant the request to lower reservoir elevations, leaving them at 2025 levels. The judge described his orders as “narrowly tailored” and effectively maintaining the status quo.

The changes affect four dams on the lower Snake River (Ice Harbor, Lower Monumental, Little Goose, Lower Granite) and four dams on the mainstem Columbia (Bonneville, The Dalles, John Day, McNary). The Snake River dam cascade is considered especially problematic, creating a series of nearly insurmountable obstacles on one of the West Coast’s most important spawning routes. At the center of the long-running litigation is the looming extinction of salmon, a primary food source central to the health, culture and religion of tribes and a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest economy. For Seattle and other Washington cities, salmon remain a powerful cultural symbol and the basis for recreational fisheries that generate revenue, even though commercial harvests have declined sharply.

Historically the Columbia Basin hosted some of the most abundant salmon spawning grounds on Earth, but today more than 40% of habitat is blocked by impassable dams. Of 16 historical populations of salmon and steelhead in the basin, four have already gone extinct and seven are listed as endangered or threatened. Beyond the litigation, Washington state and tribes such as the Yakama are pursuing habitat restoration, hatchery modernization and scientific research to preserve the species.

According to Jay Hesse, director of biological services for the Nez Perce Tribe, half of the historic salmon populations in the Snake River basin are already lost. In 2024 one-third of spring–summer Chinook populations and 14% of wild Snake River steelhead populations numbered fewer than 50 returning adults.

❮ ❯

Based on: Federal judge orders protections for salmon on Columbia River

Seattle: Crisis of Trust and Safety

Bill Gates has apologized for ties to Epstein, Amazon is leaving Seattle over taxes and crime, and a naked armed man was arrested downtown.

Bill Gates apologizes for ties to Jeffrey Epstein

The name Bill Gates is once again in the headlines in the world of technology and philanthropy, but this time in a context far removed from his usual achievements. The Microsoft co-founder publicly expressed regret over his past meetings with the notorious financier Jeffrey Epstein, prompting a new wave of discussion in the media and among the public.

In a recent interview, details of which were published by KIRO 7 News Seattle, Bill Gates said he made a "huge mistake" in meeting with Epstein. According to him, those meetings occurred after Epstein had been convicted of crimes involving minors, which makes the association particularly problematic. Gates emphasized that his motive was to raise funds for global health initiatives through his charitable foundation, but he now recognizes that this does not excuse his choices. The statement came amid ongoing public and media scrutiny, as the connections of various public figures to Epstein remain under intense attention following his death in 2019. For context, Jeffrey Epstein was an American financier accused of running a sex-trafficking network involving underage girls. His first conviction came in 2008, but many questions about the scope of his activities and his circle of acquaintances remain unresolved, prompting broad investigations.

In his remarks, Gates did not go into detail about the frequency or content of their meetings, but he made clear that he regrets any associations that may have undermined trust in his philanthropic work. This has serious implications, given that the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is one of the world's largest private charitable foundations and plays a key role in combating disease and reducing poverty. Any hint of compromised ethical standards can affect reputation and potentially future funding for global projects. Moreover, the episode raises questions about how influential figures in business and philanthropy draw lines when seeking resources for their goals. While Gates seeks to refocus attention on his work, public reaction remains mixed: some accept his apology as a step toward accountability, while others criticize him for initially choosing to maintain contacts with such a controversial figure. The case is a reminder that even the most respected public figures are not immune to lapses in judgment whose consequences can reverberate through their careers and legacies.

Amazon leaves Seattle: how the new mayor’s policies are accelerating business exodus to Bellevue

Seattle is undergoing a troubling transformation: from a dynamic tech hub it is becoming a city that big business is leaving in search of stability and safety. A vivid symbol of this exodus is Amazon, which just confirmed it will not renew the lease on a seven-story building a few blocks from its Seattle headquarters. This decision, affecting about 1,500 employees, is not an isolated case but part of a sustained trend. Since 2020 the company has vacated more than a million square feet of office space in the city, increasingly expanding its presence in nearby Bellevue, where it plans to grow headcount from 14,000 to 25,000. As Charlie Harger, host of Seattle’s Morning News on KIRO Newsradio, notes in his column for MyNorthwest.com, this migration is just a prelude to larger upheavals as the city's new mayor, Katy Wilson, begins to pursue her tax agenda.

Once, Seattle was the crane capital of America, outpacing New York, Los Angeles and Chicago combined in the number of construction cranes. Today the skyline is defined not by cranes but by vacant office buildings. Downtown vacancy is approaching 35%, while in Bellevue that figure is roughly half — about 16%. The market is voting with its feet, and Amazon is far from the only company choosing the east side of Lake Washington. It has been followed by TikTok, OpenAI, Snowflake, Robinhood, Meta, Shopify and Zoom. The reasons are always the same: taxes, crime and homelessness. As one real estate executive succinctly put it, "cleanliness and safety are everything," and Seattle currently cannot boast of those.

Behind the dry vacancy figures lies a harsh everyday reality for those still working downtown Seattle. Employees face aggressive confrontations on their way from parking to the office, open drug use on Third Avenue has become part of daily routine, and property crime rates remain among the highest in major U.S. cities. Many businesses spend thousands of dollars on private security to make their lobbies safe, and some have given up entirely. These are not isolated incidents but the cumulative weight of thousands of small decisions employees make every morning: whether to walk two stops from the light-rail station, step outside for lunch, or feel parking is safe at 7 p.m. When most of those answers turn negative, remote work stops being a question of flexibility and becomes a way to avoid a problematic environment. And when enough employees avoid downtown, conversations with HR about relocating to Bellevue become a lot shorter.

The homelessness crisis, to which Seattle has devoted billions building services and sanctioned camps, is not solved. What is visible on the city streets is the intersection of three crises: housing, drug addiction and mental illness. They feed each other, and attempts to treat one without addressing the others have not worked. This is a tragedy for those affected, but also a business reality that no good intentions can separate from questions of profit.

Against this backdrop, Bellevue offers what may sound boring — but that is precisely the point: predictability, no surprise payroll taxes and no legislative initiatives that force grocery stores to operate against their will. Business prefers boring stability, and Bellevue has earned its moment. However, tech companies always act in the interest of their bottom lines. Bellevue’s cleanliness and convenience drew them across the lake, and the same cold calculation could move them even further.

Particular concern stems from the fact that Seattle mayor Katy Wilson has been in office only seven weeks and has not yet begun implementing her tax proposals. She has already announced plans to expand payroll taxes, raise the minimum wage to $30 an hour and consider creating city-run grocery stores. Companies are hearing these signals and are not engaging in debate — they are simply quietly updating their legal addresses. Budget arithmetic drives this agenda: next year Seattle faces a $125–140 million shortfall, which could grow to $300 million or more by 2029. The director of the new City Budget Office appointed by Wilson said the city is beginning a "sober multiyear process" to eliminate the structural deficit and that "all options are on the table." In her State of the City speech on February 17, Wilson proudly reported that the existing 5% tax on payouts over $1 million generated $115 million — more than double projections — and promised that in the coming months residents would hear "much more about budgets and revenues."

Based on her campaign platform, from which she has not backed down, city officials are already drafting legislation. Planned measures include a local capital gains tax (expected revenue about $30 million), a tax on vacant commercial buildings, further expansion of the JumpStart payroll tax, and possible new levies on high earners and professional services. Downtown Seattle Association CEO John Skolnes bluntly stated: "We don’t need new taxes; we need more businesses paying taxes, and meanwhile we’re pushing jobs out of our city." This vicious circle seems hard for Seattle to escape: fewer businesses means a smaller tax base; a smaller tax base means a larger deficit; a larger deficit means higher taxes; higher taxes mean fewer businesses.

But the threat to business does not come only from Seattle City Hall. The Washington State Legislature in Olympia is actively advancing a plan to introduce an income tax. While Wilson develops city taxes on vacant space and expands payroll taxation, state lawmakers are working on a mechanism that could pursue companies wherever they relocate within Washington. Marketed as a "millionaires' tax," the $1 million threshold is set in statute, not the state constitution. Any future legislature could lower that threshold by a simple majority the next time a budget shortfall appears. And in Washington a new shortfall appears almost routinely: last year the state passed a $9 billion tax increase package and soon found itself back in a fiscal hole. Thus the key advantage that once kept companies in Washington — no state income tax, lower business costs than California, stability and predictability — is now under pressure from both sides. The City of Seattle piles on new taxes while the state builds the legal basis for an income tax that can follow businesses anywhere within its borders. Moving from Seattle to Bellevue used to solve the problem. Olympia is working to change that math. Companies that moved across the lake are still in Washington. But Texas, Florida and Nevada also have no income tax. At some point a 15-minute drive across a bridge stops being a sufficient escape. Since 2020 Seattle has lost a million square feet of office space. Another quarter-million will be vacated in May. Once Seattle counted cranes. Now it counts vacant space.

Arrest of a naked armed man in Seattle: video and incident details

A disturbing incident downtown Seattle was captured on video and drew public attention. Seattle police arrested a man who was reported to be naked and armed. The case, covered in a report by KIRO 7 News Seattle, raises questions about mental health and public safety in the urban environment.

According to video and reports, Seattle law enforcement quickly responded to a call about suspicious behavior by a man. The footage shows officers, following safety protocols, surrounding and disarming a person who was reportedly unclothed and in possession of a firearm. The incident occurred in a public place, which could have posed an immediate threat to passersby. Such situations require officers to use not only physical intervention but also de-escalation skills, especially if the person may be experiencing mental health issues. In the context of national debates about policing methods and mental health support, this arrest may become an example of the complex challenges facing law enforcement in major cities. Details about the detained individual's motives or condition have not been fully disclosed, but the incident has already sparked discussion in local communities about access to help for people in crisis and measures to prevent similar cases in the future.

❮ ❯

Seattle: From Shooting to Soccer Celebration

In Seattle, armed teenagers were arrested after a shooting, raising questions about violence. At the same time, the city is preparing for the 2026 World Cup, opening free fan zones for supporters across the city and state.

Armed teens arrested after shooting in South Seattle

Authorities report another troubling firearm incident involving minors. In the Mount Baker area of South Seattle, police detained two armed teenagers, once again raising concerns about youth access to guns and the effectiveness of violence prevention measures.

According to an official statement posted on the Seattle Police Department’s blog (https://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2026/02/25/armed-teens-arrested-following-south-seattle-shooting/), the incident occurred during the day on February 25. Around 1:00 p.m., patrol officers responded to reports of shots fired in the 3300 block of South Wetherbee Avenue. On scene they found multiple shell casings, and witnesses pointed to two suspects fleeing the area. Police quickly arrested two teenagers — 16 and 17 years old. A modified handgun was found in their possession, equipped with an extended magazine and a so-called “auto-sear” or “switch.” This small but dangerous component technically converts a semi-automatic pistol into an automatic weapon capable of continuous fire, greatly increasing its destructive potential and posing a serious public safety threat.

The on-scene investigation showed that the arrested teens had been involved in a shootout with at least two other individuals who fled and were not located despite searches with the K-9 unit. Both detainees were previously adjudicated juveniles, which under the law strictly prohibits them from possessing any firearms. They were charged with illegal possession of a firearm, as investigators determined both had manipulated the gun. The teens were placed in the Patricia H. Clark Juvenile Justice Center, an institution within the juvenile justice system.

The incident resonated widely in the neighborhood. As a precaution, two nearby schools were placed on “shelter-in-place” — a standard safety procedure where classes are paused, students and staff remain inside buildings with all entrances secured, and movement on campus is restricted until the all-clear is given. Fortunately, no students were harmed. The circumstances that led to the shooting remain unclear and are the subject of an investigation by detectives from the Gun Violence Reduction Unit. Police have asked the public to assist the investigation by providing any information through a dedicated violent crime tip line.

This case highlights several troubling trends. First, the availability and modification of firearms among youth. The presence of a “switch” suggests an intentional increase in the weapon’s lethality, turning a street dispute into a potential massacre. Second, the involvement of minors with prior criminal records raises sharp questions about recidivism and the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs within the juvenile justice system. The arrest occurred in 2026 and, amid ongoing debates over gun control and youth crime in the U.S., serves as a grim reminder of persistent systemic problems. Finally, the incident—forcing schools to shelter in place—disrupted education and sowed fear in the community, underscoring how acts of armed violence destabilize everyday life for entire neighborhoods.

Fan celebration locations: how Seattle is preparing for the 2026 World Cup

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches that Seattle and other North American cities will host, local authorities and organizers unveiled an ambitious plan to create free public viewing and celebration zones. Four key locations within the city and a network of fan zones in nine Washington state cities are expected to turn the entire region into a unified soccer arena accessible to tens of thousands of fans.

Seattle is actively preparing to be not just a host for several tournament matches but a true magnet for soccer fans from around the world. As reported by FOX 13 Seattle (https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/fan-celebration-locations-world-cup), the city will open four main free “Fan Celebration Locations.” They will operate from June 11 and remain active during all six matches taking place in Seattle. The combined capacity of these sites on match days could reach 15,000 people at once. The central hub will be Seattle Center with the “Let’s Play SEA ’26” festival. The Armory will serve as the primary indoor hub with a large internal screen, while additional activities will take place at the Mural Amphitheatre, at the base of the Space Needle, at the Pacific Science Center arches, and at the International Fountain. Pacific Place mall will host the “Seattle Soccer House” with a four-story LED screen and interactive zones. Waterfront Park will utilize its 20-acre area in partnership with local clubs Seattle Sounders and Seattle Reign, and the RAVE Foundation, offering match viewings on Pier 62. In the SODO neighborhood near Lumen Field, where matches will be held, Victory Hall will feature a giant 23-foot screen.

Seattle Mayor Cathie Wilson emphasized soccer’s unifying power and expressed excitement about welcoming visitors from around the globe. Peter Tomodzawa, CEO of the SeattleFWC26 organizing committee, said the network of free celebration sites is designed to bring the event to people where they live, work, and gather, reflecting the city’s innovative, inclusive, community-focused approach. In addition to the main locations, extra activities are planned across central Seattle, including Chinatown-International District and the Central District. Importantly, the celebration will extend beyond the metropolis. Organizers earlier announced fan zones in nine other Washington cities: Tacoma, Everett, Bellingham, Bremerton, Olympia/Lacey, Spokane, Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and Yakima. This will allow residents across the region to participate in the global soccer event. Preparations for the 2026 World Cup in Seattle are therefore in full swing, focusing not only on stadium infrastructure but also on creating a large, accessible, and diverse celebration environment that will turn the city into a genuine soccer capital for the duration of the tournament.

Seattle prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup: free fan zones across the city

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest sporting event in history, Seattle announced a large-scale program of free fan celebrations. Rather than a single centralized site, organizers chose an innovative distributed model to engage as many residents and visitors as possible. According to the official SeattleFWC26 website (https://www.seattlefwc26.org/news/seattlefwc26-and-partners-expand-world-cup-fan-celebrations-across-seattle), starting June 11 free fan zones will open at four key locations along the so-called “Unity Loop”: Seattle Center, Waterfront Park, Pacific Place, and SODO (Victory Hall). This approach, developed by the local SeattleFWC26 organizing committee in partnership with city agencies, sports clubs, and business groups, is intended to make the celebration as inclusive and accessible as possible.

“Just over 100 days to go, and Seattle will hum as fans from around the world pour into our city for an unforgettable summer,” said Peter Tomodzawa, CEO of SeattleFWC26. He stressed that the new model reflects the city’s spirit: innovative, inclusive, and community-oriented. “We’re not just hosting the tournament; we’re bringing the game to everyone,” he added. Seattle Mayor Cathie B. Wilson also expressed enthusiasm, noting that soccer brings people together and the city eagerly anticipates welcoming guests from across the globe.

Seattle Center will be the central celebration hub, hosting the large family event “Let’s Play SEA ’26 – World Soccer Fan Celebration.” The Armory will feature a large indoor screen, creating an all-weather space with food and amenities. Additional programming will take place at the Mural Amphitheatre with views of the Space Needle, at the Pacific Science Center arches, and DJs and performers will appear at the International Fountain. Cultural programs, public art, food courts, and children’s play zones will enliven the campus throughout the tournament. At Pacific Place, Seattle Soccer House will feature a unique spectacle — a four-story high-resolution LED screen integrated into the five-story mall, turning the location into a vibrant soccer hub in the city center.

Special attention is being paid to the new public space — Waterfront Park. Friends of Waterfront Park will activate all 20 acres with free programming that reflects Seattle’s spirit and diversity. In partnership with Seattle Sounders FC, Seattle Reign FC, and the RAVE Foundation, special fan events will be organized on Pier 62. “Waterfront Park was created as a gathering place for Seattleites — to celebrate moments big and small,” said Joy Shigaki, president and CEO of Friends of Waterfront Park. In SODO, at Victory Hall, the Seattle Mariners will open a “Seattle Matchday Live” zone with a 23-foot screen where fans can feel the energy of World Cup matches.

It is important to note that most locations will operate for much of the tournament, not only during the six matches taking place directly in Seattle. The planned maximum capacity on match days involving Seattle teams is about 15,000 people simultaneously. All sites are located along the Unity Loop and are easily accessible by public transit: Sound Transit Link light rail, King County Metro buses, the monorail, ferries, and water taxis. This distributed model is also meant to spread economic benefits across neighborhoods, creating opportunities for local vendors and small businesses, including those owned by members of BIPOC communities (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color). The SeattleFWC26 committee emphasizes its commitment to ensuring their participation in the economic success of the event.

In addition to the four main locations, the Downtown Seattle Association will activate public spaces in Westlake and other downtown parks. New sites are expected to be added in spring, including in the Chinatown-International District and the Central District. A public events calendar has been created for fan convenience, where businesses and communities can post information about their World Cup–related activities. Moreover, the celebration will extend beyond Seattle: in partnership with local jurisdictions across Washington state, nine official fan zones will be organized in cities including Bellingham, Spokane, Tacoma, and Vancouver. This will allow residents and visitors statewide to share in the collective excitement of the global tournament.

As Taylor Graham, chief integration officer for Seattle Sounders FC and Seattle Reign FC, notes, this moment is the result of nearly a decade of faith and collaboration that began with Seattle’s bid in 2017. “The World Cup is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a lasting legacy. By bringing the world’s game to everyone in the city, we help make a historic chapter in Seattle’s story,” he said. Thus, preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Seattle extend far beyond the sporting event itself, becoming a broad civic initiative aimed at uniting the community, supporting the local economy, and creating a long-term positive legacy for the entire region.

❮ ❯

Seattle: crime, a shooting and Amazon's departure

In Seattle a wave of crime is growing, business owners are fed up with theft. Armed teens were detained near a school. Amazon is cutting offices in the city and moving to the suburbs.

West Seattle business owners are tired of constant thefts and break-ins

Residents and entrepreneurs in West Seattle are facing a wave of crime that, they say, has become a persistent and exhausting problem. One local business owner openly states he is tired of him and his neighbors constantly being targeted by thieves.

A report by FOX 13 Seattle describes a growing problem with thefts and break-ins in commercial properties in the neighborhood. The business owner, who is not named, characterizes the situation as chronic: crime has become a constant background that businesspeople must accept, and this feeling of powerlessness is only growing. His statement "I'm tired of being the target" eloquently reflects the general mood. Although the brief article overview does not provide specific figures or incident details, the very fact that people turned to the media indicates the seriousness and duration of the problem. For entrepreneurs this means not only direct financial losses from theft and property damage, but also constant stress, spending on increased security measures, and the potential decline in the area's appeal to customers. Such situations often catalyze broader discussions about the effectiveness of local law enforcement, the need for increased patrols, or even changes in approaches to combating petty crime citywide. The West Seattle story is a local instance of a wider trend faced by many urban communities where businesses find themselves on the front lines in the fight against crime.

Shooting near a Seattle school: two armed teens arrested

On Wednesday afternoon there was a shooting in the Mount Baker area of Seattle, resulting in the detention of two minors and the lockdown of two schools. The incident occurred near Franklin High School, and fortunately no students were injured.

According to KING5.com, Seattle police responded to reports of shots fired in the 3300 block of Wetmore Avenue South shortly before 1:00 p.m. Several spent shell casings were found at the scene. Witnesses reported two teens running from the area, and patrol officers quickly detained them. A firearm was seized from the teens — a handgun equipped with an extended magazine and what is known as an "auto-sire." This device, often called a "switch," is a modifying part that converts a semi-automatic pistol into an automatic weapon capable of firing continuously. Such devices are extremely dangerous and their possession is a serious legal violation.

The investigation showed the detained teens, ages 16 and 17, were involved in a shootout with at least two other people who fled and have not been located despite searches with K-9 units. Both detainees were arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm. A troubling legal fact: both teens are convicted felons under 18, which legally prohibits them from possessing any weapon. After arrest they were placed in the Judge Patricia H. Clark Juvenile Justice Center.

As a precaution during the investigation, two nearby schools implemented emergency safety measures. Seattle Public Schools confirmed Franklin High School went into full lockdown and John Muir Elementary went into shelter-in-place with modified dismissal procedures. These steps, though alarming, ensured student safety, and as noted in the report, no students were harmed.

The incident highlights several disturbing trends: access to and modification of firearms among minors, involvement in criminal activity by youths who already have convictions, and the forced adoption of emergency safety measures by schools in response to threats of nearby violence.

Amazon cuts presence in Seattle, moves to Bellevue and Redmond

The tech giant continues to reshape its geographic footprint in Washington state. New data show Amazon is actively reducing office space in the heart of Seattle while increasing investments in the suburbs. This strategic shift reflects broader trends in the commercial real estate market and changes in corporate culture after the pandemic.

According to a report in the Puget Sound Business Journal, cited by MyNorthwest.com, Amazon has vacated more than 1 million square feet of office space in Seattle since 2020. The latest step was not renewing the lease on the Terry Avenue building in the Denny Triangle, which the company had occupied since 2014. This seven-story building of 251,000 square feet will be fully vacated by May. Just in early 2024 the company eliminated nearly 595,000 square feet in the city. To put the scale in perspective: 1 million square feet is roughly 17 standard-size football fields, illustrating the magnitude of the "exodus."

This process contrasts with Amazon's active expansion in Seattle's eastern suburbs — Bellevue and Redmond. The company says it plans to create roughly 25,000 jobs in Bellevue, where three new downtown towers are already under construction. In Redmond Amazon leased a 70,000-square-foot building in the Redmond Town Center. This strategic shift in hubs is accompanied by changes in workforce numbers. While more than 60,000 employees once worked in Seattle at the company's peak, that number has now fallen to about 48,000, with over 1,400 layoffs occurring during companywide reductions earlier this year.

Experts see several reasons for this. First, logistics and cost: suburbs often offer more affordable land and new modern campuses designed for hybrid work. Second, tax policy and regulation: Seattle is known for higher business taxes, including the so-called "head tax" on large companies that sparked heated debates in the past. Third, the long-term effects of the pandemic changed attitudes toward office work. Companies are reassessing the need for centralized, expensive downtown space.

Giving up the Terry Avenue building is symbolic; it originally belonged to Seattle Children's Hospital, which sold it in 2007 for $36 million. Amazon leased it from the hospital as part of its rapid growth in the 2010s. Now, as with the Metropolitan Park North building on Howell Street — which the company abandoned in November 2024 after 11 years of tenancy — this space is surplus.

The implications of this reshaping are significant for Seattle itself. Vacating such volumes of high-end office real estate puts pressure on the commercial leasing market and could affect the downtown economy that grew for decades around the tech giant's presence. At the same time, Bellevue and Redmond stand to accelerate development, attract highly paid workers, and see infrastructure growth. Amazon’s transformation from a company concentrated in one urban center into a distributed structure with multiple hubs across the metro area is likely to set a trend for other major employers in the region and nationwide.

❮ ❯

Seattle: From Villa to Shooting

In Seattle a historic villa is for sale for $2.5 million, a perpetrator posing as a mail carrier attacked a married couple demanding cryptocurrency, and there was a shooting in the Mount Baker neighborhood — thankfully with no casualties.

Hilltop villa: historic Seattle mansion listed for $2.5 million

A unique home affectionately known to locals as the "Hilltop Villa" has come onto the market in an upscale Seattle neighborhood. This romantic European-style estate, built in 1936 by noted designer Gardner J. Gwinn, is seeking a new owner for $2,499,000, KOMO News reports in a piece about luxury real estate.

The article introduces an architectural jewel of the Pacific Northwest. The house, located in the desirable Laurelhurst neighborhood, is an example of solid construction and thoughtful prewar charm. Its thick, hand-laid stone walls speak to durability, while features such as a red tile roof, arched entries, a Juliet-style balcony, and inlaid hardwood floors add romantic appeal. The mansion sits on a quiet corner lot, surrounded by stunning landscaping and serene outdoor spaces that offer sweeping views of Lake Washington and majestic Mount Rainier. Inside are four bedrooms and four bathrooms, with spaces arranged to comfortably host guests, unwind, work, or meditate. A key locational advantage is its proximity to the Laurelhurst Beach Club — just a five-minute walk away. Broker Amy Hayden of Windermere Mount Baker is representing this unique property. For those wanting full details, the complete listing is available on the agency’s site. Selling a home like this is more than a real estate transaction — it’s an opportunity to acquire a piece of Seattle’s history designed by one of its noted architects, and to own a private retreat with panoramic views in one of the city’s most peaceful and prestigious corners.

Arrest in Seattle: suspect posing as mail carrier attacked couple demanding cryptocurrency

A troubling incident in Seattle that reads like a crime-thriller plot — but was a grim reality — unfolded when a man dressed as a postal worker entered a private home, handed the homeowners an envelope demanding cryptocurrency, and then attacked them. The episode, detailed in a FOX 13 Seattle report, highlights increasingly sophisticated methods used by criminals and raises questions about safety in seemingly routine situations.

The incident took place Friday after 2 p.m. in the Phinney Ridge area near Greenwood Avenue North and North 74th Street. Police received a call reporting an attack, with the dispatcher saying a mail carrier was assaulting a homeowner. Officers arriving on scene found a struggle inside the house between a 52-year-old homeowner and a 31-year-old suspect. The suspect was wearing a full United States Postal Service uniform, including an official bag and a work jumpsuit underneath. His appearance was convincing enough that it initially did not raise suspicion. When police asked if he worked for the postal service, he initially remained silent and then asked for an attorney.

According to the victims’ statements, the incident began when the perpetrator knocked, handed over an envelope, and ordered them to open it immediately. The homeowner found this odd but complied. The letter contained a demand to transfer a specified sum in cryptocurrency — digital assets like Bitcoin, which are harder to trace. Before the victims could react, the man forced his way into the house and attacked first the homeowner and then his wife. The couple required medical attention; the man was hospitalized with chest pain. A search of the suspect’s bag turned up an array of items indicating careful preparation: electronic equipment, tape, plastic bags, large zip ties, stun devices, a tourniquet, a mobile phone, a lint roller, a specialized signal-blocking pouch (used to prevent tracking or remote activation of electronics), a black knit cap, a mask, dark sunglasses, and a box of gloves. He had no documentation proving employment with the postal service, which ultimately dispelled any doubt about his true intentions.

This incident was not just a routine robbery but a well-planned operation with elements of social engineering. Using a mail carrier’s uniform is a classic tactic that exploits trust and grants immediate access to a home. Demanding cryptocurrency indicates the suspect’s intent to obtain money anonymously and quickly, outside traditional banking channels. The presence of a signal-blocking pouch suggests the perpetrator feared possible tracking or sought to hide digital traces. The 31-year-old suspect is currently in the King County Jail, charged with unlawful entry, two counts of assault, and criminal impersonation. Police ask anyone with information about the incident to contact the Violent Crimes Unit at 206-233-5000.

The Phinney Ridge incident is a stark reminder to residents: even routine visits, such as from the mail carrier, warrant a degree of caution — especially if the "employee’s" behavior seems unusual or suspicious. For law enforcement, it signals the emergence of new, technologically savvy criminal schemes that require equally sophisticated approaches to investigation and prevention.

Mount Baker shooting: two detained, no injuries reported

On Wednesday afternoon there was a shooting in Seattle’s Mount Baker neighborhood that, fortunately, resulted in no injuries. Police responded quickly, detained two people, and seized a firearm, though the investigation is ongoing and residents are asked to avoid the area.

According to the Seattle Police Department (SPD), the incident occurred near the intersection of South Byron Street and Westmore Avenue South, close to the 3300 block of Wetmore Avenue. Authorities said on their official X (formerly Twitter) account that two people were detained at the scene and a handgun was recovered. Despite the seriousness of the event, there were no reported injuries or fatalities, which is a key element of this story. Police are actively looking for other possible suspects, so the area remains cordoned off and the public is strongly advised to stay away. This is a developing situation and details may be updated. The incident underscores public safety challenges facing the city but also demonstrates the effectiveness of rapid police response in preventing further violence and apprehending suspects early. The absence of injuries in a shooting is a rare and positive outcome, but it does not eliminate the need for a thorough investigation into the circumstances, motives, and any potential links to other crimes. Local residents are likely to remain concerned until police provide more complete information about the causes of the incident and confirm there is no ongoing threat.

❮ ❯

American freed in Bali after 11 years but faces US trial

American citizen Tommy Shefer was released and deported from Indonesia on Tuesday after spending 11 years in prison for murder. In 2014 he was sentenced to 18 years in prison for the deliberate killing of the mother of his then-girlfriend, Sheila von Wiese-Mack, during their holiday on the popular resort island of Bali. The crime, committed to gain access to a $1.5 million trust fund, became known in the press as the "suitcase murder." Shefer was granted early release for good behavior and was sent back to the United States.

The body of the 62-year-old Chicago socialite was found in August 2014 in a suitcase in the trunk of a taxi near the upscale St. Regis hotel in Bali. An accomplice in the crime was the victim’s then-nearly 19-year-old daughter, Heather Mack, who was several weeks pregnant by Shefer at the time. According to prosecutors, Mack covered her mother’s mouth while Shefer repeatedly struck her with a heavy fruit bowl. Heather Mack served seven years of a ten-year sentence in Bali, after which she was deported to the U.S., where in January 2024 she received a 26-year prison term.

Despite completing his Indonesian sentence, Tommy Shefer’s legal troubles are far from over. In the U.S. he faces federal charges of conspiracy to commit murder abroad, conspiracy to commit murder, and obstruction of evidence related to the victim. His first appearance on those charges was scheduled to take place in Chicago on Thursday morning. It is currently unclear whether Shefer has an attorney to represent him in the U.S. case, as his previous lawyer died last year.

Whether Shefer has arrived in the United States and is in the custody of U.S. authorities remains unresolved. The U.S. Marshals Service, which handles transport of federal detainees, did not provide an immediate comment to the news agency about the whereabouts of the released offender. Thus, his fate will be decided in a Chicago courtroom. This piece describes events that occurred in Bali and matters related to the Chicago legal proceedings and does not contain information pertaining to Seattle or the state of Washington.

❮ ❯

Based on: American is freed after 11 years for Bali ‘suitcase murder’ but a US case awaits

Seattle leads US in household wealth

New data confirm that the Seattle metropolitan area stands out not only for its high resident incomes but also for substantial household net worth. The median household net worth in the region, which includes King, Pierce and Snohomish counties, was an impressive $901,000 last year. That is more than twice the national metropolitan median of about $341,000. A historically strong economy based on technology (Amazon, Microsoft in King County), port activity (Tacoma in Pierce County) and the aerospace industry (Boeing) has attracted high-paid workers, creating sustained housing demand.

Among the 50 largest metropolitan areas in the country, Seattle ranks fourth on this financial measure. It is surpassed only by San Jose (about $2 million), San Francisco ($1.6 million) and Boston ($913,000). By comparison, the lowest median net worth is in Oklahoma City — about $148,000. Within Washington state, Seattle’s wealth stands in marked contrast to other cities such as Tacoma or Spokane. In those cities housing prices are lower and the economy more diversified, but average incomes are also lower, leading to a less pronounced wealth gap compared with the tech center.

The main driver of such high wealth is the housing market. In a region where home prices have traditionally been high and rose sharply during the pandemic years, a home is the largest asset for many families. The market’s resilience is supported by steady demand and investment, as well as limited land supply due to geographic constraints (mountains, water). Home equity is calculated as the market value of the home minus the remaining mortgage balance or other loans secured by the house.

The wealth gap between homeowners and renters in Seattle is enormous. Estimates put the median net worth of a homeowner household at nearly $1.7 million. At the same time, for renter households the figure is about $213,000, which, although the fifth-highest in the country, is many times lower. Urban planning and zoning policies that often restrict dense development and allow only single-family homes in many neighborhoods reduce the supply of affordable housing and raise prices. Homeowners benefit from rising housing values, accumulating equity, while renters face high rents and cannot build savings toward a purchase, which widens the gap.

This substantial difference is explained primarily by renters lacking home equity. Demographic factors also play a role: homeowners are more likely to live in family households with multiple working adults, which makes asset accumulation easier, while renters are more likely to live alone.

On the national stage Seattle’s figures look particularly striking. Across American metros, the median net worth of homeowners is about $554,000, while renters’ median is only about $60,800. That highlights how Seattle residents’ wealth, especially among homeowners, exceeds national norms.

❮ ❯

Based on: Net worth of Seattle-area households more than double the U.S. median

Washington Tightens Shellfish Harvesting Rules to Protect Populations

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has proposed substantial changes to rules governing shellfish harvesting on public beaches. Key measures include increasing the minimum size for harvested littleneck clams from 1.5 to 2.5 inches, reducing the daily limit for geoduck harvesting from three to one, and adjusting harvesting seasons on certain beaches. These actions aim to conserve shellfish populations and regulate the surge in harvesting activity driven by social media popularity.

Department officials say heightened interest has led to overcrowding at some beaches and even temporary closures. Easily accessible beaches near Seattle have been particularly affected, such as those in Kitsap County and on the west side of Puget Sound, where large crowds combine with limited shellfish resources. Popular harvesting spots also include beaches on the Olympic Peninsula—such as Kalaloch and D’abay beaches—as well as beaches within Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. Harvesters in these areas often violate rules: misidentifying species, exceeding limits, and failing to fill in holes they dig, which harms habitat and can lead to shellfish mortality. Illegal roadside parking along busy roads has also been reported.

The scientific rationale for the changes is the need to protect vulnerable species. Raising the minimum size for littleneck clams will allow more individuals to reach reproductive age, supporting long-term population resilience. Geoducks, by contrast, reproduce extremely slowly—they reach sexual maturity only at 4–6 years old, and their larvae remain planktonic for just 2–6 weeks, making them vulnerable to environmental changes. In Washington waters, their populations are especially affected by a combination of factors: historical overharvesting, water pollution in parts of Puget Sound, ocean acidification, and natural predators. Slow growth—taking 5–7 years to reach market size—exacerbates the issue, and recovering geoduck numbers after intense harvesting could take decades. Under the proposals, some beaches would be closed to harvesting year-round or have seasons shifted by several months.

The department is accepting public comments through Feb. 24 and will hold virtual hearings. If adopted, the changes would take effect in the 2026 season and would not apply to shellfish on private tidelands. Experts recommend that harvesters visit less popular public beaches to spread the recreational load across ecosystems and check the department’s website for up-to-date information.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA proposes tighter rules on harvesting shellfish, including geoducks

Tragedies and Negotiations: Seattle News

A tragedy on the Key Peninsula took five lives. A brutal knife attack and shooting occurred in Seattle. Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker signals his value ahead of free agency.

Key Peninsula tragedy: five dead after stabbing and police shooting

A horrific tragedy unfolded in the quiet Wauna neighborhood near Gig Harbor in Pierce County, claiming five lives. The incident, which occurred Tuesday morning, began with a report of a violation of a no-contact court order and escalated into a bloody confrontation that required sheriff intervention. Behind the sparse facts of police reports lies a years-long story of a family struggling with the son’s severe mental illness that ended in the worst possible way.

According to a joint statement from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office and Key Peninsula Fire Department, a call came in at about 8:45 a.m. reporting that a man was violating a no-contact order. Deputies later learned that the order was not yet in effect because it had not been served to the alleged violator. Officers were heading to a home on 87th Avenue to serve a copy of the order when they received new, chilling calls: multiple people reported that the man was stabbing people near the house. A deputy who arrived on scene fired his weapon, killing the 32-year-old suspect. The Seattle Times reported the first call about “shots fired” came at 9:33 a.m. In the end, four bodies were found outside the home, including the attacker. A fifth victim died of injuries en route to the hospital in a Gig Harbor Fire Department ambulance. All deceased were adults. The victims’ identities and the precise connection between the attacker and the court order have not been officially confirmed, and the deputy who discharged his firearm has been placed on administrative leave as part of standard procedure.

Key context for this tragedy appears in court documents that reveal the family’s years-long struggle. Court records indicate a 52-year-old woman and her 32-year-old son lived in the home where the violence occurred. In May of last year, a Pierce County Superior Court commissioner ordered the son to leave the residence and to stay away from his mother for one year. In the May 2 protection order, which should have still been in effect on Tuesday, the commissioner noted the son suffered from a mental disorder and the mother had reasonable grounds to fear for her safety. He pushed her and said “her grave is already dug.” The son was prohibited from possessing firearms and was ordered to follow a treatment plan obtained from St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma, including taking prescribed medication. The mother filed separate protection petitions against her son starting in 2020. In one filing she said her son had mental health issues and had threatened her daughter with a knife. In another, filed in April of last year, she described coming home to find a missing cat, broken framed photos, a triggered fire alarm, and a son “acting delusional.” She said he believed he was an “Egyptian god,” threatened her, harmed her cat, and asked the court to force him to move out, bar him from possessing weapons, and order a psychiatric evaluation. Notably, available records show the man did not have felony convictions in Pierce or King County courts.

This story raises difficult questions about the domestic violence protection system, access to and effectiveness of psychiatric care, and how society and government institutions support families in crisis. Despite the mother’s repeated court filings and the orders issued, tragedy was not averted. A special Pierce County use-of-force investigation team is now probing the incident, and residents of the normally quiet Wauna neighborhood are confronting a reality more often associated with urban crime reports.

Seattle tragedy: five killed in stabbing and shooting

A shocking incident in Seattle left five people dead. The event, involving both a knife attack and gunfire, rattled the local community and prompted an active law enforcement investigation. Details of the tragic event were reported by KIRO 7 News Seattle.

Preliminary information indicates five people were killed. While the full picture is still emerging, it is known that the events included both stab wounds and the use of a firearm. The combination of attack methods indicates an extremely violent and chaotic crime. Local authorities, including the Seattle Police Department and possibly the Washington State Patrol (WSP), are working the scene, collecting evidence and determining motives and circumstances that led to such a large-scale tragedy. Incidents like this once again raise pressing questions about public safety and violence prevention measures.

A separate disturbing element that day was an alert about missing persons. The Washington State Patrol issued an endangered missing person alert for a mother and son last seen in Seattle on February 14. It is unclear whether the mass killing and the missing persons report are related, but the fact that the public learned of five dead and a simultaneous endangered missing alert in one day created a heightened atmosphere of fear and uncertainty for city residents. An endangered missing person alert is a special mechanism used by law enforcement to quickly inform the public when there is reason to believe a missing person’s life or health is in immediate danger. It is a more urgent category than a standard missing person investigation.

Key takeaways from the report are the scale of the incident (five dead), the use of multiple weapons (knife and firearm)—which could indicate multiple attackers or an extreme level of aggression by a single person—and the parallel development of a missing persons case, adding layers of uncertainty. No direct quotes or official statements were included in the excerpt provided, but it is implied that an active investigation is underway. The implications are serious: the incident will inevitably prompt reviews of emergency response, discussions about access to weapons and violence reduction strategies, and leave a deep psychological scar on a community forced again to confront senseless brutality close to home.

Kenneth Walker signals to the Seahawks ahead of free agency

In professional sports—and especially in the NFL—players’ public remarks are rarely just idle thoughts. They are often carefully calibrated signals to teams, agents, and fans ahead of crucial career moments. That appears to be the case with Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III, who sent a clear message during a recent YouTube Q&A session, as detailed by Heavy.com. His statement, made days before the free agency market opens on March 11, reads like an assertion of self-worth and a reminder of his value to a team on the verge of a consequential financial decision.

In the video, Walker, 25, the Super Bowl MVP with whom the Seahawks won the title, candidly described the start of his season as “ass,” which led to “late-night talks” with his father. But the essence of his message was not complaint but a philosophy of acceptance. “You can’t control how many times you’re subbed out or how many carries you’re given… I can’t control that,” he said. “I can only control… what I do with my opportunities.” This is not a demand for a trade or a direct attack on the coaching staff, but it is a pointed reminder that Walker sees himself as a game-changing player and that his workload did not always reflect that. In the NFL, where a running back’s touches correlate directly with statistics and thus market value, such comments are a significant argument for the upcoming negotiations.

Timing is critical. Walker will hit the free-agent market, and the Seahawks must quickly decide on their strategy. The window to negotiate with other teams opens March 9, and he will officially be a free agent on March 11. If he reaches the market, interest in him is expected to be strong: some projections estimate his value at $8–12 million per year. His most recent season supports that valuation: 221 carries, 1,027 yards and 5 touchdowns, not to mention a key role in winning a championship. His YouTube remarks were therefore not just “talk”; they were the presentation of a player who, feeling he could not control snap counts, nevertheless maximized opportunities and helped deliver a title just before he gains the ability to choose his next team.

The Seahawks’ situation is complicated by another factor. Team running back Zach Charbonnet underwent surgery for a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and is likely to miss a significant portion of 2026. An ACL tear is a serious knee injury requiring long rehabilitation and casts doubt on a player’s availability at the season’s start. That alters the team’s calculations. Whatever the Seahawks’ running-back committee philosophy, if Charbonnet is unavailable, Walker becomes even more central—either as the lead rusher or as a star they must urgently replace. Now the Seahawks face three main options: extend Walker before the market opens with a long-term deal, let him test free agency and try to outbid others, or use the franchise tag (which multiple reports suggest is unlikely). The franchise tag lets a club retain a key free agent for one year by offering a salary equal to the average of the top players at the position, but for running backs it is often viewed as inefficient because of the position’s high cost relative to its typically short career span.

Walker’s YouTube message does not guarantee an outcome, but it positions him well for negotiations. He did not beg for more touches. He stated he stayed ready, performed when it mattered, and knows who he is as a player. With March 11 approaching, the Seahawks must decide whether they are willing to pay him his new, championship-level price or begin preparing for life after Kenneth Walker. His calm but confident rhetoric makes clear he knows his value and intends to be paid fairly for it, whether in Seattle or elsewhere in the NFL.

❮ ❯

Seattle: power, sports and international games

Power and energy: the mayor of Seattle has faced criticism over staffing decisions at a key city utility. In sports: the Seattle Kraken are surprising with their NHL results, and the Seahawks are weighing options for international games in 2026.

Seattle mayor faces pushback over staffing decisions at key city utility

The appointment to Seattle’s highest—and highest-paid—job in city government, the CEO of the municipal utility Seattle City Light, has sparked serious disagreements between Mayor Kathi Wilson and the city council. The mayor’s decision to remove the previous leader and name an interim CEO without direct utility experience drew criticism from unions and legislators, who are demanding greater transparency and competence in managing critical infrastructure.

Mayor Kathi Wilson, who took office relatively recently, moved to fire incumbent Seattle City Light CEO Dawn Lindell—a move that in itself was unusual. As reported by The Seattle Times, the reaction to that decision was far sharper than a routine personnel change. IBEW77 electricians union gathered more than 6,000 signatures calling for Lindell’s reinstatement, and the MLK Labor coalition demanded a more open and transparent search process for a new leader. City council members also expressed frustration that they were not notified in advance. Councilmember Bob Kettle even read aloud at a council meeting a letter from an outraged City Light employee.

Longtime company employee Craig Smith was named interim successor to Lindell, but he is expected to be replaced in early March by Dennis McLerran, a former regional administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). That nomination has provoked the most controversy. In a letter to the mayor, Council President Joy Hollingsworth and Councilmember Dan Strauss voiced “concerns” about leadership stability at the utility and laid out four key criteria for the new CEO, most of which McLerran does not meet. The main point of criticism is his lack of direct experience running a power utility. The lawmakers reminded readers of a painful past lesson: during the Enron-era financial scandal, a City Light CEO who was a competent administrator but lacked industry experience oversaw a 58% rate increase and $500 million in additional debt. Nearby Tacoma, whose leader did have relevant industry experience, avoided similar upheaval.

It’s important to understand that Seattle City Light is not just a city department but a public power utility providing electricity to Seattle. Its steady operation is critical to the life of the city. The company is at a pivotal moment. Demand for electricity is rising rapidly, and forecasts indicate that by 2028 the clean hydropower the city has relied on for more than a century may not be sufficient. Lindell had begun diversifying the energy portfolio to include solar and wind. At the same time, the utility must replace underground cables costing $3 billion, complete a complex relicensing process for dams on the Skagit and Tolt rivers, and deal with the fallout from an internal investigation that found alcohol use on the job and sexual harassment involving 40 employees.

IBEW77 representative Steve Kovach, despite Lindell’s firing of five union members during that investigation, praised her professionalism: “In my 45 years connected to City Light, she is by far the most knowledgeable CEO and manager I have dealt with.” He also noted that historically, leaders hired from outside the utility industry often proved unable to do the job and were later dismissed.

Mayor Wilson’s administration has not offered a full explanation for Lindell’s dismissal. Mayor’s spokesperson Sage Wilson (no relation) clarified that McLerran is not a permanent pick for the CEO role and promised a broad search, though no timeline was given. Lawmakers have indicated their signatures on the paperwork required to put McLerran on the payroll are not guaranteed. They only signed off on Craig Smith’s interim appointment.

The situation reflects a broader trend: despite Mayor Wilson’s initial statements about preserving continuity in department leadership, she has carried out sweeping personnel changes across key areas—from transportation and housing to environmental protection. The Seattle City Light appointment has been the most consequential, highlighting a clash between the political will of the new administration and the demands for expertise and stability in managing the complex municipal infrastructure upon which Seattle’s energy security depends.

Assessing the Seattle Kraken’s position in the NHL’s Pacific Division

In a recent installment of NHL Tonight on the league’s official site, analysts focused on the unexpectedly strong performance of the Seattle Kraken, who have secured third place in the Pacific Division this season. The result is especially notable given that the franchise is one of the NHL’s youngest. In their discussion, available in a video on NHL.com, the analysts break down the key factors that have allowed the Washington team to become competitive so quickly.

The young club, which debuted in the NHL in 2021–22, plays mature, balanced hockey. NHL Tonight’s experts say the Kraken’s success is built not on a few superstar players but on collective discipline, roster depth, and an effective system implemented by the coaching staff. In a league where dominance is often associated with superstars like McDavid or MacKinnon, Seattle’s approach feels fresh. The team emphasizes a “four-line game,” meaning all four forward lines and the defensive pairs contribute meaningfully—wearing down opponents and allowing the club to sustain a high tempo throughout games.

Another emphasized aspect is shrewd front-office work during the expansion draft and subsequent transactions. The Kraken have not just assembled a list of players but built a cohesive group with the right balance of experience and youth. Notably strong defensive play and reliable goaltending often form the foundation for playoff success. Finishing third in a tough Pacific Division—home to perennial powers like the Vegas Golden Knights and Edmonton Oilers—speaks for itself.

The implications of such success are significant. First, the Kraken may be legitimate playoff contenders as early as their second full season, which would be a historic achievement. Second, their team-building model could serve as a template for other clubs, showing that modern hockey success can be achieved through structure and teamwork rather than only expensive contracts for star players. Strong performance also matters for growing hockey culture in a relatively new NHL market, energizing local fans and helping to boost the sport’s popularity in the Pacific Northwest. In that way, the Kraken story moves beyond mere expansion lore and becomes one of the season’s most inspiring sports narratives.

Seahawks’ international-game possibilities for 2026: what’s still on the table?

The question of whether the Seattle Seahawks will play an international game next season has become more intriguing as the NFL continues to expand its series of overseas contests. Expectations for the team have been high given that the league has only selected the Seahawks for international appearances twice in franchise history, and the general trend is that each team should play abroad once per season. However, as it became clear this week, several potential options for the 2026 season have already been removed, narrowing the possibilities but not ruling them out entirely.

As The Seattle Times reports, amid the start of the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis the league announced a number of international games that immediately ruled Seattle out of several locations. It’s been revealed that the Detroit Lions will play in Munich in 2026, removing the possibility of Seahawks’ return to Germany (they played the Tampa Bay Buccaneers there in 2022). The option of the first regular-season game in Australia also fell through: the season opener in Melbourne will feature the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers. It was initially expected that western teams like the Seahawks might participate, but tradition complicates that plan: the reigning Super Bowl champion—which is Seattle—typically plays the season opener at home to have the victory banner raised, which is incompatible with a long trip to Australia. The Seahawks will also not play in Paris (where the New Orleans Saints will be based) or Rio de Janeiro (hosted by the Dallas Cowboys). Interestingly, Dallas is giving up a home game to play in Brazil, but because the Cowboys are scheduled as visitors in Seattle, that option is also off the table. The team will not play at London’s Wembley Stadium either, as that site will again host the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Seahawks do not face Jacksonville in 2026.

Despite this, the Seahawks still have four realistic international opportunities next season. Two potential games could be in London at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, opponents to be determined. Another possibility is Madrid, Spain, where the NFL will stage a game for the second consecutive year. And there’s a game in Mexico City, where the San Francisco 49ers will be the home team—and the Seahawks are listed among their visiting opponents for 2026. That makes a trip to Mexico one of the more likely scenarios. For context, the NFL is actively expanding its international footprint, aiming for 16 overseas games per year so that each team appears abroad once per season. The Seahawks also hold marketing rights in six countries (Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), which had previously fueled speculation about games in Australia or Germany, though those options are currently closed.

Key details from the article include the Seahawks’ 2026 opponent list: at home they will host Arizona, the Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco, Chicago, New England, the Los Angeles Chargers, Kansas City, Dallas, and the New York Giants; on the road they will play Arizona, the Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco, Carolina, Las Vegas, Denver, Philadelphia, and Washington. Since the Rams and 49ers will travel to Australia for the season opener, the pool of possible opponents for Seattle’s home opener narrows to seven teams. While the league is gradually revealing details of its international slate and could announce additional games in the coming months, the full 2026 schedule is expected in May. Thus, despite eliminated options, the Seattle Seahawks still have a solid chance to play abroad in 2026—whether in London, Madrid, or Mexico City—which would continue their part in the NFL’s global expansion.

❮ ❯

Tukwila imposes ban on new immigrant detention centers

The Tukwila City Council, a suburb of Seattle, voted unanimously to impose a temporary ban on the construction of new correctional facilities and detention centers. The decision was a direct response to recent reports that the U.S. immigration agency (ICE) planned to expand its presence in the city, including leasing space in a local tech park. The tech park is a modern business area with developed infrastructure, making it attractive to federal agencies due to its convenient location, cost-effectiveness and availability of necessary utilities. The moratorium, which could last from six months to a year, blocks consideration of zoning changes and the issuance of permits for facilities of this type.

At an emotional council meeting, about 25 people spoke out against the appearance of new ICE facilities. Council President Armen Papyan shared a personal experience, recounting how immigration authorities detained his father. “I understand this issue very well... I understand it personally on many levels,” he said, emphasizing his connection to the issue and the community.

Local officials expressed deep skepticism about ICE’s intentions. Mayor Thomas McLeod said he learned of the possible expansion plans only from an article in WIRED magazine, not from the federal agency itself. He questioned whether public safety is a priority for ICE. Police Chief Eric Drever, meanwhile, promised that the police would intervene if federal agents acted beyond their authority.

The trend of restricting ICE activity is gaining momentum in the region: the Sea-Tac city council already adopted a similar moratorium last week. While Seattle itself is officially a “sanctuary city,” suburbs like Tukwila and Sea-Tac often take a more moderate or pragmatic stance, working more actively with federal authorities — a difference linked to variations in local governance and demographics. Seattle officials are also considering a similar measure. In Tukwila, public hearings on the ban will continue on April 13, giving residents an additional opportunity to voice their opinions.

Tensions over immigration policy in Tukwila have a historical context. The city already hosts offices of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Large protests against ICE took place near those offices last year and escalated into clashes with police and federal officers, who used tear gas and other crowd-control measures against demonstrators.

❮ ❯

Based on: Tukwila approves temporary ban on new ICE facilities

Gold Rush: How Seattle Residents Can Profit from the 2026 World Cup

Seattle residents have a unique chance to boost their income by renting out their homes during the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches. About 150,000 fans are expected to arrive in the city, and hotels will be fully booked, creating huge demand for alternative accommodations. The city’s transit system, including the Link light rail, is already preparing for the influx: operator Sound Transit plans to increase train frequency and length, and introduce event schedules to ensure access to Lumen Field and the suburbs.

According to analytics platform AirDNA, demand for short-term rentals in Seattle will rise 55% on non-match days and a staggering 185% on match days. Airbnb is even offering a $750 bonus to those who list their entire home in a host city for the first time before the end of July.

Rental prices are surging. Some listings will cost twice as much as usual, especially on key match days, such as when the U.S. plays Australia on June 19. Homeowners are already feeling the buzz.

Christopher John, owner of a downtown Seattle condominium, fully booked his apartment within a week of FIFA releasing the schedule, even after raising the price by 30% to about $500 a night. He admits he could have asked for more given the uniqueness of the event.

Some offers are downright shocking. A homeowner in Lynnwood found that Airbnb recommended nearly $1,000 a night for her three-bedroom house. This isn’t an isolated case — some suburban listings are indeed priced that high, especially if they are near the multiuse Lumen Field, which hosts concerts and major festivals in addition to soccer, or if they have many bedrooms. Suburbs like Lynnwood or Shoreline, with their quieter, family-friendly atmosphere and relatively affordable housing, are also drawing interest, despite being more car-dependent compared with Seattle’s more developed public-transit network.

Reports of high prices are persuading even those who’ve never rented out their homes to try it. On social media, Seattle residents are actively offering their homes to fans, seeing an opportunity to go on vacation and come back with a profit.

Some are considering more modest options. For example, Shoreline resident Rachel Belfield plans to rent out a separate studio in her house for $250 a night to partially offset the cost of tickets she bought for the matches.

However, experts warn of potential risks such as theft, property damage, or problematic guests. Marcus Vaughn, co-founder of niche platform Rumbl Rentals — far less well-known than global giants like Airbnb and focused mostly on longer-term rentals — advises newcomers to lock valuables in a safe and create a “host’s closet.”

It’s also important to remember the law. In Seattle, renting out a property for less than 30 days requires two mandatory licenses: a business license ($50) and a short-term rental license ($75). Operating without a license can result in fines over $1,000. Similarly strict rules apply in other host cities, such as New York or Los Angeles, though specific regulations vary.

The legalization process, however, isn’t as complicated as it may seem. According to Beth Geppert of the city’s Department of Consumer Protection, which also handles business licensing and investigates complaints, the entire procedure can take as little as three business days, and her team is ready to help anyone confused about the requirements.

Thus, for responsible Seattle homeowners, the upcoming World Cup is a real and legal opportunity to earn significant additional income — provided they prepare for both the financial upside and possible pitfalls.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle FIFA World Cup 2026: What it takes to rent your home on Airbnb

Ambitious plan: turn Seattle’s abandoned hangar into a youth mecca

Talk has renewed in Seattle about a large-scale project to redevelop a giant World War II–era hangar known as Building 2 in Magnuson Park. The park, the city’s largest and located on the shore of Lake Washington on the former naval station site, plays a key role in Seattle’s recreational life, offering beaches, sports fields and nature trails. The new initiative, called Hangar2, aims to convert the vacant historic 144,000-square-foot building into a multiuse center for children and teenagers. Among the public faces of the campaign is former Seattle Seahawks player and current team radio commentator Ray Roberts, who is known in the city not only for his sports career but also for active philanthropic work supporting youth programs.

The Hangar2 project envisions the space as a hub for youth sports, technology, the arts and educational programs. Plans call for basketball courts, playing fields, classrooms and workshops. The idea is to create a safe, inspiring place where children from a wide range of families can learn, grow and try different activities — especially relevant given rising youth mental-health concerns.

But the path to realization is far from guaranteed. The project will need approval from city authorities, notably the Parks Department, which manages city recreational assets and has authority over planning and approving such initiatives. Securing tens of millions of dollars to renovate the deteriorated building is also critical. Seattle’s budget constraints make public funding uncertain, and earlier efforts to advance the initiative stalled during the COVID-19 pandemic. Questions have also arisen about how accessible the center will be for low-income residents in the park’s subsidized housing, which exists in Magnuson Park as part of the city’s strategy to provide affordable housing and integrate social services into public spaces.

Building 2 itself has a rich history. It was built in 1929 as part of the Sand Point Naval Air Station, a major center of naval aviation in the Pacific Northwest that operated from the 1920s through the 1970s, and was expanded in 1941. The paired hangar played a key role in assembling and repairing aircraft during the war and was then used by the U.S. Navy until 1970. Its legacy, like that of the whole base, symbolizes the shift from military use to public space. Later it hosted film shoots, exhibitions and indoor soccer, but since 2010 it has been largely vacant, with only a small workshop occupied by a vocational training program today.

Magnuson Park, spanning 350 acres, already offers successful examples of converting former military facilities. Other hangars now house Arena Sports soccer fields, a fairly common presence in Seattle suburbs, as well as headquarters for climbing, cycling and sailing clubs. The park also features a beach, sports fields, a tennis center and an art gallery. That experience serves as a model and inspiration for the ambitious Hangar2 project.

The Hangar2 concept began back in 2016, when the city Parks Department requested proposals to redevelop the building. One proposal, from a nonprofit group that later became the core of Hangar2, was rejected due to lack of funding. In 2019 the group received conditional approval, but the pandemic froze the process. Activity resumed only last year: a website launched, building tours began, and a banner with the project’s vision was placed on the facade.

Organizers, including Roberts, landscape architect Chris Snyder and former NBA player Spencer Hawes, point to the hangar’s vastness and historic character as the project’s chief assets. They imagine a single open space 400 feet long created by removing the wall between the two hangars, framed by old steel beams and industrial windows — a “big light” that will breathe and inspire.

Inclusivity is declared a central principle of Hangar2. Organizers intend to use a variety of programs and scholarships to attract kids of all backgrounds, abilities and income levels. Former professional athletes on the project team see their mission as giving the new generation opportunities they themselves once lacked.

❮ ❯

Based on: New push to redevelop huge hangar in Seattle’s Magnuson Park

Washington senators propose $1.5B for roads and ferries

Leaders of the Washington State Senate transportation committee, Democrat Marko Liias and Republican Curtis King, unveiled a joint bipartisan proposal to provide an additional $1.5 billion for transportation needs. The new budget, covering through 2031, prioritizes roadway safety, infrastructure repair and maintenance, and the creation of tens of thousands of jobs. Lawmakers emphasized that their plan does not raise taxes for state residents.

Most of the funding would come from issuing $1.1 billion in bonds. The bulk of the new money — $1.38 billion over six years — would go toward preserving and repairing highways and restoring damage from the destructive December floods. Senator Liias said the state cannot wait for federal aid to begin these repairs and must act immediately.

A significant portion of the budget, $100 million, is allocated to the state ferry system. Those funds would pay for hiring additional staff, expanding repair capacity on Bainbridge Island, and upgrading terminals to improve their earthquake resilience. Bainbridge Island, located in Puget Sound near Seattle, is a key hub of the state’s ferry system. Its ship-repair facilities are strategically important for servicing and repairing the ferries that connect numerous islands and peninsulas in the sound to the mainland, which is critical to keeping one of the largest ferry fleets in the U.S. running. Another roughly $60 million would be invested to accelerate delivery of new hybrid-electric vessels by 2031. At the same time, conversion of existing ferries to hybrid propulsion is postponed at least until that timeline because of problems and cost overruns in a previous similar project.

The proposal also includes funding for other priorities: $2.7 million to fill vacancies in the state patrol to bolster speed enforcement, $30 million in grants for electric vehicle charging stations, and $300,000 to develop a network of bike routes connecting cities across the state. In addition, a separate $1 million grant program would be created to improve pedestrian crossing lighting in cities.

At the same time, the plan pushes back completion schedules for several megaprojects. Those include replacement of the I-5 bridge over the Columbia River, widening of I-405, and finishing the multi-year north–south freeway project in Spokane. The I-405 widening is considered a megaproject because of its massive scale, multi-billion-dollar price tag and multiyear timeline. That corridor runs through Seattle’s eastern suburbs, home to major corporate headquarters, and is intended to ease chronic congestion on one of the country’s busiest roads. The Spokane north–south freeway project is a large-scale construction of a new limited-access highway to improve connectivity for the state’s second-largest city. It is especially important to eastern Washington because Spokane is the region’s economic and logistics center; the new highway is expected to reduce congestion and spur economic development. Those decisions reflect the need to concentrate resources on more urgent maintenance and repair needs.

This Senate proposal is only the first step in the legislative process. The state House must now produce its own version of the transportation budget. Leaders of both chambers must reach a compromise and agree on a final plan before the 60-day legislative session ends on March 12, after which the budget will go to Governor Bob Ferguson for approval.

Overall, the budget represents an adjustment to the large $15.5 billion plan passed last year. Its defining features are bipartisan support, a rejection of tax increases, and a shift in emphasis from launching new grand projects to maintaining and securing Washington’s existing transportation system.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA Senate leaders propose $1.5 billion for transportation work

Sports, Politics and Crisis: News from the U.S. and Mexico

Overview: a sheriff bill in Washington sparks political debate, a Seattle family is stranded in Mexico amid cartel violence, and the city prepares for the 2026 World Cup with large fan zones.

Sheriff bill: higher standards or political maneuvering?

Another political battle is unfolding in Washington state, this time around the figure of the sheriff — a key official in the local law enforcement system. A bill proposing to tighten standards for candidates for that office is provoking heated arguments, pitting calls for increased professionalism against accusations of political meddling. As KIRO 7 News Seattle reports (https://www.kiro7.com/news/local/video-bill-proposes-stricter-standards-sheriffs/1fdd44c8-957b-4107-bad7-0b66f47295b9/), the initiative could fundamentally change the rules of the game for local law enforcement.

Under the proposed changes, sheriff candidates would need not only significant law enforcement experience but also relevant higher education or its equivalent. Supporters of the bill, mostly Democrats, argue this is necessary to ensure a high level of professionalism and accountability. They point out that a sheriff, as an elected official, holds broad powers — from managing jails to overseeing complex investigations — and therefore should meet strict criteria. "This is about public trust and effective performance," the bill's authors say, stressing that modern challenges require police leaders to possess not only practical experience but also deep managerial knowledge.

Opponents, many of whom are Republicans and current sheriffs, see a hidden political attack. They argue the new requirements will artificially narrow the pool of candidates, excluding many worthy professionals who rose through the ranks without a college degree. "This is an attempt to remove from power those who don't suit certain political forces," critics say. They also note that the sheriff is primarily a representative of the local community, elected by the people, and that voters — not bureaucratic standards — should decide who is fit for the job.

To understand the heart of the dispute, it's important to grasp the specifics of the sheriff's role in the U.S. Unlike appointed police chiefs in cities, a sheriff is typically an elected head of a county law enforcement agency. That makes the sheriff a figure that uniquely combines administrative functions with direct political accountability to voters. The sheriff's office often handles law and order in unincorporated areas, services for the courts, and management of the county jail. Thus debates about standards are essentially a discussion about balancing the democratic principle of election with the demand for professional expertise.

KIRO 7's piece cites concrete facts: currently in Washington state, no special education or minimum law enforcement tenure is required to hold the office of sheriff. In theory, someone with no prior police experience could be elected. Supporters of reform see this as an anachronism, while opponents view it as an expression of democratic freedom. The implications of this bill go far beyond staffing issues. If passed, it could set a precedent for other states and strengthen a trend toward professionalizing elected law enforcement offices. But it could also deepen political divides and provoke resistance from local communities that value the "power from the people" principle. The outcome of this legislative battle is not yet clear, but one thing is certain: it will shape the face of local government in Washington for years to come.

Seattle family stranded in Puerto Vallarta amid cartel violence

A Seattle family and other American tourists found themselves stranded in the Mexican resort city of Puerto Vallarta after an outbreak of violence following the killing of the leader of one of the country's most powerful drug cartels. The situation starkly illustrates how criminal wars can instantly paralyze entire regions and disrupt the plans of hundreds of peaceful travelers.

Colleen Echo-Hawk and her family were supposed to fly home Sunday afternoon, but at the last minute hotel staff strongly advised them not to go to the airport. As she told KING5 in an interview (https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/seattle-family-stranded-puerto-vallarta-cartel-unrest-el-mencho-killed-mexico-army/281-2080183a-7007-4205-b28f-58ca76a5614e), this happened before reports of large-scale unrest made the news. The chaos was sparked by a Mexican army operation in the state of Jalisco that killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho" — the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). That cartel is considered one of Mexico's most violent and powerful criminal organizations, involved in drug trafficking and other illicit activities. In response to the death of their leader, cartel members launched a wave of violence across the country, blocking roads with burning vehicles and engaging in shootouts. From their hotel window the Echo-Hawk family watched columns of smoke rising over the city.

Despite the alarming situation, the family is trying to remain calm. "I hope we'll just try to be patient, support each other, and try to get out of here as soon as possible," Colleen said. She has enrolled in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) alerts and urges other travelers to do the same. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico issued emergency guidance for citizens in Puerto Vallarta and several other areas. Americans are advised to avoid areas with law enforcement activity, stay in their hotels or apartments, monitor local news, and inform loved ones of their exact location.

Late Sunday the State Department expanded the list of affected areas. In addition to Jalisco (including Puerto Vallarta, Chapala and Guadalajara), the warnings also covered Baja California (Tijuana, Tecate), Quintana Roo (Cancún, Cozumel), Nayarit (the Nuevo Vallarta area), Sinaloa (Mazatlán) and several others. This indicates a nationwide response by the cartel, which aims to demonstrate its strength and its ability to destabilize situations even in major tourist centers. The incident was a harsh reminder of the fragility of security in some Mexican regions popular with foreign tourists. Even prosperous resorts can, in a matter of hours, become the epicenter of a state-versus-organized-crime conflict, leaving travelers in uncertainty and reliant on guidance from authorities and diplomatic missions.

Seattle prepares for the World Cup: how the city will become a global fan zone

Seattle is actively preparing for one of the world's largest sporting events — the FIFA World Cup 2026. Although the tournament's start is still months away, the city has already announced ambitious plans to create public celebration zones so every resident and visitor can feel part of the global festivities, regardless of whether they have a match ticket.

According to king5.com (https://www.king5.com/article/news/local/seattle/seattle-gears-up-for-world-cup-citywide-celebrations/281-7af4d40a-848f-4e1e-b384-dfef8639574d), the local organizing committee SeattleFWC26, led by Peter Tomodzawa, intends to take the fan experience far beyond Lumen Field and the initially planned Seattle Center site. The goal is to turn the entire city into a single celebratory space. "We are a city made for this. We are a city built for championships. We are a city built for world-class events," Tomodzawa said. The key idea is not just to watch matches but to showcase the diversity and uniqueness of Seattle's neighborhoods, turning the tournament into a citywide celebration and community festival.

Free fan zones will appear at several iconic locations: Pacific Place mall downtown, Waterfront Park on the waterfront, and Victory Hall near the stadium. These sites will host public match screenings on big screens, food courts and street vendors, performances by artists, and family-friendly events. Organizers say this will allow visitors to get to know the heart of the city. Sports enthusiast Zach Thompson believes locations downtown and on the waterfront will be ideal starting points for tourists and fans coming for the games. In the coming months the list of celebration zones is expected to expand to include culturally significant neighborhoods such as the Chinatown-International District and the Central District.

This approach reflects an effort to make the event as inclusive as possible. The FIFA World Cup is the largest international sporting competition, held every four years. Hosting matches of such a tournament is a great honor and responsibility for a city, accompanied by an influx of hundreds of thousands of fans. Creating a distributed network of fan zones helps address several challenges: reducing strain on the infrastructure around the stadium, spreading economic benefits more evenly across neighborhoods, and giving all residents the chance to experience an authentic festival atmosphere. The tournament kicks off June 11, and although some details are still being finalized, Seattle appears ready to welcome it in full force, reaffirming its reputation as a city capable of hosting top-tier events.

❮ ❯

Music on the Grass and Chaos in the Sky

The summer ZooTunes concert lineup in Seattle has been announced, while in Mexico flight cancellations following the takedown of a drug lord disrupted travelers’ plans.

ZooTunes 2026 summer concert lineup in Seattle: Pavement, Suki Waterhouse and more

As winter slowly gives way, organizers of the annual ZooTunes summer concert series at Woodland Park Zoo are already preparing for the warm season, announcing the long-awaited 2026 lineup. The event, a staple of summer for many Seattle-area residents, again invites attendees to bring picnic baskets, blankets, folding chairs and, of course, a spirit for music and lawn-side relaxation.

The 42nd season of ZooTunes begins June 4 with a performance by cover band Yacht Rock Revue, which specializes in soft rock and late-1970s–early-1980s disco often associated with a lavish lifestyle. One of the headline acts will be the iconic American indie-rock band Pavement, scheduled for July 19. This band, whose heyday was in the 1990s, resonates today with both Generation X and their children — Generation Z — underscoring its timeless appeal. On August 6 actress and melancholic indie-pop performer Suki Waterhouse will take the stage, and on August 9 fans can expect a special joint performance by indie-folk collective The Mountain Goats and rock band The Hold Steady, who will play their landmark 2006 album Boys and Girls in America in full. According to The Seattle Times announcement, tickets for the full series will go on sale online on February 27 at 10 a.m. exclusively at the zoo’s official site, zoo.org/zootunes. It’s important to note that all proceeds from the event go toward funding everyday animal care, global wildlife conservation programs and environmental education.

ZooTunes, marking its 42nd season this year, has undergone many transformations over the decades. Lately organizers have intentionally aimed to attract a younger audience by including artists popular with newer generations. However, the series still retains its variety, offering musical genres to suit many tastes so families and friend groups of different ages can enjoy music in a relaxed outdoor atmosphere. This tradition continues the trend of successful past years, when artists as diverse as alt-country performer Jason Isbell in 2023 and indie rocker Japanese Breakfast last season appeared at ZooTunes. Thus, the announcement of the 2026 summer lineup not only gives music lovers something to anticipate but also highlights the event’s role as an important cultural and charitable institution in Seattle, where love of music goes hand in hand with support for nature.

ZooTunes 2026 summer concert schedule at Woodland Park Zoo

Summer in Seattle promises to be full of music against a natural backdrop: Woodland Park Zoo announced the program for its 42nd annual ZooTunes concert series, starting in June. It’s not just an entertainment event but a major charitable initiative, with proceeds going to animal care, conservation programs and environmental education.

As reported in the KING5.com announcement, the series opens June 4 with Yacht Rock Revue, a band known for cover versions in the “yacht rock” style — light, melodic rock and soul from the late 1970s to early 1980s. Overall, the 2026 lineup offers variety: from indie legends to contemporary stars. Pavement will perform on July 19, and Grammy-winning country-pop singer Maren Morris is set for July 23. Fans of folk-rock and strong songwriting can look forward to Ani DiFranco on August 2, and the indie scene will be represented by Scotland’s Belle and Sebastian (June 14), Australian Courtney Barnett (August 18) and American band The Breeders (August 20). Also on the schedule are Jason Isbell (August 13), known for his poignant songwriting, and The Mountain Goats together with The Hold Steady, who will present a joint performance of the album Boys and Girls in America (August 9). Many of the listed acts, such as Pavement and The Breeders, are associated with indie rock or alternative rock, genres that arose outside the mainstream and often feature more experimental sounds and lyrics. Concerts are outdoors: gates open at 4:30 p.m., and most shows begin at 6:00 p.m. All tickets are nonrefundable and will be sold exclusively online starting February 27 at 10:00 a.m.; they will not be available at the zoo box office. This approach is likely intended to streamline the process and control attendance. Beyond musical variety, a key feature of ZooTunes is its charitable mission. Each concert contributes to biodiversity conservation, as event proceeds fund care for the zoo’s inhabitants, support wildlife protection projects locally and globally, and finance environmental education. Thus, attending a show lets visitors enjoy music in an unusual setting while contributing to an important cause. For residents and visitors to Seattle, this has long been a beloved summer tradition that combines cultural leisure with support for nature.

Flight cancellations in Puerto Vallarta: how the takedown of a drug lord paralyzed a tourist hub

The sudden cancellation of all flights between Seattle and the popular resort of Puerto Vallarta exposed the fragility of the Mexican coast’s idyll, showing how quickly criminal chaos can upend the plans of thousands of travelers. The transport collapse was triggered by a large-scale operation by the Mexican military that resulted in the elimination of one of the world’s most powerful drug lords.

On Sunday, after Mexican forces in a special operation in the state of Jalisco wounded and then killed the leader of the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel, Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the situation in the region rapidly escalated. Mexico’s Ministry of Defense reported that he died en route to Mexico City. This cartel, based in Jalisco, is infamous as a major supplier of fentanyl and other drugs to the United States. The cartel’s response to the loss of its leader was swift and demonstrative: for several hours roads in Jalisco and neighboring states were blocked with burning vehicles, paralyzing transportation.

Alarming footage quickly circulated on social media: plumes of smoke over resort Puerto Vallarta and panic among people at the airport of the state capital, Guadalajara. As KOMO News reports, airlines began canceling flights one after another. Air Canada was the first to suspend flights to Puerto Vallarta “due to the current security situation,” directly advising customers not to go to the airport. It was joined by Alaska, United, Delta and Southwest, which canceled flights from Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac). According to FlightAware, hundreds of flights to and from Puerto Vallarta worldwide were canceled on Sunday.

Airlines cited the closure of Puerto Vallarta airport and ongoing unrest. Alaska Airlines confirmed the airport closure; United canceled flights to Guadalajara as well; and Delta issued a travel advisory saying trips to the region could be disrupted through February 26 due to civil unrest. “The safety of our customers and crew is always our top priority,” Delta said. Southwest canceled all four of its scheduled Sunday flights to Puerto Vallarta.

The situation forced diplomats to step in. The U.S. State Department warned citizens in Jalisco and four other states to remain in safe locations amid ongoing security operations. The Canadian Embassy in Mexico also urged its citizens in Puerto Vallarta to shelter in place and avoid drawing attention. On Monday airlines continued to delay and cancel flights to Puerto Vallarta and other points in Jalisco, extending restrictions for the period from February 23 to 28.

The incident starkly demonstrates how deeply criminal organizations like the Jalisco New Generation Cartel can affect everyday life and key economic sectors — in this case, tourism. The takedown of the leader, while a tactical victory for authorities, provokes short-term chaos and reprisals from a disoriented but still powerful organization. For thousands of tourists it meant more than ruined vacations: real stress and the need to urgently change plans amid uncertainty. The implications for Mexico as a tourist destination are also serious: such events damage perceptions of safety, which directly affect the wellbeing of entire regions.

❮ ❯

Language diversity in King County reaches record high

According to the latest census data, language diversity in King County, Washington, has reached a new milestone. In 2024, for the first time one in three county residents aged five and over (about 33% or 732,000 people) reported speaking a language other than English at home. By comparison, in 2010 that share was about 25.5%. This demonstrates a substantial transformation of the region’s linguistic landscape.

The increase in people speaking a non-English language at home from 2010 to 2024 was nearly six times faster than the growth in those who speak only English. This indicates that demographic changes in the county are largely driven by immigrant communities and their descendants maintaining their native languages.

Spanish leads the non-English languages, spoken at home by about 160,000 residents, or 7% of the population aged 5 and older. Chinese languages (including Mandarin and Cantonese dialects) are second, with roughly 127,000 speakers (6%). Third is the broad category of other Indo-European languages, which includes, among others, Hindi and Central Asian languages.

However, compared with other large U.S. counties, King County sits near the middle of the list, ranking 27th among the 50 most populous counties. The clear leader is Miami-Dade County in Florida, where nearly 76% of residents speak a language other than English at home, primarily Spanish. It is followed by Bronx County (58%) and Queens (56%) in New York.

Within King County itself the picture varies widely. The census tract with the lowest share of people speaking English at home (under 28%) is west of Kent, at the site of the former Midway landfill. This industrial and logistics hub south of Seattle has historically attracted immigrants, including Spanish speakers, due to affordable housing, jobs in logistics and agriculture, and an already-established community infrastructure. Spanish is most common there, spoken at home by 43% of residents.

In Seattle, the lowest share of English-only households (about 66% speaking English at home) is in the South Beacon Hill and New Holly neighborhoods in the southern part of the city. These areas, which offer relatively affordable housing and support programs—especially through the New Holly redevelopment project—have good transit and growing Asian-owned businesses, making them an attractive environment for immigrants. Chinese languages are most frequently heard there.

At the other end of the spectrum are neighborhoods dominated by English. In King County these are the more geographically isolated areas around North Bend, Riverpoint, and Skykomish to the east, where only about 7% of the population are immigrants. In Seattle, the highest share of people who speak only English at home (about 95%) is found in the historically wealthier and less accessible neighborhoods of North Admiral and Genesee in West Seattle, where immigrants make up only about 5% of residents. High housing costs and geographic isolation make these zones less appealing to new arrivals, who often seek more economical options near jobs and ethnic communities.

Thus, the census data not only record a record level of language diversity across King County as a whole but also vividly illustrate how the linguistic map is tightly linked to the geography of immigration and socio-economic factors. Different neighborhoods are unique linguistic microcosms, ranging from near-monolingual enclaves to places of exceptional multilingualism.

❮ ❯

Based on: 1 in 3 King County residents speak a language other than English at home

Largest U.S. solar project on former nuclear site changes hands

Rights to build what could become the largest solar-and-storage project in the U.S. were sold to a new developer before any construction began. Hecate Energy, the company originally selected by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), announced the sale of the Cereza Solar and Storage Project to Savion. The project is planned for up to 8,000 acres of unused land on the southeastern edge of the Hanford site in Washington state. Today Hanford is the country’s largest nuclear cleanup site, providing thousands of jobs and substantial federal funding to the region. The land—where plutonium for the nuclear arsenal was produced during the Cold War—is now being considered for new energy projects as part of a future decarbonized grid.

The deal means Savion, one of the nation’s largest developers of industrial solar and battery projects, will lead development of the 2-gigawatt project with Hecate providing support. Hecate Energy’s leadership said the sale demonstrates their capability to develop and bring large, complex energy projects to market. Hecate itself recently announced a merger that will make it a public company.

The project is the largest in the federal “Cleanup to Clean Energy” initiative, aimed at converting lands formerly used by the nation’s nuclear program into clean energy sites. But there are potential challenges in integrating the variable power from the solar panels into the region’s grid. As an alternative energy consumer, data centers are being considered; they are the largest and fastest-growing energy users in Washington because of the concentration of tech-company headquarters. They are actively seeking decarbonized energy for their power-hungry operations, making them natural strategic partners for new energy projects.

The Biden administration estimates the Hanford solar plant could begin operating within five to seven years. It would be built west of the local Patrol Academy, stretching north from Highway 240 past the Energy Northwest campus. That public nonprofit consortium of Washington public utilities plays a key role in the state’s power supply. It operates a diverse set of generating assets, including the region’s only commercial nuclear plant, Columbia, hydroelectric dams and wind projects, complementing the powerful hydropower system and helping meet climate goals.

The historical context matters: much of the Hanford land will become part of a national monument or protected area once the multibillion-dollar environmental cleanup is complete. The solar project must be fully removed and the land returned to its current condition by the time that cleanup ends, which will take decades. That requirement is a mandatory DOE condition.

Former Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said the DOE is turning thousands of acres of Hanford land into a thriving center of zero-carbon generation, setting an example for cleanup and creating new economic opportunities for the local community. Expanding clean energy creates well‑paying jobs and improves the environment.

❮ ❯

Based on: Huge solar and battery project planned in WA sold to new developer

Seattle Weather Returns to Seasonal Norms

After a brief cold snap, weather in Seattle and its surrounding areas is returning to conditions more typical for late February. Meteorologist Dustin Guy of the National Weather Service said storm warnings for the Cascade Mountains and foothill communities such as North Bend and Enumclaw are no longer in effect. Residents can expect the usual pattern this coming week: cloudiness, periodic rain, and gradual improvement. Temperatures will hover around seasonal normals, currently about 11°C (around 52°F) during the day and about 3°C (around 37°F) at night.

Monday and Tuesday will be the wettest days, though, according to the meteorologist, it won’t be continuous downpours. The chance of precipitation will persist through the week, but by Thursday and Friday—and especially by next weekend—drier weather with possible clearing is forecast. "We’re not expecting any large-scale weather events," Guy noted. At the same time, a winter weather alert remains in effect for the Cascades for those heading into the mountains, including the Snoqualmie Pass, where snowfall is expected overnight into Tuesday.

❮ ❯

Based on: Weather expected to get back to normal this week for the Seattle area

Incident on a Flight and Weather Forecast

An overheating power bank incident on board an Alaska Airlines flight and a forecast of rainy, windy weather with mountain snow for Western Washington.

Alaska Airlines flight incident: overheating phone and power bank forced return to Wichita

This afternoon an Alaska Airlines flight bound from Wichita to Seattle was forced to return to its departure airport shortly after takeoff because a passenger's phone and its external battery (power bank) overheated and the power bank ignited during the flight. The incident raises renewed concerns about the safety of lithium-ion batteries on aircraft.

According to the airline, Flight 2117, operated by regional carrier Horizon Air on an Embraer 175, returned to Wichita after a passenger experienced overheating of a mobile phone and an attached power bank. Alaska Airlines said in a press statement that after returning to the gate the passenger received medical attention. During disembarkation, flight attendants placed the overheated devices into a special fireproof containment bag to isolate potentially hazardous ignition sources — such bags are often seen in news reports about onboard electronics incidents.

A Wichita Airport (ICT) spokesperson confirmed the aircraft landed safely and emergency responders evaluated three people. One person was taken to a local hospital for further evaluation. The airport statement included an important technical note: while external batteries are allowed in the cabin, they can undergo a phenomenon known as "thermal runaway." This is a dangerous chain reaction inside a battery in which overheating of one cell leads to rapid heating of neighboring cells, potentially causing fire or even explosion. That process likely caused the power bank to ignite onboard. Alaska Airlines is now rebooking passengers onto other flights to Seattle.

The incident highlights the ongoing risk associated with widespread use of lithium-ion batteries. Despite strict transport rules — for example, prohibiting high-capacity power banks in checked baggage — device failures can occur spontaneously due to manufacturing defects, damage, or overheating. This is not the first time a similar situation has affected flight safety, forcing crews to act quickly and follow protocols. The key takeaway is that passengers should monitor the condition of their electronics, avoid using damaged devices and charging accessories, especially during flight when the consequences of an incident can be far more serious.

Western Washington weather forecast: mountain snow and gusty winds in lowlands

This week Western Washington residents can expect changeable, cool weather bringing a mix of conditions. While the lowlands will see rain and gusty winds, the Cascades are expected to receive significant snowfall — good news for winter sports enthusiasts.

According to the forecast on KOMO News, the region will be under a cold and unstable weather system. On Sunday morning, brief snow showers are possible west of the mountains due to lingering cold air, especially in the morning hours. Throughout the day many areas will experience windy, and in places very windy, conditions. By Sunday evening clouds will thicken and scattered rain will begin. The main phase of the storm is expected over the weekend: rain and wind in the lowlands and steady snow in the mountains. Meteorologists note the instability will persist one more day before conditions begin to improve on Tuesday, leading to calmer weather for the remainder of the week.

The forecast places special emphasis on mountainous areas. From Mount Baker to the Crystal Mountain ski area an additional foot (about 30 cm) of snow is expected. Snow levels will vary around the Snoqualmie and Stevens passes, creating a risk of slick roads for those planning to cross the passes, especially in early morning hours and at Stevens and White passes. Snow accumulation will create excellent conditions for skiers and snowboarders, and good riding is expected to continue into next week. Early in the week the lowlands will see rain while the Cascades receive more snow. By midweek mountain snowpack could become quite substantial. For scale: a predicted "foot of snow" is a significant addition that can greatly improve slope coverage. Also note that a "unstable weather system" generally means frequent changes — sun, clouds, precipitation, and wind can alternate over short periods.

Key takeaways: the main snowfall and improved winter recreation conditions are expected in the mountains, while lowland residents, including Seattle, should prepare for wet and windy weather with possible brief rain-to-snow transitions. Mountain snow not only delights recreationists but also replenishes regional water supplies, which is important long-term. Travelers crossing passes should exercise caution due to potential hazardous road conditions and variable snow levels. Overall, after a short period of instability, forecasters expect a return to calmer, clearer conditions by midweek.

Seattle weather: rainy, windy days ahead

Seattle and western Washington face a stretch of the region's typical seasonal wet and windy weather, bringing not only rain but gusty winds and significant mountain snowfall. Meteorologists are warning residents to exercise caution, especially in the western foothills of the Cascades and along the coast.

Meteorologist Abby Acone and the FOX 13 Weather team report on FOX 13 Seattle that today was gray and rainy with gusty winds. Temperatures held around 7–9°C (45–48°F). Wind is a particular concern: a high wind warning is in effect through 10 a.m. Sunday for the Cascade foothills, valleys, and so-called "gap" communities such as Monroe, Gold Bar, Enumclaw, North Bend, and Eatonville. These areas can expect east and southeast gusts of 65–80 km/h (40–50 mph). Such winds can break branches, damage whole trees, and cause localized power outages. A similar warning is in effect for the central and northern coast. For clarity, "gap communities" are towns located in mountain passes or valleys where winds accelerate as they funnel through narrowed terrain, making them especially vulnerable during storms.

In the mountains the situation differs. A winter weather advisory is in effect through 10 p.m. tonight for the eastern slopes of Snoqualmie Pass, where 10–20 cm (4–8 inches) of snow is expected in the Cle Elum and Easton areas. Sunday morning will start cool and cloudy with periodic rain. Daytime highs will rise to 8–10°C (46–50°F), with possible breaks in cloud cover but also periods of heavier rain. Mountain snow will continue.

Monday is expected to be the wettest day: prolonged, heavy rain in the lowlands and heavy mountain snow. Then, from Tuesday through Friday, precipitation activity should wane. Tuesday will see fewer showers, Wednesday and Thursday may bring only isolated brief showers, and Friday could be drier. Temperatures will remain steady, with highs near 8–10°C. After Monday the mountains will still see some snow, though the long-range forecast may be adjusted.

Key points: the immediate threat is strong winds in specific geographic zones that require residents to be especially careful outdoors. The start of the week will bring deteriorating conditions with heavy rain, while the end of the week will likely see some improvement. Ski resorts and travelers crossing passes should prepare for challenging winter conditions and substantial snow accumulations. As always this time of year, Western Washington residents should monitor forecast updates and local weather warnings.

❮ ❯

Seattle and Portland sports wins

Overview of sporting events: Seattle Sounders win their MLS opener, and Portland Winterhawks snap a losing streak in hockey.

Portland Winterhawks end skid in dramatic game against Seattle

In an exciting, tense game that wrapped up a grueling three-games-in-three-nights stretch, the Portland Winterhawks managed to turn around a run of poor results. The matchup with rivals the Seattle Thunderbirds finished 4-3 in favor of the hosts, allowing the Hawks to halt a four-game losing streak. As noted in the piece on OregonLive.com (https://www.oregonlive.com/hawks/2026/02/winterhawks-bounce-back-against-seattle-end-losing-streak.html), the result was a breath of fresh air for a team that had shown inconsistent play recently.

Despite fatigue from the packed schedule, Portland’s key players stepped up. Alex Viermair and Ryan Miller each tallied three points, with Viermair’s shorthanded goal ultimately proving the game-winner. For Seattle, the game was mixed: their top stars, like Cameron Schmidt and Matej Pekar, were largely shut down, although other skaters — such as Brock England — produced strong efforts that kept the contest from becoming a rout. Goaltending issues also factored for the Thunderbirds: Marek Sklenicka’s injury in the previous game and Grayson Malinoski’s fatigue led to a less-used goalie starting, which may have tilted things in Portland’s favor.

The game featured key moments and plenty of emotion. Early in the first period, Brayden Holberton was sent off for fighting Kyle McDonough, who was injured and did not return to the ice, giving Portland an extended power play they converted. In the second period, after the Winterhawks jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead, they endured a dangerous stretch but not only held firm — they pushed the lead to 4-1. The third period was more restrained, though Noah Kosik’s goal three minutes from the end revived the suspense. The decisive moment came when Seattle’s Koster Dunn was penalized in the final minutes: Portland expertly ran out the clock during a delayed penalty, preventing the opponent from getting a sixth attacker on the ice and staging a last-ditch assault.

Tactically, Portland’s win was built on effective power-play execution (2-for-5) and solid penalty killing, which included the crucial shorthanded goal. At even strength the teams scored only one goal each, underscoring the importance of special teams. Statistically, this was the Winterhawks’ first game in eight in which they outshot their opponent (31-29), a promising sign. The victory moved Portland (26-25-5-1) up to seventh in the conference and put them five points clear of Seattle (23-25-4-3), a critical margin in the playoff chase.

The game carries several implications. For Seattle, which had just come off a five-game winning streak, two straight losses are a setback that pushes them to the periphery of the playoff picture. For Portland, it’s an important psychological triumph, though it doesn’t answer all questions. As analysts note, the team remains something of an enigma: with the same level of play across the weekend they could have taken all six possible points instead of three. A forthcoming road trip to Victoria will show whether the Winterhawks have found consistency or if this win was a temporary reprieve.

Weathered opener: Seattle Sounders start with win over Colorado Rapids

On a rainy Sunday evening the Seattle Sounders opened the new MLS season with a confident 2-0 win over the Colorado Rapids. The match was marred early by an injury to one of the hosts’ leaders, but that situation opened the door for the game’s hero.

The match had barely begun when, in the 8th minute, Sounders forward Jordan Morris suffered a non-contact injury and had to leave the field. Paul Rothrock replaced him, and that substitute dramatically changed the course of the game. Seven minutes after coming on he showed relentless determination, keeping the ball in play near the sideline and setting up Albert Rusnák for a goal. Rusnák finished the cross with a header to put the Sounders ahead. Later, in the 62nd minute, Rothrock struck again, scoring a second insurance goal following a combination with Jesús Ferreira and Osaze De Rosario. That brace — a goal and an assist — was the perfect response to the forced substitution. As the club noted on its Twitter (https://sports.mynorthwest.com/mls/seattle-sounders-fc/sounders-open-season-with-2-0-win-over-rapids/1840066), praising the player: “It’s him again, Paul Rothrock!”

The match included other notable moments. Sounders newcomer Hassani Dotson, who joined from Minnesota United, put the ball in the net shortly after the first goal, but the strike was overturned after a VAR review for an infraction. Video review also affected another incident: in the 30th minute Rapids defender Noah Cobb was initially shown a red card, but after review the punishment was downgraded to a yellow. The first half ended 1-0, but not without additional impact — Dotson suffered a head knock in stoppage time and was replaced by 18-year-old Snyder Brunell, marking his seventh career first-team appearance.

New Colorado head coach Matt Wells, who replaced Chris Armas, said before the match he wanted his team to be more aggressive. That approach showed on the field: the Rapids received four yellow cards in the first half. However, the aggression didn’t produce enough chances to trouble Andrew Thomas. The young Sounders goalkeeper, who has become the starter this season in place of veteran Stefan Frei, made all four saves he faced and recorded his fourth clean sheet in MLS. On the other side, Colorado’s Zack Steffen bailed his team out three times.

This win was an important psychological start for the Seattle Sounders, especially given the upcoming long break from home games. The club will not play at Lumen Field again until April 12 due to stadium upgrades ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In the next round the Sounders travel to Real Salt Lake, while the Rapids host the Portland Timbers. This MLS season opens under the shadow of the looming World Cup, which will dramatically alter the league calendar in 2027, making every current victory particularly valuable in the push for playoff spots.

How not to miss the Seattle Sounders home opener vs. Colorado Rapids on Sunday

For all Seattle Sounders fans the long-awaited moment has arrived: Sunday evening the team will play its first home match of the new season at Lumen Field. The opponent is the Colorado Rapids, with kickoff scheduled for 6:15 p.m. PT. This match opens the club’s home slate and sets the tone for future performances in front of the home crowd, so interest is especially high. The club and its partners have ensured fans have many ways to follow the game, no matter where they are.

The headline news this season is the exclusive broadcast on Apple TV, as detailed on the club’s official site (https://www.soundersfc.com/news/tune-in-how-to-watch-sounders-fc-s-home-opener-vs-the-colorado-rapids-on-sunday). That means the match can be watched live worldwide without regional restrictions or blackout rules — the practice of blocking broadcasts in certain areas to protect local TV rights. This decision greatly expands accessibility for the international audience. English commentary will be provided by Steve Cangelosi and Danny Higginbotham, and Spanish-language coverage will be handled by Bruno Vain and Andrés Aguilar. Apple TV viewers should tune in early to catch the pre- and post-match shows that add depth to the event.

In addition to streaming, the match will be available on traditional television — on FS1 — convenient for those who prefer the classic viewing format. Radio broadcasts are available in English on 93.3 KJR FM and in Spanish on El Rey 1360AM. These feeds include not only live play-by-play but also pregame, halftime and postgame analysis. SiriusXM FC 157 will also carry coverage, useful for listeners on the move. For fans wanting to soak up the atmosphere with fellow supporters, the club recommends finding a nearby bar showing the game — a great way to share the emotions. Overall, the variety of viewing options highlights the Sounders’ aim to be close to their diverse fanbase, ensuring maximum reach at an important moment in the season.

❮ ❯

Unrest in Mexico, Mariners win and Smith-Njigba's ambitions

News roundup: Alaska Airlines cancels flights to Mexico amid unrest, the Seattle Mariners win a spring training game thanks to a young player, and Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba says he wants to become the highest-paid player at his position in the NFL.

Flight cancellations to Mexico amid civil unrest: Alaska Airlines responds

Amid growing reports of violence in various Mexican cities, Alaska Airlines decided to cancel a number of flights to the country. The situation, linked to civil unrest and criminal group activity, forced the carrier to suspend service to destinations popular with American tourists such as Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara and Manzanillo. The decision followed a federal operation by Mexican authorities in which cartel leader Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera was killed, an event that apparently triggered a surge in tensions.

Seattle-based Alaska Airlines announced on Sunday that it had canceled 24 flights to Mexico, citing civil unrest near airports. In its statement, published on FOX 13 Seattle’s website, the company said it is working to rebook passengers onto other flights and is closely monitoring the situation. At the same time, the U.S. government issued a security alert for American citizens in several Mexican states, including Jalisco, Tamaulipas, Michoacán, Guerrero and Nuevo León, urging them to shelter in place. That advisory underscores the severity of the situation, which may be linked to cartel retaliation after the leader’s death or other forms of organized violence.

Cartels in Mexico are powerful and often brutal criminal syndicates involved in drug trafficking and other illegal activities. Their influence extends across many regions, and clashes with authorities or between groups can lead to outbreaks of violence, road closures and disruption of infrastructure, including airports. Those risks likely prompted Alaska Airlines to cancel flights to ensure passenger and crew safety. While the article does not specify how many cancellations at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport were related to Mexico, the overall figures for Feb. 22 — 182 delays and 44 cancellations — suggest possible broader impacts on air service.

Key facts from the article include Alaska Airlines’ cancellation of 24 flights, the U.S. shelter-in-place advisory for five Mexican states, and the killing of a cartel leader, which appears to have triggered the unrest. The airline’s statement conveys the official position clearly: measures were taken because of the unrest and assistance is being provided to passengers. The implications are multifaceted: for travelers, disrupted plans and potential safety risks; for airlines, financial losses and logistical challenges; and for Mexican authorities, difficulties in combating organized crime and maintaining stability in key tourist areas. In the long term, such incidents could affect Mexico’s reputation as a travel destination and require enhanced cross-border coordination on security.

Young Mariner delivers key blow in win over Reds during spring training

Spring training is when coaches evaluate roster depth and young players get a chance to shine. Johnny Faramello, one of the Seattle Mariners’ promising prospects, took advantage of that opportunity — his RBI double in the ninth inning was the turning point in a 14–8 victory over the Cincinnati Reds. The game at Goodyear Ballpark was a vivid example of why spring games, despite their unofficial status, can be exciting and revealing.

The game started well for the Mariners: in the first inning Randy Arozarena hit an RBI single to give the team the early lead. But in the second inning Seattle’s starting pitcher Randy Dobnak allowed five runs, giving the Reds the advantage. What followed was a real offensive battle, with teams trading blows and the score tied 8–8 by the start of the ninth. That’s when the Mariners staged the decisive rally, scoring six runs. The key moment was Faramello’s hit — after two strikeouts in previous at-bats he drove a double to left field for an RBI. That hit set the stage for the rout, which was capped by Brennan Davis’ three-run homer, a 388-foot blast with an exit velocity of 114 miles per hour. Mariners manager Dan Wilson, speaking to The Seattle Times, highlighted the club’s minor-league depth: “People talk about our depth in the minors, and here you see it firsthand. Just great at-bats, and for Faramello that was a nice moment — to be able to really drive the ball in that situation.”

Beyond the big offensive outburst, the game featured several aspects typical of modern spring training. First, it was a pitching-rotation showcase: the teams used 20 pitchers (9 for Seattle and 11 for Cincinnati), resulting in 29 hits and 22 runs. The Reds’ pitchers issued 10 walks, while the Mariners issued none. Wilson jokingly called it “the cactus league at its finest,” referring to the chaotic but entertaining nature of the game. Second, the matchup made active use of the ABS (Automatic Ball-Strike System), which allows umpires’ ball and strike calls to be challenged. Players and managers used the system nine times, and in six instances the system overturned home plate umpire Mike Machlinski’s call. Wilson noted it was Machlinski’s first experience with the system this season, and everyone is still getting used to the new rules, especially when determining the top of the strike zone. ABS is an experimental technology intended to improve umpiring accuracy, and testing it in spring games helps players and officials adapt to potential future changes.

Among the many pitchers who appeared, left-hander Jonathan Diaz stood out and was named the game’s “player of the game.” In a chaotic contest with frequent pitcher changes and baserunners, Diaz threw two flawless innings, allowing no Reds batter to reach base, and displayed a powerful fastball. His performance underscores the importance of pitching stability even in unofficial contests. For those following the numbers, note that Davis’ 114 mph exit velocity on his home run is an outstanding figure showing his power, and the Reds’ 10 walks point to control issues for their pitchers at this stage of spring training.

While this win doesn’t affect the regular season standings, it provides the Mariners with valuable insights. First, it confirms the depth of their young talent: players like Faramello and Davis have shown they can perform under pressure. Second, testing ABS helps the team prepare for its possible adoption. Third, management gets an opportunity to evaluate pitchers in game conditions, which is especially important for arms like Diaz. Seattle’s next bigger test will be against the reigning World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, with Logan Gilbert expected to start. The dramatic win over the Reds adds confidence and shows that even in spring training fans can see compelling baseball and future stars.

Dream contract: Jaxon Smith-Njigba wants to be the NFL’s highest-paid receiver

In the world of professional American football, where star contracts are measured in tens of millions, a new high-stakes financial debate is brewing. Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, fresh off an outstanding third NFL season, said he believes he deserves to be the highest-paid player at his position. The comment came in an interview with WFAA in Dallas and arrived amid expected contract extension talks, as his current deal expires after the upcoming season.

Despite his youth, Smith-Njigba has already made a major impact. Last season he didn’t just become a key part of the Seahawks’ offense — he dominated the league, setting club records for receiving yards (1,793) and receptions (119), and scoring 10 touchdowns. His playoff contributions — an additional 199 yards and two touchdowns — helped the team secure the franchise’s second Super Bowl title. Those achievements earned him the Associated Press Offensive Player of the Year award and a spot on the NFL All-Pro team. With such weighty credentials, Smith-Njigba calmly but confidently states his financial goals. “I know my time will come, and when we get everything done, it’ll be a great deal. I believe I deserve to be the highest-paid at my position,” he said. He also emphasized his deep love for the game, adding that he would play for free, but that in modern sports it’s important to be a good businessman.

To understand the scale of his ambitions, look at the current market. According to Over The Cap, the highest average annual salary among receivers belongs to Ja'Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals — $40.25 million per year on a four-year, $161 million contract. He is followed by Justin Jefferson ($35M), CeeDee Lamb ($34M), DK Metcalf ($33M) and Garrett Wilson ($32.5M). Against that backdrop, Smith-Njigba’s base salary in the final year of his rookie contract — $2.7 million — looks modest. The gap is enormous, and the player clearly intends to close it. Fortunately for the Seahawks, the team has the financial flexibility to make such a move: per Over The Cap, the club has roughly $61.9 million in salary cap space, the sixth-most in the league. That creates a favorable environment for negotiations this offseason.

The team also has a backup option if an agreement isn’t reached soon: the fifth-year rookie contract option, which must be exercised by May 1. Activating it would keep Smith-Njigba in Seattle through the 2027 season, buying time for further talks. The Seahawks used a similar tactic last year with left tackle Charles Cross: they picked up the option and later signed a long-term extension. So both sides have motivation and tools to reach a deal. Smith-Njigba’s comments, detailed in a piece on Seattle Sports, are not only a declaration of his value but also an opening public move in the complex financial game that will determine the future of one of the team’s top stars and set a new benchmark on the NFL receiver market.

❮ ❯

Seattle: traffic jams, a crash and the millionaire tax

In Seattle, major road repairs are paralyzing streets, a driver fled after a crash that sparked a fire, and the sale of the Seahawks and a millionaire tax made headlines this week.

Tough weekend for Seattle drivers: major repairs clog key corridors

Residents and visitors in Seattle should seriously consider their routes this weekend, as large-scale road work will create major disruptions on several of the city’s key arteries. The situation is complicated by the fact that these are not short, planned closures but urgent repairs and major projects that will close lanes and entire stretches of roadway.

According to KOMO News, the main problem centers on the First Avenue South Bridge on State Route 99. The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) was forced to close the two northbound lanes for urgent repairs to the bridge’s steel deck. This isn’t work that can be completed quickly overnight or over a weekend. As WSDOT spokesperson RB McKeon explained, the damage is significant, and there won’t be a precise plan for fixing it until at least March 6. On Thursday the situation already produced a 3.5-mile (5.6-kilometer) backup, and drivers heading downtown should prepare for major delays. One local resident, Shirley Gomez, told the TV station she fears everyone will divert to I-5, so it may be better to look for alternate routes.

Meanwhile, in Bothell this weekend westbound traffic on State Route 522 at the Interstate 405 interchange will be fully closed. The shutdown starts Friday evening and runs until Saturday morning. The work involves removing the first section of an overpass that crosses over the westbound lanes of SR 522. The demolition begins at 8:00 p.m. Friday, which will add pressure to alternate routes.

A third trouble spot is the Revive I-5 project on the Ship Canal Bridge. Work there has left two northbound lanes on I-5 closed, which is causing congestion. Combined with the problems on SR 99, northbound travel through Seattle from the south will be slow and stressful over the next days. Officials and traffic experts urge drivers to plan trips in advance, consider public transit, or postpone nonessential travel to avoid being stuck in multi-mile backups.

Crash and fire in Seattle: car plows into townhouse, driver flees

Early Sunday morning in South Seattle, a disturbing incident occurred when a vehicle left the road, crashed into a residential townhouse and sparked a fire. Fortunately there were no injuries: the home’s occupants were unharmed. The people who had been in the car left the scene, making the incident a hit-and-run.

According to an article on KING5, Seattle police responded to a call around 5:45 a.m. in the 1700 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Way South. The preliminary account indicates a southbound driver lost control while attempting to turn right onto South Massachusetts Street. The car drove across a front yard and struck the corner of the building. The impact was strong enough to ignite a fire. After the collision, occupants of the damaged vehicle got into another car and fled before emergency crews arrived. That aspect is particularly troubling, because leaving the scene of a crash—especially one that caused extensive damage and a fire and could have endangered others—is a serious offense. It’s important to note that despite the destruction and blaze, no one in the townhouse was injured, which in this case can be considered a real miracle.

The incident highlights several key issues. First, there is the matter of safety on roads in residential neighborhoods. Second, hit-and-run incidents remain a common problem, complicating investigations and leaving victims without immediate accountability. Authorities are now searching for the driver and passengers as well as the second vehicle they used to flee. The building likely suffered significant damage — structural assessments will be needed to determine the effects of both the impact and the fire. For residents this was undoubtedly a traumatic event that disrupted their safety and peace. Local authorities will likely investigate thoroughly, including possible factors behind the loss of control — whether speed, the driver’s condition, or a mechanical failure.

Who will buy the Seattle Seahawks: the millionaire tax and the culture of lines

On the latest episode of the Seattle News Weekly podcast, hosts Bill Wixey and Matthew Smith discuss the week’s top Seattle stories, with the prospective sale of the Seattle Seahawks taking center stage. After a Super Bowl win, the team — owned by the estate of the late Paul Allen — is officially up for sale. The deal is estimated at an astronomical $7–11 billion, implying an incredible return on the original purchase: as Bill Wixey noted on the FOX 13 Seattle podcast, Allen bought the team for $200 million, and the potential profit could be roughly 6,000%. Potential bidders mentioned include billionaires such as Jeff Bezos, Steve Ballmer and Larry Ellison. The hosts note nuances: Ballmer, owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, is under NBA investigation, which could concern NFL owners, while Bezos has reportedly been eyeing the Seahawks for years and even passed on other teams.

The episode also addresses the recently-passed “millionaires tax” in the Washington state Senate. The proposed law would impose a 9.9% tax on personal income over $1 million. Governor Jay Inslee supports the idea but disputes how funds should be allocated, pushing for more assistance to small businesses and families. The hosts consider how such a tax might affect Seattle’s attractiveness to athletes. For instance, if the average NBA salary is $11 million a year, the additional tax could be a significant financial burden and might discourage free agents from joining the Seahawks or a potential new basketball team if the SuperSonics were to return. Wixey predicts that if the bill passes the House, it will trigger lawsuits and a referendum.

The tone lightens afterward as they talk about the opening of Washington’s first Raising Cane’s restaurant in the University District. Fans lined up for more than ten hours for a chance to win “free Cane’s for a year.” Matthew Smith nostalgically notes that in the digital era the culture of in-person lines—once common on Black Friday or for concert tickets—is fading, and this event reminded listeners of shared excitement and community. The hosts close with playful discussion about other fast-food chains they’d like to see in the state, such as In-N-Out Burger or Whataburger, adding a casual, everyday connection to residents’ interests.

❮ ❯

Sport and Solidarity in Seattle

News from Seattle: a march in support of Ukraine on the war’s anniversary, the Seattle Sounders’ home season opener, and the start of the sale of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks.

Solidarity in Seattle: March Supporting Ukraine on the Anniversary of the War

On Sunday, a march and rally will take place in downtown Seattle to mark a solemn date — the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The event will serve as another reminder of the ongoing conflict and an expression of support for the Ukrainian people from the American public.

The event will begin at 11:30 a.m. at the famous Pike Place Market, after which participants will march to the Mural Amphitheater at Seattle Center. The main rally will be held there from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Marcia Jacobs, communications director for the organization Ukraine Defense Support, said about 1,000 people are expected to participate. Washington Congressman Adam Smith also plans to support the event. However, Jacobs noted that some potential participants may be reluctant to join out of fear of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) patrols, reflecting a complex social reality for parts of the immigrant community.

Organizers emphasize the special importance of this year’s action. “This year’s march and rally are particularly important because Ukrainians are facing the harshest winter since the full-scale invasion by Russia in February 2022,” Jacobs said. She noted that near-constant Russian strikes on Ukraine’s power infrastructure have left millions without electricity, gas, and water amid freezing temperatures well below zero. This situation gives solidarity actions not just symbolic but humanitarian significance, reminding people of Ukrainians’ urgent needs.

The event comes against a backdrop of formal support from state authorities. On February 19, the Washington State Senate passed a resolution in support of Ukraine. Anton Yefremov, president of Ukraine Defense Support, in remarks published on the KIRO 7 website, clearly stated the organization’s position: “We stand with Ukraine! We do not turn our backs on the Ukrainian people or on those who share our democratic values of freedom, justice and sovereignty. We will not stop until all Ukrainian prisoners of war return home to their families and until all kidnapped Ukrainian children are returned. We will not stop providing urgently needed support to the front until Ukraine is free and liberated. Ukraine’s fight is our fight!” These words reflect deep personal and political engagement from the diaspora and activists for whom the war has become a personal challenge.

Holding such a rally in a major American city like Seattle shows that, even though the war has entered its fourth year, attention and solidarity remain high in certain circles. It is not just a commemorative event but an action aimed at mobilizing support, drawing attention to the humanitarian crisis, and reminding politicians of the need to continue aid. Fears among parts of the community regarding ICE, mentioned by organizers, add another dimension to the agenda, showing how domestic U.S. issues (in this case immigration policy) can affect forms of civic engagement. Ultimately, the march in Seattle is a microcosm of a broader movement seeking to keep Ukraine in the international spotlight and to pressure for goals activists consider just: the return of prisoners, children, and the complete liberation of the country.

How to Watch the Seattle Sounders’ Home Opener in the 2026 Season

The Seattle Sounders are preparing for an important event — the home opener of the MLS 2026 season, which will be a special moment for the team and its fans after the emotional highs and lows of last year. On Sunday at the Emerald Queen Casino Pitch at Lumen Field, the Sounders will host the Colorado Rapids, and this match will mark not only the start of the campaign but also the beginning of a period of change for their home venue.

Despite a bright success last season — winning the Leagues Cup, which added another trophy to the club’s cabinet — the Sounders suffered playoff disappointment in the 2025 MLS Cup, losing to Minnesota United. Players say that defeat has become motivation for a fresh start, and the team is eager to begin the season with a win in front of the home crowd. However, fans will have limited time to enjoy home games at Lumen Field early in the season: the stadium will close for renovation in mid-April to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, when it will host tournament matches. That gives the opener extra significance — it will be one of the last matches on the familiar pitch before major changes.

For those who want to support the team, the match kicks off Sunday at 6:15 p.m. local time. Broadcasts will be available across platforms: on FS1, via the Apple TV streaming service, and on radio at SiriusXM FC 157, 93.3 KJR FM and El Rey 1360AM. For fans following online, updates will be posted in the Match Center. Detailed information on how to buy tickets or connect to broadcasts is available on the club’s official match-watching page, as reported by FOX 13 Seattle.

Historically, the Sounders have been very effective at home, winning about 70% of matches at Lumen Field, making them one of the league leaders in that metric. That factor could play a key role in the match against the Colorado Rapids, setting the tone for the season. For fans, the match is not just a sporting event but a chance to say goodbye to the stadium’s current form before its transformation for the global football festival. Thus, the 2026 home opener symbolizes both a new beginning for a team seeking revenge after last year’s disappointment and a transitional phase for Seattle’s football infrastructure.

Sale of the Seattle Seahawks: Astronomical Price, Private Equity, and the Future of the Champions

The announcement of the formal start of the sale process for the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks has become a major event in sports business. The Paul Allen estate, which has owned the team since his death in 2018, announced the start of a deal that experts say could set a new valuation record for league franchises. To unpack the nuances of the upcoming sale, it’s worth turning to analysis by former Green Bay Packers vice president and ex-ESPN analyst Andrew Brandt, who spoke in detail on the Wyman and Bob show on Seattle Sports.

The price the Allen estate could fetch for the team promises to be “staggering.” It is expected to surpass the current record of $6.05 billion set by the sale of the Washington Commanders in 2023. As of last August, Forbes valued the Seahawks at $6.7 billion, ranking them 14th among NFL teams. However, after the Super Bowl win earlier this month, the franchise’s value has undoubtedly increased. Brandt suggests figures could top $7 billion. Interestingly, the Seahawks are the first team in history to be put up for sale immediately after winning the NFL championship. The situation resembles the sale of the Boston Celtics in 2024, which occurred just two weeks after their NBA Finals victory. As the expert notes, this is a classic “sell at the peak” strategy, analogous to a player entering free agency after a stellar season. But what matters more for long-term value is not a momentary success but a steady trajectory of club development. The Seahawks’ roster is loaded with young talent, and the tandem of general manager John Schneider and young rising coach Mike Macdonald is considered one of the best in the league, suggesting a bright future for the team.

A key aspect of the coming deal could be private equity participation. In 2024, NFL owners voted to allow investment funds to buy minority stakes in clubs. The total share of such capital in any team is capped at 10%, and participation must be passive — without voting rights or decision-making authority. Brandt expects such capital to be involved in the bidding: one or more billionaires may serve as primary buyers while private investment funds provide financial backing for their bids as “silent” partners. Regarding the sale process itself, NFL rules require the controlling owner to hold at least 30% of the shares and limit the total number of co-owners to 25. The deal must also be approved by at least 24 of the 32 club owners. Brandt believes the influence of other owners on the buyer selection is sometimes overstated. In his view, the league, like any business, seeks a partner with colossal and stable resources. For the transaction, the Allen estate has enlisted investment bank Allen & Company and law firm Latham & Watkins. The former, Brandt notes, is a “regular player” in similar NFL deals. The league’s finance committee will vet all contenders, narrowing the field to several finalists before bringing the decision to an owners’ vote.

Jeff Bezos, Amazon’s founder, is often mentioned among potential buyers. However, Brandt doubts his interest. The expert argues: why would Bezos want a single team when Amazon Prime already has exclusive rights to Thursday Night Football broadcasts, effectively giving him access to all 32 teams at a much lower cost than buying a franchise. You can hear more of Andrew Brandt’s view in the full interview on Seattle Sports. Thus, the sale of the Seattle Seahawks is more than a transfer of ownership. It is a deal that reflects the NFL’s current financial might, new trends in attracting capital, and a strategic decision to sell an asset at the peak of success, supported by solid sporting prospects.

❮ ❯

Seattle launches "Tap to Pay" for transit with cards and smartphones

Starting Monday, public transit riders in the Seattle area will be able to pay fares by simply tapping a smartphone, smartwatch or contactless bank card on ORCA validators. The new "Tap to Pay" system will be available on Sound Transit, King County Metro, Community Transit and other operators—timely ahead of the influx of visitors expected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The ORCA (One Regional Card for All) system, launched in 2009 as a unified smart card, has historically played a key role in integrating more than 10 regional transit operators, including buses and light rail. It simplifies travel by allowing passengers to transfer easily between different modes of transportation run by different agencies without buying separate tickets.

Accepted payment methods include Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express cards, as well as mobile wallets Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay. The adult single-ride fare will be $3, and the two-hour transfer window between modes will remain in place. Each card or device may be used for only one passenger.

It’s important to note the new system has limitations: it will not work on Washington State Ferries, the Seattle Monorail, or on special DART routes, paratransit and on-demand services. Ferries and the monorail are excluded due to technical and administrative challenges. The ferries are run by a separate state agency with legacy reservation systems that would require upgrades to integrate, and the monorail, as a small tourist attraction, lacks resources to update its equipment. Negotiations about future integration of these important network elements are ongoing. Riders eligible for reduced fares through ORCA Lift or senior programs must still use their physical ORCA cards.

When fares are inspected, passengers who paid using "Tap to Pay" will need to provide the last four digits of their card number to confirm payment. Notably, Android users have been able to use digital ORCA cards in Google Pay since June 2024, while iPhone owners do not yet have this functionality—work is underway to implement it.

❮ ❯

Based on: Credit card ‘Tap to Pay’ starts Monday on Seattle-area ORCA transit

Shooting in Seattle and an NFL Star's Contract

In Seattle, a shooting on Capitol Hill took a life and a suspect has been detained. In sports, Seattle Seahawks star Jaxon Smith‑Njigba said he wants to become the highest‑paid receiver in the NFL.

Capitol Hill shooting: one dead, suspect detained

On Friday evening in the busy Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle, a fatal confrontation left one man dead and another under arrest. The incident, which unfolded around 10:20 p.m. at the intersection of E. Pine Street and Belmont Avenue, began with a fight between two men, according to police.

Detective Brian Pritchard said one participant was armed with a firearm and the other with a utility knife (box cutter). During the scuffle, the man with the firearm shot his opponent several times, striking him in the chest and neck. Despite the rapid arrival of Seattle Fire Department personnel and attempts to save him, the victim died at the scene. The victim’s identity has not yet been released. The suspect, a 42‑year‑old man, did not flee and was taken into custody and booked into the King County Jail. Police are asking witnesses to contact the Seattle Police Department to provide statements.

This incident, reported by KING5.com, raises questions again about safety in public urban spaces and the escalation of everyday disputes into deadly violence. Notably, the suspect remained at the scene, which could point to different motives — from self‑defense to shock over what happened. Police have not commented on motive or the nature of the relationship between the men. Capitol Hill is a lively neighborhood with many bars, restaurants and residences, and incidents of violence there alarm local residents. The fact that two different types of weapons were involved highlights how quickly an ordinary argument can turn tragic. Authorities continue to investigate, and further details will likely clarify what led to the fatal outcome and what measures might prevent similar incidents in the future.

Capitol Hill shooting: one dead, shooter in custody

On Friday evening on Capitol Hill in Seattle, a tragic event left one person dead and the suspected shooter in police custody. The incident at the intersection of Pine Street and Belmont Avenue has refocused attention on public safety in the busy neighborhood.

Seattle police say the call came in around 10:20 p.m. Law enforcement and emergency medical services responded immediately. According to initial reports, the shooting may have been preceded by another incident — minutes earlier disturbances were reported at the same location involving threats to use a weapon. One participant allegedly threatened the other with a pocket knife. Shots were fired soon after. Police confirmed that eyewitnesses reported an altercation between the two men that escalated into gunfire. The victim, a man, sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Although officers on scene performed CPR before medics arrived, they were unable to save him — he died at the scene.

During the response, officers detained at least two people and recovered a firearm — a pistol. Later, in its report available on CHS Capitol Hill Seattle News, police said the 42‑year‑old suspect in the homicide was booked into the King County Jail. Interestingly, the recovered pistol was reportedly registered to him. That fact may be significant to the ongoing investigation. Pine Street between Belmont and Summit was closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic while investigators worked the scene.

The incident highlights several troubling issues. First, how quickly a domestic or street dispute can escalate to deadly violence. Second, the accessibility of firearms — even registered ones — during heated interpersonal conflicts. Although the relationship between the shooter and the victim has not been disclosed, the fact that an altercation resulted in gunfire is cause for serious concern. For Capitol Hill residents, known for its active nightlife and dense housing, such events are a painful reminder of how fragile public calm can be. Local authorities and police will likely face increased pressure to boost patrols and violence‑prevention measures. The investigation continues, and the community mourns another loss on its streets.

The contract of the century: what to expect from Jaxon Smith‑Njigba’s negotiations with Seattle

In the world of professional American football, where star contracts are measured in tens of millions of dollars, any public statement by a player about financial ambitions is an important signal to the club. That’s precisely the signal recently sent by Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith‑Njigba, who said he deserves to be the highest‑paid player at his position in the NFL. The remark, made in an interview with WFAA in Dallas, sets a high bar ahead of expected contract extension talks and poses difficult — but welcome — questions for the Seahawks’ front office about how to retain the young core that led the team to recent Super Bowl success.

Jaxon Smith‑Njigba, a first‑round pick in the 2023 draft, is approaching the end of his third season under the standard rookie four‑year contract. That means he is now eligible to negotiate a long‑term extension. In the interview he expressed confidence in his value, citing his on‑field contributions and community impact, and while he stressed he is not rushing things (“God’s timing is perfect”), his goal is clear: to surpass the current record of $40.25 million per year set by Cincinnati Bengals receiver Ja’Marr Chase. For context: before Chase, the highest paid was Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings at $35 million per year. Smith‑Njigba has strong grounds for those ambitions. Last season he was named Offensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press, earned All‑Pro honors, set the franchise record for receiving yards (1,793 — the eighth‑best single‑season total in NFL history) and caught 119 passes. As he wryly noted: “I’d play this game for free... but we need that check at the end of the day,” showing a mix of passion for the game and a pragmatic business sense.

Complicating matters is that another key Seahawks player, cornerback Devon Witherspoon — also a first‑round pick in 2023 — will be seeking a top‑market contract for cornerbacks, roughly $30 million per year. That creates a challenge for general manager John Schneider to keep two young leaders under a constrained salary cap. The club has an important tool: the fifth‑year option for first‑round draft picks, which can be exercised by May 1 and would keep the players under contract through the 2027 season. The fifth‑year option for Smith‑Njigba is roughly $18 million, and for Witherspoon about $21.4 million. However, the option is usually only a stopgap; both sides typically prefer a long‑term deal. A template for the Seahawks is the recent handling of left tackle Charles Cross: the club exercised his fifth‑year option and then negotiated a four‑year extension worth up to $104 million.

The Seahawks’ financial planning over the coming months will resemble a complex puzzle. Although the club has substantial salary‑cap space (about $58.6 million, sixth in the league), some of that must be allocated to pressing needs. Primary among them are players whose contracts expire and who could become unrestricted free agents on March 11, such as running back Kenneth Walker III, receiver Rashid Shaheed and safety Coby Bryant. It is reported that the club is unlikely to use the franchise tag on Walker, since that would fully load his salary onto the 2026 cap — undesirable given the potential mega‑deals for Smith‑Njigba and Witherspoon. Traditionally, the Seahawks prefer to sign key players to long‑term deals in the summer, shortly before or at the start of training camp, as they did in the Russell Wilson‑Bobby Wagner era.

Hovering over these calculations is another factor — the announced sale of the franchise. That process is not expected to affect routine football operations, including signing major contracts with multiyear signing bonuses. The Seahawks’ success, built in large part on favorable rookie contracts for the 2022 and 2023 draftees (some picks were acquired in the Russell Wilson trade), brought the team a championship. But as is often the case, the cost of success achieved on inexpensive rookie deals eventually comes due. For the Seattle Seahawks, that moment has arrived. Negotiations with Jaxon Smith‑Njigba will be more than a discussion about one player’s salary — they will be a test of the franchise’s ability to keep its championship core and remain among the NFL’s elite for years to come. His statement about wanting to be the highest‑paid is both a display of confidence and a challenge to the front office, the answer to which will shape the team’s future.

❮ ❯

Free window into the ocean on Seattle’s waterfront

A unique free attraction has appeared on Seattle’s waterfront for anyone who wants to visit. A giant round window 5.5 meters (18 feet) in diameter has been installed next to the entrance to the Seattle Aquarium’s Ocean Pavilion, allowing any passerby to peek into the underwater world at no cost. In the huge tank holding about 1.9 million liters (roughly 500,000 gallons) of water, sharks, rays, brightly colored tropical fish and other marine creatures swim, creating a spectacular sight right on the city waterfront.

❮ ❯

Based on: Window into another world on Seattle’s waterfront

Seattle: Victory and Tragedy

In Seattle the news is contrasting: players from the local hockey club helped Finland win an Olympic bronze, and a fatal shooting occurred in the Capitol Hill area, leaving one dead and a suspect detained.

Bronze duo: how Seattle players helped Finland win an Olympic medal

In the hockey world, where North American superstars often take center stage, smaller hockey nations like Finland repeatedly prove that teamwork and a well-tuned system can work wonders. At the recent Winter Olympics in Milan, Finland’s national team, led in part by players from the NHL’s Seattle Kraken, managed to win bronze in a dramatic tournament, continuing a proud tradition.

The Finnish hockey machine produced an impressive result once again, beating Slovakia 6-1 in the bronze medal game. Key roles in that victory were played by Seattle Kraken forwards Kaapo Kakko and Eeli Tolvanen. Kakko scored a goal, and Tolvanen added two assists, becoming important cogs in the team’s finely tuned mechanism. As reported by Seattle Sports, this medal was Finland’s third consecutive Olympic bronze with NHL players involved, after successes in Sochi 2014 and Vancouver 2010, which speaks volumes about the country’s stability and high level of hockey development.

The road to the podium was not easy. In the semifinal the Finns, while leading, conceded in the final seconds to a powerful Canada (2-3) after a goal by Nathan MacKinnon. However, the team managed to recover mentally from this painful defeat. In the bronze-medal game they again built an early 2-0 lead, allowed the Slovaks to pull one back, but then scored twice in 42 seconds in the third period (by Roope Hintz and Kaapo Kakko) and finally broke the opponent’s resistance, adding two empty-net goals late. It is especially impressive that the Finns achieved all this without their leader and one of the world’s top centers, Aleksander Barkov, who is recovering from knee surgery. This fact makes the success even more valuable, demonstrating the depth of the roster and the team’s collective strength.

For Slovakia this tournament was also significant. The team, considered an underdog, made an incredible run to the semifinals—where they lost to the USA—but could not repeat their bronze from Beijing 2022. Meanwhile, the Finnish players, among whom shone not only the Kraken members but also Erik Haula (two goals) and Joel Armia (one goal and two assists), wrote another proud chapter in their hockey history. This victory underscores the global nature of the NHL and how players from different clubs, coming together under their national flag, display the highest level of skill. For the young Seattle Kraken franchise, such success by its representatives on the world stage is not only a source of pride but also confirmation of sound scouting that identifies talented, victory-driven players.

Shooting on Capitol Hill: one dead, suspect in custody

On Friday evening a fatal incident occurred on Capitol Hill in Seattle. According to police, a man was killed in a shooting, and a suspect in the crime was detained at the scene.

According to information published by The Seattle Times, the incident happened around 10:20 p.m. near the intersection of E. Pike Street and Belmont Avenue. Officers who arrived found a man with gunshot wounds to the chest. Despite medical efforts, he died at the scene. Police spokesman Brian Pritchard said the victim’s identity and additional details about him have not been released. A 42-year-old man remained at the scene and was immediately taken into custody as a suspect. Investigators say the shooting was preceded by a verbal or physical altercation between two men. A firearm was found on the suspect during his arrest. A key question for the investigation is motive. As Pritchard noted, it has not yet been confirmed whether the deceased man had his own gun and whether the shooting by the detained man might have been an act of self-defense. Homicide detectives have been called in to clarify all circumstances. Police have asked the public for help: anyone with information about this incident can anonymously report it via the SPD tip line at 206-233-5000. The incident has again drawn attention to safety issues in one of Seattle’s busy neighborhoods, where such events, unfortunately, are not uncommon. The investigation is ongoing, and more detailed information about the conflict and possible charges against the detained suspect is expected soon.

Shooting on Seattle’s Capitol Hill: one dead, one detained

On Friday evening a shooting on Capitol Hill in Seattle left one man dead and another detained by police. The incident, which occurred around 10:20 p.m. near the intersection of E. Pine Street and Belmont Avenue, has once again raised concerns about safety and violence in the city. Preliminary reports indicate a dispute between two men escalated into a deadly shooting, and detectives are now trying to establish all circumstances, including the possibility of self-defense.

According to a report on MyNorthwest.com, officers who responded found an adult man with gunshot wounds to the chest and neck. Despite first aid and efforts by Seattle Fire Department medics, he could not be saved and was pronounced dead at the scene. KIRO7 News reported that during the incident one participant had a knife, resembling a utility box cutter, while the other had a firearm. This detail is important because it may indicate possible self-defense, which investigators are actively examining.

The suspect, a 42-year-old man, remained at the scene and is cooperating with police. After questioning he was taken into custody and booked into the King County Jail. Witnesses nearby told police there had been some kind of confrontation between the two men immediately before the shots were fired. That testimony may help homicide detectives with the Seattle Police Department reconstruct events and determine whether the use of force was justified. Police have appealed to the public for assistance: anyone with additional information or who witnessed the incident can call the violent crimes tip line at (206) 233-5000.

This case raises complex questions about self-defense and the escalation of street-level violence. In situations where one person is armed with a knife and another with a gun, the bounds of justified self-defense can be blurred, and any final conclusion will depend on details yet to be established. It is important to note that Capitol Hill is a busy Seattle neighborhood known for its nightlife but also periodically facing crime-related incidents. This event may influence public discussions about safety measures and gun access in the city. The investigation continues, and residents and officials await answers that will shed light on the tragic events of Friday evening.

❮ ❯

Trump's invisible wall has stopped a million Canadians at the border

A unique wall has gone up along the border between Washington state and the Canadian province of British Columbia. It's not made of steel or concrete — it exists only in people's minds. Attorney Len Saunders, who lives in the border town of Blaine, was shocked when he drove up to the Pacific Highway crossing on a Friday afternoon and saw not a single car in line. In 25 years of living there he couldn't recall anything like it. Previously, this and other key crossings, such as Peace Arch, Lynden and Sumas, were busy: Canadians regularly drove south for shopping, beach and mountain getaways, sporting and cultural events in Seattle, and Americans crossed into Canada for tourism and winery visits. There were regular commutes and family trips that created a sense of a single region.

The statistics back up these observations. In Donald Trump's first year in office, the flow of vehicles with Canadian plates through four major crossings in northwest Washington fell by 39%. That's nearly a million fewer cars than the year before, equivalent to a loss of roughly 1.2 million visits. For the economies of cities like Bellingham and Seattle it was a heavy blow, since Canadians are vital for retail, tourism, services and even the housing market. Blaine Mayor Mary Lou Steward says "trust has been undermined," and the cooling of relations could last a generation.

The roots of this "psychological wall" lie in Trump's statements a year ago, when he threatened to annex Canada as the "51st state." Canadians responded with a mass boycott: booing the U.S. anthem, refusing to shop or vacation in the U.S. Although it may seem in the U.S. that the conflict has subsided, the data show discontent is only growing.

The situation continues to worsen. In the first half of February 2026, crossings were down another 13% compared with February 2025, when Trump was actively talking about "taking control" of the neighboring country. Meanwhile, the flow of cars with U.S. plates stayed the same, making this wall one-sided. Economic factors, such as the Canadian dollar exchange rate, aren't to blame.

The main causes are fear and political outrage. Canadians Saunders meets daily in his legal practice fall into two camps: those who are afraid to go to the U.S. because of reports of detentions or shootings, and those who are simply furious at the actions of the American administration. Threats of massive tariffs are only part of the problem. administration policies aimed at tightening controls have made other aspects of life in border communities harder, such as joint environmental initiatives to protect Salish Sea waters or educational exchanges between schools and universities, which have declined because of bureaucratic hurdles and concerns.

More painful to many Canadians are attacks on their country's sovereignty and outright disrespect. Trump's remark "They need us. We really don't need them" became emblematic of that rudeness. A recent international poll produced a shocking result: Canada is the only country among those surveyed (the U.S., the U.K., France, Germany) where a majority of respondents named the United States "the main threat to peace."

Attempts by ordinary Americans to mend relations seem to be getting drowned out by the bigger noise. A year ago the author of this article wrote an open letter of apology to Canadians that was reprinted across the country. The main Canadian response was: "Okay, you regret it. But what are you Americans doing to fix it?" That question goes to the heart of the matter. Some positive initiatives, like a group of people who meet Canadians every Saturday at the Peace Arch in Blaine, remain almost invisible. That white monument, built in 1921 right on the border and inscribed "Children of a common mother," has historically served as a symbol of peace and shared values, a reminder of the longest undefended border in the world. Now it stands as a mute witness to the rift.

Alberta resident Lexi Angelo wrote in January that Americans, in Canadians' view, look like "a population of easily distracted fools" who do nothing while things head over a cliff.

The conclusion is sad: the obsession of one man has caused tangible harm, pushing millions of Canadians away from visiting Washington. This invisible wall, erected in an instant, has proven remarkably sturdy. To begin tearing it down will require more than words — systemic apologies and actions by future American leaders that carry real weight. For now, the damage to relations between neighbors continues to grow.

❮ ❯

Based on: ‘Psychological’ Trump wall on WA’s border has repelled a million trips

Seattle: cleanup, attack and Sounders lineup

In Seattle, a spring recycling cleanup will take place at a new location. The city is also investigating an assault on a bus passenger. Analysts have presented a possible starting lineup for Seattle Sounders FC for 2026.

Spring cleanup in West Seattle: recycling at a new location

With the arrival of spring, West Seattle residents will have a great opportunity to get rid of accumulated clutter and make their homes cleaner. In a month’s time, on the first Saturday of spring, the first major recycling and waste collection event of the season will be held here. Organizers have chosen a new location to make the process more convenient for participants.

Reminder: on March 21 from 9 a.m. to noon a free disposal event will take place in the south parking lot of South Seattle College at 6000 16th SW. Similar events were previously held on the north side of the campus, but this time the organizers — the West Seattle Junction Neighborhood Association and the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce — decided to change the location. As West Seattle Blog reports, the exact list of accepted materials is still being finalized, but typically at these events you can drop off a wide range of recyclables and reusable items, and also use document shredding services. Such events are an important part of the community’s environmental culture, allowing people not only to clean out their homes but also to take care of the environment by ensuring proper waste processing. For many residents this has become a traditional way to start spring cleaning—getting rid of unwanted items, old electronics, paper and other materials that shouldn’t simply be thrown in the trash. The new site is expected to be more spacious and accessible, which should help avoid lines and make the drop-off process quick and comfortable for everyone involved.

Assault in Seattle: man beaten after getting off bus in Mount Baker area

A disturbing incident occurred in Seattle, once again drawing attention to safety issues on public transit. According to a police report, on Friday evening in the Mount Baker area a 50-year-old man was assaulted after trying to avoid a confrontation on a bus.

The Seattle Police Department reports the incident happened around 9:00 p.m. near the intersection of Rainier Avenue South and South Forest Street. Officers who responded found the victim with cuts on the back of his head and facial injuries. According to the victim, the confrontation began on the bus when an unknown man started harassing him. Trying to avoid further escalation, the passenger got off at his stop, but the aggressor followed him. On the street the assailant struck him several times on the head with a cup — an ordinary object that in this context became an improvised weapon. After the attack the suspect fled the scene, and police have not yet located him. The victim received first aid at the scene and was then taken to Harborview Medical Center for further treatment.

Although it may seem like a commonplace incident, this case highlights several important issues. First is passenger safety on public transit and at stops. The victim made a reasonable attempt to de-escalate by leaving the area of potential conflict, but that did not work, indicating a need for more effective measures, possibly including security presence or improved surveillance systems capable of helping to quickly identify offenders. Second, the incident underscores how an everyday object (in this case a cup) can be used to inflict serious injury, complicating prevention of such attacks. The lack of an arrest is also troubling because it leaves the suspect free and potentially dangerous to others.

The Mount Baker incident is not just a local event but part of a broader discussion about urban safety and law enforcement effectiveness. For Seattle residents it is a reminder to stay vigilant, especially in the evening, and to know how to seek help—such as using emergency buttons on buses or immediately reporting suspicious behavior to the driver or by calling 911. In the long term, such incidents may influence city policies, prompting investment in better-lit stops, expanded patrol programs and cooperation with transit companies to ensure passenger safety. The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging witnesses to come forward.

Seattle Sounders projected core for 2026: a look ahead

Ahead of a new MLS season, Seattle Sounders fans are guessing which lineup will take the field in decisive matches. Based on analysis of recent developments and statements from the coaching staff, one can project an optimal starting eleven for 2026, assuming the team avoids injuries. This projected core combines a proven experienced base with young talents aimed at returning the club to the top.

In attack a generational change is expected. The striker role will likely be filled by Osaze De Rosario, who as a newcomer has already made his presence felt at key moments. His opportunity increased after a back injury to last season’s top scorer Danny Musovski (18 goals). On the right flank, Jesús Ferreira should remain, having shone in his debut season in the “pockets” — a tactical term denoting the spaces between opponent defense and midfield lines where a technical player can receive the ball and start an attack. For playoff success and an MLS Cup run, his offensive contribution will need to grow. On the left, Jordan Morris will aim to return to his best form after a 2025 season marred by issues with his hamstring tendon and shoulder. Despite that, he became the club’s all-time leading scorer (91 goals in all competitions).

The creative center of midfield will remain Albert Rusnák. He is expected to maintain his high output after two consecutive seasons with double-doubles (double-digit goals and assists). His 12 goal contributions in all competitions last year were the second-highest on the team. In the holding midfield role he will pair with Cristian Roldán, again vying for a spot on the U.S. World Cup roster for the 2026 home tournament after leading the team in assists last season (14). Beside him a new acquisition could debut — Hassani Dotson, a Federal Way native who signed in December. He has a chance to become a regular for his home-state club following Obed Vargas’s move to Atlético Madrid.

Defense also faces interesting choices. Right back Alex Roldán has shown versatility by also playing in central defense. That flexibility may prove crucial given preseason injuries to Kim Kihyung (calf) and Stuart Hawkins (quadriceps). On the opposite flank, Nouhou should not only defend reliably but also contribute more in attack, though he must reduce the number of fouls—last year he received three red cards. In central defense, Jackson Ragen, whose pass accuracy reached 93% (the best on the team), remains a key player for launching attacks. His partner Yeimar, who enjoyed one of his best seasons in a Sounders shirt during the Leagues Cup, must stay healthy to help the team regain its defensive strength.

In goal, as The Seattle Times reports, the starting spot at the beginning of the season is expected to go to Andrew Thomas rather than veteran Stefan Frei. However, head coach Brian Schmetzer emphasized that he views both goalkeepers as starting-caliber players, which creates healthy competition. Thus, the projected 2026 core reflects the club’s strategy: a mix of reliability, youthful energy and tactical flexibility to achieve maximum results.

❮ ❯

Seattle bridge repairs: two lanes closed for weeks

Two northbound lanes on the busy First Avenue South bridge in Seattle are closed for at least several weeks. The closure follows the discovery of damage to the bridge’s steel open-grid deck during a routine inspection. The bridge over the Duwamish River is part of the critical Highway 99, and the closure will significantly affect regional traffic. Officials have not yet disclosed all details about the nature of the defects.

Engineers found issues both in deck sections that were replaced as recently as six years ago, in 2020, and in older parts of the bridge that date back to its 1956 construction. A Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) spokesperson noted that a typical quick fix using steel patches is not suitable in this case because their weight could damage the movable mechanisms of the drawbridge. The team is looking for an alternative solution and hopes to present a repair plan by March 6.

Until repairs begin, northbound traffic on the bridge is routed into the two remaining left lanes with a speed limit reduced to 25 mph. The high-occupancy vehicle lane has been temporarily opened to all traffic. About 48,000 vehicles use this route daily, and the lane reduction is likely to cause significant congestion. The situation is worsened by concurrent repair work on another key I-5 bridge in the northern part of the city.

❮ ❯

Based on: Two Highway 99 bridge lanes close for weeks; damage found in steel deck

Seattle: Incident, Sports and Rising Talent

Overview of Seattle news: a shooting on Capitol Hill, the Seahawks' new offensive coordinator, and a bright debut from a young Mariner.

Capitol Hill shooting: one injured, person of interest detained

On Friday evening there was another shooting in one of Seattle’s central neighborhoods, leaving one person with multiple gunshot wounds. Police responded promptly to the call and detained a person of interest for questioning, but the motives and circumstances of the incident remain unclear.

Friday night, Seattle police received reports of a shooting in the Capitol Hill area, near the intersection of E Pine Street and Belmont Avenue. Officers arriving on scene found a man with multiple gunshot wounds. The victim was taken immediately to a medical facility for treatment, but officials have not released information about his current condition, which is standard practice in such investigations. Law enforcement said a “person of interest” has been detained and is being questioned. In police practice, that term refers to someone who may have important information about the crime or could potentially be involved, but against whom there is not yet sufficient evidence to file formal charges. Whether the shooting was the result of a dispute, a robbery, or other causes is unknown, and investigators have not disclosed further details. Authorities have asked the public to avoid the area while investigators continue their work and collect evidence. This incident, reported by KOMO News, once again highlights the issue of gun violence in urban neighborhoods. Despite police’s quick action in detaining a person of interest, the lack of information about the victim’s condition and the motive leaves many questions unanswered. Incidents like this underscore the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement and local authorities in ensuring public safety, especially in busy neighborhoods like Capitol Hill.

Why Coach McDonald chose Fleury as the Seahawks’ new offensive coordinator

In professional American football, hiring a new offensive coordinator is always an event that can set a team’s direction for years. For the Seattle Seahawks, a franchise with a rich history and fans eager for a return to past glory, this choice was particularly important. Contrary to expectations that the role would go to an internal candidate, head coach Mike McDonald opted for Brian Fleury, who previously worked with a chief rival — the San Francisco 49ers. This decision, detailed in a Seattle Sports piece, sheds light on the team-building philosophy for the new era.

When the Seahawks began searching for a replacement for Clint Kubiak, who left for the Las Vegas Raiders, it seemed logical to promote one of the existing assistants. Quarterbacks coach Andrew Giannoco, running game specialist Justin Outten, passing game coordinator Jake Peetz, and tight ends coach Mac Brown were all in consideration. Instead, McDonald went in a different direction, choosing Fleury, a name not widely known to the public. At the press conference introducing the new offensive coordinator, McDonald explained that despite the talent of internal candidates, Fleury made an indelible impression. The key factor was “synergy” — a complete alignment of vision for what the offense should be with McDonald’s philosophy. The coach noted that Fleury’s principles, his work approach, and his demands for the offense fit perfectly into the club’s cultural concept, including values like on-field connectivity, attention to detail, and a drive for excellence.

For context, in the NFL the “offensive coordinator” is the chief architect of a team’s offensive play, responsible for designing schemes and play combinations. The running game and passing game are the two main pillars of an offense. Hiring a coach from the 49ers is significant because that team under Kyle Shanahan is known for one of the most innovative and effective offenses in the league. Fleury spent the last seven years learning in that system, progressing from a quality control coach for defense and offense to tight ends coach and running game coordinator. His diverse experience, which includes working with both defense and offense at different clubs, was a major plus for McDonald. The Seahawks coach also relied on endorsements from mutual acquaintances in the league, such as the New York Jets’ new defensive coordinator Brian Duker and Baltimore Ravens’ defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, who spoke highly of Fleury from McDonald’s Baltimore days.

One notable point is that this role will be Fleury’s first as a play-caller — the person who calls plays from the sideline during the game. McDonald, however, sees this not as a risk but as a natural step in his development: “All play-callers call plays for the first time at some point. From the way Brian thinks about the game, you can see he’s ready.” The hire also preserves stability in the core of the Seahawks’ offensive coaching staff, which McDonald said will ensure continuity and give the offense a chance to advance. Only Giannoco and senior offensive advisor Rick Dennison will follow Kubiak to the Raiders.

Thus, choosing Brian Fleury is a strategic move based not on name recognition but on deep alignment of philosophical and tactical views with the head coach. McDonald is betting on fresh ideas from one of the league’s top offensive schools to create a dynamic, modern attack in Seattle. The success of this partnership will depend on how quickly Fleury adapts to the new role and whether he can translate his analytical and coaching experience into game-day practice. For Seahawks fans, this marks the beginning of a new, intriguing chapter.

Young talent Michael Arroyo “stole the show” in the Seattle Mariners’ Cactus League opener

In baseball, spring training is a time of hope and first impressions, when young players get a chance to make their case alongside seasoned veterans. In the Seattle Mariners’ Cactus League opener against the San Diego Padres, one such promising rookie drew widespread attention, suggesting that the club’s future may be in good hands.

A Seattle Sports article details the impressive debut of 20-year-old infielder Michael Arroyo. Signed by the Mariners in 2022 at age 17 from Cartagena, Colombia, Arroyo has already shown in the lower minors that he is a disciplined hitter with an excellent on-base percentage (.408 over four seasons). But his performance in the first spring game put him squarely in the spotlight. In his very first plate appearance he hit a two-run home run to the opposite field off a changeup in an 0-2 count, then added a confident double to right-center. Those were the Mariners’ first home run and double of the preseason. Manager Dan Wilson didn’t hide his admiration, saying Arroyo “pretty much stole the show” and looked excellent. Arroyo describes his approach simply: let the pitch come to him and make contact where he can do it best. He adopted this principle from his older brother Carlos, whom he cites as his idol and primary teacher. The coming month is especially important for Arroyo: at the end of February he will represent Colombia in the World Baseball Classic, and making the moment even more special is that his brother will also be on the national team. It’s a childhood dream fulfilled and an opportunity to play together on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

The piece also notes other details from the first game day. Attendance in Peoria was 9,956, a record for a Mariners home opener in Cactus League history, reflecting growing fan interest. Cal Raleigh, the team’s primary catcher, used the automated ball-strike system (ABS) to challenge a call in the first inning. While the challenge was unsuccessful this time, Raleigh said it was a useful test to understand the strike zone boundaries for the new season. He also pointed out that ABS will not be used during the World Baseball Classic, so this was one of the few opportunities to practice with it before the regular season. For clarity: ABS (Automated Ball-Strike System) is technology using radar and cameras to precisely determine a pitch’s trajectory and assist umpires in calling balls and strikes. Its testing in MLB aims to increase objectivity. A “changeup,” the pitch Arroyo handled successfully, is a slower pitch with movement that can change trajectory and disrupt a hitter’s timing.

The key takeaway is how the Mariners’ strategy of developing young talent is beginning to yield visible results. Arroyo may not yet top prospect lists, but his plate discipline and unexpected power for his age make him a strong candidate for a near-future major league role. His success is not only the result of individual talent but also family support, highlighting the importance of a player’s environment. For the club, such preseason performances are a positive sign of roster depth and competitiveness for the upcoming season. Arroyo’s next test will be the World Baseball Classic, where he can gain experience in high-level games. For the Mariners, continuing spring training — with a Saturday matchup against the San Francisco Giants — will be a chance to evaluate other players and continue preparing for the regular season.

❮ ❯

Supreme Court overturns tariffs, Washington businesses remain wary

The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday ruled that former President Donald Trump exceeded his authority in imposing broad global tariffs. The Court’s 6–3 decision struck down tariffs enacted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. But within hours of the verdict, Trump said he would reinstate tariffs using other legal mechanisms. That statement left business owners in the state of Washington cautiously optimistic but anxious about the future.

For small businesses like KOBO, a shop and gallery in Seattle, the past year was a nightmare because of a 15% import tariff. Owner Binco Cheong-Bisby described constant shipment delays and cancellations, and having to raise prices for customers to cover higher costs. She welcomed the court’s decision but wondered whether the relief would last, given the threat of new tariffs. Similar vulnerability affects other Seattle small businesses, including chocolate and coffee makers, cosmetics brands, craft breweries, and small electronics manufacturers that rely on imported raw materials and components.

Trade disputes also hit other industries hard. Ghostfish Brewing in Seattle, which specializes in gluten-free beer, almost entirely lost a key export market in the Canadian province of British Columbia—a market it had actively cultivated because of demand for niche products and geographic proximity. In response to U.S. tariffs, provincial liquor stores removed all U.S. products from their shelves. Founder Brian Thill hopes the court’s decision will help normalize trade and win back loyal Canadian customers. For most Washington breweries, such heavy export dependence is atypical, as they primarily serve the domestic U.S. market.

The Supreme Court’s ruling is especially significant for Washington, whose economy is heavily dependent on international trade. In 2024 the state exported nearly $58 billion in goods, led by airplanes and aerospace components (Boeing manufacturing), apples and other agricultural products, software and cloud services (Microsoft, Amazon), and forest-products manufacturing. Those sectors are vulnerable to trade disputes because they rely on global supply chains and international demand. Senators from the state, including Democrat Maria Cantwell, said the tariff repeal will bring welcome relief to consumers and small businesses that have long overpaid for imported goods.

But lawmakers acknowledge the fight over tariffs is far from over. Senator Patty Murray, a Democrat, bluntly said Trump will almost certainly look for new ways to impose duties. Six Republican members of Congress recently joined Democrats in voting to limit tariffs on Canada, showing bipartisan concern on the issue.

One of the most pressing unresolved questions is whether previously paid duties will be refunded. Dozens of companies, including retail giant Costco, filed suits seeking refunds while awaiting the Court’s ruling. The Friday verdict did not resolve that question, leaving businesses in limbo.

For companies like tech firm NoiseFigure Research in Renton, the damage is already done and recovery will take time. Renton, known for its aerospace industry, is also becoming part of the Seattle tech cluster thanks to electronics startups and research firms. Founder Jerry Lopez said the company chose to absorb the extra 10–20% costs rather than raise prices, which forced it to freeze projects and slow hiring. He fears new tariffs could finish off small businesses. Similar problems from trade policies that raise costs and complicate access to international markets often affect local tech startups that depend on imported components or exported services.

Despite the historic Supreme Court decision, a mood of caution persists in Washington’s business community. Some tariffs—such as the 35% duties on imported steel and aluminum—remain in place. Business owners who endured a hard year are reluctant to increase investment and spending, fearing that political instability could at any moment trigger another wave of trade restrictions.

❮ ❯

Based on: After Supreme Court tariff takedown, WA firms wary of what comes next

Microsoft Bets on AI in Games as a New Baseball Star Emerges

Microsoft is making a strategic shift in its gaming business, appointing a new head from the AI realm to replace the legendary Phil Spencer. Meanwhile in baseball, Seattle Mariners’ young talent Michael Arroyo made a brilliant start to spring training.

The Phil Spencer era ends: Microsoft bets on AI in its gaming business

Microsoft is undergoing a major personnel reshuffle in one of the company’s most visible yet financially volatile divisions — gaming. After 38 years with the company, the last several of them leading the entire gaming division, the legendary Phil Spencer, the face of Xbox for millions of players, is retiring. His successor will not be an industry veteran but an executive from the artificial intelligence field, marking a strategic pivot for the corporation.

Phil Spencer, who began his journey at Microsoft in 1988 as an intern and became the symbol of the gaming division, announced his decision to retire. According to an internal memo from CEO Satya Nadella, this decision was made last year, and a succession plan has been in the works since then. Nadella praised Spencer’s contributions, noting his “unwavering commitment to players, creators and his team.” Under Spencer’s leadership, Microsoft’s gaming division expanded dramatically beyond consoles into PC, mobile and cloud gaming. He was the architect behind mega-deals to acquire studios and franchises such as Minecraft, ZeniMax and, finally, Activision Blizzard for a record $68.7 billion in 2023, which fundamentally reshaped the industry landscape.

However, the new head of Microsoft Gaming will not be the successor many expected. Asha Sharma, who joined the company only two years ago after serving as chief operating officer at Instacart, will take the role. Before this appointment she served as president of CoreAI products, overseeing a portfolio of AI models, applications and agents. As The Seattle Times notes, Sharma has no prior experience in the gaming industry. This appointment is a clear signal of Microsoft’s priorities: the focus is less on the traditional understanding of the gaming business and more on integrating cutting-edge artificial intelligence across all aspects — from content creation to user interaction. In his farewell address to employees, Spencer expressed confidence in Sharma, praising her “genuine curiosity, clarity of thought and deep commitment to understanding players and creators.”

Reporting to Sharma will be Matt Booty, promoted to executive vice president and chief content officer. He previously oversaw Microsoft’s studios, which have grown to nearly 40. Another consequence of the reshuffle is the departure of Sarah Bond, president and chief operating officer of Xbox, who long had been considered Spencer’s natural successor. She will leave the company after a transition period.

These personnel changes come against the backdrop of mixed financial results for the gaming division. Although Microsoft overall continues to post record revenue and profit, the gaming segment remains “uneven.” In fiscal 2025, which ended in June, gaming revenue rose by $2 billion thanks to Spencer’s strategy of moving toward cloud services and content and the inclusion of Activision Blizzard in reporting. However, in the final quarter of 2025 (October–December), the company reported a decline in gaming revenue of $623 million compared to the same period in 2024. The drop affected both Xbox hardware sales and revenue from content and services. This underscores the challenges the new leadership will face: stimulating growth in a market saturated with consoles and amid intensifying competition.

Asha Sharma’s appointment is not merely a change of personnel but a strategic move reflecting Microsoft’s belief that the future of games lies in deep AI integration. Under her leadership we may see AI transform game development processes, personalize player experiences, manage dynamic content or optimize cloud gaming platforms. Yet Sharma’s lack of game development experience could be both an advantage — offering a fresh perspective — and a risk, potentially creating gaps in understanding industry specifics. The departures of figures like Spencer and Bond mark the end of an era for Xbox. Microsoft now appears ready to write the next chapter of its gaming story with ink steeped in artificial intelligence.

First spring training homer: Mariners’ young prospect makes a statement

In the baseball world, spring training is a time of hope and first impressions, when young prospects get a chance to shine alongside veterans. That happened in the Seattle Mariners’ first Cactus League game, where 21-year-old prospect Michael Arroyo stole the spotlight by hitting the team’s first homer of the preseason.

In his first spring training game the Mariners had immediate reason for optimism thanks to the impressive performance of young infielder/outfielder Michael Arroyo. The second inning against the San Diego Padres was his moment: down 0–2 he sent a changeup from left-handed pitching prospect Jagger Haynes over the right-field fence. The blast traveled 406 feet (about 124 meters), produced two runs and became the Mariners’ first spring home run of 2026. Arroyo didn’t stop there. In his second at-bat in the fourth inning he hit a double off the first pitch from veteran lefty Wandy Peralta, sending the ball to the center-field fence. Such a start is impressive, especially considering Arroyo, a native of Colombia, is regarded as one of the most promising young players in the Mariners’ system. According to MLB Pipeline, he is ranked among MLB’s top 100 prospects, holding the 67th spot overall and fifth in the Seattle organization.

To understand the context of his success, it’s worth looking at his recent seasons. In 2025, playing for High-A Everett and Double-A Arkansas, Arroyo posted solid numbers: a batting average (AVG) of .262, on-base percentage (OBP) of .401 and slugging percentage (SLG) of .433, giving him an OPS of .834. Over 121 games he hit 17 home runs, demonstrating both power and plate discipline. However, his path to the Mariners’ major-league roster may involve positional adjustments. Although he started the spring game at second base, the team’s depth of talented infielders may require Arroyo to transition to the outfield in the future. This is a common practice in baseball as clubs seek the best way to fit a promising player into the roster by leveraging his athleticism and versatility.

Arroyo will briefly leave the Mariners’ camp as he is included on Colombia’s roster for the World Baseball Classic, where he will be teammates with Mariners pitcher Guillermo Zuniga. The tournament will be another opportunity for him to showcase his skills on the international stage. As reported by Seattle Sports, his performance has already drawn attention from fans and analysts, shaping conversations about the team’s potential in the coming season. The success of young players like Arroyo could be a key factor for the Mariners as they look to bolster their offensive firepower. His ability to hit effectively against both right- and left-handed pitchers, demonstrated by his production against two different pitchers in the game, adds value. In baseball, where statistics and analytics play a major role, such promising starts are often harbingers of future success, and Seattle clearly hopes Arroyo will continue to develop and contribute to the team’s ambitions in the season ahead.

Young prospect Michael Arroyo shined in the preseason game

As the new MLB season approaches, fans focus on young talents who could become the next stars. Michael Arroyo was one such player, delivering an impressive performance in the preseason game between the San Diego Padres and the Seattle Mariners on February 20, 2026. Full details of the game are available in the official game report on MLB.com.

Arroyo, considered the fifth-best prospect in the Mariners’ system, was highly productive at the plate. In just two at-bats (AB) he produced two powerful hits: a home run (HR) and a double (2B). A home run is the most productive hit in baseball, allowing the batter to round all the bases and score, and it can bring home other runners who were on base. A double is a hit that safely allows the batter to reach second base. Recording that level of production in two plate appearances is an indicator of exceptionally high efficiency and power for a young player, especially in a preseason game where teams often evaluate rosters and give opportunities to prospects.

Although this game does not affect regular-season standings, it is important for assessing player readiness and finalizing rosters. Arroyo’s success at the plate signals excellent form and readiness to compete for a spot on the Mariners’ major-league roster. For a club building around developing young talent, performances like this are an encouraging sign for the future. Seattle Mariners fans can look forward with optimism to the potential emergence of a new bright star capable of making a significant offensive contribution. While the San Diego Padres analyze defensive mistakes, the Mariners will remember this game primarily for the impressive display from their young prospect, who may soon regularly thrill fans with powerful, accurate swings.

❮ ❯

Book returned to library after 64 years

A book that should have been returned 64 years ago has been brought back to the Richland Public Library in Washington state. Despite the record-long overdue period, the borrower will not have to pay a fine because the library eliminated such fees in 2022. Interestingly, the conscientious citizen who returned the book still has another overdue title, which he promised to bring back once he finishes reading it.

The book was found by a man who inherited a friend's personal library. Discovering several clearly library-owned volumes with very long overdue records among the books, he immediately returned one of them. Library staff, who are now preparing to celebrate the institution's 75th anniversary, were genuinely pleased by the unexpected "return." They noted that in past decades the late fee could range from 5 to 25 cents per day.

The return of a book that had been listed as lost since 1962 became a symbolic gift for the library's anniversary. One social media user even calculated that if the old rules were still in effect, the fine for 64 years of lateness could have been around $3,250. Fortunately for the borrower, librarians are now happy to receive any returned books, regardless of how long they've been overdue.

❮ ❯

Based on: Overdue Richland library book returned 63 years late

New Neon Beacon: Pike Place Market Sign Now Visible from the Waterfront

The famous Pike Place Market in Seattle has a new large sign that, for the first time in nearly 100 years, faces the waterfront. The more-than-5-meter-tall neon "Pike Place Market" sign is mounted on the parking garage elevator shaft and serves as a landmark for visitors coming from the new waterfront park and the aquarium. Market officials say the primary goal is to improve wayfinding and direct the flow of guests to the main entrance.

Its installation is closely tied to the completion of the massive 15-year Elliott Bay waterfront reconstruction. That multi-year transformation included replacing the old Alaskan Way Viaduct with an underground tunnel, creating new parks and pedestrian areas, significantly improving seismic safety, reducing traffic congestion, and restoring the connection between downtown Seattle and the shoreline. As part of this renewal, the new Overlook Walk pedestrian route opened, directly linking the waterfront park with the market. The sign is now clearly visible not only to pedestrians but also to drivers and ferry passengers.

The sign is rendered in bright red neon tones, fully matching the historic style of this iconic place, and clearly identifies it, unlike some other signs in the area. Any changes to the appearance of the market, founded in 1907, are always closely watched by locals, who worry about the loss of the site's historic character. Market authorities regularly emphasize that restoration efforts aim to preserve the heritage, not replace it with something modern. This applies not only to periodic repainting of old signs but also to such an unusual object as the "Gum Wall." Having emerged spontaneously in the 1990s as folk art, it became an unofficial symbol of Seattle's creative and eccentric spirit. The local community regards it as part of the cultural heritage, reflecting traditions of self-organization and humor at the market, which led to its preservation even after its cleaning in 2015 as a mark of respect for this unique tradition.

Thus, the new sign is a logical step in integrating the market with the renewed waterfront, becoming for many the first visual welcome. However, for those who want the classic souvenir photo, the advice remains the same: walk around the market building to find the famous clock and original sign, which have served as the backdrop for millions of tourist photos for decades.

❮ ❯

Based on: Pike Place Market gets new, waterfront-facing signage

Seattle: warming and rain to replace brief snow

After a brief snowfall in Seattle on Thursday morning, the city's weather is changing dramatically. Instead of wintry chill, residents can expect warmer temperatures and rain this coming weekend. Isolated showers are possible Friday morning, but then it will turn drier and temperatures will rise to about +4...+7°C. On Saturday and Sunday precipitation will become more widespread, and thermometers will reach a comfortable +10...+12°C.

About 6 mm of rain is expected in the lowlands over the weekend. At the same time, in the mountains—good news for winter sports enthusiasts—snow is expected: 5 to 15 cm at higher elevations and 2 to 10 cm in the passes, which is welcome after an unusually low-snow winter. Forecasters say the region will see several rounds of precipitation next week, accompanied by gusty winds.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle weather: Temperatures warm up as rain returns

New Calf Joins Endangered Orca Pod

Researchers have reported the birth of a new calf in the endangered southern resident orca population. The calf, designated L129, was spotted Monday by biologists from the Whale Research Center in the Strait of Juan de Fuca alongside orcas from the L55 subgroup. Scientists express both joy and concern, as the newborn’s fate remains uncertain.

Observers noted the lively calf stayed close to the 49-year-old female L55 and also surfaced with L103, who may be its mother. If L103 is the mother, this would be her second calf. Although pregnancy at an advanced orca age like L55’s is rare, the presence of an experienced “grandmother” could improve the youngster’s chances of survival.

However, those chances, scientists say, are roughly a coin toss — only about half of southern resident calves survive their first year. By comparison, the northern resident orca population, which lives farther north off the central coast of British Columbia and southeastern Alaska, shows significantly higher reproductive rates. That is linked to better food availability and less human pressure, unlike the southern group that inhabits the densely populated Seattle–Vancouver region.

The primary threat to southern residents is the catastrophic decline in their main prey — Chinook salmon. To address the problem, Washington state authorities and conservation groups, such as the Pacific Salmon Commission, are implementing a suite of measures. These include restoring river spawning habitat, regulating fisheries, hatchery programs, and cooperating with Indigenous tribes, especially in river basins that drain into Puget Sound.

Compounding the food shortage are contaminants that have accumulated in the food web and persistent underwater noise from vessels, which interferes with the whales’ echolocation-based hunting. Heavy shipping from major ports like Seattle and Tacoma exacerbates this threat. To reduce it, programs such as “Quiet Sound” encourage voluntary vessel slowdowns, quieter propeller designs are being developed, and seasonal route advisories are issued to avoid key orca habitat. A 2017 study found that more than two-thirds of pregnancies in these orcas end in miscarriage due to lack of food.

L129’s birth is the first in the L pod subgroup in more than a year. Joy at such events is often tempered: a calf born in September 2024 died a month later. In December, a newborn was also seen in another subgroup (K), and in subgroup J scientists observed a female pushing a dead calf ahead of her.

As of the latest census, just 74 southern resident orcas remain. Scientists must reencounter calf L129 to determine its sex and confirm its mother, continuing their close watch on this fragile hope for the recovery of this unique community.

❮ ❯

Based on: Orca born to L pod

Washington budget: revenue gains don't solve the deficit

Projected revenues for the state of Washington have increased by more than $1.8 billion since November, giving lawmakers a small reprieve as they finalize an supplemental budget. But it doesn't solve the core problem: the state still faces a multibillion-dollar shortfall. Under the latest estimates, total revenues for the two-year 2025–2027 budget cycle will be $75.3 billion, $827 million higher than the November forecast. While the overall increase is spread across three budget periods, that $827 million directly affects the current operating budget now under discussion.

Despite the improved forecast, the current biennial budget still shows a deficit of roughly $2.3 billion. That gap is driven by rising spending on social programs, the cost of honoring collective bargaining agreements and inflationary pressure that makes maintaining existing state services more expensive than available revenues. Officials attribute the forecast improvement to higher-than-expected growth in personal income, steady employment and increased taxable retail sales.

Lawmakers greeted the new forecast as a “net positive” amid budgetary strain. It allows them to revisit some of the most painful proposed cuts and to bolster reserves. Governor Bob Ferguson has previously warned that closing the budget gap will require a mix of spending cuts and other adjustments, while avoiding a blanket tax increase.

The plan the governor proposed in December included using the state’s rainy-day fund, about $800 million in spending reductions, and redirecting nearly $560 million from revenues generated by the Climate Commitment Act toward tax credits for low- and middle-income families. That law establishes a “cap-and-invest” system under which major polluters buy permits to emit carbon; the billions raised have traditionally been invested in emission-reduction projects such as electric vehicle infrastructure and public transit. Redirecting those funds into the general fund is therefore contentious because it breaks the original promise to use them strictly for climate action and could slow the transition to a green economy. The plan drew criticism from social-program advocates and some Democratic lawmakers, particularly over potential cuts to early childhood education, higher education and school districts.

To address the budget’s long-term structural issues, leaders of the Democratic majority are considering revenue increases. The Senate has already approved a bill to create a new income tax on individuals earning more than $1 million a year. That would be a significant move in a state that historically has not had a progressive income tax because of constitutional constraints and strong business influence, relying instead on a regressive sales tax. Any revenue from this tax—an effort to work around the constitutional barrier and create a fairer system—would not materialize for several years, and the initiative could face lawsuits or a referendum.

The legislative session must adjourn by March 12, leaving budget committees very little time to determine whether the new fiscal picture will soften planned cuts or whether deeper fiscal changes are inevitable. House and Senate budget proposals are expected in the coming days. As the speaker put it, lawmakers face a real “sprint” to the finish—a short, 60-day supplemental session to adjust the budget. To act quickly before the deadline, typical procedures include closed leader negotiations, limiting public hearings and voting on package amendments to avoid prolonged debate.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA revenue gains offer hope, but budget pressures continue

Seattle: mayor's plan, standoff, and Olympic gold

The mayor of Seattle unveiled a plan to tackle violence and homelessness, negotiations continue with a barricaded man in the city, and local fans celebrated the U.S. women's hockey team winning Olympic gold.

State of the city: Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson unveils plan to address violence, homelessness and high costs

In her annual State of the City address, Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson presented a comprehensive plan aimed at tackling the metropolis's most acute problems: street violence, the homelessness crisis, the high cost of living, and support for small businesses. The speech, delivered at the historic Langston Hughes Performing Arts Institute, mixed historic optimism with pointed criticism of the current state of affairs.

The mayor began by setting the broader context — a feeling that citizens' rights are under threat and that the country is moving backward. However, she said, it is precisely in such moments that it is important to look to history for strength to move forward. A central theme of the address was gun violence. Wilson honored the memory of two Rainier Beach High School students and the victims of shootings in the Chinatown-International District and Pioneer Square. As responses, she announced the restoration of nighttime police patrols in those neighborhoods, the development of a multi-faceted strategy to combat armed violence involving experts and communities, and possible lawsuits against property owners whose buildings become chronic crime hot spots. "My job as mayor is to do everything I can to turn these hopes into reality," Wilson said in her address.

She spoke just as candidly about homelessness, saying the city's overall approach to the problem cannot be called successful. She criticized the practice of constantly moving homeless encampments from place to place, calling it a false progress. The new strategy will prioritize clearing encampments based on safety and neighborhood impact, provide early engagement with residents before eviction, and include a plan to introduce legislation in the coming weeks to fund expanded shelter capacity. At the same time, the city plans to add 1,000 new units of affordable housing this year. "We cannot become so accustomed to the way things are that we start to consider normal that so many people are forced to sleep on the street every night," Wilson emphasized.

She paid special attention to preparing for a possible increase in activity by federal immigration enforcement agents (ICE). Although Seattle has not seen a spike like Minneapolis experienced, the city is ramping up the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, which conducts "Know Your Rights" trainings, and is recommending that private property owners post notices barring entry to their premises without a warrant. The use of surveillance cameras is also being considered, balancing their usefulness to law enforcement with citizens' privacy.

On reducing the cost of living, Wilson highlighted four key areas: affordable housing, affordable childcare, affordable food, and support for small businesses. She urged residents to take part in an online renters' survey, and her administration plans to work with landlords and developers to create more budget-friendly options. The mayor also said childcare and preschool should be treated as public goods, similar to parks or schools. For small businesses, an expedited permitting program aims to cut bureaucratic barriers, and the Back to Business fund will help with security and repairs after vandalism.

She did not shy away from admitting failures: the city is off track on its Vision Zero goal to eliminate traffic fatalities by 2030. "We must do better," the mayor acknowledged. She ended on an optimistic note, speaking about new opportunities tied to the upcoming FIFA World Cup, including building more public restrooms and expanding soccer infrastructure. Wilson called on residents to practice a "discipline of hope," expressing belief that Seattle stands on the verge of great achievements. "By the time I deliver this address again in 2027, I hope you'll all feel this basic truth and know that yes, this is your city. Because Seattle is the greatest city in the world," she concluded.

Negotiations continue with a barricaded armed man in Seattle

A tense standoff continues in North Seattle involving an armed man barricaded in his apartment. The incident, which began with a firearms threat, led to a large police operation and negotiations with a specialized unit.

According to Seattle police, around 11 a.m. on Thursday a worried call came from a staff member of an apartment complex located in the 8600 block of Aurora Avenue North. The employee reported that a resident had threatened him with a firearm and forced him at gunpoint into the apartment. Law enforcement classified the act as an abduction, initiating a crisis situation. Fortunately, police later said the staff member managed to get out of the apartment on his own, but the suspect remained inside, armed and barricaded. Officers, as noted in a post on king5.com, have sufficient grounds to arrest him on kidnapping charges. Crisis negotiators were immediately called to the scene with the goal of resolving the incident peacefully without force. Such situations require extreme caution, as any wrong move can trigger an escalation of violence. Police have cordoned off the area to ensure the safety of other residents and passersby. Incidents like this, unfortunately, are not uncommon in large cities and are often linked to mental health issues, personal crises, or legal problems faced by suspects. Negotiators' work in these cases is a delicate psychological effort aimed at reducing tension and finding a peaceful resolution. The outcome of this particular situation remains unclear, but police actions reflect standard barricade protocols: isolation, establishing communication, and attempts at de-escalation. For local residents, the incident was a troubling reminder of the potential risks lurking behind the walls of seemingly ordinary apartment buildings.

Spirit on the ice and in the pub: how Seattle celebrated the U.S. women's hockey team's Olympic gold

At Rough & Tumble pub in Ballard, Seattle was electric. Despite being thousands of miles from Milan, where the women's hockey final at the 2026 Winter Olympics was held, local fans followed every puck as if they were right at the boards. Their roar, according to KOMO News, announced Team USA's 2-1 overtime victory over their longtime rivals Canada. This win was the Americans' third Olympic gold in history and was especially meaningful for the local hockey community because players from the Seattle Torrent of the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) played a direct role in the triumph.

Six Torrent players represented their countries at the prestigious tournament. For the U.S., stars included Hilary Knight (for whom these Games were a historic fifth and final Olympics), Alex Carpenter, Hannah Bilka, and Keila Barnes. Julia Gosling made her Olympic debut for Canada, and defenseman Aneta Tejralova played for the Czech Republic. Thus, the Seattle club was directly connected to key participants in one of the sport's biggest rivalries. For fans gathered to watch, the match became a personal event — they cheered not just for an abstract national team but for players they see on the home ice of Climate Pledge Arena. Some Torrent players who were not in the final were also at the pub, mingling with fans and signing autographs, which only strengthened the sense of community and support.

The game lived up to the classic North American derby billing. As noted in the article, this was the seventh of twelve Olympic meetings between the U.S. and Canada decided by a single goal, and the third that required extra time. That tension only amplified the crowd's emotions. The overtime win was sweet revenge for past losses and confirmed the remarkable growth and competitiveness of women's hockey. For those unfamiliar, PWHL is a relatively new (founded in 2023) unified professional league that brought together the world's top players. Its creation was a turning point for the sport, giving players a stable platform for growth, and clubs like the Seattle Torrent have become focal points for local fans.

A key insight from this story is how international success feeds and strengthens a local sports community. Club-organized Olympic viewing events in city pubs are not just marketing but a strategy to build a vibrant, loyal fan base. Shared emotions in a decisive moment forge a strong bond between the team and the city. Now that Olympic gold has been won, attention turns back to the league. The PWHL 2025–2026 season resumes February 27, and Seattle fans are expected to personally greet their Olympic heroes at the home arena in a game against the Toronto Six. This victory is not an endpoint but a powerful stimulus. It raises the club's prestige, inspires young athletes in the region, and proves that women's hockey deserves the same excitement and support as men's hockey. The gold won in Milan resonated loudly in Seattle's pubs, and now that echo is poised to turn into sustained support in the stands.

❮ ❯

Northwest US nuclear plant back online after repair

The Pacific Northwest’s only commercial nuclear power plant, Columbia Generating Station, has been reconnected to the grid and returned to full power. Its comeback coincided with a cold snap across Washington state. The plant, located about 30 kilometers north of Richland, can supply electricity around the clock to roughly one million homes.

An unexpected outage that lasted six days beginning Feb. 12 did not lead to consumer supply interruptions. The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Energy that manages the sale of electricity from federal hydroelectric dams and supports grid reliability in the Northwest, compensated for the plant’s absence using the region’s hydroelectric capacity and operational flexibility. The shutdown was caused by a failure of the circulation pumps, which required a safe, controlled reactor shutdown.

Energy Northwest staff found the fault in a small component — an electronic filter in the system that cools the equipment controlling the circulation pumps. Those pumps supply water to the reactor’s core, where it turns to steam that spins the generator’s turbines. After repairing the component, technicians performed comprehensive testing of the equipment to verify its operability.

Energy Northwest’s chief nuclear officer, Don Cilio, emphasized that safety and operational excellence remained the priorities at every stage of the work. The 1,207-megawatt Columbia Generating Station is the third-largest power generator in Washington state after the Grand Coulee and Chief Joseph dams. Those giant hydroelectric plants on the Columbia River, the largest in the U.S., provide huge amounts of low-cost renewable electricity, forming the backbone of the region’s grid and supporting its energy security. The last unplanned shutdown at the plant not related to a scheduled refueling outage occurred in May 2018, underscoring its overall reliability.

❮ ❯

Based on: Northwest’s only commercial nuclear power plant back online after repair

Viral complaint gives town a new favorite — Messie the monster

In the Portland suburb of Milwaukie, Oregon, an anonymous complaint in a local Facebook group produced a completely unexpected result. Milwaukie is a small, relatively quiet city about 6 miles south of downtown Portland, with suburban characteristics, its own historic downtown and parks along the Willamette River. Rather than forcing the owners to remove a large homemade Loch Ness–style monster statue from their yard, the post made the sculpture a local sensation and an unofficial mascot around which the whole town rallied.

The statue, affectionately nicknamed "Messie, the Milwaukie monster," is a three-segment turquoise creature with green spikes along its back and a goofy smile. The complainer demanded that "this eyesore" be removed, but commenters unanimously defended the "good boy," calling him "majestic." That kicked off a true pilgrimage to the house.

The wave of popularity quickly spilled beyond social media. The local shop Made in Milwaukie, a specialty outlet promoting goods from local artisans and small businesses, had already released T-shirts, stickers and pins featuring Messie by Friday — items that sold out instantly. Shop owner Rob Campbell noted that for a town tired of online arguments, the monster became something that unites everyone.

Funny enough, the statue’s owners, Bruce Jankas and Lisa Shepard, didn’t even realize it had become famous until a reporter knocked on their door. They moved to Milwaukie in the fall and installed the sculpture, which they bought from the artist and named "Ned," in October, hoping it would decorate their tall fence — which had previously drawn complaints from neighbors.

The work’s creator, artist Cassie Lopez from the nearby cozy, family-oriented Sellwood neighborhood of Portland, made Messie (originally "Nessie") out of mortar as a playful art project. She sold the sea serpent to the new owners and is already working on the next sculpture — a pink-and-purple dragon named "Mystery." Each of her creations lives in a yard for about a year, delighting passersby before making way for the next one.

Lopez believes the power of such art lies in its imperfection and its ability to make people smile. Her pieces spark conversations and bring strangers together. The story of Messie is a vivid example of how simple creativity can foster a sense of community.

The story continues: Cassie Lopez is already discussing new collaborations with Made in Milwaukie, and soon miniature replicas of the famous monster may appear on store shelves. The artist is thrilled that her creation continues to bring joy to people far beyond her own yard.

❮ ❯

Based on: A complaint went viral, now Oregon town can’t get enough of ‘Messie’

Has Microsoft reached its climate goal? Experts assess the tech giant’s claim

Microsoft announced it had reached a key milestone in the fight against climate change: according to the company, 100% of the electricity it consumes now corresponds to the amount of renewable energy produced on its behalf. That target was set in 2020. The announcement came as Microsoft’s electricity demand is forecast to surge because of a large expansion of the data centers powering the race in artificial intelligence. The company calls this an important step toward its “ambitious” goal — becoming carbon negative by 2030.

It’s important to understand that this does not mean Microsoft’s servers are directly powered by solar panels or wind turbines. The vast majority of its facilities are connected to local grids, where electricity is generated from a mix of fossil fuels and renewables. However, Microsoft says it has signed contracts to purchase enough additional “green” energy in the same markets to cover more than 90% of its annual consumption. The remainder is accounted for by the share of renewables in the energy mix of the utilities themselves, such as Puget Sound Energy (PSE), which supplies power to many of Microsoft’s sites in Washington state. Under pressure from state climate laws and demands from large corporate customers, PSE is accelerating the retirement of coal plants and increasing purchases of “green” energy.

Microsoft’s main tool is long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs). Since 2013 the company has signed deals for 40 gigawatts of renewable energy in 26 countries. These contracts, often signed before a solar or wind farm is built, guarantee the developer a steady revenue stream at a fixed price for 10–20 years. That reduces risk and helps attract financing. In Washington state Microsoft has signed such agreements with several projects, including a wind farm in Kittitas County and solar farms in the central part of the state, increasing the share of renewables in the regional grid. Microsoft does not physically receive this electricity — it goes into the shared grid, and the company pays the difference between the market price and the contracted price.

Experts note that Microsoft deliberately does not rely on so-called renewable energy certificates, which can be bought from already operating projects, for its reporting. Research shows that buying such certificates rarely leads to construction of new green capacity and is often considered a form of “greenwashing.” PPAs, especially for new projects where Microsoft’s financing was critical, are seen as a more substantive contribution.

However, some specialists in climate accounting criticize the “matching” approach of equating consumption and production in megawatt-hours. They argue this methodology creates complexity and confusion but does not answer the key question: has the company’s activity led to real emissions reductions? In their view, it is important to assess whether more renewables were built because of the company’s investments and whether that displaced generation from coal or gas. Washington state’s energy policy, for example, the Climate Commitment Act, which sets emissions limits and creates a cap-and-trade system, incentivizes Microsoft to accelerate the transition to renewables and invest in local green projects to meet tightening state requirements.

Despite the criticism, many experts acknowledge Microsoft is setting a high bar. The company isn’t just buying green energy anywhere; it is investing in new projects in the same regions where it consumes a lot of power, using capital-intensive long-term contracts. That is a serious step that can be considered a plausible claim of progress toward climate neutrality. Microsoft is not alone among Seattle tech giants in this pursuit. For example, Amazon, also based in the region, has set a goal of net-zero carbon by 2040. Companies compete in public declarations of ambitious targets and investments, but they also collaborate through industry initiatives, supporting stronger state-level climate policies and investing in many of the same large renewable projects.

Looking ahead, Microsoft says meeting its climate goals amid business growth will require more than just solar and wind. The company advocates for a comprehensive decarbonization strategy that includes nuclear power, next-generation grid infrastructure, and carbon-capture technologies. Microsoft is also willing to participate in discussions to strengthen measurement standards to ensure its clean-energy purchases lead to actual emissions reductions.

As company leaders have noted, their goal to be carbon negative remains a call to action — for Microsoft, its customers, and the entire tech industry — to invest in an affordable, reliable, and resilient energy system. They say that call is clearer now than ever.

❮ ❯

Based on: Microsoft says it hit a key climate milestone. Does the math add up?

Washington community colleges are recovering after the pandemic

Enrollment at Washington’s community colleges has fully rebounded from the pandemic, showing significant growth, while enrollment at the state’s public four-year universities remains largely unchanged. Preliminary data show the number of students seeking a degree or certificate at colleges rose 7.5% in a single year, from 2024 to 2025. The most notable enrollment increases occurred at colleges located in densely populated urban and suburban areas, such as Seattle Central College (part of the Seattle Colleges system) and Bellevue College. Their convenient locations in major economic centers, where students can combine study with work, and the popularity of programs in information technology, health care and workforce training—such as cybersecurity or nursing—align with local labor-market needs and attract students seeking practical skills for quick employment.

At the same time, undergraduate enrollment at four-year institutions increased only slightly, and the number of first-time freshmen actually fell by 7.5%. State policy may have influenced students’ decisions, in particular the Washington College Grant, which covers up to 100% of tuition at community colleges for low- and middle-income families, substantially lowering financial barriers. Initiatives such as tuition waivers for certain students—for example, the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship for technical fields—also encourage the choice of short-term programs that allow faster entry into the workforce. In high-cost cities like Seattle, these measures help students save on education without accumulating large debt, making community colleges a more accessible alternative to universities.

This trend comes at a challenging time for higher education, especially for community colleges. Unlike universities, they do not have large endowments and rely heavily on state funding, which has already been reduced. Because budgets and tuition revenue are directly tied to enrollment numbers, even small fluctuations in enrollment can have serious financial consequences. At the same time, policymakers continue to emphasize that postsecondary education is a key factor for earnings and competitiveness in the labor market.

Experts suggest the growth may be an early sign that more students are choosing a “mixed route”: starting at a more affordable community college and then transferring to a university to complete a degree. The increase is concentrated among students pursuing degrees or certificates, which is somewhat surprising given the popularity of dual-enrollment programs for high school students. It’s possible that the trend toward studying closer to home, which emerged during COVID-19, still persists.

The situation is complicated by demographics. Washington’s high school graduating class this year was the largest in five years, yet that increase did not translate into a corresponding rise in university freshmen. That worries officials, since university enrollment typically correlates with the number and geographic distribution of graduates. It’s possible that the increase in 12th-grade graduates is concentrated in regions where students have historically been less likely to enroll immediately in four-year universities.

Despite the encouraging college numbers, state officials caution against drawing hasty conclusions from a single year of data. Experts stress that two to three years of data are needed to identify sustained trends and form a clear picture. For now, the observed changes are only a potential signal of shifting student preferences in higher education.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA community colleges are bouncing back from the pandemic

Washington governor sets conditions for millionaire’s tax

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has for the first time laid out in detail the conditions he wants met before he will sign a bill to impose an additional tax on annual income over $1 million. He previously criticized the initial version of the bill, saying it did not do enough to help ordinary state residents, whose tax system has historically relied on regressive taxes such as the sales tax and the business & occupation (B&O) tax because of a constitutional ban on an income tax.

Ferguson now calls the senators’ revised plan “a good start,” but insists on three key conditions. He wants about $1.9 billion of the expected revenue directed to targeted support measures: provide $1 billion in tax relief for small businesses, significantly expand the Working Families Tax Credit (WFTC), and institute two annual “tax holiday” periods during which purchases up to a certain amount would be exempt from sales tax. The WFTC, modeled on the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), is a separate state priority to reduce the regressivity of the tax system and provide direct support to low-income families.

The governor said he does not support the lawmakers’ approach of funneling most of the new revenue straight into the state treasury. Instead, he proposes to “substantially increase” assistance to small businesses. He estimates the proposed relief could fully exempt about 170,000 small businesses from the B&O tax whose total revenue does not exceed $2.5 million.

Expanding the Working Families Tax Credit is another Ferguson priority. He wants to increase both the size of the payments and the number of recipients, which he estimates would cost about $380 million a year and help an additional 460,000 families. Currently about 350,000 households receive the credit.

Additionally, the governor backed senators’ proposal to exempt hygiene products from the sales tax and suggested adding diapers and other baby items to that list. He also proposes holding two “tax holiday” weekends each year: one three-day and one two-day weekend during which purchases under $1,000 would be exempt from sales tax.

Ferguson also acknowledged that some tax changes adopted last year may have gone too far and expressed support for legislative fixes. “Maybe the consequences weren’t exactly what we expected — we need to change that,” he said.

Nearly all Democratic lawmakers support the idea of a tax on ultra-high incomes, while Republicans are unanimously opposed. They criticize the bill as a first step toward imposing an income tax on all state residents and warn it could prompt wealthy citizens to leave Washington. Ferguson’s political base as a Democrat relies on progressive voters, and his stance bolsters support among left-leaning constituencies, though it may provoke opposition from business interests and affect upcoming elections.

Lawmakers have less than a month to reconcile a final version of the tax proposal, accommodate the governor’s conditions, and pass a budget supplement for 2025–27. The proposed millionaire’s tax could diversify revenue for a budget that today is funded largely by sales taxes, B&O, property taxes and excise taxes, making the system more progressive. The current legislative session ends March 12, increasing pressure to reach a compromise.

❮ ❯

Based on: Ferguson outlines his requirements for WA ‘millionaires tax’

Seattle Sports and Culture

News from Seattle: the release of a Bruce Lee postage stamp, the sale of the Seattle Seahawks, and formation of the Seattle Storm coaching staff.

"Bruce Lee Forever" stamp: how the martial arts legend united generations in Seattle

On Wednesday the historic Nippon Kan theater in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District buzzed with a sense of ceremonial anticipation. More than 150 people gathered for an event marking the first day of issue for the U.S. Postal Service’s Forever stamp featuring Chinese-American martial arts master, actor and director Bruce Lee. As The Seattle Times reports, for many attendees this was more than a new philatelic item — it was an act of national recognition of an icon whose life was closely tied to this city.

The event opened with a bright lion dance accompanied by drums, setting the tone for a celebration that blended modern tribute with traditional cultural roots. Bruce Lee, born in San Francisco in 1940 and raised in Hong Kong, moved to Seattle at 18. He studied philosophy at the University of Washington and opened his first kung fu school, the Jun Fan Gung Fu Institute, on South Weller Street. After his sudden death in 1973, Lee was buried at Lake View Cemetery. His daughter, Shannon Lee, executive director of Bruce Lee Enterprises, who spoke at the ceremony, called the stamp release the culmination of nine years of work. "You really can’t underestimate the importance of representation and being seen," she said, emphasizing the symbolic significance of the gesture for the Asian American community.

USPS Senior Vice President for Facilities and Infrastructure Ben Kuo, presenting the stamp, noted the program’s goal is to honor people, places and things that represent "the very best." To applause, a blue cloth was pulled away from the design, revealing a black-and-white portrait of Bruce Lee in his famous flying kick pose. The Forever stamp (meaning its denomination will always cover first-class postage even if rates rise) was designed by USPS art director Antonio Alcalá based on a photograph by Kam Mak. The image is intentionally slightly blurred to create a sense of motion, with a yellow brushstroke background referencing Lee’s final film, Game of Death, released in 1978. The lettering of Lee’s name, "USA" and "FOREVER" appears as if split by his kick, visually reinforcing the idea of breakthrough and power.

A sales table at the theater offered guests sheets of 20 stamps, framed art prints, commemorative collector pages and a first-day cancellation — a special postmark confirming the stamp was canceled on its release day. Yet many preferred to stay focused on the stage, listening closely to the speakers. Among them was 80-year-old Sue Ann Key, introduced as the first female student in Bruce Lee’s kung fu class. She remembered him as a "very energetic" and "always kind" person — a serious instructor and a jokester at the same time. "People ask me, ‘Wasn’t it strange to be the only girl in the class?’ But actually no, because I was pretty carefree. I was focused on the education I didn’t get in regular school," she told the audience. Key noted that Lee introduced her to tai chi at 16, as well as Chinese philosophy, acupuncture and more.

Stories like Sue Ann Key’s echoed the thoughts of many present about Bruce Lee’s role as a positive role model for Asian Americans at a time when such representation in media was extremely limited. One attendee, 58-year-old Eric Lee (a namesake), traveled with his wife from Belmont, California. He began practicing martial arts in 1978 and called Bruce Lee his idol. He was accompanied by writer Jamie Ford, a friend of Shannon Lee and a board member of the Wing Luke Museum in Seattle. Ford, citing his father — a Seattle-born Chinese man and martial arts practitioner — saw the power of Bruce Lee’s influence. "Bruce Lee broke barriers for a whole generation of artists," Ford said. "But he also changed how Asians are perceived in popular culture — in a positive, strong light." The release of the "Bruce Lee Forever" stamp in Seattle was not just a postal event but a living testament to how one person’s legacy continues to inspire, unite and reshape perceptions across time and cultures.

Sale of the Seattle Seahawks: Paul Allen’s legacy and the team’s future

Major changes are underway in professional sports. The legendary NFL club the Seattle Seahawks, having just won their second Super Bowl, has officially been put up for sale. This decision, according to a post from the team on Instagram, is dictated by the terms of the late owner’s will — Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen. Per his wishes, all his sports assets are to be sold and the proceeds directed to charity.

A Seattle native, Paul Allen purchased the Seahawks in 1997; under his stewardship the team experienced a renaissance. During his ownership Lumen Field was built, and the team enjoyed some of the greatest successes in its history, including back-to-back Super Bowl appearances in 2014 and 2015. The 2014 victory over the Denver Broncos gave the club its first NFL title. The second title, won in February after defeating the New England Patriots, marked a triumphant close to an era associated with Allen’s name. After his death in 2018, management of his estate, including sports assets, passed to his sister Jody Allen, who chairs his estate’s foundation. Her responsibilities include carrying out her brother’s last wishes: selling not only the Seattle Seahawks but also the Portland Trail Blazers (whose sale was announced in 2025 but not yet completed) and a 25% stake in Major League Soccer’s Seattle Sounders. All proceeds from these sales will go to philanthropic projects, an important part of Allen’s legacy, known for extensive charitable activity.

To manage the sale, the estate has engaged investment bank Allen & Company and law firm Latham & Watkins. This indicates the sale will be one of the largest in sports history, given the value of the Seahawks franchise — one of the most recognizable and successful brands in the NFL. It’s worth clarifying that a franchise in the NFL context is not just a team but a business asset including league membership rights, brand, stadium and commercial operations. Selling such a franchise is a complex, multifaceted process that will take considerable time.

A key insight here is the link between sporting triumph and execution of the will. The Super Bowl win undoubtedly increased the club’s marketability and value, which will ultimately enable more funds to be directed to charity. But for fans, this is a time of uncertainty. A new owner will bring new ideas, strategies and potentially changes. The question is whether a new owner can preserve the club culture Paul Allen built and continue its on-field success. The sale marks the end of an era in Seattle sports, but it also opens a new chapter in which Allen’s philanthropic mission will receive significant financial backing and the team will have a chance to grow under new leadership.

Seattle Storm finalizes coaching staff for the 2026 season

WNBA club the Seattle Storm has officially unveiled its coaching staff for the upcoming 2026 season, the first for the team’s new head coach, Sonya (Soni) Ramondino (commonly referred to here as Sonya Raman). Joining her are three new assistants: Natalie Achonwa, Jarell Christian and Michael Joyner. The move, according to the team’s press release, aims to build a strong and well-rounded coaching group capable of elevating the team.

Each assistant brings unique experience and expertise to the Storm. Natalie Achonwa is likely the biggest name of the trio for women’s basketball fans. A Canadian basketball legend, four-time Olympian (2012, 2016, 2020, 2024) and a WNBA veteran with nine seasons playing for the Indiana Fever, she is transitioning from player to coach. Her move to the Storm symbolizes a generational shift and adds someone who very recently played and understands the modern game from within. It’s important to note Achonwa already has coaching experience: the past two seasons she worked at the University of Michigan, first as a player development assistant and later as general manager and assistant. In 2025 she also helped coach Canada’s U19 national team. Her deep basketball knowledge, leadership and experience with developing young athletes will be valuable assets for the Seattle Storm. She will join the team after the college season concludes.

Jarell Christian brings extensive NBA-related experience that could be especially useful for cross-analysis of players and tactical schemes. His career is closely tied to the Boston Celtics organization. He became the first person in NBA history to work simultaneously on the Celtics’ player development coaching staff and serve as director of player development for their G League affiliate, the Maine Celtics. He later worked as a scout for the Boston Celtics, evaluating talent across multiple league levels. His top achievement as general manager of the Maine Celtics was guiding the team to three consecutive seasons with 30-plus wins — a first in franchise history. Christian previously served as an assistant with the Washington Wizards and as head coach of the Capital City Go-Go. His skills in talent evaluation, team building and data-informed understanding will be key for the Storm.

Michael Joyner completes the coaching triumvirate, bringing a reputation as a defensive specialist. For the past two years he served as an assistant with the Phoenix Mercury, responsible for player development and defensive strategy. Under his leadership the Mercury consistently ranked among the league’s top five teams in defensive rating in 2025 — a statistical measure that estimates points allowed per 100 possessions. This is direct evidence of his ability to construct effective defenses, track opponent tendencies and quickly make data-driven adjustments. An important factor is his prior work with Sonya Raman: they collaborated in the Memphis Grizzlies organization, where Joyner was a development coach and Raman an assistant. Their shared experience in scouting and building defensive systems creates an already-tested connection within the Storm staff.

Bringing together such different but complementary profiles — Achonwa’s playing and international stature, Christian’s management and scouting experience from the NBA world, and Joyner’s defensive expertise — signals Sonya Raman’s intent to assemble a balanced staff. This strategic move should help the Seattle Storm not only in tactical preparation but also in attracting talent, developing young players and building a strong team culture. For the club’s fans, it’s a sign of serious intent from the new coaching team to return the Storm to the ranks of WNBA title contenders.

❮ ❯

How to Talk to Kids About Immigration Raids: 6 Expert Tips

In light of tougher immigration enforcement in the U.S., many parents are facing a difficult question: how to explain alarming news about arrests, family separations and protests to their children. Recent incidents in the Seattle area — for example, a father detained while dropping a child off at daycare — have pushed schools and families to find ways to address the topic. It’s important to note that Seattle and the state of Washington generally follow more protective policies toward immigrants than many other parts of the country. Seattle is a “sanctuary city,” where local police typically do not cooperate with federal immigration authorities except in cases involving serious crimes. Child development specialists, therapists and lawyers offer concrete guidance to parents on how to have these conversations, whether it’s the first time or a repeat discussion.

Experts, including child psychotherapists in Seattle, advise approaching the conversation intentionally. It’s important to prepare yourself so you can be emotionally available for your child. The priority is not to frighten but to inform and support, helping children feel safe during uncertain times. Many schools in Seattle, especially in the largest district, Seattle Public Schools, have already developed specific protocols for immigration raids. Those protocols include barring immigration agents from school grounds without a warrant, procedures to protect student and family privacy, and plans for psychological support.

Before starting the conversation, parents should pause and calm themselves. Child therapist Christina Alexander, who is a mom herself, recommends managing your emotions before discussing difficult topics. For example, don’t begin the talk immediately after watching disturbing news on social media. A calm adult helps create a safe atmosphere for the child.

Choose a place where the child feels relaxed and comfortable for the conversation: at home, in a park or in a library. Seattle public libraries intentionally position themselves as neutral, safe spaces for everyone regardless of immigration status. They have a policy against immigration enforcement on their premises without a court order and provide free access to information and resources. Speak in a calm tone, without the background noise of news. Some children find it easier to talk while on a walk; others prefer a quiet activity. For neurodivergent teens who may find face-to-face contact overwhelming, a phone call from different rooms or even texting may work better.

Rather than one long, heavy talk, experts recommend several short, “bite-sized” conversations. This lets children gradually process the information and ask new questions as news develops. That approach, therapist Harmony Raveler notes, helps kids make sense of events better than one exhaustive conversation.

Follow the child’s lead: ask what they already know or have heard about immigration. This lets you correct misunderstandings. Be honest, but don’t overload children with unnecessary or frightening details they may not be ready for. Children can understand more than you might think and cope with difficult emotions if they feel supported. Parents should know that organizations in Seattle actively help families facing raids. These include the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, which provides legal assistance; the Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network, which coordinates rapid response; and Colectiva Legal del Pueblo, which works with the Latino community.

Creating a concrete safety plan helps reduce anxiety. For younger children that might be a card in their backpack with parents’ contact information; for older children, a memorized trusted adult’s address. Explain, in simple and age-appropriate language, what might happen and who will take care of them. The key message: “You are not alone; there is a plan and people who will help.”

The ultimate goal of these conversations is not to secure agreement but to strengthen emotional connection and trust. If a teen expresses an opinion different from yours, it may be a sign they feel safe enough to be honest with you. It’s important that children know they are loved, that they can argue with you, and share any feelings.

These tips are meant to help parents have difficult but necessary conversations so that when children encounter worrying information, they feel protected, understood and supported by the people closest to them.

❮ ❯

Based on: Talking to your kids about ICE activity? Experts share 6 tips

Washington proposes millionaire tax, blocking referendum

State lawmakers in Washington revived one of the state's longest-running political debates by proposing, for the first time, an income tax on its ultra-wealthy residents. The new bill, approved by the Senate, would tax annual income above $1 million, but contains a controversial legal clause that could strip voters of the right to challenge the law via referendum. That "necessity clause" has become the focal point of disagreement, sparking a parallel dispute over whether the public will get a chance to weigh in.

Under SB 6346, backed by Democrats, a 9.9% tax on adjusted gross income above the $1 million threshold would take effect on January 1, 2028. The first payments would be made in April 2029. The tax is estimated to raise about $3.5 billion annually and would affect roughly 30,000 taxpayers. At the same time, the bill would exempt more than 70% of small businesses from the state’s main business tax and increase the charitable contribution deduction.

Supporters of the tax, mostly Democrats, say it is a long-overdue measure to fix Washington’s regressive tax system. The state has no income tax, and the bulk of budget revenue comes from sales and property taxes, which place a heavier burden on middle- and low-income residents because they make up a larger share of their earnings. Wealthier residents can defer or invest portions of their income, reducing their tax burden. The millionaire tax is seen as an equitable source of funding for the state’s general needs. Critics, mostly Republicans, worry it would set a precedent for expanding taxation to people with more modest incomes and would not close the projected $4.3 billion budget shortfall.

The main sticking point is a provision in the bill declaring the new tax "necessary for the support of state government." Under Washington’s constitution, laws deemed necessary for government functioning cannot be suspended by referendum — a vote to overturn an already enacted law. That means opponents would be unable to put the law to a referendum to repeal it before it takes effect. Instead, they would have to pursue the longer and more costly people’s initiative process, which allows citizens to propose new laws or amendments by gathering signatures to place a measure on the ballot to repeal an existing law.

Senate Republican Leader John Braun said a tax that is deferred until 2028 does not meet the standard of "immediate necessity." He urged Democrats to remove the clause so the law could be challenged by referendum. A Republican amendment to remove the clause was rejected. The bill’s chief sponsor, Seattle Democratic Sen. Jamie Pedersen, a key figure in crafting tax legislation, replied that the clause does not eliminate the citizens’ initiative right and said he expects the matter will still be put to a vote in November.

The Senate approved the bill with the contested clause intact. It now moves to the House of Representatives. If passed, Washington would cease to be one of nine U.S. states without a broad wage income tax, marking a historic shift in the state’s tax policy.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA income tax ‘necessity clause’ in bill to block referendum challenge

Seattle: crash, sports and affordability

In Seattle a crane struck a power pole, causing a fire and outages. The Seahawks have hired a new coach to boost the offense. Mayor Wilson, in her first address, called affordability the city's chief challenge.

Fire and chaos in Seattle: construction crane hits power pole

On Wednesday morning the quiet Queen Anne neighborhood in Seattle became the scene of emergency response activity after a serious construction equipment incident. According to KING5.com, fire crews promptly responded to a report of a construction crane fire. Preliminary information indicates the machine collided with a power pole, producing widespread consequences.

The incident occurred in the 1200 block of Queen Anne Avenue North. Seattle Fire Department officials say the crane not only caught fire but also began leaking, creating an added threat of fire spread and possible explosion. Firefighters immediately began extinguishing the blaze, applying water to the burning machine. The most worrying detail was that one person was trapped in the crane cab. Fortunately, as rescuers later confirmed, the operator was not injured, but efforts were required to remove them from the danger zone.

To protect nearby residents, an adjacent apartment complex was urgently evacuated. The crash had serious infrastructure consequences: roughly 525 customers of Seattle City Light were left without power. Company crews were forced to respond quickly to shut down power to the damaged lines to prevent further risks related to downed wires. Such measures are standard in similar incidents to safeguard both responders on scene and the public from electrical hazards. Fuel leaking from the crane added complexity to emergency operations, as flammable liquids can lead to rapid fire spread or flare-ups.

This incident once again highlighted the potential risks associated with construction work within dense urban environments. The collapse or failure of large equipment, such as a crane, not only endangers those directly involved but can also trigger major disruptions to the city's services and require evacuations of dozens of people. The swift response by firefighters and utility crews helped prevent loss of life and likely averted more serious destruction. Still, restoring power and assessing overall damage—both structural and material—will take time. The investigation into the cause of the crash will likely focus on the crane’s technical condition, the operator’s actions, and the working conditions at the site.

Hiring of Thomas Hammock: Seahawks' new running backs coach leans on experience and ties

In the world of American football, coaching-staff moves often signal a team’s strategic plans as much as draft picks do. That is the resonance created by the news that the Seattle Seahawks are hiring a key running backs coach and senior offensive assistant with an unusual and distinguished résumé — Thomas Hammock. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Hammock, who has spent the past seven years leading the football program at his alma mater, Northern Illinois University, is returning to the NFL to join the staff of new Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald.

The hire is notable for several reasons. First, Hammock is reportedly set to become the highest-paid running backs coach in the league, underscoring the value the Seahawks place on his experience. Second, the move sheds light on Macdonald assembling his own staff based on trusted connections. Hammock and Macdonald previously worked together with the Baltimore Ravens, where Hammock served as running backs coach from 2014 to 2018. Thamel reports their prior working relationship “played a big role” in the decision. Hammock is the third former Ravens assistant to join the Seahawks this offseason, following inside linebackers coach Zach Orr and strategist Daniel Stern.

Hammock’s career is the story of a player forced into coaching and the path is impressive. A standout running back at Northern Illinois in the early 2000s (consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and All-MAC honors), he was forced to end his playing career due to a diagnosed heart condition. His love of the game, however, found expression in coaching. He rose from an assistant position in Wisconsin to running backs coach roles in Minnesota and Wisconsin, where he also served as an assistant head coach. His college successes—especially at Northern Illinois, where he led the team to the MAC title in 2021 and was named coach of the year, plus the stunning upset of highly ranked Notre Dame in 2024—demonstrate his leadership and ability to build effective schemes.

For Seahawks fans, a clarification of the term “senior offensive assistant” may be useful. This role goes beyond working with a single position group (in this case, running backs). It involves contributing to the overall offensive strategy, opponent analysis, and game-plan development. Given that Hammock was previously considered for the Seahawks’ offensive coordinator job (which ultimately went to Brian Flory of the San Francisco 49ers), his placement in an expanded role makes sense. It suggests Macdonald and the front office want to leverage his broad experience to strengthen the entire offensive phase.

The key takeaways from this hire are clear. The Seahawks are making a concerted effort to improve their running game, which was inconsistent last season. Hammock’s experience in the NFL, where he worked with talented players in Baltimore, and in college, where he built winning programs, should help players like Kenneth Walker III reach a higher level. Additionally, the hire confirms Macdonald’s preference for building a cohesive staff of familiar, trusted assistants, which could accelerate the implementation of new ideas and philosophies at the club. Hammock’s return to the NFL under these terms is recognition of his growing stature in the coaching community. For the Seahawks, it is a clear signal of intent: to build a balanced, powerful offense relying on the expertise of someone who understands the craft of running the ball from both a player’s and a coach’s perspective.

Mayor Wilson’s first address: Affordability as the city’s top challenge

In her first state-of-the-city address, Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson identified affordability as the defining challenge for the metropolis. Speaking at the Langston Hughes Cultural Center, she presented a broad agenda focused on addressing rising costs of living—from housing and homelessness to childcare and food security. Six weeks into her tenure, Wilson promised progressive change while acknowledging difficult budget choices lie ahead.

In the course of a 45-minute speech, extensively covered by KING5.com, the mayor repeatedly returned to the topic of rising costs for basic needs. “Everyone knows housing prices have gotten out of control, everyone knows rent is too high,” Wilson said, emphasizing that the situation undermines stability and the ability of residents to pursue their aspirations. Central to her address were housing and homelessness. The mayor noted an acute shortage of affordable housing, shelters, and social services, promising to add 1,000 new shelter beds this year. She also tried to strike a balance between clearing homeless encampments—deemed necessary for public safety—and minimizing harm to their inhabitants.

A key financial announcement was progress on a voter-approved social housing initiative. Social housing refers to mixed-income developments owned publicly, where permanently affordable units are intended for people across income levels, helping to avoid social segregation. Wilson reported that the Seattle City Council has approved an interagency agreement that will allow about $115 million to be directed to a developer for such housing this spring. That amount is more than twice the initially projected revenue, opening new possibilities for addressing the housing crisis.

Affordability is a broad concept that goes beyond just housing costs. Wilson expanded the agenda to include areas such as childcare and early education, which she argued should be public goods like parks or schools. She also raised the problem of grocery-store closures in several neighborhoods, including Lake City and the Central District, calling access to fresh food an essential part of urban infrastructure. As one potential solution, her administration is studying a public grocery model operated by the city or community. Local leaders, such as Lilian Ballestero of the Latino Community Fund, underscored the urgency of the issue, noting that families, small-business owners, and longtime residents are struggling to afford living in Seattle.

Describing herself as an organizer and coalition builder, the mayor urged residents to rethink what should count as essential public infrastructure. In addition to traditional assets, she argued that affordable housing, childcare centers, and grocery stores should be included. Despite the scale of the vision, Wilson acknowledged that the true test of her plans will be the upcoming budgeting process, where priorities must be set amid limited resources. For now she asks Seattleites to adopt a “discipline of hope”—to believe the city can tackle affordability without losing its unique identity.

❮ ❯

New Seattle Mayor's Priorities: Safety and Tackling Homelessness

New Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson, elected in 2025 and previously a member of the city council where she worked on transportation and housing policy, clearly set out two main priorities in her first policy speech that will define her first year in office: ensuring public safety and addressing homelessness. Speaking to a packed hall, she expressed sorrow over the recent killings of schoolchildren and acknowledged that the city's current approaches to helping the homeless cannot be called successful.

In her speech, Wilson promised to develop new strategies to combat gun violence and to create up to 1,000 new shelter beds for the homeless within the first year. She also said she intends to simplify regulations for small businesses, increase police presence in the International District/Chinatown — the historic cultural and commercial center of the Asian community — and pursue bolder housing policies to spur development across the city. Strengthening police presence in that neighborhood became a distinct priority amid rising crime and hate incidents threatening residents' and local businesses' safety.

At the core of her policy, the mayor named the so-called "accessibility agenda," a broad concept that will unite efforts in housing, childcare, food security, and small business support. According to her, the goal is to build a city that is safer and more affordable to live in, with effective municipal governance delivering tangible results.

Contrary to the "radical socialist" image ascribed to her by some conservative media, Wilson took moderate positions, emphasizing the importance of working with the business community. She approached delicate matters such as expanding citywide video surveillance and clearing makeshift homeless camps with particular caution, recognizing both the risks to vulnerable communities and the legitimate demands of families affected by violence.

The mayor does not hide the scale of the problems facing Seattle: from the number of people sleeping on the streets to the high cost of living and doing business. She pledged to tackle them with a clear understanding of the complexity of the tasks, starting with precise definitions of the problems and necessary actions before moving to implementation details.

However, the biggest challenge to delivering on these ambitious plans will be the city's strained budget. The shortfall is estimated at least $140 million, and options for raising new tax revenue, apart from a capital gains tax, are limited. Washington State has no income tax, and state law strictly limits cities' ability to impose their own taxes, making a tax on profits from asset sales one of the few available tools. Wilson acknowledged that some program cuts may be necessary.

Despite financial difficulties, the new mayor urged that discussions about large-scale changes needed to improve life in Seattle must continue. She said her team is actively working on the budget and called on residents first to define what kind of city they want in the future and only then to seek ways to achieve those goals.

❮ ❯

Based on: Katie Wilson promises shelter, focus on public safety in first year of office

Washington may stop taking benefits from youth in foster care

The Washington State Senate unanimously approved a bill that would end the long-standing practice of taking federal benefits from young people ages 18 to 21 who are in state care. If enacted, beginning in 2027 payments such as retirement, survivor, disability, and Supplemental Security Income would stay with the young people themselves instead of being redirected to the Department of Children, Youth, and Families’ (DCYF) budget. This key state agency is responsible for protecting children, supporting families, and administering the entire foster care system.

Until now, Washington, like many other states, used those funds to partially offset the costs of caring for children and youth in the foster care system. The department received about $700,000 monthly this way from roughly 750 wards of all ages. Sponsors of the bill call the practice unfair, stressing that the money rightfully belongs to the children.

The new law is intended to help young people leaving care achieve financial independence and stability. The department would be tasked with helping them choose an appropriate financial account to hold these funds. As Democratic Sen. Emily Alvarado — known for her work expanding youth access to psychiatric care and strengthening social-support programs — noted, ending the taking of benefits is a step toward greater success and opportunity for young people.

However, the current version of the bill is limited to the 18–21 age group enrolled in the extended foster care program. Unlike basic care, this program allows young people to voluntarily remain under state support until age 21, guaranteeing them housing, financial aid for education, health insurance, and transition-to-independence counseling. The compromise reflects the state’s budgetary constraints. Ending the practice for all children would cost nearly $12 million. Authors said this is just “the first step” toward broader reform.

Washington’s initiative is part of a nationwide movement. The federal government has urged 39 states that still practice taking benefits to stop, calling it an “orphan tax.” Nebraska, Kansas, Arizona, and the District of Columbia have already passed similar measures, and other states such as Colorado and Idaho have also ended the practice.

If the bill is finally enacted, it would take effect on January 1, 2027. Sponsors — senators from both parties — expressed hope that they can return to the issue in the future and extend protections to all children and youth in foster care, ending the “orphan tax” entirely.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA may stop taking funds from youth in extended foster care

Seahawks and Raiders: coaching swaps and rumors about Crosby

Seahawks lose coaches who are heading to Las Vegas with Kubiak, and are also considering a trade for star defensive end Maxx Crosby.

Seahawks as buyers: could Maxx Crosby be Seattle’s next star acquisition?

Fresh NFL market rumors are stirring Seahawks fans: according to an insider, the Seattle Seahawks could be among the leading contenders to acquire Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby in a trade. After winning the Super Bowl, the team is obviously aiming to reinforce the roster to repeat its success, and such a high-profile addition would be in line with their aggressive strategy in recent years.

On his podcast The Breer Report, Sports Illustrated senior reporter Albert Breer said that more than a quarter of the league is already circling the possibility of a Crosby trade, and among the most interested teams he sees two clubs that recently met in the final — the Seahawks and the New England Patriots. Both teams are led by coaches with defensive mindsets, for whom a player of Crosby’s caliber would be a valuable asset. Breer recalled that the Seahawks have precedent for aggressive moves during a “championship window”: during the legendary Legion of Boom era the franchise actively acquired experienced veterans like Percy Harvin, Cliff Avril and Michael Bennett to bolster an already-strong roster. “It wouldn’t be a surprise if general manager John Schneider went down that road again,” Breer noted in a piece for Seattle Sports. He also added that Crosby, who “would fit any defense,” would be particularly effective in the scheme of Seattle’s new defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald.

However, any potential deal would come with a high price. “The idea of getting Maxx Crosby is obviously tempting for many teams, and the Raiders may demand huge compensation for him,” the insider warned. Crosby, who will turn 29 next season, recorded 10 sacks in 15 games last season, but the Raiders had a catastrophic 3-14 season under Pete Carroll. Crosby finished the year on injured reserve after knee surgery and, according to Breer, had strained relations with the club. New Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak, a former Seahawks offensive coordinator, tried to reach out to the player, but that hasn’t stopped trade rumors, especially amid an ongoing rebuild in Vegas after four consecutive losing seasons. For the Seahawks, such a move would be a clear signal of intent to maximize the current championship cycle by adding a proven, elite-level player to an already-formidable defense.

Seattle Seahawks continue losing staff: Rick Dennison heading to Las Vegas

The Seahawks’ coaching staff continues to see departures, and this time the team is losing run-game coordinator and senior offensive advisor Rick Dennison. According to CBSSports.com, he will join the Las Vegas Raiders, where Klint Kubiak is now the head coach. This is already the second Seahawks offensive assistant to head to Nevada following Kubiak, creating serious challenges for the Super Bowl champions striving to preserve their core.

Dennison’s departure — his exact role with the Raiders has not yet been announced — was not a surprise to insiders. He has longstanding professional and personal ties with the Kubiak family. Dennison played for and coached under Klint’s father, Gary Kubiak, with the Denver Broncos, and later worked alongside Klint in Minnesota and New Orleans before joining him in Seattle in 2025. The Raiders have already announced the hiring of Seahawks quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko as offensive coordinator. Thus, new Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak, who served as Seattle’s offensive coordinator last season, is deliberately building a staff of familiar assistants, a common practice in the NFL when coaches change jobs.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald is reportedly hoping to maintain as much stability in the offensive staff as possible despite Kubiak’s departure. At present, key assistants still with the team appear to include offensive line coach John Benton, run-game specialist Justin Outten and passing-game coordinator Jake Peetz. Moreover, the club showed resolve by denying the Raiders permission to interview Outten for a similar position. In the NFL, teams have the right to block assistants from taking lateral moves to other clubs, and the Seahawks exercised that right. As a replacement for Kubiak, the Seahawks have already hired Brian Fleury, former tight ends coach and run-game coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers. All these personnel moves, reported by The Seattle Times, are happening in the wake of the Seahawks’ second straight Super Bowl triumph, which makes the team particularly attractive to coaching talent. The departures of Kubiak’s staff members present Macdonald with the task not only of finding worthy replacements but also of ensuring continuity of the successful system that brought the team to the top.

Appointment in Las Vegas: Seahawks QB coach Andrew Janocko becomes Raiders offensive coordinator

The NFL coaching carousel continues to spin, and the Seattle Seahawks are at its epicenter. While the club intends to hire a new offensive coordinator, it is losing one of its key assistants. Andrew Janocko, the Seahawks’ quarterbacks coach, is leaving to take the offensive coordinator position with the Las Vegas Raiders. This hire reunites Janocko with Klint Kubiak, the Raiders’ new head coach, with whom he has worked multiple times.

According to reports from NFL Network and ESPN, which first broke the news, Janocko’s move to Las Vegas is expected imminently. Notably, this decision came just hours after reports that the Seahawks had agreed to hire Brian Fleury, the 49ers’ run-game coordinator and tight ends coach, for the vacant offensive coordinator role. Thus, both clubs nearly simultaneously secured key coaches for their offensive staffs. Janocko was one of four internal Seahawks candidates for a promotion, interviewing late in the week. However, the opportunity to work with Kubiak again apparently outweighed staying. Their professional paths are closely intertwined: they worked together in New Orleans in 2022, when Kubiak was offensive coordinator and Janocko was quarterbacks coach. Earlier, from 2019 to 2021, they were both on the Minnesota Vikings’ staff, and in the 2021 season, when Kubiak was the offensive coordinator, Janocko coached the quarterbacks. That long-standing connection was clearly a deciding factor, as noted in a report for Seattle Sports.

For context, the offensive coordinator (OC) is one of the most important positions on a coaching staff. This coach is responsible for designing the team’s overall offensive strategy, game plans and play-calling concepts. He directly influences how the team operates with the ball in its hands, aiming to score points. The quarterbacks coach is a more specialized role, focusing on technique, defensive reads and the overall development of players at that key position. Janocko’s move to OC in Las Vegas is a significant career step up, giving him much greater authority and responsibility for the entire offense.

This move is part of a broader coaching exchange between the Seahawks and Raiders that began when Klint Kubiak left Seattle to become Las Vegas’s head coach after the Super Bowl win. The Raiders also pursued other Seahawks assistants: they interviewed wide receivers coach Frisman Jackson for an OC role and safety coach Jeff Howard for defensive coordinator. Moreover, ESPN reported that the Seahawks even blocked the Raiders’ request to interview Justin Outten, the run-game specialist, illustrating how highly Seattle values its staff. Ultimately, the Raiders chose to promote from within, elevating defensive line coach Rob Leonard to defensive coordinator.

For the Seahawks, losing Janocko — despite hiring Fleury — is the loss of an experienced coach who spent seven years in Minnesota and also worked with teams like Tampa Bay and Chicago. His experience with quarterbacks, including likely work developing Seattle’s young star, will now be used by a direct conference rival. For the Raiders, it’s an opportunity to get a trusted coach who understands Kubiak’s philosophy and system, which should speed up building Las Vegas’s offensive scheme. Ahead of the new season, these staffing decisions could materially affect the balance of power both within the division and across the AFC.

❮ ❯

Rare Agreement: Washington Gun-Permit Law to Get Privacy Amendment

In Washington state's political landscape, where gun debates usually sharply divide Republicans and Democrats, a notable event has occurred. The state House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved (95–1) a bipartisan bill. Its aim is to protect the privacy of personal data of citizens who, starting in 2027, will be required to obtain a special permit to purchase a firearm.

House Bill 2235, introduced by state Representative Jim Walsh with the backing of state Senator Liz Berry, both Democrats who are active in public safety legislation, exempts from public disclosure records related to the new permitting system. These include documents such as training certificates and materials from applicants' background checks. The measure extends to the new permits the same privacy rules that already apply to applications for a Concealed Pistol License (CPL), which requires background checks, meeting the age threshold, and absence of certain convictions. Walsh argues that without such protections the permit law could infringe on the constitutional right to bear arms, since public disclosure of data could deter some buyers.

A key argument for the amendment was protecting vulnerable populations. As an example, the bill’s sponsors cited a situation in which a person leaving an abusive relationship wants to buy a gun for self-defense. Without a public-records exemption, their personal information, including name and address, could potentially be obtained by a stalker through an official request. Democrats supporting the initiative view this as fixing an unintended loophole, not as a change in gun-control policy.

The bill, which its sponsors call a "technical fix," now moves to the state Senate. It’s important to note that the amendment preserves access to protected records for law enforcement and courts in cases authorized by law. Thus, a rare bipartisan consensus was reached around a narrow but important privacy issue within a broader and contentious law.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA’s gun permit law may get a bipartisan tweak

In Washington, lawmakers want to require employers to warn immigrant workers about inspections

The Washington State House of Representatives has approved a bill that would require local employers to notify immigrant employees in advance about planned federal checks of their documents. The initiative, called the "Immigrant Worker Protection Act," was passed on Friday and will now be considered by the State Senate. Under the bill, workers must be notified within 72 hours after the employer receives official notice from immigration authorities.

The bill also prohibits employers from obstructing employees' rights under the new rules or retaliating against them. The bill’s authors and supporters, mostly Democrats, insist that it will not interfere with federal immigration enforcement but will only provide transparency. They emphasize the economic importance of immigrants to the state, who, making up 15% of the population, generate about 21% of its economic output.

The initiative was a response to an increase in workplace raids during President Donald Trump's administration. The Joe Biden administration reduced such raids, shifting the focus to pressuring employers. The bill’s chief sponsor, Democratic Representative Lillian Ortiz-Self, who represents the 33rd Legislative District, is actively involved in drafting laws on social justice and workers' rights. She explains that checks often reveal inadvertent document errors among legal immigrants, and the new law will give them time to fix everything. She also notes that the measure is intended to reduce the high level of stress in immigrant communities, where people are "terrified" even at the prospect of having to renew their documents.

Republicans in the House opposed the bill, saying it places employers "in the crossfire" between state authorities and the federal government. They argue the initiative undermines the enforcement of federal immigration laws. Republicans had previously blocked a similar proposal.

The bill passed largely along party lines: 56 Democrats voted "yes," while 36 Republicans and two Democrats voted "no." The political balance in the state legislature, where the Democratic Party currently holds majorities in both chambers, increases the chances of such progressive initiatives succeeding because they align with the party platform. The measure now goes to the State Senate, where its fate will be decided in the near future. Similar laws requiring employers to warn workers about inspections are already in effect in several states, including California, Oregon and Illinois.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA House passes bill to warn immigrant workers about ICE action

A School Lion Dance: How Seattle Celebrates the Lunar New Year

For nearly two decades, the dance troupe at Dearborn Park International Elementary in Seattle has been putting on vibrant performances to mark the Lunar New Year. The public school, an International Baccalaureate program, is known not only for its shows but also for its multicultural approach to education, emphasis on global citizenship and diverse student body. Their program, which includes traditional lion and dragon dances and fan dances, has become so popular that requests from other district schools start coming in as early as September, and not all can be accommodated.

Last week students and parents gathered in the school cafeteria to see the festive performance celebrating the upcoming Lunar New Year, which marks the start of a 15-day spring festival. This year, according to the Chinese zodiac, it is the Year of the Horse. The holiday, actively supported across the city, is celebrated by billions of people in China, Korea, Mongolia, Vietnam and other countries. Seattle’s largest public celebration is the annual festival in the International District, the historic center of the Asian American community, with a parade, street fair and cultural performances that draw thousands. That same neighborhood is home to organizations that support these traditions, such as the Wing Luke Museum of Asian American Art, dim sum shops and cultural centers.

At the heart of the long-running program is music teacher Helen Zhou, who founded the troupe in 2000. It started modestly: she sewed costumes herself and rented a lion head from a local shop like those in the International District. Now the group has a rich wardrobe, supplemented in part by parent donations.

Zhou, a graduate of Nanjing Normal University, says the school’s multicultural environment — where almost half the students are of Asian descent — gave her a “fertile ground” for creativity. The school is located in the Beacon Hill neighborhood, one of Seattle’s most diverse, which helps foster a strong sense of community. She loves teaching children, many of whom are newly arrived immigrants, not only to dance but to learn about each other’s cultures through dance, and sometimes to gain a deeper understanding of their own. The program aligns directly with Seattle Public Schools’ goals for multicultural education, promoting respect for diversity and global awareness.

The troupe’s repertoire blends classical and contemporary elements. Zhou listens to students’ wishes and, following trends, added an energetic K-pop routine to the lineup several years ago, personally decorating the costumes with rhinestones.

Children of many backgrounds and abilities participate. Eleven-year-old Tru Pollard, for example, joined three years ago after Zhou noticed him doing handstands. He now believes the dance moves have helped him in basketball and baseball, and have also made him kinder and expanded his circle of friends.

Parents greatly appreciate Zhou’s work. Tru’s mother, Michaia Pollard, notes that the school, which is bilingual, already offers wonderful opportunities, and the dance program helps children understand and celebrate other cultures through art, which she calls a “beautiful blessing.” Such bilingual immersion programs — including Spanish, Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese — are fairly common in Seattle schools and popular.

For the young performers themselves, the shows are both joy and nerves. Ten-year-old Paris Liu, who has taken part in the show for three years, admits that performing at her own school is even more nerve-wracking than on tour because familiar faces are watching. But once she steps on stage, the fear fades.

Preparing for the annual show is labor-intensive. Rehearsals begin in October, take place before and after school, and some children even give up recess to perfect moves. The tradition has brought together not only current students but also alumni and parents who help with costumes and logistics.

The troupe’s performances have inspired other schools as well. Rising Star Elementary principal Huyen Lam, a former colleague of Zhou, compares their show to a Las Vegas production because of the elaborate costumes and numbers. For her students, many of whom have Vietnamese and Chinese roots, it’s a chance to proudly see kids who look like them onstage and realize, “I can do that too.”

When Lunar New Year celebrations wind down, Dearborn Park International’s dance group will begin preparing for the next multicultural festival, which will feature dances from around the world, including Mexican and Filipino numbers. Their mission — to unite through dance — continues.

❮ ❯

Based on: Dancing into the Lunar New Year

Washington Senate approves tax on millionaires

The Washington state Senate on Monday approved a bill to create the state’s first-ever income tax, targeting residents with annual incomes over $1 million. Until now, Washington had been one of nine U.S. states that never enacted a state-level income tax. That historic situation dates back to the Progressive Era in the early 20th century, when voters adopted a constitutional amendment requiring a uniform property tax rate, which indirectly blocked the creation of a graduated income tax. The state Supreme Court repeatedly ruled such a tax unconstitutional. After more than three hours of debate, the bill passed by a margin of 27 to 22. The tax rate will be 9.9% on income above $1 million per year, and collections are expected to begin in 2028, bringing in about $3.5 billion annually.

Supporters of the bill, mostly Democrats, say it restores fairness to a tax system with a wide gap between rich and poor. Senator Lisa Wellman said the tax does not punish wealthy people but simply ensures contributions are proportional to ability. She emphasized that revenues from the tax will provide stable funding for schools across the state.

Opponents of the bill, Republicans, called it the largest tax increase of the century and argued it is unconstitutional and will harm the economy. Senator Chris Gildon warned that taxable individuals might simply move to another state. Notably, three Democrats joined Republicans in voting against it, indicating divisions even within the ruling party.

Two key amendments were added during debate. One, offered by Senator Marco Liias, expands tax relief for small businesses and eliminates the sales tax on retail services (except advertising). The other amendment, from bill sponsor Jamie Pedersen, makes technical clarifications regarding pass-through companies.

Under the bill’s text, 7% of all collected funds will be directed to a new account to finance public defender services in cities and counties. This is intended to address chronic local underfunding that leads to overburdened defenders, court delays, and violations of the right to counsel. The new system will create centralized state funding with uniform standards, replacing a fragmented local system where the quality of defense depended heavily on a county’s wealth. The remaining money will go to the state general fund and be used to fund social services, primarily K–12 and higher education.

Governor Bob Ferguson, who previously supported the idea of a millionaire’s tax, criticized the original version of the bill for insufficient tax relief. In a statement Monday, he said the current version is moving in the right direction but urged that “significantly more” revenue be directed back to working families and small businesses.

The bill now moves to the Washington State House of Representatives. The legislative session ends March 12, so supporters and opponents have little time. Bill sponsor Senator Pedersen expects the issue will be placed on a referendum in November so voters can make the final decision. In Washington, voters frequently decide major issues through direct democracy—several ballot initiatives on taxes, the environment, and civil rights typically appear at each election, as was the case with the legalization of same-sex marriage and marijuana.

❮ ❯

Based on: ‘Millionaires tax’ clears WA Senate

Tears of Pride: Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Set Moves Puerto Ricans in Seattle

While Seattle celebrated the Seahawks’ Super Bowl victory — an event that in 2014 united the city and bolstered local pride — for many residents the main moment wasn’t the sport but the halftime show. Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny used the world’s biggest stage to deliver a passionate, uncompromising “love letter” to his native island, sung entirely in Spanish.

His performance was filled with powerful cultural and political symbols: from references to sugar plantations to dancers on exploding electric poles, illustrating Puerto Rico’s chronic energy crisis. It was a bold act of “decentralization,” challenging the usual American narrative.

Although only about 24,000 people of Puerto Rican descent live in the Seattle metropolitan area, pride in Bad Bunny’s performance was felt just as strongly here. For the diaspora it became a moment of deep recognition and cultural visibility within the city’s diverse Latino community, where Mexican culture has historically been dominant.

Meralys Rosario Lopez, who moved to Seattle from Puerto Rico, admitted the viewing brought her to tears. The images of the energy crisis reminded her of the aftermath of Hurricane Maria in 2017, after which her mother died. For her, singing in Spanish is an act of resistance against U.S. assimilation pressures.

The historical context matters: Puerto Rico remains an unincorporated U.S. territory, its residents are U.S. citizens without the right to vote in presidential elections. Colonial legacy, resource and labor exploitation have led to deep structural problems, low wages and a high cost of living on the island.

At Lenox in Belltown — once an industrial neighborhood and now one of Seattle’s most vibrant and expensive areas, attracting innovative establishments — chef-owner Jhonny Reyes hosted a special viewing. He says he also felt “tears of pride” watching the crowd wave flags and sing along with Bad Bunny. His restaurant, offering modern Puerto Rican cuisine using local ingredients, has become a vivid example of Seattle’s innovative gastronomic scene that values both quality and cultural authenticity.

The statistics confirm the phenomenal success: the halftime show drew 128 million viewers, even more than the game itself (125 million). Bad Bunny, Spotify’s most popular artist, became a global ambassador for Puerto Rican culture, declaring: “Puerto Rico is here.”

Reyes notes that when he first opened Lenox, many in Seattle knew little about Puerto Rican cuisine, often confusing it with Mexican food. Now his restaurant has become a cultural hub for the diaspora, drawing people from many miles away to taste a piece of home, reflecting the growing interest in the regional diversity of Latino cuisines in the city.

As Rosario Lopez summarizes, seeing worldwide recognition for an artist like Bad Bunny gives her hope. Despite all the hardships, this performance gave Puerto Ricans around the world a sense that their time has come and that they have opportunities to grow.

❮ ❯

Based on: Puerto Ricans in Seattle shed ‘tears of pride’ during Bad Bunny’s show

Seattle: sports and weather

Seattle Seahawks celebrate a past victory and prepare for the offseason, while city residents should expect cool weather with a chance of lowland snow.

Re-airing the triumph: Seahawks Super Bowl to air again on the radio on Presidents Day

For Seattle Seahawks fans who still fondly recall the brightest moment in the club’s history, a great opportunity is coming to relive that triumph. This coming Monday, observed in the U.S. as Presidents Day, radio station Seattle Sports has prepared a special gift — a full re-broadcast of the victorious Super Bowl XLVIII.

The broadcast will begin at 10 a.m. and run until 4 p.m. local time, covering not only the game itself but also the celebratory moments after the final whistle. The broadcast can be heard on 710 AM and via the Seattle Sports mobile app. This is not just a game recording but a full immersion in that momentous day. Fans will once again hear the legendary calls of Steve Raible, analysis from Dave Wyman, and sideline reports by Jen Mueller. Of special value is the postgame show, which will include archival footage of the Lombardi Trophy presentation, emotional interviews with players and coaches, and breakdowns from former NFL stars like Michael Bumpus, Ray Roberts, Paul Moyer and Brice (Brian) Walters.

As noted in the Seattle Sports announcement, this retro broadcast is a great way for a new generation of fans to get acquainted with the team’s glorious past, and for long-time supporters to relive the unforgettable emotions of the 43–8 rout of the New England Patriots (the article lists the score as 29–13, which appears to be an error, since the actual final of Super Bowl XLVIII was 43–8 in favor of the Seahawks). For reference: the Lombardi Trophy is the main prize awarded to the Super Bowl winner, named after legendary coach Vince Lombardi. A broadcast of this format underscores how sports media build community and maintain a connection with audiences by using historic achievements as cultural assets. While the current Seahawks roster prepares for new goals — as hinted by links about contracts and the search for an offensive coordinator at the end of the original article — this retrospective serves as a reminder of the foundation on which the club’s spirit is built and unites fans of different generations around a shared glorious history.

What’s next for the Seahawks? A critical offseason after the Super Bowl

The champagne from the Super Bowl LX victory has been drunk and the champions’ parade in Seattle has passed, but for the Seattle Seahawks perhaps the most important offseason in recent years now begins. The triumph achieved under coach Mike MacDonald with a young roster and the slogan “M.O.B. Ties” (Mission Over Bull—ties) was the culmination of an incredible season. However, as NFL history shows, staying at the top is harder than getting there. The club now faces a dual challenge: retain the championship core under a tight salary cap and avoid the notorious “championship hangover” experienced by many teams, including the Los Angeles Rams.

As noted in an ESPN analysis, the Seahawks have a solid foundation for attempting to repeat their success. Most players from one of the league’s youngest rosters remain under contract. But it’s too early to relax. The team is already searching for a new offensive coordinator after Clint Kubiak left to become head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. It’s likely the vacancy will be filled from within to avoid disrupting the successful system that showcased quarterback Sam Darnold. The main challenges, however, are financial. Although Over the Cap lists the Seahawks with over $60 million in effective salary-cap space (sixth in the league), that money will be spent quickly. Key defensive players — cornerbacks Josh Jobe and Rick Woolen, safety Kobe Bryant, outside linebacker Boye Mafe — are either approaching free agency or deserve major contract extensions. No less pressing are the situations of two team stars: receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigbo and cornerback Devon Weatherspoon, who are already eligible for significant contract upgrades. The offense could also lose two of last season’s most important figures — running back Kenneth Walker III, Super Bowl MVP, and return specialist Rashid Shahid — both of whom will be free agents. Walker, who played all 20 games after dealing with injuries last year, became a savior after Zach Charbonneau’s injury, and his return is critical, especially since Charbonneau is likely to miss the first half of next season.

The Seahawks’ defense, the league’s best in points allowed last season, risks being picked apart by wealthier clubs. General manager John Schneider, who has constructed two different Super Bowl-winning rosters 12 years apart, will need to perform delicate work. The situation is worsened by scarce draft capital: due to the trade for Shahid, the Seahawks will have only four picks in April (in the first, second, third and sixth rounds). That will require either brilliant scouting or trades. Meanwhile, amid all this, reports suggest the club may be put up for sale. But players believe the M.O.B. mentality cultivated by MacDonald will help them reset. As safety Julian Love said, many felt sadness after the final whistle: “I can’t believe it’s over.” He recalled the team ritual of hanging the helmet of each beaten opponent on a pole in the headquarters’ auditorium. After the Super Bowl, the team’s Twitter account posted a photo of that pole with the Patriots’ helmet at the top. “Now we have to climb that mountain again,” Love concluded. For the Seattle Seahawks, a new ascent begins now, and the first step in this critical offseason will be the hardest.

Seattle weather forecast: Lowland winter mix possible on Monday

Residents of Seattle and surrounding areas should prepare for cool and unsettled weather early in the week. On Monday, lowland areas may see brief snow mixed with rain, while the mountains are expected to receive more significant snowfall.

Meteorologists at FOX 13 Seattle warn that an approaching atmospheric front combined with cold surface air will create conditions for a “wintry mix” — a blend of snow, rain and wet snow — in the lowlands on Monday. As noted in the FOX 13 Seattle forecast, the snow level will drop very low, to around 60–150 meters (200–500 feet). However, significant accumulations are not expected in densely populated areas around Puget Sound, such as Seattle itself — precipitation will most likely appear as “granular rain” or melt on contact with the ground. There is a small chance of a light dusting of snow around 2.5 cm (1 inch) for areas like Hoquiam, Crescent Lake and Hood Canal.

Meanwhile, the mountains tell a different story. Snow accumulations of 7.5–15 cm (3–6 inches) are forecast as early as Monday, and snowfall may continue through the week. That makes travel across mountain passes and east of the Cascades potentially difficult, so drivers are advised to monitor road conditions. Temperatures on Monday will remain low, with highs barely reaching +4...+5°C (low 40s °F), below seasonal norms.

The outlook for the week is unsettled. Periods of cold rain and wintry mix are expected, especially in the mornings when freezing is possible. Warming to highs around +10°C (near 50°F) with typical rainy showers is forecast only by next weekend. Thus, residents should be prepared for capricious winter weather with some snow, which is unlikely to produce major urban snowdrifts but will require caution on the roads, especially in mountain areas.

❮ ❯

Night rescue operation in the Olympic Mountains

On Sunday, rescue teams carried out a complex eight-hour operation to evacuate two injured hikers from Mount Ellinor in the Olympic Mountains. The victims were a 51-year-old woman and a 16-year-old teenager, who each fell separately into the same icy avalanche chute on a popular but hazardous winter route. Early reports indicated the woman might have suffered serious injuries, including a suspected internal bleed.

The rescue faced significant challenges. The first attempt to evacuate the pair by helicopter was aborted due to adverse weather. As a result, the injured had to wait several hours for help in cold conditions. It was not until about 9:30 p.m. that they were lifted aboard a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter, which is often used in such operations in coastal areas because of its specialized equipment and round-the-clock readiness, especially when other aviation services may be unavailable. The helicopter transported them to safety.

Both hikers were taken to Olympia Regional Airport and from there transported by ambulance to Providence St. Peter Hospital. Fortunately, their injuries were not serious. The woman, who later identified herself on social media as teacher Kelly Hilliard Hamblin, thanked the rescuers and noted that the injured teenager, despite his own condition, tried to help her.

Rescuers emphasized that the successful outcome resulted from coordinated work among several teams, including a Mason County sheriff’s special unit and volunteers from Olympic Mountain Rescue. This volunteer group of experienced mountaineers operates on a nonprofit basis, supplementing government resources with their specialized skills for working in difficult mountain terrain. Authorities also used the opportunity to remind hikers of the need for proper gear, experience, and avalanche-safety knowledge when attempting challenging winter routes in the mountains.

❮ ❯

Based on: Night mission rescues 2 injured hikers from Olympic Mountains

Seattle May Ban Construction of New Jails

Seattle City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rink has introduced an emergency bill that would impose a one-year moratorium on building any new large jails or detention centers within the city. The move is a direct response to information that appeared on an official website in December suggesting the federal government might plan a 1,500-bed immigrant detention center in Seattle.

The bill itself is written in broad terms: it would prohibit for one year not only new facilities but also "major" expansions of existing ones, whether run by government agencies or private companies. That wide wording, Rink explains, is intended to strengthen the city's legal position and avoid accusations of deliberately targeting federal authorities — accusations that have previously led to similar laws being struck down in other states.

The initiative reflects Seattle's firm stance as a "welcoming city." That status means the city seeks to support immigrants, including those undocumented, through local laws and services — limiting police cooperation with federal immigration authorities, providing access to municipal services regardless of status, and offering integration programs. Rink says detention centers are "places where serious harm is inflicted." Her concerns are bolstered by conditions at a nearby facility in Tacoma, where, according to advocates, conditions have worsened and three detainees recently filed a lawsuit alleging abuse.

Rink's office has received numerous calls from residents urging them to block any federal attempts to increase immigration enforcement. Seattle is not alone in this push: similar moratoriums on building new jails were recently adopted by the city councils of SeaTac, Kansas City (Missouri), and Wyandotte County (Kansas). Coordination among these diverse cities is based not on geographic proximity but on shared political or strategic goals, such as participation in national networks on social justice or immigrant support.

The proposed one-year moratorium would give city officials time to fully assess the impacts of new detention facilities on infrastructure and public interests. Although plans for the federal center remain hypothetical for now, Seattle leaders intend to use this legal tool to preemptively block such a possibility.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle lawmaker wants to ban new detention centers, jails

Triumph Despite Illness: Handler with Parkinson's Wins Top U.S. Dog Show

At the prestigious Westminster dog show in New York, 67-year-old Andy Linton, who is battling Parkinson's disease, experienced a miracle. Under the bright lights, the symptoms that had made his movements stiff seemed to vanish, and he felt 30 years younger as he led a four-year-old Doberman named Penny around the ring. For Linton, this performance was one of the best of his half-century career.

Andy knew that because of his declining health this Westminster would likely be his last. So when later that evening Penny was announced the winner among 2,500 dogs, it was a staggering final note. The crowd erupted in applause as Linton bent down to embrace his champion. He called the moment the greatest career ending one could dream of.

The dream of winning at Westminster again had sustained him for more than two years, ever since he first saw Penny, even as his own speech slowed and his fiancée was diagnosed with cancer. A major obstacle arose on the way to the show: because of severe cold, an airline refused to transport the dog. Winters in Washington state, especially in its eastern areas, can dip well below zero, prompting airlines to ban animal transport because of the risk to their health in unheated cargo holds. So his fiancée rented an SUV and drove Linton and Penny herself from Washington state in the northwest all the way to New York, sleeping overnight at gas stations along the route. That trip, unlike a hypothetical journey to the U.S. capital Washington, spanned thousands of kilometers across the continent.

The support in Madison Square Garden was incredible. Penny’s co-owner and longtime friend of Linton, Francis Sparagna, described how their supporters shouted and jumped for joy. The emotional reaction was a tribute not only to the win but to the decades Linton had devoted to the dog-show world, building strong relationships. The active dog‑show community in Washington state, known for shows in Seattle, Spokane and other centers, had always backed him.

Linton, raised in San Diego, hadn’t planned on a life in shows. Everything changed at 14 when he was given a Doberman and encouraged to enter it in a competition. His first dog, Felicia, took second place, and the young man was hooked. That passion defined the course of his life.

He began working as an assistant to professional handlers, and by age 20 he was running his own business. Over decades Linton became one of the most experienced and successful specialists in his field, traveling the country with dogs. A move from California to Washington 20 years ago to be closer to his daughter opened new opportunities for his career thanks to a developed but less competitive dog‑show scene in the region and a lower cost of living. He credits the secret of his success not to special tricks but to simple principles: happiness, gratitude and trust in his charges.

His first Westminster win came in 1989 with a Doberman named Indy. At the peak of his career Linton handled more than 30 dogs a week at shows, and his kennel in San Diego housed up to 15 animals. After moving to Washington he continued his work, finding support in local dog clubs in Seattle suburbs and rural areas like the Skagit Valley.

At 65 he noticed his movement and speech becoming clumsy, and doctors diagnosed Parkinson's disease. Linton kept the diagnosis from most people and threw himself into work with Penny — a promising but stubborn puppy he had been entrusted to make a champion. Training became his salvation, distracting him from thoughts of illness.

Gentle Penny, who loved to rest her head on his knee, supported Linton as his condition worsened and his fiancée underwent cancer treatment. Late last year, feeling the twilight of his career, he decided to reveal the truth about his health. The community’s support, he said, spread “like a wildfire” — a comparison with particular resonance for Washington state residents who regularly face destructive wildfires — and it was overwhelming.

In the Westminster ring Penny showed all the qualities of an ideal Doberman. But the biggest surprise for Linton was his own body: a rush of adrenaline and dopamine temporarily returned his youth and suppleness. The audience applauded not only the champion dog but also the years of Linton’s “magic” working with animals.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA handler Andy Linton wins Westminster Dog Show despite health issues

Hospital attack and new Seahawks coach

In Seattle a patient rampaged through a hospital, threatening an explosion. And the Seattle Seahawks have hired a new offensive coordinator with unique experience from San Francisco.

Brian Fleury hire: how San Francisco experience and an unusual background shape the Seahawks' new offense

Despite initial statements about wanting to maintain continuity, Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald made a surprising move by choosing an offensive coordinator from outside the club. He hired Brian Fleury, who spent the past seven years in the San Francisco 49ers organization under Kyle Shanahan. This appointment, reports The Seattle Times, in a sense still ensures continuity: the offensive scheme brought to Seattle by the previous coordinator, Clint Kubiak, is largely based on Shanahan’s philosophy. Thus Fleury, deeply immersed in that system, becomes a logical, if external, successor.

Macdonald’s decision is interesting because Fleury has no experience as an on-field play-calling offensive coach in college or the NFL. However, his career path is unusually varied. He began as a quality control coach with the Buffalo Bills in 2013, then worked with linebackers in Cleveland, and spent three years in analytics and research on Adam Gase’s staff in Miami. In San Francisco he also started in defensive quality control, then moved to offensive quality control, and only in 2022 did he lead the tight ends group, adding the title of run-game coordinator this season. This unique background, which includes playing quarterback in college, gives him a particular perspective on the game. As Fleury himself told The Athletic in 2022, his quarterbacking experience helps him understand Shanahan’s timing and logic in building plays, while his years working on defense allow him to see opponents’ weaknesses. 49ers star tight end George Kittle praised this approach, saying Fleury “knows absolutely everything about offense” and that his detail on every play is invaluable. Kittle’s reaction to Fleury leaving for Seattle on X was telling — a single word: “Sad.”

For the Seahawks, this hire means the basic offensive system that produced a league-leading 483 points last season and a Super Bowl title will likely remain intact. Its cornerstone is the outside zone — a rushing scheme in which blockers move laterally while the running back looks for a cutback lane. After a difficult start last season Seattle’s running game picked up steam, and by the end of the regular season the team averaged 171 rushing yards per game, ranking 10th in the league. Hiring Fleury signals a desire to build on that success. He also already has working relationships with key figures in Seattle: he crossed paths with quarterback Sam Darnold in San Francisco, worked two years with current Seahawks offensive line coach John Benton, and in 2023 was a colleague of Kubiak himself. That increases the chances Macdonald can keep the coaching staff core, one of his goals. Evidence of this is the club blocking assistant Justin Outten’s move to the Las Vegas Raiders following Kubiak’s departure.

Challenges for Fleury are clear. He must fill the large void left by Kubiak, under whom the Seahawks’ offense became one of the most productive in the league. Lack of experience as an on-field play-caller in real-game conditions is always a risk. But Fleury’s diverse experience — combining analytics, defensive work, and deep knowledge of Shanahan’s system — could be his strength. As he explained, understanding what the quarterback sees and thinks, along with knowledge of defensive schemes, makes player instruction more effective. In hiring Fleury, the Seahawks are betting not on a big name but on deep systemic knowledge and a unique synthetic approach to the game, hoping it will allow them not only to preserve but to amplify their recent triumph.

Man who destroyed emergency department and attacked hospital staff arrested in Seattle

A shocking incident in downtown Seattle injured medical workers and caused extensive property damage at one of the city’s major hospitals. A 29-year-old man was arrested in the morning after he trashed a trauma room, started a fire, and attacked nurses and security guards. The case, detailed in the official police report on the SPD Blotter site, raises urgent questions about safety in medical facilities and mental health issues.

The incident occurred at Harborview Medical Center (HMC) at about 10:15 a.m. Patrol officers responded to a call about a patient who was wreaking havoc in the trauma room. According to the police report, in the room where the suspect was located “it appeared that absolutely everything was overturned or scattered, while staff and security attempted to deal with him.” The situation escalated to extreme danger when the man managed to open a direct medical oxygen line and ignite a bucket of medical equipment. A ruptured oxygen line in the presence of open flame created a direct explosion risk in the heart of the hospital. Medical oxygen is a combustion-supporting gas, and its leak in an enclosed space near a flame can lead to detonation. Hospital staff and security showed exceptional courage, managing to restrain the aggressor and prevent catastrophe.

Investigators found that the patient had been admitted to HMC the previous evening with a wrist injury. After being treated and prepared for discharge, the man became enraged. His aggression included throwing objects, spitting at, and kicking nurses and security staff. He also fashioned an improvised noose from plastic tubing and threatened to kill himself. After his arrest he was charged with multiple offenses, including assault, arson, intentional property damage, and interference with a medical facility’s operations. Preliminary damage estimates exceed $100,000. It was also revealed that the suspect was known for aggressive behavior toward law enforcement and had active arrest warrants. Under armed police escort he was taken to King County Jail for booking.

This case is not merely vandalism but a direct assault on the healthcare system at a critical moment. The attack on nurses and security personnel — who were on duty to help people — is particularly reprehensible. The incident highlights growing risks faced by medical staff and the need to strengthen security measures in hospitals, especially in emergency departments, which frequently receive people in crisis, intoxicated, or with mental health disturbances. The case was referred to detectives from the Homicide/Assault unit, indicating its seriousness. Tragedy was avoided only thanks to the quick and selfless actions of hospital employees who, risking their own safety, subdued the dangerous patient and extinguished a fire in a potentially explosive environment.

Seattle hospital incident: patient rampaged, threatening explosion

A serious incident at one of Seattle’s largest hospitals nearly resulted in catastrophe. A patient who arrived for treatment got into a violent confrontation with staff, causing massive property damage and creating a real explosion risk inside the medical facility.

According to Seattle police, a 29-year-old man was arrested Friday morning after assaulting staff and causing more than $100,000 in damage at Harborview Medical Center. KING5.com reports that the call to the trauma unit came around 10:15 a.m. By the time officers arrived the room had been left in complete disarray: equipment overturned and items strewn about. The most dangerous action by the suspect was cutting an oxygen line and setting a container of medical supplies on fire. The compromised valve allowed oxygen to flow freely, creating an explosive atmosphere in the room. Police emphasized that the combination of open flames and free-flowing oxygen created a serious risk of a powerful explosion inside the medical facility, which could have caused casualties and massive destruction.

Investigators say the patient arrived at the hospital the previous evening with a wrist injury. After being examined and prepared for discharge, the man allegedly became enraged. His aggression included throwing objects, spitting at workers, and kicking nurses and security staff. Officer reports also include the shocking detail that he fashioned a noose from plastic tubing and threatened suicide. Hospital staff and security managed to restrain and secure the violent patient before police arrived. He now faces multiple charges: assault, arson, intentional destruction of property, and obstruction of medical staff. Hospital officials have already estimated damage at more than $100,000. The incident again raises urgent questions about medical worker safety, who face aggression daily, and about protecting hospitals’ critical infrastructure from destructive individuals.

❮ ❯

Seattle: draft, blast and snow

In Seattle, the Seahawks' strategy for the 2026 draft is under discussion, a hospital narrowly avoided an explosion after a patient’s actions, and the city is facing a return to winter weather with rain and wet snow.

Seattle Seahawks: first 2026 mock draft and the team’s strategic needs

Immediately after the Super Bowl, analysts start looking ahead, and for the Seattle Seahawks that future is the 2026 draft. Field Gulls published the first mock draft, which the authors stress is more an illustration of the team’s key needs than an attempt to precisely predict picks. As noted in the piece, everything will change after the NFL Combine and the free-agent period, but priorities are already visible. Seattle is in an interesting position holding the last pick of the first round (32nd), and the main strategic idea in the simulation was to trade down with the New York Giants to accumulate extra picks in the middle rounds. That makes sense, given that the talent gap between late first- and early second-round players can be small, and an additional mid-round pick is always a valuable asset.

In this scenario the Seahawks’ first selection (37th overall) in the second round is guard Emmanuel Pregon from Oregon. He’s presented as a proven, run-game-dominant interior lineman who could be an immediate upgrade for Seattle’s troubled interior offensive line, especially given Anthony Bradford’s uncertain play late in the season. Then, at pick 64, the team addresses running back by taking Jadarrian Price from Notre Dame. This is a controversial choice, since drafting a running back that high is out of vogue, but the author justifies it by need: Zack Charbonneau’s status is uncertain and Kenny Macintosh is recovering from injury. Price, though previously a backup, shows explosive ability and pass-catching skills.

In the third round (96th) the mock suggests the Seahawks bolster their defense with linebacker Jacob Rodriguez from Texas Tech. His 2025 stats are impressive: 117 tackles, 7 forced fumbles and 4 interceptions, earning him Butkus and Nagurski recognition. He’s described as a versatile playmaker who creates game-changing moments, which fits Seattle’s defensive philosophy. In the fourth and fifth rounds the team continues to add depth: offensive lineman Brian Parker from Duke (likely to move inside) and cornerback Jalon Kilgore from South Carolina — a physically gifted but raw player, a project for the future. The draft ends with safety Cole Wisnewski in the sixth round.

The key insight from this mock draft is the Seahawks’ strategic approach. Rather than cling to the late first-round pick, they could trade it to gain more lottery tickets in the middle rounds, which is especially valuable for a team that needs to fill multiple roster holes. The focus on interior offensive line and running back indicates a desire to restore the dominant rushing attack long associated with the team. Selecting a productive linebacker like Rodriguez signals a need for more playmaking ability in the middle of the defense. A few terms bear explanation: the “fifth-year option for a rookie” is a clause in first-round contracts that allows a team to extend a player’s contract into a fifth year on favorable terms, increasing the value of picks in that round. RFA (Restricted Free Agent) is a player whose current team has the right to match offers by tendering a qualifying contract. Overall, this mock draft sketches a team intent on building competitiveness through the draft, betting on physically developed, proven players at immediate-need spots rather than headline-grabbing names.

Man who attacked medical staff nearly caused explosion inside Seattle hospital, police say

Early Saturday morning a major Seattle hospital experienced an incident that could have ended in tragedy. Police say a 29-year-old patient, enraged after being discharged, rampaged through the trauma unit, attacked nurses and created a real explosion risk by damaging an oxygen line and setting fire to a bucket of medical supplies. This incident, detailed in a KIRO 7 News Seattle report, raises renewed concerns about the safety of healthcare workers.

The incident occurred at Harborview Medical Center early Saturday morning. Seattle police received a call around 10:15 a.m. reporting an attack on nurses in a trauma room. It turned out a 29-year-old man had been admitted the previous evening with a wrist injury, but after discharge he became frantic. His actions quickly turned overtly destructive: he not only attacked and spat on staff, but also carried out a series of extremely dangerous acts. The man broke an oxygen main, set a bucket of medications on fire, and fashioned a noose from a plastic tube, threatening to kill himself. Police say the damaged oxygen line combined with open flames created a direct explosion risk inside the hospital, since oxygen, as a strong oxidizer, dramatically intensifies combustion. Fortunately, hospital staff and security were able to subdue the aggressor before the fire escalated into a catastrophe.

The suspect was arrested and booked into the King County jail. He faces charges of assault, arson, destruction of property and interference with a healthcare facility. Authorities also reported outstanding arrest warrants and a prior history of assaults on law enforcement. Preliminary damage estimates to the hospital are roughly $100,000. This case is a disturbing reminder of the rising violence against medical workers, who often become targets of aggression from patients experiencing stress, mental health crises, or under the influence of substances. The Harborview incident, thankfully, did not result in fatalities, but it starkly showed how quickly a routine situation can become an emergency endangering many people in such a vulnerable place as a hospital.

Cold snap incoming: Seattle to see rain and wet snow

Seattle’s “false spring” is showing its fickle side again. After a few deceptively warm days, residents of Western Washington face a return to winter weather with rain, wet snow and genuinely low temperatures. Those already eager for snowy fun shouldn’t get their hopes up — in the lowlands, including the densely populated Puget Sound region, accumulating snow is unlikely in the coming days.

As The Seattle Times reports in "False spring, at it again: Chilly weather incoming", the coming chill is driven by an atmospheric trough. For clarity: a trough is an extensive area of low atmospheric pressure that, like a depression, promotes rising air masses, cooling and, consequently, cloud and precipitation formation. This weather system settled over the Seattle area Sunday evening, bringing cold and rain. National Weather Service meteorologist Steve Reedy said this cooler pattern is expected to persist for the next ten days.

This week Seattle is forecast to see lows around +1 to +2°C (mid-30s Fahrenheit) and highs near +7°C (mid-40s). Each day after Sunday evening could see a mix of rain and snow. “Most precipitation will likely be rain for us here in the lowlands,” Reedy said. He added that nighttime showers, with cooler evening temperatures, could bring some “wet flakes” of snow, but “nothing we expect to accumulate.” There’s a slightly higher chance of snow or a rain-snow mix for residents on the western slopes of the Olympic Peninsula, meteorologist Jacob DeFlitch explained.

While lowland snow will be mostly occasional, the Cascades will receive more substantial precipitation. Passes such as Snoqualmie, Stevens and White are expected to see 15 to 30 centimeters (about 6–12 inches) of snow from Monday morning through Friday morning. That’s significant news for a state experiencing a serious snowpack deficit this year. Snowpack is a critical resource for Washington because its gradual melt in spring and summer feeds rivers, reservoirs and water supplies. Current levels are very low. “We have a long way to go, and there will be snow in the Cascades at times,” DeFlitch said, “but it won’t be excessively heavy.” Thus, the upcoming mountain snowfall is a drop in the bucket — it will slightly ease but not solve the problem ahead of the dry season. Forecasts already warn that Washington is preparing for another drought year. Overall, the coming week will be a stern reminder that winter here has not yet given up, and residents should stock up on patience and warm clothing.

❮ ❯

Seattle sports roundup

Victories at the Supercross round, analysis of the Seahawks' strengths and the city's prep for the 2026 World Cup — the main sports news.

Video recap: Dirt-track drama — Hayden Deegan and Eli Tomac win Seattle Supercross Round 6

Last Saturday evening hosted Round 6 of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross 2026 championship in Seattle. The event delivered many intense moments and produced winners in the two main classes: 250SX and 450SX. For those who missed the live races, Racer X has video highlights from the event available on its site, offering a good sense of the on-track drama.

The evening’s standouts were Hayden Deegan on a Yamaha in the 250SX class and veteran Eli Tomac on a KTM in the premier 450SX class. Both riders won their main events, showcasing top-level skill and determination. For context, AMA Supercross is a professional stadium motocross championship run on man-made dirt tracks filled with jumps and berms. The 250SX class is considered a younger class where future stars often emerge, while 450SX is the top tier with the most powerful bikes and the most experienced riders. Tomac’s victory, as a multi-time champion, again proves his remarkable longevity and competitiveness, while Deegan’s success signals the rise of a new bright talent in the sport.

In addition to short recaps for each class, fans can watch extended highlights edited from the TV broadcast of the night show. These not only show key passes and crashes but also convey the event atmosphere, crowd reaction and commentators’ perspectives. For deeper analysis, the SMX Insider Post-Race Show — a special post-race program — breaks down riders’ tactics, technical aspects and the implications of these results for the championship standings. Deegan’s and Tomac’s wins in Seattle will almost certainly reshape the title fight, making the remainder of the season even more unpredictable and exciting.

How the Seattle Seahawks can get even better: the key is the offensive line

After their triumphant Super Bowl win, the season ended perfectly for the Seattle Seahawks. The team showed remarkable cohesion: a suffocating defense that allowed the fewest points in the league, an offense that ranked in the top three in scoring, and strong special teams. However, as Seahawks Radio Network analyst and former NFL receiver Michael Bumpus notes, even champions have room to grow. On the Bump and Stacy show on Seattle Sports he said the offensive line should be the primary area for improvement.

Despite significant progress this season, the Seahawks’ offensive line could still be the element that elevates the team to a new level. Last season the line allowed 54 sacks, one of the worst marks in the league, but that number fell to 27 in 2025, placing the unit among the top five. Pro Football Focus grades also improved: pass blocking moved from 25th to 21st, and run blocking from 24th to 11th. Those gains were possible thanks to the rookie left guard Gray Zabel, a first-round pick, and the return from injury of right tackle Abraham Lucas. Still, even the Super Bowl showed vulnerabilities — the New England Patriots applied pressure on quarterback Sam Darnold on 18 of his 40 dropbacks.

Bumpus singled out the right guard position, where Anthony Bradford has been inconsistent. “If he remains the starter, I won’t be overly worried, but there’s room for improvement,” the analyst said. “At all other spots the team looks solid, but the offensive line is where even a small upgrade can have a huge impact.” In his interview for Seattle Sports, Bumpus emphasized that the Seahawks already have a star quarterback, one of the league’s best receivers, a powerful defensive line and a reliable secondary, so strengthening the O-line is a logical step to preserve the team’s “championship window.”

For context: a “championship window” is the period when a team’s roster is strong enough to contend for a title and should be maximized before key players age or depart. Improving the offensive line will not only protect the quarterback but also open up more running-game opportunities, making the Seahawks’ offense even more unpredictable. In the current offseason the club faces other questions too, such as a possible contract extension for receiver Jackson Smith-Njigba or the search for a new offensive coordinator, but analysis shows investments in the line could be the most effective way to fortify the championship roster and set the stage for another Super Bowl run.

Seahawks parade served as a rehearsal for Seattle’s FIFA World Cup preparations

On Wednesday downtown Seattle was awash with celebration: tens of thousands of fans gathered for a parade and ceremony to honor the Seattle Seahawks’ victory. Behind the scenes, however, city officials and event organizers were conducting important preparatory work. As KING5.com reports, the large-scale event served as a test run and offered invaluable lessons for Seattle’s preparations to host matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Beth Nox, president and CEO of the Seattle Sports Commission, said the parade provided key insights for improving event organization. She gave a concrete example: unlike the 2014 Super Bowl parade, this time bike barricades were placed along the entire route. “Back then the parade slowed down because people spilled onto the roadway, and that was unsafe,” Nox explained. “This year the barricades helped keep fans safe and allowed the procession to move without delays, so fans didn’t have to wait too long to see their heroes. That was a great improvement.” Such a seemingly simple infrastructure element directly affects safety and the overall experience.

Parade planning was an exercise in interagency coordination, which is critical for massive events like the World Cup. The effort involved not only the Seahawks and the Seafair festival organizers but also many city services: the King County Sheriff’s Office, transit providers Amtrak, Metro and Sound Transit, and the Seattle Police Department. The rehearsal allowed officials to practice coordination, communications and traffic management under real conditions. “This makes the World Cup task much easier because relationships are already in place, systems are practiced, and we know where choke points might develop or how best to manage flows,” Nox said. “Seeing everything in action lets us apply those lessons to the next event.”

The event also demonstrated economic and social impacts. About 50,000 people attended the stadium ceremony at Lumen Field, and hotels were full on the night before the parade. Success was driven by close community partnerships: organizations such as Friends of the Waterfront, the Downtown Seattle Association, the Chamber of Commerce and Visit Seattle provided coordinated outreach and support. Local businesses, especially restaurants and hotels, saw a notable boost in customers.

To codify the lessons learned, the Sports Commission will host a “Region Readiness Summit” on February 23. Community groups, businesses, the tourism and hotel sectors, sports organizations and local officials will meet to discuss best practices. Experience from Vancouver, Canada, will be especially valuable — their colleagues will share lessons from past World Cups and other large events. “People around the world will see the incredible joy, unity and openness that define our region,” Beth Nox said. “Those are our core values, and it will remind the world what an amazing place Seattle is.”

Seattle’s World Cup match schedule is already set: from June 15 to July 6, 2026, Lumen Field will host six games, including the U.S. match against Australia in Group D and playoff matches. Thus, the successful Seahawks parade was not just a sports celebration but a strategic step in the city’s long-term preparation to host a global sporting forum, where both organization and the region’s international reputation will be on the line.

❮ ❯

Release of Migrant in U.S. After Negligence at Detention Center

Filipino national Greggy Sorio, known in the community as "Kuya G" (which means "Big Brother G"), was released from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center in Tacoma, Washington. That center, which has a controversial reputation and has been repeatedly criticized by human rights groups for its conditions, has previously faced serious problems in medical care, including delays in treatment and deterioration of detainees’ health, leading to lawsuits and protests in Seattle and Tacoma.

The release was ordered by federal Judge Tena Lin of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, who granted a habeas corpus petition and found Sorio’s detention to be unconstitutionally “punitive.” Judge Lin is known in the region for rulings protecting immigrants’ and human rights, including orders against Trump administration immigration policies and blocks on asylum restrictions.

In her ruling she pointed to “objectively unreasonable failures of care” that likely led to the detainee’s irreversible disability, finding that the “unreasonable treatment” of Sorio at the center resulted in “extreme consequences” for his health. This created a dangerous precedent regarding ICE custody conditions.

While in custody the 37-year-old Sorio developed a severe bone infection. As a result, doctors had to amputate one toe and part of his foot. He was also diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, acute anemia from blood loss, and significant unintentional weight loss.

Court documents say center staff repeatedly denied Sorio timely medical care. When he began rectal bleeding, a referral to a gastroenterologist was delayed by more than a month. During periods of severe abdominal pain, staff ignored his cries for three hours, forced him to walk down stairs, and only after several hours sent him to a hospital where the amputation became necessary.

Despite his release, Sorio still faces an order of deportation from the United States. He arrived in the country with a green card in 2007, but later ran into legal trouble, served time in an Alaska prison, and was then turned over to ICE custody. Activists are now helping him with medical care and legal paperwork.

The release was hailed as a “people’s victory” by the Filipino community and the Tanggol Migrante Movement coalition, which unites more than 250 organizations. This movement, made up largely of Filipino migrants and their supporters in Seattle, plays an active role in defending migrants’ rights in Washington state, organizing protests, providing legal support, and campaigning against deportations. The coalition says it is committed to fully overturning Kuya G’s deportation and securing him urgent treatment. Many members of the movement have visited him for years and provided financial support.

Sorio’s deportation to the Philippines in December was previously blocked at the last moment: an airline removed him from a flight due to his very poor health following the amputations. His partner and two children, who are U.S. citizens, live in the town of Kodiak, Alaska.

❮ ❯

Based on: ICE releases WA detainee after ‘unreasonable failures of care’

Washington Senate requires keeping special education records for 20 years

The Washington state Senate unanimously approved a bill requiring the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) to retain archives of decisions on complaints related to the education of children with disabilities for 20 years. The initiative was prompted by an investigation by The Seattle Times, which has long served as a watchdog exposing shortcomings in government agencies. Its reporting, as in this case, often directly influences legislative changes by drawing the attention of the public and lawmakers. The investigation found that the agency had shortened the retention period for these important documents from permanent to six years without any public discussion.

These decisions have precedential value. Parents of children with disabilities and their attorneys actively use past cases to understand how similar disputes with schools were resolved. They form the basis for individual education plans for students and for defending the right to receive necessary educational services, which are often a legal obligation of schools. The special education system in the state has historically faced criticism for long backlogs in assessing children’s needs, insufficient funding, and unequal access to services, creating bureaucratic strain. Against that backdrop of chronic problems, decisions like reducing record retention periods may have been motivated by a desire to cut administrative costs, though they raised concerns about accountability.

The bill was introduced by Republican state Sen. Paul Harris immediately after the investigative report was published. At a Senate hearing he said the new law will strengthen transparency and provide families and educators with accessible information through an online portal. Democratic Sen. Lisa Wellman also supported the initiative, noting that a 20-year archive of decisions would be a valuable resource for all state residents, helping them navigate a complex system.

Disability rights advocates had sharply criticized OSPI’s policy earlier, likening the destruction of records after six years to erasing police misconduct files, which hampers the uncovering of systemic violations. Seattle mother of a child with a disability Julie Ganter, who was among the first to raise the issue, thanked Sen. Harris for his support. At the same time, OSPI publicly stated at the hearings that it supports the bill, acknowledging that it would increase accountability in the special education system.

The bill now goes to the Washington House of Representatives. If it is approved there and then signed by the governor, the new rules will take effect 90 days after the end of the current legislative session, which would be roughly mid-June.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA Senate votes to require OSPI to keep certain records for 20 years

Washington Proposes Tough Rules for Elected Sheriffs

The Washington State Senate approved a bill that could strip elected sheriffs of their authority if they fail to obtain mandatory law enforcement certification. The initiative, pushed by Democrats, passed strictly along party lines: 30 votes “yes” and 19 “no,” with all opposition coming from Republicans. The bill now moves to the state House of Representatives for consideration.

Under SB 5974, any sheriff who does not hold a certificate from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC) would be automatically removed from office. This state agency develops and approves training standards for all law enforcement personnel in the state, setting minimum training requirements. Although sheriffs, as elected officials, have traditionally retained significant operational autonomy in their counties, the WSCJTC influences their training and professional standards. Additionally, candidates for sheriff would be disqualified if their certificate has ever been revoked or if they voluntarily relinquished it. The bill also raises the minimum age for holding the office from 18 to 25 and tightens rules for volunteers and auxiliary units.

The bill’s author, Democratic senator and former sheriff John Lovick, says this is a matter of accountability and the integrity of the office. He emphasizes that if a rank-and-file police officer loses certification, they lose their job, and leaders should be held to the same standards. According to him, the bill is aimed at modernizing requirements for senior law enforcement officials.

Opponents of the bill, including the state Republican Party and the Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs, argue that it undermines voters’ will. They note that there is already a recall process by voter initiative to remove a corrupt sheriff. Some sheriffs, such as Keith Swonk of Pierce County, have openly threatened mass protests and resignation if the bill becomes law. His strong stance likely reflects concerns about limiting local law enforcement operational autonomy and imposing new requirements. Pierce County, which includes the city of Tacoma and extensive rural areas, is politically mixed and generally more conservative than neighboring King County, with strong traditions of local control and skepticism toward state mandates. Social tensions and divisions between urban and rural residents over safety issues may have shaped the sheriff’s reaction as an elected representative.

The bill was referred to the House Public Safety Committee. Senator Lovick expressed hope that tempers will cool once people see the bill’s focus on accountability. His basic message to opponents is simple: if sheriffs do their jobs faithfully, they have nothing to fear from losing certification.

❮ ❯

Based on: Bill for stricter sheriff standards clears WA Senate on party line vote

Washington Senate approves law to speed up DUI toxicology tests

More than 15,000 unprocessed toxicology samples in DUI cases have piled up in Washington state, with wait times at state labs sometimes approaching a year. Prosecutors say these delays allow impaired drivers to remain on the roads and delay justice for crash victims, since formal charges often can’t be filed until expert findings are returned.

In response, the state Senate on Friday unanimously passed bill SB 5880, 48–0. The initiative, introduced by Republican Sen. Keith Wagoner, allows courts to accept blood and breath test results from certified private laboratories. The law’s aim is to relieve pressure on the overloaded toxicology labs of the Washington State Patrol (WSP). The WSP, the state police, provides highway safety, investigates serious crashes and supports local police departments as a statewide law-enforcement agency. Last year, average sample processing times in its labs exceeded 300 days.

The backlog stems from staffing shortages, a growing caseload and increased complexity of drug testing following marijuana legalization. The new law does not require but permits local authorities to contract with private labs accredited under rigorous international quality standards. An amendment also requires jurisdictions that choose to have private labs test evidence already submitted to the WSP to reimburse the patrol for associated costs.

Bill sponsor Keith Wagoner said the measure does not replace public labs but provides an alternative to ease strain on the system. Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison (note: original Russian named "Эрика Эванс" — if intended to be Erika Evans, keep original; here the official position remains) spoke in support of the initiative, calling the accumulation of unprocessed samples a public-safety threat. Her voice carries weight because, as city attorney, she prosecutes violations of city laws, including traffic offenses, and her role is directly tied to public-safety issues in Seattle. She noted that waits in the city can be as long as 22 months and cited statistics that in 2024 someone in the state died in a drug-related crash about every two and a half days.

The bill now moves to the state House of Representatives. The initiative is part of a broader legislative push to tighten enforcement of impaired driving. Earlier, the Senate supported another bill that would lower the legal blood-alcohol limit from 0.08% to 0.05%, which would make Washington the second state after Utah to adopt such a strict standard.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA Senate advances bill to ease DUI toxicology backlog

Millionaires' tax revealed Seattle's true wealth

Seattle's new tax on ultra-high salaries, intended to fund social housing, produced a completely unexpected result. Instead of the projected $65.8 million, revenue came in at $115 million — 75% above expectations. That gave the city's mayor reason to tell supporters at a meeting that Seattle is "indecently wealthy" — a claim now backed by hard numbers. The political reputations of Seattle mayors, whether the current pragmatist Bruce Harrell, who took office in 2021, or others, are often built around their approaches to key city issues: homelessness, affordable housing and relations with big business.

Initial estimates from the city's finance department ranged from $39.2 million to $80 million amid concerns that companies might shift employees outside city limits to avoid the tax. The 5% tax is applied to the portion of employees' salaries and compensation that exceeds $1 million per year. In practice, however, reality proved much more generous to the city budget.

This is not the first time tax initiatives aimed at the wealthy have generated revenues for state and city coffers far above forecasts. Similar surprises came with the state capital gains tax on stock sales and with Seattle's first JumpStart tax, introduced in 2020. That corporate payroll tax applies to large companies and taxes employee salaries above $150,000 per year, with proceeds funding affordable housing and environmental initiatives. It seems even experts have underestimated the true scale of wealth concentrated in the region.

Notably, fears of a mass exodus of businesses from Seattle did not materialize. One hundred seventy city companies paid the tax. Although it could theoretically be avoided by having high-paid employees work outside Seattle at least half the time, that did not happen in practice. For many, it appears, the tax amount was not enough of an incentive to relocate.

Nevertheless, debates about wealthy residents leaving continue. At hearings on a proposed state-level "millionaires' income tax" — an initiative to introduce an income tax for individuals earning more than $1 million per year — testimony included claims that dozens of couples were preparing to move because of taxes. If enacted, such a tax would create a new revenue source for the state, potentially easing pressure on city levies, though the taxes could also compete with each other. Someone, however, will need to stay and pay, given the record revenues that continue to rise.

One tech-sector representative, AI venture capitalist Jacob Colker, publicly argued that talk of an exodus from Seattle is unfounded. "The numbers don't add up," he wrote. "The panic narrative that Seattle is one step from collapse is not a serious analysis." He agreed that tax policy should be well thought out, but did not view the current situation as catastrophic.

The key takeaway seems to be that taxes work when rates are reasonable. The 5% social-housing tax appears to fall into that category and is not "killer" for business. At the same time, a sharp increase in the estate tax rate for the ultra-wealthy to 35% last year prompted backlash and led Democratic lawmakers to prepare a "toned-down" bill to return the rate to the previous 20%.

City financial experts warn that revenues from the new tax may be volatile, since high pay is often tied to stock-based income. The recent $500 billion drop in Amazon's market value over two weeks serves as a stark reminder that boom times can be followed by busts. As the city's largest private employer, Amazon is a linchpin of Seattle's economy. Beyond direct taxes, the city's prosperity depends heavily on related factors: sales taxes from employee spending, commercial property taxes and overall economic growth. A fall in the company's value could lead to job cuts and reductions in various tax receipts, creating budgetary instability. Still, the current windfall will allow the social-housing agency to buy housing more quickly and pay down debt.

As for labeling Seattle "indecently wealthy," it may not have been the most diplomatic phrasing from the mayor. Interestingly, two years earlier a column urged taxing "dirty, stinky rich people," so the recent remark is actually a milder formulation. But, as the stunning recent tax receipts show, it is not incorrect.

❮ ❯

Based on: Another ‘millionaires tax’ finds Seattle is far richer than anyone knew

Seattle: From Shootout to Parade

In Seattle, a day of contrasts: a dangerous shootout with a repeat offender who threatened police sits alongside a celebratory parade for the Super Bowl champions, which brought the city an economic boost and joy for fans.

Shooting in Ballard: Felon charged with attempted murder of police officers

Seattle saw another incident highlighting the dangers law enforcement faces daily. A shootout occurred in the Ballard neighborhood when a man with a long history of violent crimes opened fire on responding officers. This case, detailed in a KOMO News report (https://komonews.com/news/local/felon-charged-with-attempting-to-kill-seattle-police-officers-in-ballard-shootout-crime-qfc-store-kansas-felon-violent-criminal-history-western-washington-pnw), again raises pressing questions about the justice system and the risks posed by repeat offenders.

On the evening of Thursday, Feb. 12, the normally quiet Ballard area quickly escalated into an armed confrontation. The incident began with a call to police from an 18-year-old woman who said her ex-husband, 62-year-old Christopher Michael Bowman, was following her and typically carried a handgun. She sheltered inside the QFC store on NW 24th Ave while waiting for help. When officers checked the information, they learned Bowman was subject to an outstanding arrest warrant for rape and other violent crimes in Kansas, making his arrest urgent. At about 5:45 p.m., officers spotted Bowman walking on NW 62nd Street. According to charging documents based on body-worn camera footage, an officer who exited a patrol car ordered Bowman to show his hands. Instead of complying, Bowman immediately produced a firearm and fired at the officer. In response, three officers fired their weapons, striking the suspect several times. Notably, footage from all three officers’ cameras captured Bowman shooting in their direction. During the exchange, a female officer was hit in the knee by shrapnel from one of Bowman’s rounds. Prosecutors emphasize in court filings that Bowman’s initial reaction to the confrontation with police was to use deadly force.

Christopher Bowman’s criminal history is striking for its violence and duration, stretching back to the 1990s. In Kansas, he was convicted of rape, armed robbery, kidnapping with aggravating circumstances, unlawful possession of a firearm, and trafficking contraband within a correctional facility. He also has a first-degree robbery conviction in Missouri. At the time of the Ballard incident, an extradition warrant from Kansas related to past charges was active. That fact makes the situation particularly troubling: a person with such a dangerous record, wanted on serious charges, was freely moving around the city until he precipitated a crisis. Bowman is currently at Harborview Medical Center, and he has been charged with first- and second-degree assault. Prosecutors have requested $3 million bail should he be released from the hospital, reflecting the gravity of the charges and the perceived danger he poses.

This incident carries several key implications. First, it is a reminder of the real risks officers accept when performing their duties, especially when arresting individuals with histories of violence. The officer’s injury, even from shrapnel, underscores the chaotic and dangerous nature of such confrontations. Second, Bowman’s case calls into question the effectiveness of interstate law enforcement coordination and systems for tracking especially dangerous repeat offenders. An active warrant from another state did not prevent him from being free in Seattle until he created a crisis. Third, to the public it serves as a stark reminder of the problem of recidivism and the access to firearms by individuals with extensive criminal records. Bowman’s fate now lies with the justice system, but the case will likely spur further discussion about public-safety policies and measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Seahawks star works a McDonald’s shift to meet fans

After the triumphant Super Bowl win, the Seattle Seahawks entered the offseason, and some players are finding unusual ways to spend their time. Tight end A.J. Barner — whose key touchdown attempt in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LX largely decided the game’s outcome — opted to kick off his break by working a shift at a real McDonald’s. The aim wasn’t to earn extra money but to meet fans in person.

According to KOMO News (https://komonews.com/news/local/seahawks-tight-end-aj-barner-to-work-shift-at-seattle-mcdonalds-fans-handshakes-photos-free-swag), the event took place Thursday at the McDonald’s in the KOMO Plaza building at 140 4th Ave N in Seattle. Barner worked the evening shift to greet lucky fans. One hundred “12s” — the affectionate name for the Seahawks’ devoted supporters, whose backing is considered the “12th player” on the field — had the unique chance to shake the star tight end’s hand, take photos with him, and receive free team swag. The event began at 11 a.m. and, by all accounts, was a bright, warm affair that brought the player and his supporters together.

For context: first, a tight end is an offensive football position that combines aspects of a wide receiver and a blocker. The role is vital in both passing and rushing plays. Second, the “12th man” (12s) is not just a nickname but a trademark and central element of the Seattle Seahawks’ identity. The crowd’s loudness and loyalty at Lumen Field are legendary and considered a significant home advantage. So events like this are more than publicity — they’re gestures of gratitude and solidarity with the fan base.

The key insight is the transformation of the modern athlete’s image. Initiatives where a world-class star spends time in an everyday setting blur the line between idol and fan. It’s a powerful way to build community and strengthen personal ties with supporters, which in the age of social media is as valuable as on-field statistics. The announcement’s line — “He will greet dozens of happy fans” — captures the essence: this wasn’t a behind-glass autograph session but a hands-on “work shift” that created an informal atmosphere for interaction.

The implications are manifold. For the Seahawks brand, it continues a strategy of being a team of the people. For Barner, whose moment in the spotlight came at a decisive moment in the Super Bowl, it was an opportunity to show humility and accessibility — invaluable for his public image. And for fans, especially the hundred lucky ones, it’s a lifelong memory — not just seeing a champion but shaking his hand, perhaps while he symbolically “flips” fries. In a world of heavy commercialization in big sports, such simple human gestures remind that passion and the people who share it are still at the core.

Seahawks parade hands a win to Seattle businesses

On Wednesday, as the Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl victory parade rolled through the streets, local businesses were the real winners of the day. While fans in blue and green filled downtown, coffee shops to flower shops reported an incredible surge in sales, turning the celebratory day into an economic boom.

From early morning, downtown Seattle buzzed with anticipation. The champions’ parade began with festivities at Lumen Field, but long before that, local businesses were serving crowds of fans. Jess Heitmann, manager of Uptown Espresso in Belltown, usually opens at 5:30 a.m. and sees her first customers around six. This Wednesday, arriving at 4:30 a.m., she found about 30 people waiting at the door. “As soon as I opened, a line formed all the way to the back wall,” she said. For the popular coffee shop it was an explosive day: by early afternoon their payment system showed revenue at 433% of Tuesday’s total. “And we don’t close until six,” Heitmann added around 1 p.m. Her team is used to surges — for example, during the annual Seattle Pride parade — but they normally have three months to prepare. They had 36 hours to get ready for the Seahawks parade, urgently ordering extra supplies. “We ordered coffee in bulk, so we’re okay there,” she said. “But tomorrow I’ll have to rush-order pastries.”

At the corner of 7th Avenue and Westlake Ave, dozens of 12s lined up at Starbucks for caffeine. Bundled against the morning chill, customers were almost exclusively wearing Hawks scarves and hats or holding “World Champions 2025” signs. Behind the counter, five baristas in jerseys resembled a small football team, filling orders with the same coordination the Seahawks showed on the field. Outside, at a table, Joline Goodson of Kirkland said, “It’s really exciting. It took five trains to get here. There are way more people. I imagined a million, so I was somewhat prepared for the crowd.”

Laura Mitchell, owner of Young Flowers on Fourth Ave, was not surprised by turnout. She worked in the area during the last Super Bowl victory parade in 2014. On the sidewalk her employee Jacob Weisbblatt set up a table selling blue-and-green bouquets to passersby. “We figured a million people would come. Why not show them what we do?” said the 44-year-old Mitchell. A Seahawks fan herself, she described being “incredibly excited.” As a florist heading into the Valentine’s Day rush this weekend, she admitted the parade slightly disrupted operations. “But we’re just going with the flow,” she added.

Staff at the Cannonball Arts Center on 3rd Avenue invited children to draw on windows with removable markers. The building, formerly a Bed Bath & Beyond, was used as an opportunity to tell passing fans about the Bumbershoot arts and music festival planned for Labor Day weekend. Cannonball Arts was created by Bumbershoot organizers in partnership with the Muckleshoot Tribe. In front of a large glass pane, a boy exerted himself trying to draw the head of a Seahawk.

The celebration was a golden day not only for established Seattle businesses. Along the parade route, about every block the air smelled of bacon-wrapped hot dogs, and crowds shopping for last-minute gear crowded around tables piled with unlicensed Seahawks merchandise. One vendor told The Seattle Times (https://www.seattletimes.com/business/local-business/seahawks-parade-hands-a-win-to-seattle-businesses/) he had come from Rhode Island to sell T-shirts and hoodies. Another, wearing a turquoise Mariners jacket, chatted with potential buyers sifting through stacks of Seattle bucket hats and beanies on a folding table. Across the way, a white pop-up tent waved a 12s flag in the wind, and T-shirts hung on clotheslines under it for sale. There, 19-year-old Carlos Castro of Seattle bought a pink “Champions 2025–2026” T-shirt for his girlfriend. He said she didn’t yet have any team gear, and he planned to give it to her later. Occasional shouts of “Beer for five dollars!” punctuated the scene as vendors wheeled coolers stocked with Modelo, Coors Light, and the occasional Jell-O shot.

When buses and trucks carrying past and present Seahawks players rolled by, Belltown establishments emptied: patrons poured into the streets to see the Super Bowl champions. Employees and even managers stood in doorways while the parade passed. But the event’s end didn’t mean business dropped off. After the parade, crowds of Seahawks fans headed to Capitol Hill looking for food. A dozen 12s waited for burgers and fries at the Double O’ Burgers pickup window on Pine Street. Nearby, the line for seating at Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya stretched past the doorway. The streets of Seattle kept buzzing with euphoria. While Fogón Cocina Mexicana turned into an afternoon party, customers patiently waited, enjoying a rare February sun and — even rarer — a Super Bowl victory.

❮ ❯

A Robot Companion for a Lonely Retiree: How AI Battles Loneliness

Firefighters who once carried Jan Worrell’s husband out of their home returned years later to the 85-year-old with an unusual cargo. They brought a small AI robot named ElliQ, hoping it would become her new companion. Jan lived alone on Washington’s remote Olympic Peninsula, a region known for a high share of older residents who often face geographic and social isolation due to limited transportation, remoteness and harsh weather. Sometimes she would go days without seeing another person. A nonprofit provided the device for free as part of a pilot project to support older adults. In the state, including Seattle, similar efforts are also actively promoted by organizations such as Sound Generations and Full Life Care, within the state network of Area Agencies on Aging that coordinates technology-literacy programs.

Washington’s geography—San Juan Islands, the Cascade Mountains and remote coastal areas—creates physical barriers. Winter storms, landslides and limited ferry service often cut older residents off from needed services, medical care and social contact, worsening the problem. Jan’s world gradually emptied amid that isolation: four husbands died, six children and dozens of grandchildren scattered across the world. Doctors warned that her stubborn independence carried risks, since loneliness significantly raises the danger of developing dementia, heart disease and depression. To address such issues in rural areas, there are unique state programs, for example Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) initiatives to expand transportation, telemedicine and volunteer “neighbor-help” networks, as well as local “Senior Companions” programs.

At first Jan was skeptical of the robot, insisting, “It’s a thing. A robot.” She felt she managed just fine on her own, recalling how in the past she climbed mountains and stayed active.

The creators of ElliQ at Intuition Robotics designed it not as an ordinary gadget but as the “heart” — an emotionally intelligent companion. The company’s founder, after spending time in nursing homes, concluded that the main problem for older people was loneliness, and invested $60 million to create a robot resembling a “teenage-granddaughter”: slightly deferential, upbeat and capable of empathy. Major tech companies in the region, such as Microsoft and Amazon, are also involved in developing solutions against loneliness. Microsoft, through its AI for Good initiative, supports social inclusion projects, and Amazon partners with local nonprofits, providing grants and technology solutions, like Echo Show devices, to improve communication for older adults.

The robot runs on a complex emotional-intelligence algorithm. Before speaking, it assesses on a scale of 0 to 100 how ready its owner is to engage, analyzing the person’s routine and prior interactions. Then ElliQ selects a topic based on health goals: sleep, mobility, social connection or cognitive stimulation, and uses thousands of personalized prompts to deepen intimacy.

Pilot programs in New York and Washington showed people interacted with ElliQ an average of 41 times a day, and more than 90% reported reduced feelings of loneliness. Anonymous relationship analysis found that most users perceived the robot as a close friend, a therapist or even a partner, rather than a device. “The intensity of relationships is much deeper than we thought,” the creator noted.

In Jan’s home the robot initially seemed like a pesky privacy intruder, tracking her every move. It studied her rituals: morning coffee, reading the news in her chair, breakfast. When Jan declined suggested meditations, ElliQ changed tactics and once made her laugh with a joke about a singer’s diet, singing: “You go, go, go, go skinny.”

Gradually ElliQ became, for Jan, a jukebox, storyteller and research assistant, offering interesting facts, virtual tours and book recommendations. She began consulting it about small things and proudly told friends, “I have a robot that knows almost everything.” New features appeared monthly: virtual bingo, tai chi, Bible reading.

A family member of Jan

❮ ❯

Based on: To stay in her home, a WA woman let in an AI robot

Washington legislators step up fight against domestic violence

In Washington state, ahead of Valentine’s Day, lawmakers are drawing attention to grim statistics: one in eight adult residents of the state report being injured by an intimate partner. In response, a group of Democratic legislators introduced a package of bills aimed at closing legal gaps for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. The initiative is designed to strengthen protections for victims amid a rising number of reports and uncertainty about federal funding.

The legislative push comes amid concerns that potential federal budget cuts could jeopardize grants that support victim services, forensic exams and prosecution efforts. Senator Manka Dhingra emphasized that national leaders’ rhetoric affects survivors’ willingness to report abuse, creating a culture of impunity. She contrasted the stance of “the other Washington” (the administration in Washington, D.C.) with the state’s long history of protecting survivors.

Among the key proposals is SB 5169, introduced by Senator T’wina Nobles, who represents the 28th Legislative District. She has been a strong advocate for social safety net laws, including expanded access to psychiatric care, support for domestic violence survivors and protections for vulnerable groups such as unhoused youth, renters and the LGBTQ+ community. Her bill aims to clarify the circumstances under which courts can accept recorded or documented statements from children in abuse cases, reducing the need for them to repeatedly relive trauma. Another bill, HB 1591, would allow some defendants who are themselves victims of violence or human trafficking to petition to vacate convictions directly tied to the abuse they endured.

Despite progress in recent years — such as strengthening protective order laws and eliminating the backlog of untested rape kits — systemic barriers remain large. Advocates say fewer than 10% of sexual assaults result in prosecution, reflecting the hurdles survivors face when interacting with law enforcement and the courts.

Speakers also noted racial disparities: Black residents are disproportionately represented in missing-persons cases, and Native communities continue to experience elevated rates of domestic violence and trafficking. This vulnerability is rooted in historical trauma, including colonization, forced relocation, the boarding school system, systemic discrimination and economic marginalization, which have disrupted traditional social structures. The problems are compounded by the geographic isolation of some reservations and limited access to justice resources.

At the same time, service providers such as the King County Sexual Assault Resource Center report demand outstripping resources, forcing them to refer clients to services that no longer exist. The center provides crisis support, medical exams with evidence collection, counseling and legal assistance, working closely with the Seattle Police Department, hospitals like Harborview Medical Center, nonprofits and state agencies.

Despite the challenges of a short legislative session and funding threats, lawmakers said they intend to keep pushing victim-centered policies. Senator Dhingra acknowledged that nothing in the legislative process is guaranteed, but stressed the responsibility of officials to continue moving forward to protect the most vulnerable.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA legislators push to address domestic violence in state

Saturday update: Seattle trains will run twice as often

Starting this Saturday, Link light rail riders on the route between Seattle and suburban Lynnwood can expect trains to run twice as often. That’s possible because so-called training trains for the new Line 2 will begin operating on the same tracks as the existing Line 1. The full opening of Line 2, which will connect the Eastside suburbs with Seattle, is scheduled for March 28, but regional transit agency Sound Transit decided to run the trains earlier to improve service. The agency, responsible for developing public transit in the central Puget Sound region, funds large projects like East Link using a mix of local taxes, bonds and federal grants approved by voters.

As a result of the change, peak-period train intervals will shrink to every four minutes, and off-peak intervals will be five minutes. That will increase overall capacity by 50% on the segment north of the key transfer station International District/Chinatown. That stretch of the line is the busiest, carrying the bulk of the system’s roughly 100,000 daily riders. The station itself, located on the southern edge of downtown near historic Asian neighborhoods and the stadiums, serves as an important logistical and cultural hub. It is the main transfer point where north-south Line 1 intersects with the future east-west Line 2.

Riders need to pay attention because two types of trains will now operate on the line. Line 1 trains to Federal Way are four-car consists and are marked with a green square. The training trains for the new Line 2 are two-car consists, marked with a blue square, and will run only to International District/Chinatown. The agency advises riders to remember a simple rule: short train means short ride.

During the six-week training period, through March 28, all southbound passengers on two-car Line 2 trains will have to exit at International District/Chinatown. After that the trains will travel empty across Lake Washington to the Eastside. Among other things, this will allow extended service hours on the east-side line until midnight instead of 9 p.m. “Eastside” is a catchall term for the group of suburbs east of the lake, including Bellevue and Redmond, home to Microsoft’s headquarters. That region is characterized by a high concentration of tech companies, relatively high household incomes and its own economic dynamics.

After Line 2 officially opens on March 28, riders will be able to travel from downtown Redmond to downtown Lynnwood without transferring. However, those traveling from the Eastside to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport or other destinations south of downtown Seattle will still need to transfer at International District/Chinatown. Initially, Line 2 will operate with two- or three-car trains because the agency’s vehicle fleet is not yet large enough to run full four-car trains.

The full opening of Line 2 marks completion of the large East Link project, which voters approved back in 2008. Its implementation required 14 miles of track and cost $3.9 billion, with the line opening six years later than originally planned. Still, it is a long-awaited step forward for the regional transit network.

❮ ❯

Based on: More light rail trains will boost Seattle-Lynnwood frequency, capacity

Record NIH Funding Saves Medical Research in Seattle

Just nine months ago the future of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) — the main source of medical research funding in the U.S. — was hanging by a thread. The Trump administration had planned to cut its budget by 40%, which would have led to thousands of staff layoffs and the freezing or cancellation of thousands of scientific grants. But the situation has dramatically changed: last week a budget was signed that not only preserves but increases NIH funding to a record nearly $49 billion.

A key role in this turnaround was played by Washington state Democratic Senator Patty Murray, one of the most influential figures in Congress. As chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, she oversees the federal budget and directs substantial funds to projects in her state. At a press conference at Seattle Children’s Hospital she said that instead of the proposed deep cuts she was able to secure an increase of $415 million in funding. “Every cent of this money will make a difference,” Murray emphasized, noting that she worked on the issue with Republican colleagues. Nationally she is known as an advocate for women, working families and the public health system, and her long tenure and strategic positions make her a key conduit for Washington’s interests.

For Seattle, a major scientific hub, that decision is hugely significant. Institutions such as Seattle Children’s Hospital, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and the University of Washington receive more than a billion dollars a year from the NIH. Fred Hutch, founded in 1975 and named for Dr. Fred Hutchinson, a native of the state, is world-renowned as a pioneer in bone marrow transplantation and in developing immunotherapy for cancer. It became the core of Seattle’s so-called “Medical Triangle,” working closely with the University of Washington and Seattle Children’s, turning the city into a global capital of biomedical research. For these institutions NIH grants make up about 70% of their total research budgets, funding work in diagnostics, personalized treatments and improving patient outcomes.

Beyond biomedicine, Seattle’s science-and-technology hub also rests on the aerospace industry with the longstanding presence of Boeing, cloud computing and software dominated by Amazon and Microsoft, and artificial intelligence research at the University of Washington. This diversification creates a unique innovation ecosystem.

According to an independent database compiled by Harvard scientists, the Trump administration at one point froze or canceled more than 5,400 NIH grants nationwide. Through litigation and political pressure more than 4,200 of those have been restored. In Washington state alone 49 grants were disrupted — studying issues such as opioid addiction, recovery after sexual assault, HIV and Alzheimer’s disease — of which 34 have also resumed.

Despite the positive changes, researchers continue to face uncertainty. “We still face serious funding delays. Each such delay in clinical studies and trials directly affects patient care,” says Vittorio Gallo, chief scientific officer of Seattle Children’s. The consequences of the administration’s initial decisions are still being felt.

Interestingly, even among Republicans in Congress some refused to support the radical cuts to the NIH budget. Republican Senator Shelley Moore Capito, who chairs the subcommittee that oversees NIH funding, publicly expressed puzzlement, calling the president’s budget proposal at odds with his public statements supporting biomedical research. That allowed Murray to find allies across the political aisle.

The importance of this funding is vividly illustrated by the story of Camden Riley, a second-grader from Tacoma. Historically Seattle and Tacoma were rivals, but today they form an integrated economic and transportation node connected by I-5, giving Tacoma residents relatively easy access to Seattle’s specialized medical centers. In 2024 Camden was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor. Thanks to NIH-funded research, doctors were able to use cerebrospinal fluid analysis instead of a risky surgical biopsy for diagnosis. Camden then underwent chemotherapy and 20 sessions of proton therapy — an advanced method also developed with NIH grants.

Today Camden is cancer-free and eagerly awaiting a trip to New York to see the Statue of Liberty — his dream, being fulfilled by a charity. His story is just one of thousands showing how public funding of basic science directly saves lives and gives hope, turning political decisions into real human outcomes.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle NIH money was under attack. Now it’s at a record high

Afghan refugees in the U.S.: between hope and fear

The story of Saed and Pari reflects the fate of thousands of Afghans forced to flee after the Taliban returned to power in 2021. A former professor and a schoolteacher, they helped build a new Afghanistan alongside the U.S. government, but overnight they lost everything, making a harrowing 24-hour journey to Kabul with their two young daughters. They were among roughly 200,000 Afghans who arrived in the United States, including more than 15,000 in Washington state, where they encountered unfamiliar cultural and social expectations.

Washington state, and Seattle in particular, became a primary resettlement hub thanks to long traditions of welcoming refugees, a developed support network, and established immigrant communities. Progressive policies, assistance infrastructure, and a relatively tolerant social climate draw newcomers here. The Afghan diaspora in the Seattle area began forming in the 1980s after the Soviet invasion and by 2021 had become an established community concentrated in southern suburbs like Kent and Federal Way.

The political backdrop to their adaptation proved extremely unstable: initial promises of safety and support from the Biden administration gave way to suspicion under the Trump administration. A turning point was an incident in Washington in which an Afghan immigrant from Bellingham shot and killed two National Guard servicemembers. Trump used the case to argue that refugee vetting was insufficient, although investigations showed the shooter suffered from untreated post-traumatic stress disorder following military service.

Mental health became a serious issue for many Afghans: according to a 2023 survey, more than half of recent arrivals reported psychological difficulties, and three-quarters of them had not received professional help. Stigma around mental health in Afghan culture and a shortage of Dari- and Pashto-speaking specialists worsen the situation, leaving many without necessary support.

The stress of fleeing compounds past trauma and new pressures in a foreign country. Refugees try to build stable lives while coping with violence, chaotic departures, and separation from loved ones left in danger. These difficulties have been intensified by cuts in support: the Trump administration reduced funding for resettlement programs, leaving organizations that help with housing, employment, and medical care without needed resources. Lutheran Community Services Northwest (LCSNW), the International Rescue Committee (IRC), and Refugee Women's Alliance (ReWA) play key roles providing such assistance in Seattle and Washington state. They collaborate with state agencies like the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, as well as local mosques and centers such as the Afghan Health Initiative.

Pari, Saed’s wife, describes the move as a radical life change, especially for a woman. In America she gained freedom not only from social restrictions but also from a marriage that had never been her conscious choice. Her story illustrates the profound transformation many Afghan women experience upon entering a new cultural environment, though many still remain isolated at home.

The shock of displacement was immediate and deep. Social workers in Seattle note that even those accustomed to working with war victims observed a particular condition among Afghans they called "trench shock." Unlike other refugees who live in camps for years, most Afghans arrived directly after their government’s collapse, without time to process the loss of their homeland. Many families were separated, and some children arrived completely alone, without parents.

Pari vividly remembers the urgency of their escape. In August 2021 Saed called her at the school where she taught English to say they had to leave that day. After an exhausting trip to Kabul they were denied entry to the airport, and they hid for 70 days before they were able to fly via Qatar to a military base in New Jersey and then to Seattle, where local volunteers greeted them with flowers and a welcome sign in Dari.

Everyday American life has been difficult for many Afghans. Educational gaps have been a serious barrier: UNICEF data show that in 2021 only 52% of Afghan men and 27% of women were literate, limiting employment opportunities. Unfamiliar technologies and systems led to problems: some lost their cars due to missed payments, others lost places in housing queues because they missed online check-ins.

Economic hardships are growing more severe, and Seattle’s labor market characteristics exacerbate them. The market is heavily skewed toward high-paid tech jobs, creating a barrier for refugees without relevant education. At the same time, a high cost of living — including some of the nation’s priciest rents and transportation expenses — places a heavy burden on families. Often only men work outside the home, finding low-paid jobs as cleaners or warehouse workers, increasing financial strain. The threat of eviction became constant for many families. One volunteer bitterly noted, "Instead of getting better, the situation is getting worse," as some helpers burn out while others continue working to fill gaps in support.

The language barrier remains one of the most serious obstacles. The Afghan population in the Seattle area has tripled, but the number of Dari and Pashto interpreters has not increased accordingly. In early 2024 volunteers shared worries about families trying to survive on low-paid work while supplementing income with food stamps and small cash assistance.

❮ ❯

Based on: Eyed with suspicion, WA Afghans find pain and promise in American life

Seattle News: Safety, Justice and a Legend's Return

Seattle authorities are preparing for the World Cup by installing temporary barriers at Pike Place Market to protect pedestrians. A court has convicted a man of a hate crime for attacking transgender women. NBA insiders say Seattle is a favorite to get the SuperSonics back during league expansion.

Seattle to get new temporary barriers to limit vehicle access at Pike Place Market

Seattle officials are preparing for an influx of visitors ahead of the FIFA World Cup and plan to install additional temporary protective barriers at the famous Pike Place Market as early as April to limit passenger vehicle access and improve pedestrian safety. The decision builds on a 2025 pilot program and is part of a strategy to keep the market safe and welcoming during major international events.

According to the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) in its piece for King 5, the new approach calls for a mix of temporary barriers, including movable crash-rated fencing, concrete planters and fixed bollards at key entry points. The market’s historic truck, traditionally used to manage traffic, will continue to be used. An SDOT spokesperson said this schedule will allow the department and market staff to evaluate how the temporary measures perform before the expected influx of guests during the World Cup. Radcliffe Dakanai of SDOT emphasized that the city prefers to reduce risks rather than accept them, focusing especially on preventing vehicles from entering market areas where they could pose a danger to pedestrians.

Controlled access at the Pike Street and First Avenue intersection will continue to be limited daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with hours adjusted for special events. Full street closures, which are still being discussed with police and fire departments, are likely to be applied only during World Cup matches and major holidays, such as Memorial Day weekend. SDOT design manager Matt Bolio said current plans are focused on World Cup preparations, and more detailed discussions about a permanent solution are expected after July. “We want shared streets, not closed streets,” Bolio said, adding that the department prefers planters that look historically appropriate over more industrial-looking bollards, though he acknowledged the limited time before the tournament. It is important to note that the concrete planters will be removable using equipment like forklifts, ensuring emergency access when needed. SDOT is also working with the City’s Freight Lab and local merchants to better understand delivery schedules and logistical needs.

Public discussion reflected ongoing debates about the market’s future. One commenter advocated for permanently closing the market to cars, while another urged caution about long-term decisions, especially considering the visual impact of protective structures in a historic setting. Concerns were also raised about crowded tourist areas, such as the “Gum Wall,” where even a low-speed vehicle could pose risks. Thus, Seattle’s temporary measures serve not only as tactical preparation for a global sporting event but also as an important step in balancing pedestrian safety, preserving the historic character of one of the city’s top attractions, and meeting the functional needs of local businesses and services.

Hate crime conviction: Seattle jury finds man guilty of attacking transgender women

A King County verdict sent a significant message in the fight against hate crimes. A jury found Seattle resident Andre Carlow guilty of a hate crime and second-degree assault for the brutal beating of a transgender woman. The case, detailed in a KUOW report, highlights the troubling reality of violence faced by the LGBTQ community and the challenges of prosecuting such crimes.

The court concluded that Andre Carlow intentionally targeted Andy Holsepl because of her gender identity. The incident occurred March 27, 2025, in the University District as Holsepl was heading to an open Seattle Mariners baseball game. According to the victim and Senior Deputy King County Prosecutor for hate crimes Essenia Manso, Carlow, in a group of men, for no reason called her a “drag queen” and demanded she wash off her makeup. When Holsepl tried to record him, Carlow struck her in the face, knocked her to the ground, and continued to beat her, including hitting her throat and face, while other men joined the attack. Throughout the assault, perpetrators shouted derogatory taunts directed at transgender people. The victim managed to break free and run to a nearby restaurant for help. Holsepl suffered bruising around her eyes, broken teeth and other injuries. Carlow, identified as the primary instigator, was the only person charged in the incident.

The verdict brought relief to another victim, Lexi Young, a transgender woman whom Carlow attacked six months earlier. In an interview with KUOW, Young expressed relief that the trial concluded and sorrow that they both had to endure such violence. Her incident occurred on September 14, 2024, when she was working as a fare enforcement inspector for Sound Transit and asked Carlow for a ticket at a light rail station in the Chinatown–International District. According to charging documents, he mocked her using slurs and then, when Young tried to photograph him, got off the train and, without warning, hit her in the face. Prosecutors charged that incident as a hate crime because he used anti-LGBTQ slurs and told the victim to “add bass to your voice,” indicating motivation related to gender expression and sexual orientation. However, in that first trial, the jury could not reach a unanimous verdict on the hate crime charge, resulting in a mistrial. Carlow was convicted only of fourth-degree assault, a gross misdemeanor. He committed the attack on Holsepl while out on bail in Young’s case.

Carlow’s defense attorney, Maxwell Evans, disputed the charges, saying, as KOMO News reports, that the state asks to convict his client based on a “politically charged narrative connected to a flashpoint in modern culture,” relying solely on the testimony of the witness with the greatest stake in the case. Nevertheless, the jury in Holsepl’s case found the evidence persuasive. For clarification, in U.S. criminal law a “hate crime” enhancement is not a separate offense but an aggravating factor that increases the penalty for the underlying crime (for example, assault) if it is proven to have been motivated by bias against a protected group. King County prosecutor data show the scale of the issue: in 2025, 24 criminal cases were filed as hate crimes. Of those, 10 involved race or ethnicity, 6 involved sexual orientation, 4 involved gender or gender expression, 2 involved national origin and 1 involved religion. Carlow’s case falls into the small but significant category of cases related to gender identity. He faces an expected sentence of five to seven years for the attack on Holsepl; sentencing in both cases has not yet been handed down. The verdict not only delivers a measure of justice for the victims but also underscores the importance and difficulty of holding perpetrators of bias-motivated crimes accountable when defense teams seek to frame those incidents as the result of politicized narratives.

SuperSonics return: two NBA insiders stoked expansion rumors

Rumors about NBA expansion and the return of the legendary Seattle SuperSonics have recently reached a fever pitch. Now two respected ESPN reporters have added fuel to the fire by sharing specifics and timelines that are giving Pacific Northwest fans renewed hope.

The information shared by Brian Windhorst and Shams Charania offers the clearest picture yet of the NBA’s plans. While an immediate return should not be expected, the process appears to have finally gained momentum. Windhorst, a senior writer for ESPN, said on The Rich Eisen Show in an interview that the league will likely announce a committee this year to study expansion. He called that a “code” for real action, noting the NBA intends to expand. However, several arena situations in other cities need to be resolved first. One key issue is the fate of the Portland Trail Blazers, who are being sold by heirs of the late Paul Allen. Windhorst emphasized that the league wants to stabilize current situations before adding new teams, and while he doesn’t expect existing clubs to be relocated, the process will take time. His forecast: “You won’t see the Sonics in 2027. It could take several years, but I think we are headed in that direction.”

Even more specific details came from Shams Charania, ESPN’s lead insider. He reported that financial models for expansion, including valuations for new franchises and their impact on the league, will be discussed at the NBA Board of Governors meeting in March. Charania explicitly named Seattle and Las Vegas as “favorites” in the race for expansion slots. He also noted the logistical aspect: adding two teams on the West Coast would require moving one existing Western Conference team to the East. Among candidates for such a move he mentioned the Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves and New Orleans Pelicans. This is an important nuance showing the league is planning structural changes several moves ahead. Charania agrees with Windhorst on timing: the teams themselves won’t arrive for several years.

For context, the Seattle SuperSonics were founded in 1967 and won the NBA championship in 1979. The franchise relocated to Oklahoma City and became the Thunder in 2008, a painful loss for the city. Restoring the SuperSonics brand would be more than adding a new team — it would be reclaiming historical justice and the region’s sporting identity. References to “arena situations” point to the need for modern, financially viable venues. Seattle already has Climate Pledge Arena — a first-rate venue that hosts the NHL’s Seattle Kraken — which is a major advantage for the city.

Key takeaways from these reports: NBA expansion has moved from abstract conversation to practical study; Seattle and Las Vegas are leading candidates; the process will be phased and take years, beginning with financial analyses and ending with conference realignment. Windhorst’s comment that creating a committee is “code for expansion” is particularly telling. It suggests the league has likely made a fundamental decision but is moving cautiously to avoid disrupting the current ecosystem. For Seattle, after years of disappointment and false starts, there now appears to be a real, if slow, path to bringing back a beloved team. In light of the Seattle Seahawks’ recent Super Bowl victory and successes by other local teams like the Seattle Kraken, an NBA return would be the capstone of the city’s revival as a U.S. sports capital.

❮ ❯

Seattle expands access to programs for gifted students

Seattle Public Schools are taking an important step toward a more equitable distribution of educational opportunities by expanding the program for gifted students. Beginning in September, services for children who demonstrate outstanding abilities will be available at two new elementary schools: Alki Elementary in West Seattle and Rainier View Elementary in the Rainier Valley. The decision was met with applause at the school board meeting, as such programs have long been concentrated in the northwest, central and northeast parts of the city, leaving south and southwest communities underserved. Including the Rainier Valley — a historically established, culturally and economically diverse area in the southeast with many low-income and immigrant families — is seen as a key move to ensure equal access to high-quality educational resources for students who have been traditionally underrepresented in these opportunities.

Enrollment for the new centers for gifted children began last week and will continue through March 31. The schools were chosen because of their convenient locations and available space to accept new students. According to Deputy Superintendent Rocky Torres-Morales, the teaching staff and leadership at these schools already have experience implementing similar programs and welcomed the news of the expansion enthusiastically.

Before this announcement, the only elementary school in the southwest and southeast of the district offering services for gifted students was Thurgood Marshall Elementary. District data show that most 2nd–5th grade students identified as gifted live in the northern neighborhoods. Therefore, opening new centers at Alki and Rainier View directly responds to longstanding community requests for a more even distribution of resources.

At the recent school board meeting — the elected body that governs the schools and approves such decisions — parents strongly supported the expansion but also voiced serious concerns. These public meetings traditionally include time for emotional public comment before votes. Parents’ concerns relate both to the identification process for gifted students, which some consider too complicated, and to the content of the existing curriculum. One parent, for example, argued for returning to the district’s original plan — to provide gifted services in every school by neighborhood rather than concentrating them in select campuses.

This issue has been central in the recent history of the program and reflects broader debates over learning models. Beginning in the 2021–22 school year, the district began moving away from a “cohort school” model, where gifted students attended separate specialized campuses, toward a “neighborhood schools” model. The new model assumed that each classroom at a neighborhood school would include students of varying abilities for whom teachers would create individualized plans. Debates center on the balance between equitable access, integration, and educational quality, since cohort schools can foster diversity but sometimes lead to selection of more prepared students, while neighborhood schools strengthen local communities but risk exacerbating inequality if resources are uneven across neighborhoods. After a wave of parent dissatisfaction, that transition was paused last year.

The future of the gifted program in Seattle remains uncertain. Torres-Morales said the district will soon have to choose one of three key options: fully adopt the neighborhood schools model, create a hybrid model, or abandon the idea and retain only the cohort school model. Public hearings in fall 2025 showed families are interested in both approaches, making the forthcoming choice for the school board especially difficult.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle getting more advanced learning programs

Record ridership on Seahawks parade day

On Wednesday, during the parade celebrating the Seattle Seahawks' victory, Seattle’s light rail system (Sound Transit Link 1 Line) carried more than 200,000 riders, setting an all-time attendance record. Sound Transit CEO Dow Constantine called the day the largest in the region’s public transit history. The record numbers were the result of fans following officials’ advice to avoid driving personal cars into downtown, which in turn eased pressure on major roadways. Sound Transit, created by voters to develop high-capacity transit across the Puget Sound region, works closely with local systems such as King County Metro through unified fares and coordinated schedules, creating an integrated network.

The previous ridership record on the line was 160,000 and was set in September during a Huskies college football game and other major events. Another peak came in July 2023, when a Taylor Swift concert and several festivals drew 137,000 riders. Counts are made using laser sensors above car doors rather than fare payments, since during peak events almost no one tapped tickets or transit cards. The 200,000 trips figure means roughly 100,000 people made two trips — into downtown and back — although many took extra transfers looking for better positions.

The successful operation of public transit prevented a traffic meltdown. Speeds on Interstate 5 that day were higher than the annual average, since many regional residents either didn’t travel to the city or took the day off. Ridership also rose significantly on other modes operated by the agency: ferries carried 25% more people than usual, and Sounder commuter trains served three times as many passengers, with extra fan-dedicated trains added.

The day, however, was not without minor incidents. Early in the morning trains were stopped on the section between the strategically important Federal Way and Angle Lake stations due to copper wire theft. Those stations, as well as the Lynnwood City Center station that was later closed over a suspicious package, are key termini connecting dense suburbs with Seattle’s business core. Their location in suburban downtowns reflects a trend toward transit-oriented development meant to reduce car dependence. Those incidents, nevertheless, did not affect the overall success of the transit system under extreme load.

Constantine thanked staff and security teams, who among other things helped reunite a lost child with their family, and he thanked riders for maintaining a joyful mood and patience. King County Metro bus ridership data, as buses rerouted to bypass downtown that day, are still being finalized. Overall, parade day provided a vivid demonstration of the capabilities and importance of coordinated regional public transit during large-scale events.

❮ ❯

Based on: Light rail carried over 200K riders on Seahawks Super Bowl parade day

Sea lions enjoy unusual warmth in Seattle

Last week at the Shilshole Bay Marina in Seattle there was an unusually lively scene: dozens of sea lions were loudly and carefree resting on the breakwater, taking advantage of winter-weather warmth. Temperatures hovered around 10 degrees Celsius (about 50 degrees Fahrenheit), creating ideal conditions for these marine mammals, which are typically more active in colder months. Locals and photographers witnessed this noisy aggregation as the animals basked in the sun, interacted with one another and displayed complete relaxation, turning an ordinary breakwater into an improvised haul-out.

❮ ❯

Based on: Taking a break on the breakwater

Seahawks win pays dividends in U.S. Congress

The Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl victory brought joy not only to fans but also to Washington state Congresswoman Suzan DelBene, who represents the 1st Congressional District that includes suburbs north and east of Seattle such as Bothell, Kirkland and part of Snohomish County. For her constituents, supporting the local team — a huge part of regional culture and identity — matters a great deal, and such gestures by a politician strengthen the emotional connection with the community.

As part of friendly wagers with colleagues in Congress who backed other favorites, she earned the right to a basket of Massachusetts goodies from New England Patriots supporter Katherine Clark. This is not her first win: earlier, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who had bet on the San Francisco 49ers, gave her California wines and chocolates. Such traditions, where Washington representatives wager with colleagues from other states on local products like Starbucks coffee or apples, are symbolic and underscore regional pride.

DelBene notes that these lighthearted bets are a great way to support small businesses and local producers in their districts. But the Democratic representative went beyond a simple exchange of treats. Together with the entire Washington congressional delegation, she submitted an official congratulatory resolution to the House of Representatives honoring the Seahawks' triumph and their devoted fans.

The four-page document, quickly prepared by her staff after the game, does more than note the 29–13 final score. The resolution details key moments of the match, such as the touchdown after the Patriots' fumble in the fourth quarter and the decisive interception returned for a touchdown. In the end, the House of Representatives officially congratulates the team, coaches and staff on their "resounding victory."

It is unclear whether representatives from Massachusetts, whose team lost, will support the resolution. But for Suzan DelBene, the expected treats from Katherine Clark will be a pleasant closing note. "We won, and she had to admit it," the congresswoman said with a smile, for whom the sports victory turned into both a diplomatic and a tangible gastronomic success.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seahawks win hits the U.S. Capitol

Find Yourself in the Sea of Fans at the Seahawks Parade

The Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl LX victory culminated in a grand parade downtown that drew hundreds of thousands of jubilant fans. Now anyone who was in that blue-and-green crowd can try to find themselves in the large celebration photos using a special interactive photo experience. By scrolling and zooming through images taken along the parade route, fans can locate their moment of glory — whether it's a view from a friend's shoulders, the luckiest jersey, or simply unbridled fun among thousands of other passionate "12s" who turned downtown Seattle into a sea of color and joy.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl parade photos: Find yourself

Record Settlement Over Student's Death

The city of Seattle will pay $29 million to the family of a student struck by a police vehicle. The incident exposed problems in the department, including negligent hiring and cynical remarks by officers. Also in the digest: key storylines ahead of the Supercross round in Seattle.

Family of deceased student to receive record $29M from City of Seattle

The City of Seattle has agreed to pay $29 million to the family of Jaahnavi Kandula, a 23-year-old student who was struck and killed by a police vehicle in January 2023. The settlement, one of the largest in the city's history, resulted from a lawsuit in which the family accused the city of negligently hiring and retaining Officer Kevin Dave. The tragedy, which shocked the public, was exacerbated by cynical comments from another officer at the scene, leading to the termination of both officers and raising serious questions about departmental procedures and culture.

According to court documents detailed in a report by KING 5, the incident occurred on January 23, 2023, in the South Lake Union neighborhood. Officer Kevin Dave, responding to a suspected drug overdose call, was traveling up to 74 miles per hour (about 119 km/h) in a 25 mph (40 km/h) zone. Jaahnavi Kandula, a student from India, was crossing at a marked crosswalk at the time. Bodycam footage showed she stepped into the crosswalk moments before being struck. The investigation found that while Dave's vehicle had its emergency lights activated, the siren was not used continuously; instead, the officer briefly "tapped" the siren at the intersection, which was clearly insufficient to warn pedestrians.

In a statement released through attorneys, the family said: "While no amount will bring Jaahnavi back, we hope this decision reflects the seriousness of the loss and underscores the value of her life. She was loved without end, and her future was full of promise." The family sued in 2024, alleging the city was responsible for Dave's actions, who was "negligently hired" and "negligently retained." The settlement was reached last week. Seattle's city administration and police did not contest the findings of the internal investigation. In a letter, Seattle Police Sergeant Patrick Meacham explicitly noted that Dave's good intentions to arrive quickly on a call do not "mitigate the poor decision that led to the loss of human life and tarnished the Seattle Police Department." Dave was fired on January 6 of this year after the internal investigation found he violated four key department policies, including the duty to obey the law, adjust conduct during emergency response, be accountable for safe driving, and properly use emergency signals.

Public outrage and the tragic context around the case were amplified by the actions of another officer, Daniel Oederer, who was also fired by then-Interim Chief Sue Rahr. On his body-worn camera recording at the scene, Oederer is heard laughing while on the phone and saying, "But she's dead," and then misstates the victim's age: "She was 26 anyway. Her value was limited." Those cynical and inhumane remarks, once made public, sparked protests and seriously undermined trust in the police. Oederer's firing was a direct consequence of the incident.

The $29,011,000 settlement amount is unprecedented for Seattle and reflects not only the severity of the loss and the victim's potential future earnings, but also the egregiousness of the violations by city employees. The case highlighted systemic problems: the pursuit of response speed at all costs, insufficient oversight of driving behavior during emergency calls, and a toxic culture within certain police units. For the Kandula family, who lost a daughter and sister, money cannot replace justice, but it is a public acknowledgment by the city of its responsibility and of Jaahnavi's value. The city, in effect, avoided a prolonged and even more painful trial, and the police department received a stern lesson that activists hope will lead to real changes in emergency response protocols and officer training.

Momentous Settlement

The City of Seattle will pay a record settlement to the family of the student whose death exposed deep problems in the police department and drew international attention.

The City of Seattle reached a historic settlement with the family of 23-year-old Jaahnavi Kandula, a graduate student from India who was struck and killed by a Seattle police patrol car in January 2023. The settlement totaled $29 million, which is one of the largest payouts in the city's history for a case of this type. As reported by KIRO 7 News Seattle, the incident occurred when Officer Kevin Dave, responding to a suspected drug overdose, was traveling up to 74 mph (about 119 km/h) in a 25 mph (40 km/h) zone. Although his emergency lights were on and he used the siren at intersections, the excessive speed was found to be a key factor in the tragedy. Jaahnavi Kandula, who was pursuing a master's degree in information systems at Northeastern University's Seattle campus, was killed at the scene.

King County Prosecuting Attorney Announced? (Note: Keep original content) City Attorney Prose? (This sentence appears missing context in original; preserved facts below.)

City Attorney or Prosecutor statements: City Attorney or Prosecutor? (Original Russian text named City Prosecutor Erica Evans.) City Attorney Erica Evans said in a statement she hoped the financial settlement would bring the family some sense of closure, emphasizing that "Jaahnavi Kandula's life mattered. It mattered to her family, friends, and our community." However, the path to this agreement was overshadowed by shocking events that followed the death. Public outrage and protests reignited after bodycam footage from another officer, Daniel Oederer, became public; he was heard laughing and cynically suggesting the student's life had "limited value" and that the city should "just write a check." Those comments, made by an officer who was also a union leader, severely damaged the department's reputation and eroded public trust. The city's Civil Service Commission deemed the remarks unacceptable. Oederer was later fired and filed a lawsuit against the city for wrongful termination, claiming his words were sarcastic criticism of likely actions by attorneys, not an assessment of the victim's life.

As for the officer directly responsible for the crash, Kevin Dave was also fired from the department, fined $5,000 for negligent driving, but avoided criminal charges. King County prosecutors declined to charge him with a felony, citing the inability to prove he intentionally disregarded safety at the moment of the collision. It is expected that about $20 million of the settlement will be covered by the city's insurance. The case drew attention at the highest diplomatic levels: Indian authorities formally requested a thorough investigation. The settlement, first reported by local outlet PubliCola, was filed in King County Superior Court and resolves the family's civil claim. It is not only financial compensation for an irreparable loss but also a grim reminder of systemic issues that demand deep reforms in police culture, emergency response protocols, and accountability to the public.

Storylines Entering Seattle: Week in SMX

In the world of Supercross, every weekend brings new twists and achievements, and the upcoming Seattle round will be no exception. Based on the latest results and statistics published on the official SupercrossLive, several key points should set the tone for the race.

Heading into Seattle, attention is focused on several riders showing impressive consistency and progress. Justin Cooper, who finished fourth at the last race, notched his first top-5 finish of the season — his 105th top-5 in SMX League competition, including 12 in the premier 450SX class. For context: the SMX League is the overarching structure that encompasses Supercross competitions, and the 450SX class is the top tier where the most powerful bikes compete. Jorge Prado, who finished fifth, matched his best result since his season-opening podium and now has two top-5 finishes in 11 starts in the 450SX class. This is significant progress for a rider adapting to the premier class.

Joey Savatgy, marking his 60th start in the 450SX class with a sixth-place finish, continues to impress while competing against factory teams. All three of his top-10 finishes this season have been inside the top six, and his career total in SMX League top-10s has reached 155 in 226 starts. Chase Sexton, who placed seventh, demonstrates ironclad reliability: this was his 61st consecutive start without a miss since Round 12 of 2022, and his 77th top-10 career finish in the 450SX class moves him to 31st on the all-time list for that metric. Dylan Ferrandis, who rounded out the top ten, reached the milestone of 150 top-10 finishes in the SMX League across 183 starts. These statistics highlight not only personal achievements but also the intense competition and physical demands of the championship, where regularly finishing in the top ten is already a major accomplishment. Ahead lies the Seattle round, where riders will contend not only with each other but also with a challenging, often wet track that could shake up the pecking order.

❮ ❯

Seattle Drenched in Blue-Green: Grand Parade for the Seahawks

On Wednesday, downtown Seattle turned into an epicenter of jubilation as hundreds of thousands of fans in blue-and-green filled the streets to celebrate the Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl victory. The victory parade became a citywide celebration after the team convincingly defeated the New England Patriots 29-13 on Sunday, claiming its second championship title in franchise history.

Before dawn, devoted fans began staking out prime spots along the Fourth Avenue route. Some hauled couches found on the street, others climbed onto rooftops to secure a good view. By 6:45 a.m., there was no free space left at the barricades, and the sun was only beginning to rise above the horizon.

The festivities began at Lumen Field, which opened in 2002 and is not only the Seahawks' home but also that of the Seattle Sounders soccer club, as well as a key venue for concerts and exhibitions. Its downtown location near transit hubs makes it an important civic and economic center for the region. Lucky ticket holders witnessed a 35-minute ceremony featuring player appearances. The climax came with the opening of a giant keg of beverage, after which confetti rained down on the stadium and the champions boarded military trucks and double-decker buses prepared for the parade.

Around noon the parade officially launched at the intersection of Fourth Avenue and Olive Way. Bicycling police led the procession, followed by a boisterous brass band. The crowd roared louder at the sight of the team's dancers, Mayor Si-Tac Katy Wilson — whose role is tied to managing the suburb that houses the international airport — and the team mascot Blitz, an anthropomorphic sea hawk introduced in 1998 and now one of the club’s most recognizable symbols.

A real explosion of emotion came when coaches and players appeared on open vehicles. Head coach Mike Macdonald hoisted the NFC championship trophy overhead while filming cheering fans on his phone. Spotting a sign in the crowd with his now-famous phrase "We didn't care," which has become a symbol of the team's grit and self-belief since the 2010 playoff run, he smiled and began chanting the words with the fans.

Players actively engaged with the public: spraying champagne, giving high-fives, posing for selfies. Quarterback Sam Darnold emotionally greeted the crowd, and receiver Jackson Smith-Njigba said on live broadcast that he gives his heart to these devoted fans.

For many, the event was a family tradition. Twenty-year-old Amanda Frost attended the parade with her father back in 2014 after the Seahawks' first win, and she still keeps the commemorative blanket she bought then. After this latest victory she tearfully thanked her father for introducing her to "the best team in the world."

Four teenagers from Seattle schools showed ingenuity when they found a brown leather couch five blocks from the parade. They dragged it to the barricade at the corner of Fourth Avenue and Vine Street, creating a comfortable viewing spot. After the celebrations they planned to leave the couch for other lucky fans.

Throughout the parade blue and green confetti fell from the sky, carpeting the streets in celebration. One spectator noted with a smile that the cleanup crews would be working on it for years. The celebration ran smoothly, and Seattle's public transit system, which increased the frequency of buses and light rail trains, handled the huge influx of people successfully. For a day the city immersed itself in an atmosphere of unity and sporting joy.

❮ ❯

Based on: Hundreds of thousands turn out for Seahawks Super Bowl celebration

Champions Parade: Seattle Celebrates Seahawks' Super Bowl Win

On Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, Seattle was swept up in celebration with a large parade honoring the local team, the Seattle Seahawks, after their Super Bowl victory. The event, called the "Seahawks World Champions Parade," not only delighted fans but also provided a significant economic boost to downtown businesses. The transportation system ran smoothly that day, enabling tens of thousands of residents to move around without major disruptions.

The procession with players departed from Lumen Field at about 11:30 a.m. and proceeded down Fourth Avenue in downtown, ending at the iconic Space Needle. Team stars, including quarterback Sam Darnold and tight end A.J. Barner, climbed out of the buses to high-five cheering fans in the front rows. Defensive back Julian Love hoisted the coveted Lombardi Trophy overhead, drawing thunderous applause. "I want the whole city to see this cup!" he said on KING 5. Players and fans chanted "SEA-HAWKS!" and the name of head coach Mike McDonald.

Celebrations began before the parade: at 10 a.m. at Lumen Field there was a trophy ceremony that lasted about 45 minutes. The team emerged to roaring stands, and the stadium scoreboard displayed the final score of the deciding game — 29-13 in favor of the Seahawks. The day will live forever in Seattle memory as the triumph of their beloved team and a major citywide celebration.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seahawks parade 2026 recap: Players, fans celebrate Super Bowl in Seattle

Seattle: From Food to Scandals

Overview of Seattle news: a gastronomic marathon in a food court, questions for the Mariners baseball club, and a multimillion-dollar settlement after a student's death.

Taste of Bellevue: How I Ate 307 Dishes in One Food Court and What Came of It

Journalist and podcaster Tan Vinh undertook a gastronomic marathon that will impress any fan of Asian cuisine. Over thirteen months he managed to try 307 different items at the T&T Supermarket food court in Bellevue, a Seattle suburb. While he didn't reach full coverage of the entire menu — which numbers about 850 rotating items — Vinh believes 300 tastings are sufficient to form a comprehensive picture of the place. He shared his findings and impressions in a new episode of the podcast “Seattle Eats with Tan Vinh.”

The T&T Supermarket food court is, in the author's words, a Chinatown under one roof. It's a labyrinth of flavors featuring dishes you'd find at markets and street stalls in Hong Kong and mainland China: from dim sum and dumplings to Taiwanese sticky rice rolls wrapped in leaves. A useful tip for frugal visitors is the daily discount on perishables after 10 p.m. Thanks to it you can, for example, buy a roasted chicken for about $11 instead of the usual $15 or get 20% off sushi rolls. Vinh discusses all these details and his top culinary discoveries in the episode of his podcast on The Seattle Times website.

The “Seattle Eats with Tan Vinh” podcast is a joint project of The Seattle Times and KUOW, the NPR-member radio station. New episodes about Seattle's food culture and its surroundings are released every Thursday. This particular episode not only demonstrates the host's personal obsession but also serves as a detailed guide to one of the region's key spots for lovers of Asian cuisine, highlighting its authenticity and accessibility.

The Seattle Mariners' Big Question for 2026 — Not the Worst Problem

As spring training approaches, the Seattle Mariners look like one of the American League's main contenders for a World Series berth, backed by their deep late-playoff run last season. However, as MLB Network insider John Morosi notes in his interview for Seattle Sports, the team still has one significant question: whether the bullpen — the group of relief pitchers who replace starters in the middle or late innings — is sufficiently strengthened. Interestingly, Morosi believes this is not the most critical problem to face in February, since building a reliable bullpen often isn't finished until the summer trade deadline.

The Mariners' bullpen core consists of proven high-end pitchers: closer Andrés Muñoz, right-hander Matt Brash and left-hander Gabe Speier. They were joined by right-hander Edwin Basardo, who broke out in 2025, and new lefty José A. Ferrer, on whom the club places high hopes. That means five of eight bullpen spots are already occupied, though some uncertainty remains about the form of Muñoz, Speier and Basardo after their heavy workloads in last year's playoffs and participation in the World Baseball Classic.

Most debate will swirl around the remaining three spots. Candidates include familiar names to fans — Carlos Vargas, Casey Legumina and Emerson Hancock — as well as Troy Taylor, who shone in 2024 but struggled in MLB last season. Spring games will pay special attention to right-hander Yosver Zulueta, acquired from the Cincinnati Reds. His arsenal, featuring a heavy fastball reaching 98 mph and a slider with a high stuff+ (a metric evaluating the “raw” power and effectiveness of pitches, where 100 is average), makes him a typical Mariners “project” that the club has a track record of turning into stars. For comparison, Muñoz's slider last season had a stuff+ of 119, while Zulueta's figure in 2024 reached 121.

Morosi emphasizes that general manager Jerry Dipoto and his staff have a reputation for turning lesser-known players into key bullpen pieces by season's end. So the current uncertainty over the final relief roles is a normal situation for this time of year. A real problem would arise only if key pitchers suffer injuries, but that risk exists for any team in the league. Thus, the Mariners' main issue at the season's start is not roster weakness but incompleteness, leaving room for maneuver and upgrades as the season progresses.

Fate-Defining Settlement

The tragic death of a young student in Seattle led to one of the city's largest settlement agreements, exposing deep problems in the police department and sparking international outcry.

The city of Seattle reached a settlement of $29 million with the family of 23-year-old Indian graduate student Jahnavi Kandula, who died three years ago after being struck by a police patrol vehicle. As MyNorthwest.com reports, the incident occurred on a crosswalk when Officer Kevin Dave, responding to a report of a drug overdose, was traveling up to 74 mph in a 25 mph zone. Although his lights and siren were activated at intersections, such excessive speed in an urban setting was found to be extremely dangerous.

Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison called Kandula's death "heartbreaking," expressing hope that the financial settlement will bring the victim's family some sense of closure. "Jahnavi Kandula's life mattered. She mattered to her family, friends and our community," Davison emphasized. Jahnavi was a student at Northeastern University's Seattle campus, working toward a master's degree in information systems.

The case was inflamed by callous comments made after the woman's death. Dan Auderer, vice president of the Seattle Police Officers Guild (SPOG), to whom Officer Dave reported the incident, was recorded on body-worn camera during a phone call with the union president. On the recording he laughs and says that "she was going to be 26 anyway" and that "her value was limited," suggesting they simply write a check for $11,000. Auderer later claimed his words were intended to be interpreted "as a mockery of the lawyers," but those explanations did little to calm the wave of international outrage, especially after Indian diplomats intervened and demanded an investigation. The city's civilian oversight board concluded that Auderer's comments, as a union leader, damaged the department's reputation and undermined public trust.

Following the fallout, acting police chief Sue Rahr fired Dan Auderer in summer 2024. Officer Kevin Dave was also fired in January 2025. In addition, Dave was cited administratively for reckless driving with a $5,000 fine, but county prosecutors declined to bring criminal charges, citing an inability to prove he willfully disregarded safety measures. That decision raised further questions about the accountability system.

The case highlighted several key issues: the permissibility of extremely high speeds when responding to calls in an urban area, the internal culture of the police union, and the depth of the consequences for the city's international image. The $29 million settlement, one of the largest in Seattle's history, is not only financial compensation for the family but also a powerful signal of the need for systemic changes in police procedures and ethics.

❮ ❯

Seattle Police Announce a “General Mobilization” of Fans for Parade

The Seattle Police Department, ahead of the parade celebrating the Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl victory, took an unprecedented step by jokingly declaring a “general mobilization” of all dedicated fans known as the “12th Man.” In an official statement styled as a memo, the law enforcement agency called attendance at the celebratory procession “mandatory” and even provided fans with a ready-made excuse note for their bosses and teachers. The document says that with all available police resources being deployed in anticipation of up to a million people, the presence of all “certified” team supporters is required.

In his address, Sergeant Patrick Michaux humorously explained the “operational necessity” of the call-up. To remedy a “critical shortage of decibels in the city center,” fans were “tasked” with rhythmically chanting “Sea-Hawks!” to “ensure the structural integrity of the city.” A strict “dress code” was also announced: for the safety of low-flying birds, all those “drafted” are required to wear the team’s bright green jerseys. The police warned that after completing the mission, citizens will likely be hoarse and will “carry a faint scent of victory.”

For skeptical employers, the memo included tongue-in-cheek but stern penalties: a “15-yard penalty” on the company’s next quarterly report, continuous playback of the song “Safety Dance” over office speakers, and a “severe sidelong glare” from the team mascot known as Blitz. In closing, the police urged fans to print the note, present it to their managers, and take to the streets—because their team and their city need them.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle police ‘draft’ all fans to attend Seahawks Super Bowl parade

How to get to the Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl parade

On Wednesday, Seattle will host a grand parade celebrating the hometown Seahawks' Super Bowl victory. The event will begin at 11 a.m. at the intersection of Fourth Avenue and Washington Street and last about two hours, ending at the iconic Space Needle observation tower in the Seattle Center. This is the city's most recognizable architectural landmark, a symbol of innovation and the future, making it a traditional and symbolic place to conclude such festivities. Organizers expect several hundred thousand fans along the two-mile route, creating unprecedented strain on the city's transportation system.

Prominent community advocate and passenger rights champion Girma Zeray, known for his active stance on accessibility and equity in public transit, strongly urges all attendees to avoid driving. More than 20 downtown streets will be closed for the parade, bus routes will be altered, and parking will be virtually impossible. "Events like this are exactly what the regional transportation network was built for," Zeray said.

The primary recommended mode of travel is the Light Rail, operated by regional agency Sound Transit. The agency will increase train frequency between Lynnwood and Federal Way to one train every six minutes from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. It is expected that ridership records will be broken that day, given that at the previous parade in 2014 the rail system carried 71,000 people in one direction versus the usual 29,700.

Additionally, Sound Transit will run four special Sounder trains on Wednesday morning, in addition to the regular N and S line schedules. Organizers advise taking early trips, as all trains will be crowded. Extra trains will also be added for the return trip.

Bus service in downtown Seattle will see major changes starting at 5 a.m. King County Metro buses, regional Sound Transit buses, and Community Transit buses serving Snohomish County from the north will stop at Mercer Street and Queen Anne Avenue, where shuttles will take passengers along Second and Third avenues to the business district. From the east and south, buses will go to the SODO and Stadium stations for transfers to the light rail. All these services operate as part of an integrated regional network with coordinated schedules and transfer hubs.

Ferry service will face particular challenges. Washington State Ferries warns of significant wait times at terminals, especially at Coleman Dock downtown. The ferry system is critically important to the region because of its unique geography: Seattle sits on a isthmus between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, and ferries serve as vital "floating bridges" for island and peninsula residents. Many sailings will be filled to maximum capacity — up to 1,800 people per sailing. The ferry system explicitly does not recommend driving to terminals, advising passengers on the Edmonds and Fauntleroy routes to walk or bike.

To ensure smooth ferry operations, WSF has asked crew members to arrive early and even consider sleeping in vessel crew cabins Tuesday night to avoid traffic delays on parade day.

Kitsap Transit, serving Kitsap County west of the sound, will expand fast-ferry service to downtown Seattle from Bremerton, Kingston, and Southworth. A third 188-passenger vessel will be added on the Seattle–Bremerton route, and the Kingston ferry will be able to carry up to 349 passengers per sailing thanks to an open upper deck.

King County's water taxi will also optimize operations, aiming to shorten boarding and disembarking times to provide additional sailings from Seattle to West Seattle and Vashon Island. Free bike parking will be available at the University of Washington station from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

❮ ❯

Based on: Tips for getting to the Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl parade

Sun and Celebration: Perfect Weather for the Seattle Seahawks Parade

Fans of the Seattle Seahawks preparing for the grand parade celebrating their Super Bowl LX victory have nothing to worry about — forecasters promise near-perfect weather. After a rainy Monday, high atmospheric pressure will bring clear skies and sunshine to the city, creating great conditions for Wednesday’s festivities.

Meteorologists forecast daytime highs around 50 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime lows in the mid-30s. Thousands of fans, having skipped work and school, will take to the streets to cheer the champions along the route from Lumen Field to the Space Needle. It looks set to be another day to root wholeheartedly for the beloved team.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seahawks’ Super Bowl LX parade weather forecast: Sunny, clear skies

How to Get The Seattle Times' Seahawks Super Bowl Commemoratives

Seattle Seahawks fans can extend the celebration of the team’s historic Super Bowl LX victory over the New England Patriots with special offers from The Seattle Times. The state’s largest daily newspaper serves not only for sports coverage but also as a key source of investigative journalism on local issues, a platform for public dialogue, and a historical archive for the region. Its influence on political decisions and public opinion makes it an important civic institution in Seattle.

The Seahawks’ victory itself carries huge significance for the city and its residents, as it brings the whole community together, strengthens civic identity and pride. In the U.S., the Super Bowl is more than a sporting event; it’s a national holiday. The triumph brings national recognition to Seattle, a positive economic impact, and a powerful emotional lift, creating shared memories and a sense of unity.

To preserve the memory of this triumph, the paper is offering several ways to purchase commemorative keepsakes. The printed edition of the Monday paper can be found at most major grocery stores, gas stations and convenience stores in the Seattle area. Those living outside the region can buy it online for $16 with shipping. Fans can also order a colorful 12-by-22-inch first-page poster for $99.99 or smaller versions. The poster is available on matte canvas or laminated on a wooden backing.

A special highlight of the collection is the commemorative book Against All Odds: The Story of the Seattle Seahawks’ 2025 Championship Season. This 208-page hardcover gift edition contains reporting, commentary and photographs from The Seattle Times and sells for $44.95. A 15% discount is available if ordered on the day the story is published via the special site. In addition, a special commemorative section will appear in the Sunday edition on Feb. 15.

Thus, fans have several options to capture this important moment. All items listed, except for the printed newspaper available at local stores, can be ordered through The Seattle Times online shop, making them accessible to fans of the team worldwide.

❮ ❯

Based on: How to get The Seattle Times’ front page on Seahawks’ Super Bowl LX win

Seattle: Courts, Sports and Drug Trafficking

A trial ended in Seattle for the motel arsonist convicted of killing two people. The Seattle Seahawks won the Super Bowl for the second time, defeating the New England Patriots. A Seattle resident received 35 years for involvement in a major fentanyl and methamphetamine trafficking ring.

Arsonist sentenced

A criminal trial concluded in Seattle over the horrific motel fire that claimed two lives. More than five years after the tragedy, a jury returned a guilty verdict against 29-year-old Jesse Puff of Anchorage, finding him guilty of intentionally setting a fire that resulted in deaths.

The blaze at the Hillside Motel on Aurora Avenue, which occurred July 13, 2020, was a nightmarish scene: people had to jump from fourth-floor windows to escape the raging flames. Several people were injured, and two died from their injuries days later. According to court records, Puff arrived at the motel two days before the fire looking for a stolen laptop he said had been tracked to the location. After failing to find it, he returned two days later with containers of flammable liquid. A witness, Katy Persell, who escaped the fire, told KIRO 7 in an interview that the man poured liquid on doors on the upper floors and down the entire stairwell, and those actions were captured on surveillance cameras. Court documents state Puff spent about an hour at the motel waiting for access to the stairwell, where he set the fire. In his own statements he admitted he knew there were 10–12 people inside the building, that he deliberately brought gasoline cans from South Seattle, spent 12 minutes inside, and then returned with four jugs of accelerant. At the time of the crime, Puff—who called himself a musician traveling the West Coast—had been in Washington state for only two months. Jurors found him guilty on all counts: two counts of murder, one count of arson, and three counts of assault. The verdict closes a long investigation and serves as a reminder of the tragic consequences of intentional acts that endanger innocent lives.

Super Bowl 2026: Seattle Seahawks win Lombardi Trophy for second time

On Sunday in Santa Clara the biggest game in American football — Super Bowl LX — ended with a convincing Seattle Seahawks victory over the New England Patriots, 29–13. The win is only the second in franchise history for the Seahawks, repeating the team’s success from 2014. According to ESPN, the key to the triumph was Seattle’s dominant defense, nicknamed the “Dark Side,” and a brilliant performance by running back Kenneth Walker III, who was named the game’s Most Valuable Player.

From the outset the game went Seattle’s way. Their defense, a true nightmare for Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, wreaked havoc. Maye, who during the regular season was among the contenders for MVP, was sacked six times and committed three turnovers. The third quarter was particularly devastating when linebacker Derrick Hall forced a fumble from Maye — his first forced fumble since 2024. In the fourth quarter Seahawks defenders Uchenna Nwosu and Julian Love intercepted Maye’s passes back-to-back, burying the Patriots’ remaining hopes of a comeback. For context: a “forced fumble” is when the defense intentionally knocks the ball out of an offensive player’s hands, and an “interception” is a caught pass by the defense; both are critical turnovers that often decide a game.

While the defense smothered the opponent’s offense, Seattle’s offense controlled the game with confidence. Kenneth Walker III was virtually unstoppable, rushing for 135 yards on 5.0 yards per carry. His powerful runs not only gained yards but wore down the Patriots’ defense, opening the field for the passing game. Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, whose career has had ups and downs since being a first-round draft pick, perhaps played the cleanest game of his career. He had no turnovers, completing 19 of 38 passes for 202 yards and one touchdown. His composure and efficiency under pressure complemented Walker’s powerful rushing attack perfectly.

New England’s sole bright moment came in the fourth quarter when Drake Maye found receiver Mac Hollins on a 35-yard touchdown, cutting the deficit to 19–7. But that hope was short-lived. Back-to-back interceptions on the Patriots’ next series ended their comeback attempts. The Seahawks, by contrast, showed poise and discipline, closing out the game for a decisive victory. This triumph in Super Bowl LX demonstrates that success in the modern NFL is built not only on star quarterbacks but on total defensive dominance and a balanced, smart offense — exactly what the Seattle Seahawks displayed at Levi’s Stadium.

35-year sentence for drug trafficking: how a Seattle dealer linked Phoenix to Pennsylvania

A harsh federal sentence in a drug case has revealed the scale of a transnational criminal syndicate’s operations. Seattle resident Bryce Hill, 28, was sentenced to 35 years in prison for participating in a large conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine, and for money laundering. This case, detailed in a Yahoo News report, is part of a broader indictment against 35 defendants tied to an organization based in Phoenix.

U.S. District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence after a two-and-a-half-week trial that concluded in September 2025. Investigators found that Hill was a key member of the so-called Monarrez Drug Trafficking Organization, based in Phoenix. Operating from August 2021 through June 2023, the group supplied millions of fentanyl pills, hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine, and tens of kilograms of cocaine across the country, including western Pennsylvania. The organization created a network of subordinate distributors, allowing it to flood different U.S. regions with drugs effectively.

Fentanyl posed a particular danger — a synthetic opioid tens of times more potent than heroin. Even microscopic doses can cause fatal overdoses, making it a leading cause of the nation’s drug crisis. Wiretaps revealed Hill personally arranged for hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills and kilograms of fentanyl powder for further distribution. A search of his apartment on January 11, 2023, yielded 27 kilograms of fentanyl pills, several firearms, and $387,000 in cash. An even larger seizure awaited authorities in Scottsdale, Arizona, where investigators found on a rental villa on December 25, 2022, 28 kilograms of fentanyl pills, 7.5 kilograms of fentanyl powder, 3 kilograms of cocaine, 48 kilograms of methamphetamine, and 20 firearms. These figures illustrate the industrial scale of the operation.

Jurors found Hill guilty of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute at least five kilograms of cocaine, 400 grams of fentanyl, and 500 grams of methamphetamine. His sentence is part of a larger law enforcement effort: 32 co-defendants have already been sentenced, including residents of Kent and SeaTac, Washington. The case demonstrates how local dealers in major cities like Seattle can be tied to powerful transnational networks that use logistics chains to move drugs across the country. The stiff sentence likely aims to send a message of intolerance toward such activity amid the nationwide fight against the opioid epidemic, which has claimed tens of thousands of lives.

❮ ❯

Rescuer saves deer on thin ice by embracing it and pulling it ashore

An elderly couple living on the shore of Lake Lun in Washington state noticed a young deer that couldn’t stand and was stuck about 150 meters from shore on thin ice. This body of water, like many others in the Seattle area, plays an important role for local residents as a place for recreation and nature-watching, and for the region’s ecosystem it provides habitat for birds, fish and other wildlife while helping to maintain the water balance. The couple, who had experience rescuing animals, immediately called the local fire crew and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). That department is responsible for managing and protecting natural resources, including lakes, and connects with local communities through educational programs and collaboration with residents to preserve natural heritage, reflecting the region’s shared environmental values.

By the time rescuers arrived, neighbors had already gathered at the scene and one teenager was even preparing to try to help the animal himself. Responding to the call was 26-year-old firefighter Gavin Gallagher, trained in rescuing people from ice but never having dealt with wild animals before. The ice that day was particularly thin due to an unusually warm winter. Initially Gallagher crawled toward the deer, distributing his weight, but because of the long distance he had to stand and walk, which was extremely risky.

Approaching the frightened animal, the firefighter tried to cover its eyes to calm it, but that didn’t work. He then managed to slip a loop of rope over the deer, after which he lay down on the ice and wrapped his arms tightly around it from behind. On Gallagher’s signal, the team on shore began carefully hauling the firefighter and the deer across the ice toward land using a safety line.

Onshore, wildlife specialists examined the deer, confirmed it had no injuries or hypothermia, and transported it to the nearest forested area away from the road. As soon as the animal was released, it immediately ran into the brush, the best confirmation of the successful conclusion of the unusual rescue operation.

❮ ❯

Based on: Firefighter bear-hugs terrified deer on icy lake in rescue near Spokane

Seahawks victory parade: what fans need to know

On Wednesday, Seattle will host a grand parade celebrating the Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl victory. City officials expect up to a million fans to attend the celebration, so anyone planning to join should carefully plan their day and arrive early.

The ceremonial presentation of the Lombardi Trophy will begin at 10:00 a.m. at Lumen Field, whose gates will open at 8:30 a.m. The home venue for the Seahawks and the Seattle Sounders has long been an iconic gathering place for residents, a symbol of the city’s sports culture and an important part of urban identity that goes beyond sports. Entry to this event requires a ticket, and according to Ticketmaster data, they are likely already sold out. Strict stadium rules will be enforced: only clear bags and small clutches are allowed, and alcohol and professional photo equipment are prohibited.

The parade itself will start after the ceremony and will proceed along a two-mile stretch of Fourth Avenue — from South Washington Street by the stadium to Cedar Street near the Space Needle. Parade access is free. Fans can pick up commemorative champion cards either with ceremony tickets or at participating Starbucks locations along the route, and T-Mobile customers can collect souvenirs at the team store.

Organizers strongly recommend using public transit, as downtown parking will be extremely limited and the stadium garages will be closed. The Washington State ferry system — one of the largest in the U.S. — will play a particularly important role in bringing thousands of attendees to the event. Ferries are essential because of the region’s geography: Seattle sits on a peninsula between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, and ferries connect the city to the Kitsap Peninsula, islands and coastal communities. Experience from the 2014 parade shows people begin staking out spots along the route as early as 6:30 a.m., and ferries fill up by 7:20 a.m., so it’s best to depart early for a good viewing spot.

For those who can’t attend in person, KING 5 will broadcast both the trophy presentation ceremony and the parade live. The weather is forecast to be clear and sunny, creating ideal conditions for a large street celebration.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seahawks’ Super Bowl parade and celebration: What to know

Bad Bunny Conquers the Super Bowl with a Spanish-Language Show Celebrating Pride and Love

Last Sunday Bad Bunny made history, becoming the first headliner of the legendary Super Bowl halftime show whose set was performed entirely in Spanish. That language — the second most spoken in the U.S. with more than 40 million speakers — took center stage on America’s biggest platform, underscoring its enormous role in the country’s cultural diversity. Over 13 minutes, the 31-year-old Puerto Rican superstar, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, ruled the stage, which recreated the atmosphere of a street plaza from his native island, proving that Latin culture deserves the spotlight.

His performance was a vivid showcase of the genre diversity that has made him one of the most-streamed artists in the world. Bad Bunny skillfully blended the energetic rhythms of reggaetón and Latin trap with Puerto Rican folk plena, salsa, and pop melodies. His simple call to the audience — stand up and dance — became more than entertainment; it was an act of pure, unfiltered pride in one’s roots.

The stage, stretched across the entire football field, became a maze of artificial turf where, amid performers dressed as tall plants, Bad Bunny displayed his energy by climbing mock telephone poles — a nod to the prolonged power outages in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. Amid that storm of emotion there was a tender, personal moment: a giant screen showed a video of the musician handing a Grammy to a boy who resembled him as a child.

The night’s biggest surprise was the special guests. Contrary to many fans’ expectations, it was not Cardi B who joined the stage but Lady Gaga, in a sky-colored dress and wearing a Flor de Maga — Puerto Rico’s national flower. She performed a salsa version of one of her hits. They were also joined by the “King of Latin Pop,” Ricky Martin. The choice of guests — public supporters of the LGBTQ+ community — was a quiet but eloquent statement of tolerance.

The performance capped a period in which Bad Bunny had increasingly served as a political platform. Back in October, after his headliner announcement, he quipped in a monologue on Saturday Night Live that critics should learn Spanish in four months. And last week he caused a stir by shouting “ICE, get out!” in his Grammy acceptance speech, sharply criticizing immigration policy. Criticism of ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) — the federal agency that has become a symbol of hardline immigration policy — is a significant political statement expressing support for immigrant rights. That stance resonates in places like Washington state, where laws limit local cooperation with federal immigration authorities and “sanctuary” protections exist for immigrants, making such celebrity statements especially potent.

But on Sunday nothing dampened the celebration. The stadium was swept by what fans called “Benito fever.” He closed his show with a moving ballad from his latest album that turned into a love letter not only to Puerto Rico but to Latinos everywhere. To its soundtrack, flags of Mexico, Colombia and other countries were carried across the field.

As the final note, a message flashed high on the screen that summed up the night: “The only thing stronger than hate is love.” Bad Bunny proved that the power of culture and the sincerity of art can unite thousands of people above any barriers.

❮ ❯

Based on: Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show puts Latino pride center stage

Seattle Rejoices: Seahawks Wash Away Decade-Old Shame

On Sunday, Seattle Seahawks fans finally shed the heavy burden of a Super Bowl defeat from more than a decade ago. The victory in Super Bowl LX brought long-awaited healing and sent an unprecedented wave of joy through the city’s streets, proving that Seattle fans can have their happy moments too.

Immediately after the final whistle, celebration — like confetti from a popper — swept across Seattle, from Pioneer Square to outlying suburbs. Children ran onto porches shouting, people yelled congratulations from windows, and pubs in the university district emptied as everyone poured into the streets. “Seahawks!” chants rang out everywhere, and the night sky was lit by bursts of fireworks.

City officials have already announced a victory parade to be held on Wednesday. The route, which may be adjusted, is planned to run from Pioneer Square up Fourth Avenue to Seattle Center. This large cultural and entertainment complex, built for the 1962 World’s Fair, with its wide open spaces and central location, is a traditional site for public gatherings and celebratory parades honoring local teams’ victories. But thousands of fans didn’t wait for the official festivities and began celebrating before the game even ended.

For many supporters, this win had a deeply personal meaning, washing away the sting of past failures. “This year we destroyed all our demons,” said fan Keenan Scott, referring to victories over key rivals. “And the big bad Pat” — the New England Patriots — “whom we couldn’t overcome before.” This victory over the Patriots’ dominant dynasty was a particularly symbolic act of revenge, since they beat the Seahawks in the 2015 Super Bowl. His friend Jack Moore added, “We waited 10 long years for this comeback!”

There was also a frenzy in sports stores. At GameDay Sports Shop fans were sweeping newly arrived champion caps and beanies off the shelves at $64 apiece. Owner Brian Hale, who received the shipment last week, had modestly hoped for the team’s success and expected the merchandise to be sold out by Sunday night.

This victory linked two different eras in Seattle’s life. In 2014, when the team brought the first Super Bowl trophy home, the city was on the brink of a tech boom fueled by Amazon’s growth, Microsoft’s expansion, and an influx of other IT companies. That boom led to a sharp increase in high-paid workers, a rapid rise in housing prices, and a significant transformation of the economy and urban landscape. Today’s Seattle faces the future with more anxiety. But then and now the city united in exuberant celebration of the success of 53 athletes who freed fans from years of sporting disappointments.

Street revelry continued late into the night. Upbeat music played, and on Capitol Hill the crowd even tore down a street sign and sprayed the pavement with champagne. The Seahawks’ victory became more than a sporting achievement — it was a citywide celebration that will be remembered for a long time.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle fans revel as champion Seahawks slay demons of past heartbreak

Seahawks, led by fearsome defense, win second Super Bowl in franchise history

On the final Sunday of the 2025 season, the Seattle Seahawks added their most eagerly awaited slogan to an already long list: 2026 Super Bowl champions. At Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara — chosen for the final under the rotation system because of its size and modern facilities — they posted a convincing 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots, capturing the franchise’s second Lombardi Trophy in its 50-year history. This title now stands alongside the triumph of the legendary “Legion of Boom” — the team’s aggressive, dominant defensive unit of the 2010s — whose spirit and skill have become a symbol of the Seahawks’ continuity.

Seahawks defender Devon Witherspoon summed up a team that had felt underrated all year. “I was incredibly happy to fight shoulder to shoulder with these guys,” he said. “We went through a lot, but we believed. To everyone who doubted us and said things about us, I’ll say: you don’t know what’s going on inside our team. We are here — unique and unmatched.” His remarks reflected the season’s throughline: internal belief and resilience in the face of outside skepticism — a mindset that has bound Seattle residents for half a century, from tech workers to musicians, strengthening the city’s identity.

The game was a showcase of a revitalized Seahawks defense that recalled the best days of the Legion of Boom. For the first three quarters, Seattle not only kept the Patriots scoreless but limited them to 78 yards, taking a 19-0 lead. New England avoided the ignominy of being shut out only thanks to a 35-yard touchdown from rookie quarterback Drake Maye, cutting the deficit to 19-7 with 12 minutes remaining. Even then, Seahawks fans — famed as the “12th Man,” whose deafening noise at home Lumen Field often gives the team a tangible advantage — grew nervous, remembering New England’s past dramatic Super Bowl comebacks.

When the Patriots quickly reached their own 44-yard line on the next series, the tension rose. But the Seahawks’ defense, the league’s best in points allowed during the regular season, answered with a decisive blow. Safety Julian Love intercepted a pass from Maye, setting up Jason Myers for his fifth field goal (a Super Bowl record) to make it 22-7. On the following drive Witherspoon pressured Maye, and linebacker Uchenna Nwosu intercepted an errant pass and returned it 45 yards for a touchdown, establishing the final score at 29-7.

It was fitting that Witherspoon was central in the decisive moments, since he set the tone for the defense from the opening snap. His pressure disrupted the Patriots’ first third-down attempt, and on their second series he recorded a sack. When Nwosu crossed the goal line, Seahawks fans finally relaxed and celebrated, and the entire league witnessed the rapid ascent of head coach Mike Macdonald — dubbed a “defensive wizard” for his innovative schemes and ability to adapt tactics.

While the defense shone, the Seahawks’ offense methodically dominated the Patriots on the ground thanks to Kenneth Walker III’s heroics. He carried 27 times for 135 yards, earning Super Bowl MVP honors and allowing Seattle to control the clock and the field. The game also confirmed Macdonald’s reputation: his squad forced New England to punt on eight of their first nine drives. Compared with past seasons, the defense under his guidance became younger, more dynamic, and more aggressive, emphasizing quarterback pressure and maximizing the talents of individual players.

Macdonald’s rise is as impressive as his schemes. At 38, he became the third-youngest coach to win a Super Bowl, a fitting culmination of a career that began with building one of the NFL’s top defenses with the Baltimore Ravens. This victory is not just a sporting triumph but a vivid chapter in the history of a team that’s been a symbol of unity and passion for all of Seattle for 50 years.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seahawks Super Bowl champions after Patriots shut down by defense

Washington: spring hazards and crime

Spring in Washington brings not only changeable weather but also hidden threats: from carbon monoxide poisoning to criminal incidents.

Spring alert in Washington: feeling dizzy in Seattle? Check this

With spring's arrival, many residents of Seattle and other Washington cities may dismiss sudden dizziness, weakness and fatigue as seasonal adjustment, stress or lack of sleep. However, fire safety and public health officials warn that these seemingly harmless symptoms can be the first signs of carbon monoxide poisoning — an invisible, silent threat that is especially treacherous during the transition seasons.

In a piece published on Country Herald, experts explain why early spring can be a dangerous time. Carbon monoxide, or CO, is a colorless, odorless gas produced by the operation of any fuel-burning appliances: furnaces, boilers, water heaters, fireplaces or gas stoves. Its insidiousness is that it gives no obvious signals, and poisoning can build up gradually. Symptoms begin subtly: mild dizziness, nausea, unexplained fatigue, confusion or a headache that doesn’t feel normal. On cold spring nights when heating is still running and windows remain closed, ventilation problems or faulty equipment can go unnoticed for a long time. Specialists note that in King and Spokane counties, including Seattle and Spokane, many victims initially think they are just overtired, have a cold, or are stressed. “Dizziness and headaches are often the earliest signs,” officials say. “And carbon monoxide is rarely the first thing people think of.”

What’s particular about the current period is that daytime warming is deceptive. Temperatures can drop sharply at night, causing heating systems to kick on even if it seemed unnecessary during the day. This intermittent operation, especially in homes with closed windows, increases risk. Danger can also lurk during evening gatherings at home — for example, watching important sports games — when mild malaise is simply ignored. By the time a detector, if it works at all, goes off, poisoning may already have progressed to a serious stage. The experts’ key point: carbon monoxide is not tied to a season, it is tied to conditions. So with spring’s arrival they urge residents not to ignore unexplained symptoms, to check that CO detectors are functioning, and not to assume that warmer weather automatically reduces risk. Sometimes your own symptoms are the only and most important warning.

Seattle weather on Sunday and the week ahead

While Santa Clara’s Levi’s Stadium is expected to have great weather for the Super Bowl, residents of western Washington, including Seattle, should prepare for less stable conditions this Sunday. According to a forecast published on AOL.com, the region can expect brief showers and cooler temperatures.

On Sunday, an atmospheric disturbance moving south of the region will bring isolated showers. The highest chance of precipitation is in southern areas, while the lowlands, including Seattle, are expected to see only passing brief downpours. Daytime temperatures will be slightly lower than recent days, reaching the upper 40s Fahrenheit, about 4–9 degrees Celsius. In the mountains, the snow level will drop to roughly 900 meters (3,000 feet), and several inches of snow are forecast over the passes, which could affect mountain driving conditions.

Into the coming week, Seattle’s weather will remain changeable. Periods of rain are expected to alternate with drier intervals. Particular attention should be paid to Tuesday and Wednesday mornings, when morning fog could complicate rush-hour driving. The forecast indicates that fully dry and sunny weather should not be expected in the near term.

The article also references other local news items, such as a shooting in Federal Way, fundraising for an injured restaurant owner in Tacoma, and an alarming record-low snowpack in Washington’s mountains that threatens the whole ski season. These events, together with the weather forecast, paint a broader picture of current regional developments. Those who want to stay informed of local news and precise forecasts are advised to subscribe to relevant news alerts or mobile apps.

Murder in Kent: 26-year-old man dies of stab wound

A tragic event claimed a young man’s life in Kent, Washington. Early on Saturday morning, February 6, a 26-year-old man died at the hospital after suffering a stab wound to the chest. The incident occurred at an apartment complex on 27th Place South, and police are currently investigating and searching for a suspect.

According to a report from FOX 13 Seattle, the first calls to police came shortly after 12:30 a.m. The calls concerned an “unwanted person” on the apartment grounds. Arriving patrol officers found the victim with a penetrating chest wound. They administered first aid, attempting to control the bleeding using a specialized chest-sealing device — a so-called chest seal. This device is intended to temporarily close penetrating chest wounds and prevent a life-threatening condition called pneumothorax, when air enters the pleural space and prevents the lungs from expanding. When medical personnel arrived, the victim was conscious but unable to speak. Despite emergency hospitalization and surgery, he could not be saved — he died in the operating room.

Police emphasize that, preliminarily, the incident appears to be isolated and does not pose an ongoing threat to the public. Nonetheless, circumstances are under investigation. Law enforcement has asked the public for help. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about the suspect can report anonymously to the Kent Police tips line at 253-856-5808 or via email at KPDTipLine@kentwa.gov. For urgent but non-emergency information, call the non-emergency dispatch at 253-852-2121, and if the suspect’s identity or location is known, call 911 immediately.

This tragedy is another reminder of the problem of violence involving knives. Despite police assurances that the case is isolated, such incidents understandably raise concern among residents. The article also notes other regional crimes, such as a shooting in Pierce County, indicating a broader range of challenges for local law enforcement. The investigation continues, and its success may depend directly on information provided by citizens.

❮ ❯

Protest Anniversary: Olympia Youth Demand Change

More than 350 people, mostly high school students and young adults, gathered at Heritage Park across from the Washington State Capitol on a rainy Saturday to mark the anniversary of the nationwide 50501 movement. Protesters rallied against what they called an overreach of executive power by the Trump administration, harsh immigration policies and the influence of big business on government. Under the slogan "Resist, insist, repeat!" demonstrators marched around Capitol Lake carrying homemade signs.

Many participants, especially the youth, were attending such a rally for the first time. They said they were motivated by recent deaths of U.S. citizens René Good and Alex Pretty linked to actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Some protesters chose to remain anonymous, fearing possible repercussions for their safety. They emphasized that their anger and sense of urgency stemmed from what they see as an erosion of democratic norms.

Olympia, as the state capital and a university town home to The Evergreen State College, has a concentrated progressive and activist environment. Unlike the large business center of Seattle, Olympia has strong traditions of student and political activism, and its proximity to state institutions allows protests to directly influence policy, often making the city an epicenter for youth demonstrations.

Organizers from the group "Evergreen Resistance," a student activist group connected to The Evergreen State College—known for its progressive curriculum and history of social movements—stressed turning protest energy into sustained civic engagement. Voter registration and sign-up tables for upcoming actions were set up in the park. The 50501 movement (short for "50 protests, 50 states, one movement"), which began a year ago in response to policies activists consider anti-democratic, has grown into a national network linking millions of people across the country.

According to a recent PBS poll, nearly two-thirds of Americans believe ICE exceeds its authority when enforcing immigration laws. Protesters sang Woody Guthrie protest songs at the rally, underscoring themes of collective action. Organizers urged attendees to "save the date" for the next major action at the Capitol on March 28, continuing to build civic engagement among the younger generation.

❮ ❯

Based on: Hundreds rally in Olympia to mark one year of 50501 movement

Debate over 'millionaires tax' divides Washington lawmakers

On Friday in Olympia, the capital of Washington state, heated hearings were held on a proposal to impose a 9.9% tax on income above $1 million per year. Democrats, calling the measure a "millionaires tax," held a meeting of the Senate budget committee where supporters and opponents spent two hours presenting their arguments. If passed, bill SB 6346 would take effect in 2028.

Supporters of the tax, including several millionaires, said the measure has long been overdue to correct the state's "inverted" tax system. They argue that currently the main tax burden falls on low-income people, while the wealthiest residents pay relatively little. They say the funds raised would go to finance schools, health care and other important public services, which would ultimately benefit the entire economy.

Opponents, who organized a large online campaign with more than 60,000 signatures, sharply criticized the proposal. They call it an illegal, confiscatory measure that will inevitably be expanded over time to people of middle means. Opponents also warn that the tax will spur an exodus of wealthy residents and businesses from the state, citing dozens of families who have already left or plan to leave because of previous tax increases.

According to a financial analysis, the tax would affect about 30,000 taxpayers and raise roughly $3.5 billion a year. The tax would apply only to the amount above the $1 million threshold. The bill also includes a so-called "marriage penalty," where the threshold for married couples is applied to their combined income, and a $50,000 exemption for charitable contributions.

Governor Bob Ferguson has endorsed the idea of the tax but said this week he wants to see more tax relief for businesses and individuals in the bill in exchange for the new high-income levy. In particular, he proposes raising the threshold for the business and occupation (B&O) tax — the state's unique tax on gross business receipts paid by almost all companies. The governor proposes exempting businesses with annual revenue under $1 million; the current threshold is $125,000. Raising this threshold is continuously debated because it eases the burden on small businesses while simultaneously reducing state revenue for education and other programs.

Even if passed, the law would almost certainly face legal challenges. A 1933 Washington Supreme Court decision in Calliton v. Chase found a progressive income tax unconstitutional, and Democrats hope the court will revisit that precedent. That decision still carries weight, creating a legal precedent that protects the existing state tax system, including the B&O tax, under the principle of stare decisis. Additionally, the bill contains a so-called "emergency clause" declaring the measure "necessary for the support of state government." This mechanism, used increasingly for controversial tax laws, blocks the possibility of referring it to a referendum because the law takes effect immediately upon the governor's signature, avoiding costly election campaigns and delays.

The hearings took place amid political confrontation. Democrats, who control both chambers of the legislature and the governorship, waived the five-day notice rule for hearings to speed consideration of the 63-page bill, the text of which was published only days earlier. However, their majority is not always overwhelming, so passing such tax laws often requires compromises between progressive and moderate Democrats, especially when small-business interests are at stake. Republicans sharply condemned what they called haste in handling "the most important tax legislation of this century."

Responding to concerns that the tax could be extended over time to lower-income people, the bill's chief sponsor, Senate majority leader Jamie Pedersen, said the current text addresses only income over $1 million. But he noted that the current legislature cannot "bind" future sessions, depriving them of flexibility to respond to new challenges.

❮ ❯

Based on: 'Millionaires tax' hearing brings big crowd to Olympia

Seattle residents set record for charitable donations

Readers of The Seattle Times — which serves the region not only as a news source but also as a community organizer, cultural center and "watchdog" — showed incredible generosity. They donated a record $3.49 million as part of the newspaper's annual Fund for Those in Need campaign. The three-month fundraising drive far exceeded its $3 million goal, raising an average of more than $500 from each of roughly 4,000 donations. The result was especially significant amid cuts to public funding for nonprofits and rising demand for their services.

The campaign, which has run since 1979, has raised more than $45 million for local charities over its history. This year the funds will be distributed among 13 nonprofit organizations in the Puget Sound region — a major economic center in northwest Washington that includes, in addition to Seattle, cities like Tacoma, Bellevue, Everett and others. These organizations provide vital assistance: clothing and essentials for infants, hot meals for older adults, and educational support and mentoring for teens.

One recipient is Kindering of Bellevue, which provides special education and therapy services to children with developmental disabilities. According to the organization's representative Roshni Kartikeyan, the donations will help replenish a $4 million special fund. That fund covers services for clients who cannot afford them or lack insurance. This is particularly relevant given possible changes to eligibility requirements for the Medicaid program, known in Washington state as Apple Health. The program provides expanded coverage, including services for children with special needs, and any cuts would directly threaten access to vital care for thousands of vulnerable families.

Profiles of specific organizations published by the paper inspire people to give. For example, a story about Treehouse, which helps teens from foster families, moved 87-year-old Jane Ann Bradbury. The former teacher has donated to the fund for more than 10 years. At Christmas she even offers to match donations made by her adult children and grandchildren from her own funds. Bradbury believes hardship can touch anyone in the community, even if it isn't apparent from the outside.

The Seattle Times president Alan Fisco, who has participated in the campaign for about 15 years, called the result "phenomenal." He noted that demand for nonprofit services continues to climb. Given that, he is already considering setting an even higher fundraising goal for the 2026–2027 campaign, although a final decision has not yet been made.

Checks will be sent to the organizations in the coming weeks. This record haul, surpassing even results from the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, vividly demonstrates the strength and responsiveness of the Seattle and Puget Sound communities, ready to support their most vulnerable members in hard times.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle Times readers donate nearly $3.5M to Fund for Those in Need

Seattle Weather: Rain Gives Way to a Dry Spell

After a record-dry January in Western Washington, residents of the region saw a brief return of rain in early February. Precipitation fell on the first Saturday of the month, and on Sunday — when fans gathered to watch the 60th Super Bowl featuring the Seattle Seahawks — temperatures were expected to reach about 46°F (8°C) with rain in the afternoon. However, that wet respite proved short-lived.

According to National Weather Service meteorologist Kirby Cook, the dry conditions that set in by Tuesday evening are typical for the entire U.S. West Coast. Cloudy but nearly dry weather is expected to hold through Wednesday and Thursday, as the main storm tracks are currently focused on the eastern half of the country. Still, this dry period is likely to be shorter than January’s 15-day stretch — rain could return as soon as Friday.

Forecasters’ primary concern is the extremely low snowpack in the Cascade Range. Across much of the region, snow water equivalent is below 50% of normal. The exception is Washington Pass — the highest mountain pass in the area — where levels are at or above normal. That situation has experts seriously concerned.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle weather: Rain, then dry days on the horizon

Spokane father and daughter freed from ICE custody

Ten-year-old Spokane resident Karla Tiul Baltazar and her father, Arnoldo Tiul Caal, were released from a federal migrant detention center in Texas by order of a judge. After spending a night at a San Antonio shelter, they flew home to Spokane. The family, originally from Guatemala, had been living in the U.S. since 2019, and their asylum case was still pending at the time of their Jan. 9 detention.

Authorities said the detention stemmed from the father missing 10 required check-ins with immigration authorities over three years. But the family’s advocates noted a contradiction: at an in-person hearing several weeks before the arrest, Tiul Caal was told their next court date in the case was not scheduled until 2027. While held at the Dilley center in Texas — which has been the subject of lawsuits over poor conditions — the girl developed a fever and began vomiting.

After their release, the father was fitted with an electronic ankle monitor to track his location. Lawyers and volunteers who helped the family expressed relief at their return but emphasized systemic problems within immigration enforcement and the harsh conditions in such centers, which are particularly dangerous for children.

❮ ❯

Based on: Spokane girl, father freed from ICE custody in Texas

Super Bowl and Seattle shooting

Overview of key points ahead of Super Bowl 60 between the Seahawks and Patriots, and news of a shooting in downtown Seattle that left a security guard wounded.

Super Bowl 60: Seahawks vs. Patriots – key players and a historic rivalry

On Sunday the world will witness one of the most anticipated games in NFL history – Super Bowl 60, pitting the Seattle Seahawks against the New England Patriots. This final is not just a championship game but a clash between two teams with a long history of rivalry, where every detail, from statistics to individual matchups, can be decisive. A detailed breakdown of the upcoming battle is available in the Seattle Sports piece linked below. https://sports.mynorthwest.com/nfl/seattle-seahawks/super-bowl-preview-seattle-seahawks-patriots-key-players/1838453

The Seattle Seahawks come into the final with the league’s best scoring defense, allowing the fewest points on average, which is their main asset. Their offense, meanwhile, ranks fifth in scoring and shows balance. The New England Patriots, by contrast, rely on a powerful offense that finished the regular season second in the league in points scored. Interestingly, the Seahawks have a negative turnover differential (minus-3), while the Patriots have a positive one (plus-3), which in games of this level often becomes a psychological factor.

A key figure in the Patriots’ offense is young quarterback Drake May. In just his second NFL season he has already made history, becoming the first quarterback to earn three playoff wins against defenses that finished in the league’s top five. His progress is tied to working with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. For the Seahawks, the main offensive force in the playoffs has been running back Kenneth Walker III. After Zack Charbonnet’s injury he took the reins, averaging 4.7 yards per carry and scoring four touchdowns in the postseason, including three in the game against San Francisco, matching a club record.

Particular attention should be paid to the duel between Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold and the Patriots’ secondary. Despite a strain to his oblique, Darnold played brilliantly in the NFC final, throwing for 346 yards and three touchdowns. He will test the Patriots’ pass defense, which allowed the ninth-fewest passing yards and the fourth-fewest points in the regular season. For the uninitiated: the secondary is the defensive unit (cornerbacks and safeties) whose primary job is to counter the opponent’s passing game.

The historical context adds special drama to the match. The Seahawks have won the last three meetings with the Patriots, but many fans still remember New England’s victory in Super Bowl 49, 28–24, when cornerback Malcolm Butler intercepted Russell Wilson’s pass with 20 seconds left. Each of the last six games between these teams has been decided by a single scoring difference (7 points or fewer). The Patriots are heading to their 12th Super Bowl and, with a win, would set an NFL record by claiming a seventh title, surpassing the Pittsburgh Steelers. They could also repeat a rare achievement by winning the Super Bowl following a losing season — last year the Patriots won just five games.

The Seattle Seahawks are also setting franchise records this season: 14 regular-season wins is the best mark in franchise history. Five players were named All-Pro, and receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who led the league in receiving yards, made the first team. Tight end A.J. Barner and linebacker Ernest Jones IV are showing career progress, which speaks to the team’s depth. For reference: the All-Pro team is a symbolic roster of the season’s best players selected by experts; being named All-Pro is considered the highest individual honor.

The game’s outcome could hinge on many factors: whether the Seahawks’ defense can contain Patriots breakout rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson, who set a single-season record for 50+ yard carries; whether New England’s secondary, with players like Marcus Jones (who already had a pick-six in the playoffs), can make game-changing plays; and how effectively each team exploits its strengths. One thing is sure: given the rivalry’s history and the stakes, Super Bowl 60 promises to be a classic, where every drive, every yard and every mistake could carry historical significance.

Preparing for Super Bowl LX: Patriots vs. Seahawks analysis

Ahead of one of the year’s biggest sporting events, Super Bowl LX, all of America’s attention is on the final preparations of the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks. This piece, based on an NBC News segment, https://www.nbcnews.com/video/new-england-patriots-seattle-seahawks-prepare-for-super-bowl-lx-257338949788 offers an inside look thanks to former Patriots player and current NFL analyst Devin McCourty.

NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Llamas hosted the segment, where the analyst shared his thoughts on key aspects of both teams’ preparation for the decisive game scheduled for Sunday, February 8, 2026. Although the provided text does not detail the conversation, the mere fact that McCourty was invited speaks volumes. Having recently ended his playing career with experience at the highest level and a deep tactical understanding, he can offer a unique assessment of the teams’ psychological and physical states in these final, most intense days before the game. Such discussions typically touch on strategy, injuries to key players, the pressure associated with the event’s magnitude, and the clubs’ historical rivalry.

The Super Bowl is not just the National Football League championship final; it is a cultural phenomenon watched by hundreds of millions worldwide. Preparation for it differs markedly from regular-season games. The week leading up to the game is packed with media events, press conferences and ceremonies, requiring players and coaches to balance focus on the sporting task with numerous obligations to the league and sponsors. Analysis from an expert like McCourty helps viewers understand which team is better able to maintain focus. For the Patriots, a franchise steeped in Super Bowl experience, this routine may be more familiar, while for the Seahawks each such final is a unique test.

A key insight even from a brief preview is the enduring value of former professional players’ opinions in sports journalism. Their commentary translates complex tactical football into language accessible to the casual fan while retaining professional depth. McCourty’s appearance on NBC News underscores how media leverage that expertise to create more substantive and authoritative content ahead of a mega-event. It also points to lively debates surrounding this particular Super Bowl LX matchup, which seemingly brought together two teams with vivid histories and possibly a new generation of stars who emerged by 2026. The result of such analysis is not merely a game prediction but a fuller immersion into the atmosphere of big-time sport, where behind every decision and practice lie history, ambition and tremendous work.

Downtown Seattle shooting: security guard seriously injured

On Wednesday evening downtown Seattle was again the scene of a shooting that left a young security guard seriously injured. The incident occurred in an area already drawing police attention due to safety concerns.

According to police, a call about a shooting came in shortly before 11:00 p.m. in the 800 block of Western Avenue. Officers arriving on scene found a 21-year-old man with a gunshot wound to the groin. The victim, who turned out to be working as a security guard, was transported by Seattle Fire Department crews to Harborview Medical Center. Fortunately, his injuries, though serious, are not life-threatening. Police have not yet determined which company employed him.

Witnesses told officers that two or three male suspects were involved in the incident, one of whom was the shooter. No arrests have been made so far, and detectives from the Gun Violence Reduction unit are investigating the circumstances that led to the shooting. This specialized Seattle Police Department unit focuses specifically on crimes involving firearms, underscoring the seriousness of such incidents in the city.

As KING5.com reports, https://www.king5.com/article/news/crime/downtown-seattle-shooting-western-avenue-serious-injuries/281-6ac2379b-8da9-45ee-a96c-a982ff71d34a the incident occurred in an area close to the waterfront and popular tourist spots, raising additional concerns about downtown safety in the evenings. The lack of information about the motive and the attackers’ identities leaves many questions. The incident renews debate over measures to combat street crime and violence in Seattle, especially in light of the work of specialized police units tasked with preventing such tragedies.

❮ ❯

Seattle: Sports and Protests

News from Seattle: discussions about hosting the Super Bowl, the Seahawks bolstering their roster ahead of the big game, and hundreds of students walking out to protest cooperation with ICE.

Could Seattle host the Super Bowl? Assessing the prospects

As the Seattle Seahawks prepare for the decisive game, fans have again sparked conversations about whether Seattle could ever host the NFL’s biggest event — the Super Bowl. Despite obvious fan enthusiasm, city officials and sports organizations are far more cautious. As reported by FOX 13 Seattle, the city is not currently considering a bid to host the game, for example in 2029, which remains open.

Beth Nox, president of the Seattle Sports Commission, said flatly that Seattle was never seriously considered as a Super Bowl candidate. The reason lies in a set of strict NFL requirements the city does not fully meet. For example, hotel rooms are not a problem: the rule that 35% of stadium capacity be accommodated within a one-hour drive is achievable — Seattle has the needed 24,000 rooms. But parking is more complicated: the league requires at least 35,000 parking spaces within a one-mile radius of the stadium, while Seattle has about 26,500.

Another stumbling block is stadium capacity. The NFL sets a minimum threshold of 70,000 seats. Lumen Field, the Seahawks’ home, has roughly 69,000 permanent seats for NFL games, though it can be temporarily expanded for special events. Weather is another factor. The ideal game-day temperature is not below 50°F (about 10°C). While such weather in February is possible in Seattle, it is unpredictable and the stadium is not fully covered. Interestingly, fans interviewed by the reporter said weather is not a decisive factor, noting that football is often played in harsh conditions.

A more fundamental problem, Nox said, is not just meeting standards but the lack of a unified, strong will among the many stakeholders — city government, businesses, teams — to take on such a large and extremely costly event. She compared it to the upcoming FIFA World Cup that Seattle will host in the summer. Although that’s one of the biggest global events, the Super Bowl has many unique nuances and requirements. Preparations for the World Cup began nearly nine years before the event, and the expected economic impact for the state is estimated at nearly a billion dollars. Nox believes there are other, more suitable sporting events Seattle should consider before aiming for the Super Bowl.

Thus, the technical obstacles — insufficient parking and literally a couple thousand seats short at the stadium — are theoretically surmountable. However, the key question is whether the city is ready to mobilize enormous resources and build consensus among all participants. For now, that “appetite,” as Nox put it, is not apparent. Experience hosting large events like the MLB All-Star Game and especially the upcoming World Cup will certainly strengthen the city’s organizational “muscles.” But Seattle’s path to the Super Bowl, if it ever begins, will be long and require colossal joint effort.

Seattle Seahawks add depth ahead of the Super Bowl

Ahead of the season’s biggest game, Super Bowl LX, the Seattle Seahawks made an important roster move to reinforce their running game. As reported by Seattle Sports, the club elevated two running backs from the practice squad to the active roster — Cam Akers and Velus Jones Jr. — a step intended to add depth and insurance at the position, which is especially critical in a game of this magnitude against the New England Patriots.

Promoting Akers and Jones follows a logical team strategy after losing a key player. After Zach Charbonnet suffered an ACL tear in the NFC divisional round, his season ended prematurely. This injury, common in contact sports, involves a tear of a major knee-stabilizing ligament and requires a long recovery. George Holani was elevated to the No. 2 running back role after that loss, and now the coaching staff has additional rotation options.

Notably, this is not the first such promotion for either player this playoff run. They were elevated before the NFC Championship two weeks ago, though their playing time was minimal then. Akers played only one offensive snap and two on special teams, while Jones was designated inactive to meet the 48-player game limit. The primary workload in that game fell to Kenneth Walker III, who played 42 of 67 offensive snaps, gained 62 rushing yards with one touchdown, and had 4 receptions for 49 yards. Holani, meanwhile, saw 23 offensive snaps.

Akers’ experience could be invaluable in the Super Bowl. The six-year veteran, who signed with the Seahawks in late November, already knows what it’s like to win the big game. He won the Super Bowl in 2021 with the Los Angeles Rams, where he was a lead back in the 2020 and 2022 seasons. In that decisive game against the Cincinnati Bengals he rushed for 21 yards and had 3 catches for 14 yards. Although he hasn’t carried the ball for the Seahawks this season, he has returned two kickoffs for 54 yards in Week 17. As for Velus Jones Jr., a four-year pro who joined the Seahawks’ practice squad midseason, he earned a chance to contribute after Charbonnet’s injury in the divisional round, rushing for 10 yards on six carries.

This roster move underscores the Seahawks’ readiness to use every available resource to pursue the title. Strengthening the backfield not only provides tactical flexibility but also insurance against fatigue or further injuries in a tough matchup with the Patriots. Akers’ big-game experience and Jones’ freshness could matter in critical moments — whether it’s a few yards for a fourth-down conversion or solid play on special teams. In short, the Seahawks enter the season’s decisive game with a maximally reinforced roster ready for any scenario.

Protest against ICE: how Seattle students are fighting for school safety

A large youth protest has erupted in Seattle amid concerns about federal immigration enforcement activity. Hundreds of students from public and private schools walked out of classes to demand that local officials strengthen protections for vulnerable communities and halt all cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The demonstration, which began at schools and stretched to City Hall and central avenues, was a response to growing student anxiety. According to KOMO News, participants described an atmosphere of fear within the school environment. “Right now at our school there are students who are too afraid to go outside, come to class, or go grocery shopping,” said Garfield High School senior Kian Naeimi. He was supported by Maxwell Jones from Ballard High School, who called to “abolish ICE and kick them out of Washington.” Protesters from Lakeside School who gathered on the steps of City Hall said their goal is to prevent immigration agents from being present on or near campus grounds.

It is important to note that, based on available information, there have been no documented incidents of ICE actions inside schools. However, the protest wave was sparked by unconfirmed reports of agency activity in northern Seattle neighborhoods several weeks earlier. Those rumors prompted six district schools to shift to modified lockdowns, which heightened anxiety. Students are demanding preventive measures. “We need [city leaders] to invest in concrete support systems and protections for our vulnerable communities, and we want them to keep defunding ICE,” explained high schooler Amara Aalfs-Weinbaum. She noted that officials have already taken steps in that direction but stressed the need for continued action to prevent a “large-scale ICE incursion into our schools and communities before it happens.”

ICE — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement — is the federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws. Its actions, especially under the previous administration, were often criticized for aggressive enforcement tactics that, according to advocates, spread fear through immigrant communities, including those with lawful status.

Local officials responded to student demands. Mayor Jenny Durkan met with protesters and in late January signed an executive order banning ICE from using city property — including parks, garages, and Seattle Center — for operations. The city’s official statement framed the move as a response to concerns about “unpredictable, chaotic, and aggressive behavior by the federal government.” Meanwhile, City Councilmember Robert Kettle, who oversees public safety issues, said he discussed students’ concerns with the new school superintendent and the police chief. He acknowledged that federal law enforcement agencies have the right to operate in the city but emphasized: “We’re focused on public safety. That’s what we need to concentrate on to keep the city safe for everyone, including students.”

The protest impacted city infrastructure: the student march temporarily blocked traffic on 4th and 5th Avenues, causing delays. Police confirmed there were no reported incidents. Although some parents and online critics disapprove of skipping classes for such events and politicizing the school environment, organizers insist students’ voices must be heard. The demonstration is a vivid example of how a younger generation is actively engaging in civic life to defend their ideas of safety and justice — even when no immediate threat has been documented, the fear of one has already paralyzed part of the school community’s daily life.

❮ ❯

New Seattle schools chief begins with classroom visits, readies tough choices

Ben Schuldtner, the new superintendent of Seattle Public Schools, spent his first week actively getting to know students, sitting down next to their desks and introducing himself simply as "Ben." He has promised to visit all 106 district schools within his first 100 days on the job, which officially began Feb. 1. His informal style — handshakes, questions about lessons and calls of "dude" — immediately caught students' attention.

At Alki Elementary, known for its emphasis on collaborative learning and community engagement, first graders shouted, "Hey, Mr. Superintendent!" when he entered the classroom, and he helped them count pom-poms. At other schools, such as Pathfinder K-8 with its project-based learning and multicultural focus, students gave him letters, a large red apple and crafts, signaling a quick rapport. Schuldtner left one school with a box full of children's drawings and crafts.

The first week was also filled with public appearances and administrative work, underscoring the gravity of his new role. In a letter to families on Sunday he warned frankly, "I will disappoint you," noting that some decisions may be unpopular but will always be explained. On Monday he was sworn in by school board chair Gina Topp, an elected official who leads the board that approves the district budget and policy but does not handle day-to-day operations.

In the days that followed, Schuldtner held a meeting with principals and discussed audits and safety issues. At a school board meeting on Wednesday he spoke with a directness unusual for Seattle, acknowledging a serious district budget shortfall — a contrast to the diplomatic, indirect style of communication often referred to as "Seattle nice." The main causes of the deficit include falling enrollment, rising personnel costs and inflation, and inadequate state funding, which in Washington depends on taxes and political decisions.

His start coincided with mourning for two Rainier Beach High School students who were shot near campus 32 hours before his official first day. That school is located in a historically diverse neighborhood with socioeconomic challenges, requiring special attention to support programs and inclusivity. Grief and the financial crisis set the tone for his early actions.

The 48-year-old Schuldtner comes from a family of educators and public servants, and his surname in Yiddish literally means "school servant." Despite a résumé that includes Harvard and leadership posts, he rejects the label "ambitious." He believes his life's purpose is "to help as many people as possible in my short time on Earth," and he sees education as the best way to do that.

Before moving to Seattle, he led the Lansing, Michigan, school district beginning in 2021, where, he says, graduation rates rose 26% and attendance increased 13% over four years. Earlier he founded and served for a decade as principal of a New York City high school with a 95% annual graduation rate. "I like teaching, being with students and being in schools. And I've had success," he said.

Seattle educators who have already met him describe him as energetic and approachable. "He's a ball of energy, and that's exactly what we need," said the principal of Pathfinder. The principal at Alki noted that Schuldtner seems prepared to make tough decisions while centering students' interests. These first impressions have given staff hope about his leadership style.

At the district's central office, known as the John Stanford Center for Educational Excellence in the SoDo neighborhood, his spacious office is still nearly empty. The administrative center houses departments for budget, curriculum and personnel. Schuldtner often prefers to work from a laptop in a conference room with open doors so staff can easily approach him. Reflecting on his first days, he said he feels confident even while acknowledging the district's serious problems. He noted that he has never seen schools with the kinds of resources Seattle has.

During his visits he saw schools with unicycles used for physical education, gardens, aquariums with salmon fry — reflecting local priorities for environmental education and a connection to the Pacific Northwest's natural world — and numerous secretaries and assistant principals. "It's unheard of," he might add, referring to the scale of available opportunities that he must now defend amid fiscal constraints.

❮ ❯

Based on: New Seattle Schools leader brings optimism to somber first week

Music Against Forgetting: How Art Helps in Dementia

At the Memory Hub in Seattle, a community center supporting people with dementia, their families and caregivers, an unusual event recently took place. Its mission is to create an inclusive space where art, education and social services improve quality of life. There, a string quartet played music for older adults with dementia, after which participants were invited to express what they heard through watercolor painting. To sounds ranging from fleet passages to majestic crescendos, some listeners closed their eyes and tapped the beat, others sank into silence, and then their canvases filled with paints reflecting both imagined landscapes and portraits of the friends sitting opposite them.

82-year-old Judy Melissinos, one participant, described the experience not in musical terms but emotionally: “I can’t say what the music was. I can only say that I felt very happy.” She and others present were not merely spectators but central figures in a graduate student’s research project at the University of Washington. This leading research institution in Seattle conducts advanced work in neuroscience and aging, partnering with local organizations to translate scientific discoveries into practice. The study examines how music helps people with dementia connect with others and with the world.

Dementia is often associated with memory loss, but it encompasses a broader range of symptoms affecting thinking and social skills. Researchers are increasingly interested in how music can positively influence those beginning to experience cognitive difficulties. Sarah McKiddy, a doctoral student in the nursing program, is at the forefront of this work, studying how the performing arts can enhance a sense of self and well-being. Projects like this are funded through a combination of sources: grants from federal agencies, private donations, support from the state of Washington and the city of Seattle, and university resources.

McKiddy considers music a uniquely powerful tool because of its close connection to identity and relationships. Part of her research involves arranging live-music listening sessions in a carefully prepared setting and observing emotional and social responses. Her work reinforces scientific understanding: while many cognitive abilities may decline, musical memories often remain intact.

For her study McKiddy collaborates with the Balourdet Quartet, a young string ensemble based in Seattle known for its innovative performances within cultural and therapeutic programs. The quartet performs at the Memory Hub. At a recent session they played three distinct pieces, pairing each with a painting, and asked participants to reflect on the link between sound and image before creating their own drawings, blending auditory and visual stimuli.

McKiddy hopes the results of these sessions will form the basis for regular support programs for people with dementia. Her colleague records audio from the events, creating a “soundscape” — an audio album of music, reactions and the atmosphere of the meetings, which will be made available to the public. After completing her dissertation, McKiddy plans to share findings and encourage involving people with dementia in research as active coauthors.

She describes musical experiences as “little time capsules,” preserving moments from the past in a form accessible to the brain. Before beginning her scientific career McKiddy was a violinist and, while performing, noticed that familiar melodies often elicited the strongest responses from people with memory loss, which led her into dementia research.

The Memory Hub functions as a community center connecting people with dementia to a network of organizations working on arts and aging. This network includes institutions such as the Frye Art Museum with programs for people with dementia, Seattle Opera with projects to engage older adults, as well as nonprofit groups. The group at the music session came from Elderwise — a day program where participants engage in “spiritually oriented activities” four times a week. This well-known Seattle program emphasizes creativity, mindfulness and social interaction rather than a medical model. Elderwise director Janet Salisbury speaks to the idea that, despite cognitive changes, people can continue to learn, grow and sense one another’s essence through music, art and relationships.

Elderwise also provides respite for caregivers, as participants can attend the center independently. Salisbury emphasizes the importance of a calm, safe environment, in contrast to the chaotic pace of everyday life many participants face. She notes that dementia manifests differently in each person, but music can bridge those differences.

During the music session Salisbury watched one of the less talkative clients. “He didn’t speak much, but I could see he was responding internally to the music,” she said, describing how subtle facial expressions revealed deep engagement even without words.

Another participant, 77-year-old Rene Foster Jeffrey, reflected on the emotional power of music in the Memory Hub courtyard. The sounds returned her to childhood memories of home. “I used to sing. Christian songs, music.” Such initiatives using art for therapy are not unique in Seattle. The city has other programs, such as the “Creative Aging” series at the public library, art classes in senior centers and adapted museum projects, which together create a supportive environment for an aging population.

❮ ❯

Based on: Music builds connections for Seattle residents facing memory loss

Seattle students take to the streets to protest the immigration police

On Thursday, hundreds of students from 17 Seattle high schools left classes and gathered at City Hall to protest actions by the federal immigration agency ICE. The demonstration, organized by the student coalition ICE Out Seattle Schools, was part of a long-running confrontation between local politics and federal authorities. Seattle, which adopted "sanctuary city" status in the 1970s to protect refugees, limits cooperation with ICE, but actions by the federal agency—especially those that have intensified in recent years—have met growing resistance.

Protesters chanted slogans, demanded an end to funding for ICE and urged local leaders to take concrete protective measures. In response, Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan issued an executive order prohibiting federal immigration authorities from using city property to conduct operations. But activists mobilized by ICE Out Seattle Schools insist on more decisive action, not just words of support. The student coalition plays a significant role in the local activist scene, organizing demonstrations, lobbying for resolutions in school districts and pushing for policies that restrict any interaction with immigration authorities.

The atmosphere at the event felt more like a celebratory rally than a somber protest. Despite angry chants, many teenagers smiled and fed off the energy of mass support. Some students, wrapped in Mexican flags, even performed the traditional group dance "el rodeo del payaso," underscoring solidarity with the Latino community.

The protest in Seattle was part of a nationwide movement. Last week, similar actions took place in the independent school districts of Highline and Renton, as well as in West Seattle and Auburn. These areas are often mentioned together because they have sizable immigrant populations and active local communities. School districts there, which have their own administrations, can make political decisions—such as declaring themselves "sanctuary" for immigrant students—making them key targets for activists. Meanwhile, in the city of Marysville, about 100 protesting students were forced to disperse after threats from an unidentified man, illustrating the mixed public reaction to such actions.

Personal stories of participants reflected deep emotional involvement. Sixteen-year-old Mariana Garnica, a student at Chief Sealth International High School, said it was the first time she felt her voice as a Latina was truly heard. Other participants, like Brian Hernandez, held signs reading "We are people, not aliens," protesting the dehumanization of migrants.

ICE immigration operations have already directly affected the educational process—at least six schools in South Seattle and the Beacon Hill area enacted shelter-in-place protocols this year in response to unconfirmed reports of agency activity. During such operations, or even rumors of them, school attendance drops sharply. The protest ended with a spontaneous march by about half the participants to the iconic Space Needle, where they blocked traffic on Third Avenue and received honks of support from drivers and attention from passersby.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle students walk out, hit the streets to protest ICE

Seafood for a Win: Seattle and Boston Mayors' Super Bowl Bet

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu have struck the traditional friendly bet on the outcome of the upcoming Super Bowl. If the Seattle Seahawks defeat the New England Patriots, a classic New England lobster will be sent from Boston to Seattle. If the Boston team wins, Harrell will send back a Dungeness crab — an important regional delicacy that is part of Washington state's culinary identity. Its tender meat and cultural tradition of consumption support the local economy through commercial fishing, tourism and the restaurant industry. Harrell jokingly called it “a far superior crustacean.”

The idea for the wager arose last week in Washington, D.C., where both mayors attended the U.S. Conference of Mayors. After discussing serious working issues, such as immigration policy, the two city leaders agreed on a lighthearted bet. Similar wagers on local gastronomic specialties are a long-standing tradition among mayors of cities whose sports teams compete in championships.

Bruce Harrell, unlike some previous sports‑enthusiast mayors, did not initially brand himself as a “sports mayor.” His approach places more emphasis on direct engagement with local sports communities and on developing accessible sports programs for all residents, not just on supporting professional teams. This strategy could influence funding for public sports facilities and youth programs, strengthening social ties in the city. With the Seahawks reaching the Super Bowl and the upcoming World Cup matches to be held in Seattle this summer, he wryly notes that he is unexpectedly stepping into that role. “This wasn’t in my plans, but I’m very happy about it,” Harrell said.

The mayor of Seattle plans to watch the big game not at the stadium but at a local bar to share the emotions with fans. He recalls the incredible atmosphere in the city in 2014, when the Seahawks last won the Super Bowl, and hopes for a repeat. On the eve of the game Harrell also took part in raising a fans’ flag at the Space Needle.

Harrell notes he finds much in common with Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, especially in approaches to developing public transit and addressing homelessness. Jokingly, he suggested an alternative to the culinary bet: “We could paint each other’s bike lanes.” For now, though, the wager remains on seafood, and one of the cities will soon receive a tasty trophy.

❮ ❯

Based on: Whoever wins, seafood on menu for Seattle, Boston mayors’ Super Bowl bet

Super Bowl LX: Seahawks vs. Patriots

Statistics against common opponents show an edge for the Seahawks ahead of the decisive rematch of the 2015 final. Seattle fans are actively preparing for the game, organizing watch parties and traveling to San Francisco.

Strength of schedule: how common opponents reveal Seattle's advantage over New England in the Super Bowl

Ahead of the Super Bowl between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots, fans are debating which team faced a tougher road to the final. An analysis of performance against common opponents gives a clear answer, showing a distinct edge for the Seahawks in key aspects of the game.

An article on Seattle Sports (https://sports.mynorthwest.com/nfl/seattle-seahawks/super-bowl-common-opponents-seattle-seahawks-new-england-patriots/1838124) digs into the numbers, setting aside general talk about strength of schedule. The author notes that the Patriots, who finished last in their division the previous season, had the easiest schedule in the league in 2025: only three of their 17 regular-season games were against teams with winning records. Meanwhile the Seahawks went 14-3 as well but played seven teams with winning records, giving them the seventh-toughest schedule in the NFL. To get a more objective picture, it's useful to examine how both teams performed against the seven common opponents: the Houston Texans (12-5), Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7), Carolina Panthers (8-9), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9), Atlanta Falcons (8-9), New Orleans Saints (6-11) and Tennessee Titans (3-14). Both teams went 6-1 in those games, but the detailed stats reveal a substantial difference. The Seahawks averaged 33 points scored and allowed 18.6. Their passing attack averaged 7.89 yards per attempt, and their rushing averaged 4.31 yards per carry. Seattle's defense allowed 5.24 yards per pass attempt and 3.25 yards per rush. The Patriots, meanwhile, posted more modest figures: 27.4 points scored and 17.7 allowed per game, 7.25 yards per pass attempt and 3.93 yards per rush on offense, and 5.55 and 3.63 yards allowed per pass and rush, respectively, on defense. The only categories where New England has a slight edge are a marginally better scoring defense (allowing 0.9 fewer points per game on average) and a slightly better turnover differential (minus-2 versus Seattle's minus-3). However, Seattle leads across the main offensive and defensive efficiency metrics. This analysis helps explain why, despite identical overall records and the Patriots’ impressive 17-game winning streak, bookmakers and analysts favor the Seahawks for the upcoming Super Bowl. Strength of schedule, corroborated by the common-opponent stats, indicates Seattle is accustomed to tougher resistance — which could be decisive in the title game.

Super Bowl LX: Patriots vs. Seahawks — a new chapter in rematch history

In the world of American football, history is not merely repeating itself — it is pitting titans against each other again on the grandest stage. In Super Bowl LX the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks will meet, teams that scripted a shared drama on this field nine years ago. This will be the tenth rematch in NFL Super Bowl history and the fourth for the Patriots, and it begins a unique run of three consecutive Super Bowls that are rematches of past clashes. A detailed overview of all historic rematches can be found in the ESPN piece (https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47774892/nfl-super-bowl-all-rematches).

In 2015’s Super Bowl XLIX the Patriots prevailed 28-24 in one of the most memorable finals. The ending was truly shocking: late in the fourth quarter, on second-and-goal at New England’s one-yard line, Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson was intercepted by Malcolm Butler. That moment is etched into league history. Seattle did not return to the final until the current season, while the Patriots went on to win again in 2016 and 2018. Interestingly, in regular-season matchups since that fateful final, Seattle has beaten New England in all three meetings, adding intrigue to the upcoming game.

Looking at rematch history, a recent example is the Chiefs vs. Eagles rivalry. After Kansas City beat Philadelphia in Super Bowl LVII in 2023 — Patrick Mahomes delivering a game-winning field goal — the Eagles got revenge two years later, routing the Chiefs 40-22 and ending their bid for a threepeat. Another notable duel: the Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers. In 2020 Kansas City came back from a 21-point deficit with a massive fourth-quarter rally, and in 2024 the title in Las Vegas required overtime, where Mahomes once again calmly led his team to victory.

Special mention goes to Patriots–Giants matchups. In 2008 the Giants ended New England’s undefeated season thanks to the famous “helmet-catch” by David Tyree and an Eli Manning touchdown. History repeated in 2012 when the Giants again beat the Patriots in a dramatic final. Another rematch pair is Patriots vs. Eagles: New England won in 2005, but Philadelphia took revenge in 2018, largely due to the outstanding play of backup quarterback Nick Foles, who both passed and ran in a touchdown on a clever trick play.

Historical parallels also appear in Patriots vs. Rams (New England’s first and, so far, most recent Super Bowl victories were 17 years apart), and in the only consecutive finals in league history between the Buffalo Bills and Dallas Cowboys in 1993 and 1994, both won by Dallas. Legendary clashes between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cowboys in the 1970s, as well as the Cincinnati Bengals and the 49ers in the Joe Montana era, round out this rich picture.

Returning to the upcoming Super Bowl LX, one can expect a tense battle where each team will seek to prove its superiority, drawing on the lessons of past meetings. For the Seahawks, it is a chance to heal old wounds and avenge the 2015 loss; for the Patriots, with their wealth of rematch experience, it's an opportunity to reaffirm their status. This game is more than a sporting event — it continues a narrative where history, statistics and emotion intertwine to create a unique spectacle for fans worldwide.

Seahawks fans gear up for the Super Bowl: watch parties in Seattle and a pilgrimage to San Francisco

A feverish anticipation has gripped Seattle ahead of the Super Bowl, the NFL’s marquee game. While some devoted Seahawks supporters are traveling to San Francisco for the game itself, others are planning large-scale watch parties in the city’s heart near the team’s home, Lumen Field. This dual wave of enthusiasm — from personal pilgrimages to mass civic celebrations — vividly shows the deep bond between the team and its fans, known as the "12th man."

The pregame energy is everywhere. As KING5.com reports (https://www.king5.com/article/sports/nfl/seahawks/seahawks-fans-super-bowl-seattle-watch-parties/281-2343158b-4e44-4061-8b24-032631273cd9), the city’s devotion is visible in freshly painted murals honoring the team and countless No. 12 flags flying across Seattle. The number symbolizes fans, regarded as an additional, twelfth player on the field providing moral support. The area around Lumen Field hums with activity: bars and restaurants are stocking up in anticipation of a surge of visitors. One such pub, Gantry Public House, steps from the stadium, is preparing to host fans who stayed in town. “We’re getting ready, setting everything up. We’ve got big screens,” says manager Chase Kogi. “There’s a great vibe. People like to be near the stadium and cheer on the Seahawks.”

For many, the trip to the Super Bowl is a once-in-a-lifetime event. Nancy Peterson of Everett, a season-ticket holder for 30 years, is heading to the final for the first time. “I’m incredibly excited. It was on my bucket list,” she says. Nick Larson of Seattle, traveling with his wife Laura, sees the trip as “a time of redemption,” since he attended previous Seahawks Super Bowls that the team lost. “The energy is amazing, and it’s great to be among like-minded fans, especially when you’re all rooting for the same team,” Laura adds.

Expectations in the city are huge: as Chase Kogi notes, more than a decade has passed since the last Super Bowl, and everyone is hoping for a new victory and a grand championship parade. The economic impact of fan activity is already noticeable. According to the Pioneer Square district alliance, key game days last month drew more than 67,000 visitors to the historic neighborhood. This coming Sunday many venues in the area plan to host watch parties to give fans a shared viewing experience. Thus, whether fans are in the stands in California or packed into Seattle pubs, their passion and support will be an integral part of this grand sporting event.

❮ ❯

Seattle: Trial, Sentence and the AI Boom

In Seattle, a man is on trial for a hate crime against a transgender woman, a local resident was sentenced to 35 years for drug trafficking, and OpenAI is expanding its regional headquarters, strengthening ties with Microsoft and Amazon.

Trial of a Seattle resident in hate crime against a transgender woman

Jury proceedings have begun in King County Superior Court in Seattle for a man accused of a brutal assault on a transgender woman that prosecutors say was motivated by hate. The case has renewed attention on violence against the transgender community.

In the King County courtroom, jurors are hearing the case against Andre Carlow, a Seattle resident charged with a hate crime. The incident occurred in March last year in the University District (U-District). Prosecutors allege that Carlow, as part of a group of four men, hurled insults and then violently beat a transgender woman named Andy Holcepl. The victim suffered broken teeth and numerous bruises from the attack. According to KING5.com, Senior Deputy Prosecutor Yessenia Manzo said in her opening statement: "The targeted insults led to targeted violence." Holcepl testified in court, describing how after the first attack the assailants chased her, which led to a second wave of violence: "He hit me a few more times. Then I ran across the street." The defense, however, insists Carlow is not guilty of committing a hate crime, as his attorney stated in opening arguments. An important context is Carlow’s prior courtroom history. In September 2024 he was previously tried on similar charges for an assault on a transgender Sound Transit employee. At that trial the jurors failed to reach a unanimous verdict on the hate crime count (a situation known as a "hung jury"), but convicted him of fourth-degree assault — a lesser offense. He has since been jailed awaiting the new trial. The current proceeding must determine whether the attack on Holcepl was motivated by bias against the victim’s gender identity, which is a key element for classifying it as a hate crime. The case highlights the vulnerability of transgender people to violence and the legal challenges of proving hate-motivated intent even when the assault itself is clear. The outcome could send an important signal to both the community and the justice system.

Sentence in Seattle: 35 years for drug trafficking that reached Pennsylvania

A harsh sentence was handed down in federal court in Pittsburgh to a member of a large drug cartel whose operations stretched from Arizona to Pennsylvania. The case was part of a major operation targeting a transnational criminal group that flooded the U.S. with deadly drugs.

The Pittsburgh court sentenced 28-year-old Seattle resident Bryce Hill to 35 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. The sentence, handed down late last week, followed a trial held in September 2025. Hill was convicted of violating federal drug laws, U.S. Attorney Troy Rivetti said. He was one of 35 defendants in a superseding indictment tied to an internal and international conspiracy to distribute drugs and launder money. The court found that Hill was a member of the Phoenix-based Monarrez Drug Trafficking Organization (TCO). For context: a TCO (Transnational Criminal Organization) is a cross-border criminal network often structured like a business corporation that conducts illegal activities across borders. According to investigators, this particular TCO was responsible from August 2021 through June 2023 for distributing millions of fentanyl pills, hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine and tens of kilograms of cocaine. The organization supplied drugs to a network of distributors who sold them nationwide, including in Pennsylvania. As court documents on Yahoo News indicate, Hill was intercepted during federal wiretaps while receiving hundreds of thousands of pills and powder-form fentanyl.

The physical evidence was particularly striking. In January 2023, law enforcement seized 27 kilograms of fentanyl pills, firearms and $387,000 in cash from Hill’s apartment. Additionally, in a short-term rental in Arizona investigators found another 28 kilograms of fentanyl pills, 7.5 kilograms of fentanyl powder, 3 kilograms of cocaine, 48 kilograms of methamphetamine and 20 firearms. These figures illustrate the enormous scale of the operation. Jurors found that Hill conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five or more kilograms of cocaine, 400 or more grams of fentanyl, and 500 or more grams of methamphetamine. It is worth clarifying that in U.S. law "intent to distribute" is a key qualifying element that distinguishes simple possession from participation in sales, carrying far harsher penalties. Sentences have now been imposed on 32 of Hill’s co-defendants, demonstrating law enforcement’s systematic work to dismantle the entire network. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Arnold P. Bernard Jr. and Kathryn K. Jordan. The matter underscores how far the reach of modern drug cartels can extend, turning local crimes into a nationwide threat, and shows authorities’ determination to combat them with the toughest measures available.

OpenAI expands presence in Seattle: new Bellevue headquarters and stronger ties with cloud giants

OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, is making a big bet on the Seattle region by significantly expanding its presence close to the headquarters of Microsoft and Amazon. The strategic move underscores the growing importance of the Pacific Northwest as an AI hub and OpenAI’s efforts to deepen ties with key tech partners.

According to information obtained by GeekWire, OpenAI signed a major lease in Bellevue, taking ten additional floors at the City Center Plaza complex. This increases the company’s total office footprint to an impressive 296,000 square feet, making it one of the largest AI-company offices in the region. Previously, OpenAI occupied only two floors in the building. The new space, built to commercial office standards, can accommodate more than 1,000 employees. Already, LinkedIn data shows more than 300 OpenAI employees working in the Seattle region, nearly double the number from last September. This expansion turns the Bellevue office into a major hub located just minutes from Microsoft’s Redmond campus and a few blocks from Amazon’s growing towers in Bellevue. That proximity symbolizes and strengthens OpenAI’s strategic ties with both cloud giants. Microsoft, which has invested billions in OpenAI, remains its primary strategic partner, providing Azure cloud infrastructure that underpins many OpenAI models and products. At the same time OpenAI is deepening relations with Amazon, having struck a November cloud deal reportedly worth $38 billion. Reports say Amazon is negotiating investments of up to $50 billion in OpenAI as part of a new funding round. Notably, Microsoft previously occupied much of the 26-story City Center Plaza building, but in 2023 announced it would not renew its lease. The building adjoins a light rail station that will connect Bellevue and Seattle starting in March.

This expansion comes amid other active moves by OpenAI in the region. The company recently acquired Seattle startup Statsig for $1 billion and is reportedly preparing for an initial public offering (IPO). As The Wall Street Journal reports, OpenAI is paying employees "more than any tech startup in recent years," with an average equity-based compensation package of about $1.5 million per person across roughly 4,000 employees. OpenAI now has one of the largest out-of-town offices among engineering centers in the Seattle region. Giants like Meta, Google and Apple also have a significant presence here, drawing on one of the world’s best pools of technical talent. OpenAI competitor Anthropic opened an office in Seattle two years ago and is actively hiring. According to venture firm SignalFire’s 2024 report, Seattle has the largest number of AI engineers in the U.S. after Silicon Valley.

OpenAI’s lease also reflects the growing role of the so-called "Eastside" (Seattle’s eastern suburbs, including Bellevue) in the AI boom. Many tech firms, including Snap, Anduril, Shopify, Snowflake and others, recently signed new or expanded leases in Bellevue and nearby areas. Nonetheless, office vacancy rates in downtown Bellevue remain high, reaching 25.4% at the end of last year, according to Broderick Group data. In Seattle itself the situation is even more pronounced: vacancy reached a record 34.7% in the fourth quarter. Broderick’s report notes that a growing number of new companies are choosing the Eastside over Seattle, attracted by Bellevue’s modern office stock, favorable business climate and skilled tech workforce. Thus, OpenAI’s decision—detailed in GeekWire’s coverage—is not just a new office lease. It is a strategic move that strengthens its position in the talent race, deepens critical partnerships with Microsoft and Amazon, and cements the Seattle region’s status as a new epicenter of AI development capable of competing with Silicon Valley.

❮ ❯

Coffee Battle and the Super Bowl

On the eve of the Super Bowl, Dunkin' and Starbucks faced off in a blind tasting, while the cities of Seattle and Boston prepare for a cultural showdown. In the NFL final, the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots will play a tense match.

Coffee battle: Dunkin' vs. Starbucks in New York Post blind test

Ahead of Super Bowl weekend, the New York Post editorial team decided to set aside sporting ambitions and stage their own "Coffee Bowl" — a blind tasting of two coffee giants associated with the rival cities in the big final. Seattle’s Starbucks and New England’s Dunkin’ squared off with no logos and no bias. Journalists tasted, sniffed, and offered opinions that ranged from harsh to unexpectedly thoughtful. Consensus did not come immediately, and strong opinions flew as quickly as passes on the football field. Brandon London hosted this unusual contest.

The piece, published on the New York Post website (https://nypost.com/video/coffee-bowl-new-englands-dunkin-vs-seattles-starbucks-let-the-roast-war-begin/), features a video in which staff conduct a blind test of two popular U.S. coffee brands. The idea is cleverly tied to the Super Bowl — the country's biggest sporting event, which this year symbolically pits Seattle (home of Starbucks) against New England (the heart of Dunkin’). Deprived of the chance to identify coffee by a familiar cup or logo, participants relied only on their taste buds and sense of smell. Reactions, the article notes, ranged from "brutal" to "surprisingly thoughtful," underscoring the subjectivity of coffee preferences and the power of branding. In everyday life, the choice between Dunkin’ and Starbucks often means more than picking a drink — it can be a cultural or regional identifier. Dunkin’ is strongly associated with the East Coast, especially Massachusetts, and positions itself as an affordable, quick, no-frills option "for the people." Starbucks, by contrast, is a global symbol of premium coffee culture, born on the West Coast, emphasizing diverse recipes, a "third place" atmosphere, and darker roasts. The video is intriguing because it strips away those layers, leaving only the bare taste. Interestingly, consensus was not immediate — suggesting that differences in a blind test can be less obvious than they appear in everyday life under the influence of marketing. The outcome of this "Coffee Bowl" remains in the video segment, inviting viewers to see for themselves which brand ultimately earned bragging rights in this unofficial matchup.

Megacity rivalry: Seattle and Boston in the shadow of the Super Bowl

In the lead-up to America's biggest sporting show, attention is focused not only on the players on the field but also on the two cities they represent. On Sunday in Super Bowl LX, the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots will meet, and this rivalry extends far beyond football, becoming a cultural duel between the West and East coasts.

As reported by CBS News (https://www.cbsnews.com/news/super-bowl-cities-seattle-boston/), for the Seahawks this game is a chance at revenge. More than a decade ago they lost to the Patriots in the championship game when the Foxborough team was led by legendary coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady. Now Seattle hopes to win its second Lombardi Trophy. The Patriots, whose stadium is located in Massachusetts, are aiming for an unprecedented achievement — a seventh Super Bowl victory that would cement their status as the most decorated team in NFL history.

But the battle also plays out between cities. Seattle, the "Emerald City," is a modern tech hub and home to Amazon's headquarters. Its spirit includes grunge, glass art, and, of course, Starbucks, founded there in 1971. New England with its center in Boston is living U.S. history, colonial heritage, and the oldest commissioned warship still afloat, the USS Constitution. Its symbols include the Dunkin' chain, Boston cream pie, and classic winter pastimes like candlelit bowling and ice fishing.

Pop culture highlights this overlap. The cult medical drama Grey's Anatomy is set in Seattle, but one of its main actors for 11 seasons, Patrick Dempsey, is a New England native and a passionate Red Sox fan. Conversely, the famous sitcom Cheers is from Boston, yet the character played by Kelsey Grammer — Dr. Frasier Crane — moved to Seattle in the storyline and later got his own spin-off, Frasier.

On the sporting front the numbers are also impressive. The Patriots are heading to their 12th Super Bowl, backed by a perfect away record this season (9-0). The Seahawks, led by quarterback Sam Darnold, posted the best record in the National Football Conference (NFC) and set a club record with 14 regular-season wins. Thus Sunday's game is not just a sporting contest. It's a clash of philosophies, cultural codes, and two cities, each striving to prove its superiority both on the field and on a global stage.

Analysis of the upcoming Super Bowl 60: Seattle vs. New England

In the world of American football the moment of truth has arrived — Super Bowl 60, featuring the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots. As noted in a BBC piece (https://www.bbc.com/sport/american-football/articles/cn7j30175gdo), this match is considered one of the most unexpected finals in recent years based on preseason betting odds. Yet both clubs, having navigated an unpredictable season, showed admirable consistency and long winning runs, fully earning the right to compete for the top prize.

Although the Seahawks are favorites by 4.5 points, statistics show the margin between the teams is minimal. This promises viewers a tense and likely very even contest, where the championship could be decided in an instant — by one successful or failed play, a tactical decision, or the finest margin separating triumph from defeat.

A key aspect of the game will be the clash of philosophies and strengths. The Seahawks will likely rely on their aggressive defense and dynamic offense, while the Patriots are traditionally known for discipline, quarterback precision, and the ability to find opponents' defensive weaknesses. The outcome may come down to which side better executes its key advantages on the field. For context: the quarterback is the primary offensive player who throws passes and directs the attack, and his duel with the opposing defense often becomes the central event of the match.

Thus the final promises to be not only a sporting spectacle but a tactical battle of minds where every detail will matter. Fans should prepare for a game where tension builds until the last second and a champion is decided in fierce, uncompromising competition.

❮ ❯

Oregon's iconic waterfall is up for sale

One of the most iconic waterfalls in the U.S. state of Oregon, the 28-meter Abiqua Falls, has unexpectedly appeared on the private real estate market. This natural landmark east of Salem is known for its basalt columns and wide plunge pool, which has become a popular swimming spot. For nearly a century the land containing the falls belonged to Mount Angel Abbey, and since 2000 to its nonprofit Abbey Foundation of Oregon, which has now put the property up for sale. The abbey, founded in 1882 by Benedictine monks from Switzerland, is an important religious, educational and cultural center in Oregon. The monks have traditionally acquired large tracts of land for solitude, agriculture and conservation in keeping with their spiritual values, which explains the nearly century-long ownership of this site.

The foundation announced an auction sale of 16 hectares of land, where potential buyers name their own price. The lot description calls the falls a “nationally recognized” natural feature that existed long before modern property boundaries. Sellers emphasize that water features of this scale and renown are almost always publicly owned or protected, and private ownership of a waterfall of this level is extraordinarily rare.

The sale follows almost a decade of attempts by the abbey to negotiate a deal with state or conservation organizations. One such party was the Willamette River Preservation Trust, which negotiated in 2025. That nonprofit conservation group, which focuses on protecting the Willamette River basin, often acts through quick, flexible deals funded by private donations, allowing it to respond more nimbly than state agencies. The trust’s president, Travis Williams, who lives nearby, expressed frustration, saying the sudden decision to sell publicly showed a lack of “civic-mindedness” on the part of the abbey’s foundation.

However, after the sale was announced, none of the state agencies responsible for public lands indicated willingness to bid. The Oregon Department of Forestry does not plan to acquire new lands for state forests, and the Department of State Lands said the purchase would not be a good investment for the state’s school fund. The Parks and Recreation Department cited budget constraints and competing priorities and added that it had not even been aware the sale was being planned. These agencies, despite missions that align with conserving such landmarks, often face bureaucratic processes and lack the ability to move quickly to acquire private land, especially when large investments are required.

Public access to the falls, which the monastery has always allowed, could continue if the new owner chooses to permit it. In 2025 Governor Tina Kotek signed a law that provides landowners, public and private, broad immunity from lawsuits in the event of injuries to recreational users. That law was passed ten days after a tourist was seriously injured jumping from the top of Abiqua Falls and required an emergency rescue.

Reaching the falls is already difficult: the final stretch of road requires a high-clearance vehicle, and a short but challenging 1.3 km round-trip hike involves using ropes to descend to the riverbed. Travis Williams notes the new owner will face the need to manage tourist flows, address trash, parking and trail maintenance. In his view, fully closing access to the falls will be virtually impossible.

The abbey says it is simply time to pass the responsibility for preserving this natural treasure to another owner. “For more than 100 years Mount Angel Abbey and its foundation have preserved and protected this unique, majestic place, sharing its timeless beauty with the community. Now it is time for someone else to love and care for this property in the same spirit for future generations,” said abbey spokeswoman Amanda Staggenborg.

❮ ❯

Based on: One of Oregon’s most iconic waterfalls is up for sale

Remote work transformed King County, but not evenly

The COVID-19 pandemic brought one of the biggest changes to our working lives — a mass shift to remote work. Where it had once been rare, remote work overnight became the norm for hundreds of thousands of people. This transformation was especially pronounced in King County, Washington, but not all residents benefited equally.

Census data show that in 2019, before the pandemic, only about 7% of King County’s working residents (89,000 people) worked from home most days. The peak came in 2021, when 452,000 people, or 38% of the workforce, were working remotely. By 2024 that figure had fallen to 21% (271,000 people), still three times the pre-pandemic level, since many companies kept hybrid arrangements.

The highest percentages of remote workers are concentrated in affluent, highly educated neighborhoods where office occupations dominate. The absolute leader is a tract in the Belltown area of central Seattle, near the Olympic Sculpture Park — a public space with art and bay views that symbolizes the modern urban environment attracting highly paid professionals. There, 61% of working residents (about 1,600 of 2,600) work remotely. That’s explained by a high share of IT workers (35%), whose jobs are digital by nature and require only a computer and internet access.

Second and third places are also held by affluent neighborhoods closely tied to the tech sector: the Uptown/Westlake area near Amazon’s campus (56% remote workers, 33% IT workers) and the Somerset neighborhood in Bellevue (51% remote workers). The presence of Amazon’s large headquarters complex, built out since the 2010s, transformed nearby areas from quiet zones into vibrant commercial and residential centers, triggering steep housing price increases and infrastructure development. These locations have many managerial and tech occupations that relatively easily adapted to remote work.

At the same time, the lowest share of remote workers (around 3%) is observed in less affluent parts of South King, such as East Hill in Kent or Redondo-East in Federal Way. This socioeconomic split has deep historical roots tied to redlining practices that restricted where communities of color could live in the south, and to the tech-driven economic boom centered in downtown and in suburbs like Bellevue. High tech wages drove up the cost of living near the center, while South King remained more affordable but with less investment in infrastructure and public services. There is a high share of workers in jobs requiring physical presence: transportation, logistics, retail, and service industries. For example, in one Kent tract 27% of workers are employed in transportation and 25% in service occupations.

Thus, the census data clearly show that the shift to remote work, accelerated by the pandemic, exacerbated existing socioeconomic inequality in King County. The ability to work from home has largely become a privilege of highly paid knowledge workers, while service and manual workers were denied that flexibility.

❮ ❯

Based on: Remote work transformed King County, but not evenly, census data shows

Washington governor offers help to bring NBA back to Seattle

Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson, who grew up attending local SuperSonics games and went to basketball camp run by legendary coach Lenny Wilkens, held a brief introductory meeting with NBA commissioner Adam Silver. At the meeting he offered assistance should the league decide to expand and return a basketball team to Seattle. For the city, the SuperSonics — who existed from 1967 — were more than just a sports club: they became a symbol of civic pride and identity, helping to establish Seattle as a major sports and cultural center. Their 1979 championship and such legends as Gary Payton and Shawn Kemp entered local folklore, uniting a diverse population and creating a shared history. After the team’s move in 2008, the SuperSonics remained a nostalgic symbol of the “old Seattle.”

The meeting took on particular significance in light of the commissioner’s December remarks that the league plans to make a decision on expansion by 2026, with Seattle and Las Vegas being considered primary potential markets. Silver emphasized that the league is conducting a thorough evaluation of those cities and does not want to create false expectations among fans, although talks of expansion have been ongoing for several years.

The infrastructure for an NBA return to Seattle is already in place: Climate Pledge Arena, renovated in 2021, was originally designed to accommodate a basketball team in addition to the hockey Kraken and the WNBA’s Storm. Most of the Kraken’s owners, including Samantha Holloway, have repeatedly expressed willingness to participate in a project to bring the NBA back if the league decides to expand. Today’s approach to funding sports facilities in Seattle, as exemplified by this arena, has changed dramatically: it is now based mainly on private investment with limited use of public money. This reflects lessons learned from the painful experience of losing the SuperSonics.

The recent meeting symbolizes improved relations between state officials and NBA leadership compared with the contentious situation 20 years ago that ultimately led to the SuperSonics’ move to Oklahoma City. At that time, tensions arose among elected leaders, team owners and commissioner David Stern over funding a arena renovation. The conflict began with the owners’ demand for a new arena funded in part by the public, which city officials and state legislators rejected, fearing risks to taxpayers. That experience has made Seattle residents highly wary of using public funds for such projects. Now, thanks to more constructive dialogue and new funding approaches, a repeat of past mistakes is being avoided.

❮ ❯

Based on: Gov. Bob Ferguson has a chat with NBA commissioner Adam Silver

Seattle in the World of Sports

Seattle prides itself on its sporting achievements: the Mariners are sending a record number of players to the World Baseball Classic, devoted Seahawks fans travel with the team, and local audio engineer Brynna Rodgers will make Super Bowl history.

Mariners to be well represented at the 2026 World Baseball Classic

Ahead of the World Baseball Classic (WBC) starting in March, it was announced that Seattle Mariners players will make up a sizable portion of participants in this prestigious international tournament. According to Seattle Sports, the club will be represented by a record sixteen baseball players, who will play for twelve different national teams. This is a significant increase from the previous 2023 tournament, when ten Mariners participated. Such a scale of representation underscores both the club’s growing international depth and its ambitions.

Among those taking part are key members of the Mariners’ core roster, which makes the tournament particularly important for Seattle fans. Star catcher Cal Raleigh and left fielder Randy Arozarena, left-handed reliever Gabe Speier, and rising center fielder Julio Rodríguez — they will all wear their countries’ colors. For Raleigh and Speier, this will be their WBC debut, while Rodríguez and Arozarena already have WBC experience. In 2023, Arozarena was one of the standout players, putting up an impressive OPS (on-base plus slugging) of 1.507 for Mexico, a number that reflects both his contact and power. His performance helped the Mexican team reach the semifinals.

In addition to core players, promising young talents from the Mariners’ farm system will take part. Infielder Michael Arroyo deserves special attention; he is ranked in MLB Pipeline’s top 100 prospects. Last year he helped Colombia qualify, showing strong hitting and base-stealing skills. His participation is a look to the club’s future. Also notable is pitcher Eduardo Bazardo, who, after breaking out in the 2025 season, will debut for Venezuela. For those unfamiliar: the WBC is the baseball equivalent of a world championship, organized with MLB involvement, where players represent their national teams, creating a unique atmosphere and high level of competition.

Having so many players involved is certainly a source of pride for the organization, but it also carries risks. The intensive WBC schedule, which begins March 5 and concludes with the final on March 17 in Miami, could affect players’ physical readiness for the start of the MLB regular season, which begins shortly afterward. This is especially true for pitchers, whose workloads need careful management. Nevertheless, for the players themselves it’s an opportunity to represent their countries on the world stage — often a childhood dream and an additional source of motivation.

Interestingly, in addition to current Mariners, many former players and athletes connected to Seattle will also participate. For example, Seattle native and two-time All-Star Corbin Carroll will play for Team USA. Among former Mariners on the lists are well-known names such as closer Edwin Díaz (Puerto Rico), pitcher Yusei Kikuchi (Japan), and infielders Eugenio Suárez (Venezuela) and Ketel Marte (Dominican Republic). That adds extra storylines and nostalgic moments for local fans.

Thus, the upcoming World Baseball Classic will be not only a global celebration of the sport but also a showcase of the strength and reach of the Seattle Mariners’ scouting system. The successes or failures of their players in this tournament could set the tone for the entire 2026 season, which, as noted in related coverage, begins with “very high” expectations. Fans will have a unique chance to see their idols in a different role — representing national teams and competing for their countries’ honor.

Seahawks fans on the road: the team spirit beyond the field

In professional sports, fans often become an integral part of a team’s story, and Seattle Seahawks supporters are a vivid example. A recent report from KIRO 7 News Seattle, available here, focuses on devoted fans who follow their team wherever it goes, turning away games into major travel events.

The video shows groups of Seahawks fans, decked out in the team’s navy and green, gathering in airports, at stadiums in other cities, and simply on the streets, creating a home-like atmosphere far from home. This phenomenon goes beyond ordinary fandom; it has become part of Seattle’s culture and its residents’ identity. Fans share stories of planning road trips to away games for years, turning them into family traditions or friend reunions. Their presence not only provides moral support for the team but also noticeably impacts the crowd noise, sometimes even outshining local fans. The piece features vivid shots capturing fans’ emotions — from joy after touchdowns to tense silence during decisive moments. One fan interviewed notes: “It’s more than just football. It’s a community that brings us together wherever we are.”

Interestingly, the piece opens with a small technical glitch or mismatch: it mentions performer Rong Niu (known as Red Panda) and her halftime performance at a basketball game in Miami, which, judging by context, doesn’t directly relate to the main story about Seahawks fans. That likely is a fragment from another article that accidentally made its way into the text. However, that doesn’t diminish the report’s main point — showcasing the unique phenomenon of traveling fans. For those unfamiliar: the Seahawks are Seattle’s professional American football team, playing in the National Football League (NFL), and their fans are known for their devotion and loud support, even earning the unofficial nickname “the 12th Man” for their ability to influence the game.

The key takeaway from the report is that passion for sport can create strong social bonds and erase geographic boundaries. Seahawks fans don’t just watch games on TV; they invest time and resources to be part of the live action, which strengthens the local community and promotes Seattle’s spirit nationally. This also has economic effects, as such travel supports the tourism sector in host cities. Over time, this fan culture enhances the team’s brand, making it more attractive to sponsors and new supporters. The report emphasizes that in an era when many events are consumed remotely, the live, shared experience of being in the stadium remains an invaluable way to unite people of all ages and professions.

Brynna Rodgers’ story: how a Seattle audio engineer made Super Bowl history

As the Super Bowl approaches, attention is not only on the players. For Brynna Rodgers, a broadcast audio engineer from Seattle, this week became historic — she became the first woman to engineer the radio broadcast of the year’s biggest game.

When the Seahawks Radio Network goes on air Sunday, Brynna Rodgers will be at the console. She is the broadcast engineer for the “Bump and Stacy” show on Seattle Sports 710 AM. The event marks a breakthrough in a field traditionally dominated by men. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Rodgers says. “Sometimes I have to stop, look around, and remind myself how cool this is and how few people get a chance like this.”

All season Rodgers has worked behind the scenes: adjusting sound levels, managing microphones, and ensuring seamless broadcasts, including during key playoff moments. For example, during Rashaad Shahid’s touchdown return, she could be seen in the background behind host Steve Raible. “You can see me shifting from foot to foot from excitement,” she recalled with a smile.

Her work is a balance of technical precision and quick decisions, often under stress. “I mix their mics, set the equalizer, add dynamics, apply compression and limiting,” Rodgers explains of the technical side of her job. For the uninitiated: an equalizer (EQ) adjusts the tone of the sound, compression evens out volume levels, and limiting prevents distortion — all crucial for a clear and pleasant-sounding broadcast.

The radio row at the Super Bowl, the annual congregation of national shows and sports media, is often compared to Grand Central Terminal — noisy and chaotic. But Rodgers’ presence stands out amid the bustle, challenging longstanding traditions. “It’s very hard for women to get into this field, and when you add the technical, STEM side, it’s even harder,” she notes. “I’ve managed to crack the door open. Now I’ll keep it open for everyone who follows.”

This step matters not only for Rodgers personally but for the industry as a whole. As KING5.com reports, her story inspires and shows that barriers can be overcome. Her success is a symbol of progress, proving that skill and passion know no gender, and that technical media professions are open to anyone with talent and persistence.

❮ ❯

Millionaires' tax proposed to support students and families in Washington

Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction Chris Reykdal has proposed directing funds from a proposed "millionaires' tax" to support middle-class families and the education sector. The proposal is revolutionary for a state that historically has no personal income tax, relying instead on sales taxes, excise taxes and business taxes. The bill would impose an additional 9.9% income tax on individuals with annual incomes over $1 million. Estimates suggest the measure could raise more than $3 billion annually for the state budget beginning in 2028. Because it would change a long-standing constitutional principle, the amendment would require voter approval in a referendum.

Under Reykdal’s vision, the funds would be allocated to two key priorities. First, about $1.4 billion a year would be used to reduce property taxes for the middle class, potentially saving homeowners thousands of dollars. Second, $861 million would be invested in education, including a free two-year college program for state residents and paying for college-credit courses for high school students.

The initiative comes amid a slight decline in real per-student spending in the state’s public schools. As an independently elected superintendent of public education, Reykdal is responsible for overseeing the implementation of education laws and the distribution of school funding. However, the bill has not won unanimous support: Governor Bob Ferguson, the state’s chief executive, said he cannot support it in its current form. He wants a larger share of the new revenue to go toward broad tax relief rather than specific programs, highlighting differences in their roles and priorities.

If Reykdal’s proposal is adopted, it could substantially reshape Washington’s education funding and tax systems. The superintendent says it would make the tax code fairer, provide significant financial relief to thousands of families, and give students access to free higher education.

❮ ❯

Based on: Reykdal wants proposed ‘millionaire’s tax’ to support students

Tech giants are changing the rules of the "green" energy market

In an unusual competition for resources, technology company Amazon outbid the largest private utility in Washington state, Puget Sound Energy (PSE), at auction for the Sunstone project — one of the largest solar power plants in the U.S., located in Oregon. The event signals a new reality in which traditional utilities face growing competition from energy-intensive tech giants seeking to secure their own needs. The significant presence of corporations like Amazon and Microsoft, which historically formed a powerful tech cluster east of Seattle, has driven a sharp increase in energy demand and placed greater strain on infrastructure.

Amazon’s winning bid of $83 million for the Sunstone project is notable for its scale: once completed it will generate 1.2 gigawatts of solar power and have a comparable amount of battery storage. The plant will cover an area comparable to an entire Seattle neighborhood and could power several hundred thousand homes. The project’s value is enhanced by its readiness to begin construction, which will save years of permitting.

For Amazon this purchase is a strategic step to address an acute problem. The company is investing tens of billions of dollars in building data centers for artificial intelligence and cloud services, but faces a chronic shortage of electricity to power these energy-hungry facilities. Amazon’s leadership has even complained to Oregon regulators about unreliable power from the local grid operator.

Acquiring Sunstone is part of a strategy new to the sector known as "behind-the-meter generation." Rather than relying solely on grid-supplied power, companies like Amazon aim to create their own energy sources close to their facilities to guarantee uninterrupted operations.

For PSE, which is regulated by the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission and serves about 1.2 million customers across 10 counties, losing the Sunstone project was a serious blow. The company is scrambling to meet the stringent requirements of the state’s Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA), which mandates that utilities, like all the state’s electric providers, move to fully carbon-free electricity by 2045 with an interim target in 2030. This solar project could have substantially covered its need for "green" energy, especially since PSE, unlike some municipal utilities such as Seattle City Light, still relies on gas-fired generation.

The auction lasted 16 rounds, and PSE stopped at a bid of $82 million. A company representative noted that this was the maximum amount they could justify given that rates are regulated by the state and half their customers are low-income. The utility’s financial capacity was limited compared with the tech giant.

PSE leadership says it is concerned this may not be an isolated incident. If tech companies continue to aggressively buy ready-to-build renewable projects, utilities tasked with meeting public mandates could face serious challenges in securing needed resources. Competition is intensifying amid the state’s overall transition to "green" energy. Although Washington has a strong hydropower base providing about 70% of generation, meeting CETA’s requirements requires new variable sources like wind and solar. The best sites for those resources are often far from consumption centers, making each ready project like Sunstone subject to fierce competition not only with tech giants but also among utilities themselves — private, municipal, and public districts.

Thus, the auction for the Sunstone project highlighted an emerging conflict of interest in the energy market. On one side are tech giants trying to protect their multibillion-dollar investments in AI; on the other are traditional energy companies striving to comply with environmental laws. Their competition for the same limited "green" resources will likely only intensify, transforming the region’s economy and infrastructure.

❮ ❯

Based on: Amazon outbids WA utility for one of nation’s largest solar projects

Giant tortoises find new home at Seattle zoo

Two giant Aldabra tortoises, Mary and Eliza, are beginning a new life at Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, one of the oldest and most respected zoos on the U.S. West Coast, founded in 1899. It is known for innovative naturalistic exhibits and active programs in endangered species conservation, research and education. The tortoises moved from the closing private Reptile Zoo in Monroe, about 25 miles northeast of downtown Seattle, which will cease operations on Feb. 16. Their arrival marks the end of an era for both the animals and their former owner.

The tortoises are about 15 and 23 years old and weigh 200 and 258 pounds, respectively. After a three-month quarantine they are now in a temporary enclosure. Zoo visitors should be able to see the reptiles for the first time in May or June, and in the future may even be able to feed and pet them. Mary and Eliza will be central figures in a new interactive space.

The space, called "Wild Encounters," is being created on the site of the zoo’s former Family Farm, a popular hands-on exhibit where visitors could get close to domestic animals. The decision to replace it was made as part of an overall modernization and reimagining of the zoo’s educational space in line with its strategic goals. The new area is intended for visitors of all ages and will include an aviary with lorikeet parrots that can be fed. The project aims to foster empathy for animals through close contact, which is especially important for often-underappreciated reptiles.

Transferring the tortoises to a large public zoo was a strategic decision given their incredible longevity. Female Aldabra tortoises can live more than 100 years, sometimes reaching 150. To ensure they receive stable, qualified care for their lifetimes, longtime Woodland Park Zoo donors — private individuals, families and foundations whose funding is critical to making such initiatives possible — purchased them from the former owner for $55,000.

The previous owner, Isaac Petersen, bought the tortoises three years ago for $33,000. He rescued them from unsuitable conditions: one was kept at a livestock facility, the other by a private owner in San Diego in a cramped pen with no outdoor access. Petersen initially named them after dinosaurs from the animated movie The Land Before Time.

The decision to close the Reptile Zoo after 30 years was difficult for Petersen. Despite a temporary uptick in interest in the fall, the business suffered from low attendance and high costs for supplies and animal care. "It's sad. It was my dream," he said. "But it's the right decision for my family."

Petersen is finding new homes for roughly 130 reptiles from the closing zoo. About 35 animals, including an albino alligator, will go to the namesake zoo in California; about 10 more will go to Cougar Mountain Zoo in Issaquah, a city about 12 miles east of Seattle, which — like Monroe — is part of the regional network of conservation institutions. Most of the reptiles will go to new private owners in the state, whom Petersen is carefully vetting for experience and suitable conditions.

Petersen has not yet visited the tortoises in their new home, not wanting to interfere with their adjustment. He is also considering transferring his Monroe facility to another private zoo specializing in mammals and birds, which could open as early as March.

When Mary and Eliza settle in permanently, they will live in a spacious two-level enclosure of nearly 1,600 square feet, created on the site of the former donkey pen. They will have mud wallows, heat lamps, soft substrate and, of course, many awestruck children amazed by their prehistoric appearance.

❮ ❯

Based on: Woodland Park Zoo gets giant tortoises from soon-to-close Reptile Zoo

Washington lawmakers step up fight against insurance fraud

Insurance fraud costs consumers in Washington state millions of dollars each year, and under current law many sophisticated schemes can go unpunished. The state does not presently have a standalone statute that explicitly defines insurance fraud as a crime, forcing authorities to rely on more general theft, false statement and consumer protection laws. To close this legal loophole, lawmakers are proposing a new bill.

House Bill 2394, introduced by Rep. Roger Goodman, a Democratic member representing the 45th Legislative District that includes Seattle suburbs, was drafted at the request of the state insurance commissioner. This elected regulator is responsible not only for combating fraud but also for approving rates, licensing insurers, protecting consumers and ensuring the financial stability of the insurance market. The bill would formally define insurance fraud as a separate criminal offense. It would expand the list of acts that qualify as fraud and allow victims, including ordinary consumers, to recover damages. Each instance of fraud would be treated as a separate offense and could be classified as a class B felony.

The scope of the problem is growing: according to Deputy Insurance Commissioner Aaron VanTyle, the number of fraud reports received by the agency’s criminal investigations unit rose from 3,246 in 2022 to 4,252 in 2025. National estimates put insurance fraud costs to Americans at a minimum of $300 billion a year, which ultimately leads to higher premiums for all customers.

Modern fraudulent schemes are becoming increasingly technological and complex. They often involve identity theft, forged documents, manipulation of damage estimates and multi-layered fabricated claims. Experts note such schemes can be uncovered months or even years later, especially when fraud is embedded in digital systems.

The bill would also strengthen interagency cooperation by requiring other regulators — for example, in health care and financial services — to report suspected insurance fraud. That would give investigators greater authority to pursue large cases. Insurance Commissioner Patty Coderer described the current system as an attempt to “fight computers with pencils,” emphasizing the obsolescence of existing rules.

A companion measure (Senate Bill 6031) has already been approved by a Senate committee. In Washington’s legislative process, committee approval in one chamber is an important step that increases the chances of final passage, as it demonstrates interchamber consensus and expedites procedure. If both proposals are adopted, the new rules are expected to take effect 90 days after the end of the legislative session. Sponsors believe these measures will help hold more fraudsters accountable and help lower insurance costs for honest customers.

❮ ❯

Based on: Lawmakers target insurance fraud loopholes

Judge restores Squaxin Tribe members after disputed disenrollment

A judge in the Squaxin tribal court has overturned the removal of longtime activist and educator Sally Brownfield and two of her relatives, ruling that the tribe should not have disenrolled them. Central to the decision was the principle that the burden of proving the necessity of disenrollment rests with the tribal leadership, not with the member, who is not required to reestablish their right to membership. Judge Josh Williams called Brownfield’s disenrollment “arbitrary and unreasonable.”

The Squaxin Tribe, historically composed of seven related communities living along the southwest shore of Puget Sound, received federal recognition in 1965. That official affirmation by the U.S. government of the tribe’s status as a sovereign political entity provided the basis for self-governance, the development of its own laws and courts, land management, and access to federal support programs. Today the tribe’s main reservation is on Squaxin Island in the southern part of the sound, near the town of Shelton, and the tribe also holds lands in Mason County.

Seventy-five-year-old Sally Brownfield grew up in Washington state and says she is a descendant of a local Native woman. After the tribe received federal recognition, she and her mother were active in building its institutions. In the 1980s and 1990s they were formally enrolled in the tribe, along with a number of other people with deep community ties.

But last spring Squaxin leadership stripped Brownfield and others of membership, citing an audit and provisions in the tribal constitution that require proof of a sufficient degree of Indian blood and descent from specific historical individuals. The actions stirred unrest in the small tribe of about 1,300 people. Critics viewed the purge as a power struggle, while tribal leaders insisted they were simply cleaning up the rolls.

The case was decided in the Squaxin tribal court, which has primary jurisdiction over tribe members on the reservation and handles civil matters, family disputes and certain criminal cases. It is a separate, parallel judicial system grounded in tribal sovereignty, while federal and state courts have jurisdiction over more serious crimes and cases involving non-Indians.

In his Jan. 12 ruling, Judge Williams focused not on the dispute over Brownfield’s ancestry but on the tribe’s insufficient evidence. He noted that if the tribe once found the evidence of her descent sufficient for enrollment, it is now the tribe’s burden to prove otherwise. The judge also rejected the tribe’s argument about procedural defects in the enrollment of Brownfield’s mother.

Tribal Chair Chris Peters criticized the ruling, saying it conflicts with other orders by the same judge and with the facts, and suggested Brownfield prevailed because of public advocacy. The tribe has filed a motion for reconsideration. Brownfield herself called the verdict clear and fair, expressing frustration with leaders’ reluctance to accept it immediately.

The case draws attention to the growing issue of disenrollment in U.S. Indian tribes. Brownfield’s attorney noted that each case is unique, but none of them makes anyone happy. Experts hope the decision could set an important precedent by shifting the burden of proof in similar disputes and protecting the rights of long-standing community members.

❮ ❯

Based on: Judge overturns disenrollment of prominent Squaxin Island Tribe member

Seattle Prepares for the Super Bowl

Experts discuss the Seattle Seahawks' chances of winning the Super Bowl, analyzing their roster and defense. Avoiding mistakes is named the key to success, and club legend Richard Sherman compares the current team to the legendary "Legion of Boom."

The Only Way the Patriots Can Win the Super Bowl: Expert Reveals the Key to Success

Although the Seattle Seahawks were largely overlooked nationally for much of the season, they are now the favorites for the upcoming Super Bowl. Analysts and bookmakers agree that the Seattle team has every chance to lift the Lombardi Trophy after defeating the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC final. However, according to one of the most respected insiders, the New England Patriots still have a shot at an upset — but only under one very specific condition.

The two teams’ paths to the title game were radically different, which largely explains the current balance of power. The Seahawks went through the meat grinder of the NFC West, which set a league record with three teams winning at least 12 games. Seattle met the Rams and the San Francisco 49ers twice in the regular season and then again with each in the playoffs. In total they played eight games against teams with winning records. Meanwhile, the Patriots benefited from playing in a weak AFC East and a schedule tilted toward an underdog after finishing last in their division in 2024. According to Tankathon, New England had the easiest strength of schedule in the league with opponents’ win percentage of .391, while Seattle’s was about average — .498. In the regular season the Patriots played only three games against teams with winning records, and in the AFC title game they narrowly beat the Denver Broncos 10-7, who were playing with a backup quarterback with only four career starts.

Daniel Jeremiah, an NFL Network insider and former league scout, backed the Seahawks all season long, unlike many other experts. In his interview on the Brock and Salk show on Seattle Sports he clearly laid out what he believes is the only scenario in which the Patriots could win. “If this game is consistently played with a long field for both teams, Seattle will win this game ten out of ten times. The only way, in my view, they can lose this game is if they give New England a bunch of short fields,” Jeremiah said. By “long field” he means situations where a team starts a drive far from the opponent’s end zone, forced to cover many yards and more likely to make a mistake. A “short field” is the opposite — a favorable position near the opponent’s end zone that greatly increases the chance of a scoring drive, often following an interception, fumble, or successful special teams play.

Thus, the key matchup in the game shifts from the field to tactics and situational execution. For the Seahawks it is critical to avoid costly errors in passing, coverage, and special teams that could gift the Patriots advantageous field position. For the Patriots, victory depends on their ability to create such opportunities — pressuring Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, forcing turnovers on returns, and playing aggressively on defense to produce interceptions. If New England can force that kind of “dirty” field-position battle, they’ll have a chance. However, given the Seahawks’ path through top opponents and their current form, most experts agree Seattle is the tougher, more battle-tested team. The outcome will likely hinge on whether the Patriots can pull off the single scenario Jeremiah outlined, or whether the Seahawks will demonstrate their strength across the full distance.

Super Bowl 2026 Prediction: Seattle Seahawks’ Current 53-Man Roster

Ahead of the NFL’s 2025 season-deciding game, the Seattle Seahawks appear to have finalized their core roster. Field Gulls reports that the club likely made final adjustments before the Super Bowl. Rookie tackle Amari Kite was placed on injured reserve, which means he is out for the season. At the same time the team was bolstered by the return of Chazz Serratt, a key special teams player and backup linebacker, who recovered from injury and returned from the same injured reserve.

Barring unforeseen injuries or other emergencies requiring the signing of a new player, this roster that practiced on Wednesday will be the 53-man group representing the Seahawks on Sunday’s Super Bowl. For fans and analysts, it signals the coaching staff has settled on the core for the most important game of the year. Serratt’s return is especially meaningful for special teams — a phase where championships are often decided — and his experience and specialty could be a hidden ace. The loss of Kite, though he was a rookie, is a reminder of the harsh reality of professional sports where injuries frequently alter the best-laid plans.

This final touch in roster construction underscores the Seahawks’ readiness to fight for the championship ring. The team is banking on a mix of seasoned veterans and young talent, emphasizing reliability and depth at key positions, particularly on defense and special teams. Now all attention turns to strategy and the physical preparedness of this specific 53-man unit, which will face a top opponent on the sport’s biggest stage.

How Richard Sherman Compares the "Dark Side" to the "Legion of Boom"

Former Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman, a legend of the famed Legion of Boom defense, assessed the team’s current defense, nicknamed the “Dark Side.” Although both units wear the same colors and defend Seattle, Sherman sees more differences than similarities between them. In his interview with Hard Rock Bet he explained in detail why the current defense is not a copy of his legendary generation, while still possessing every chance to win Super Bowl 2026.

Richard Sherman, a key figure in the brash and dominant Legion of Boom that crushed the Denver Broncos 43-8 in the 2014 Super Bowl, notes the teams have different styles and schemes. In his view, the Legion of Boom may have been more recognizable because of its standout individual personalities. That does not mean the current Seahawks defense is less talented. “Their numbers speak for themselves,” Sherman said, “and I expect them to win this game. I expect them to be reliable. These guys run and hit.” The Dark Side enters Super Bowl 2026 with a chance to bring Seattle its first title since 2014. Like their predecessors, they finished the regular season as the NFL’s stingiest defense by points allowed and already beat the league’s best offense in the NFC championship against the Los Angeles Rams (31-27). Awaiting them in the final are the New England Patriots, who were second in scoring in the regular season.

Sherman sees the main similarity to the Legion of Boom in the depth along the defensive front. He called veteran defensive tackle Leonard Williams a tone-setter and hailed young teammate Byron Murphy II as All-Pro-caliber after 62 tackles and 7 sacks in the regular season. The highest praise went to veteran defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence, who joined the Seahawks from the Dallas Cowboys. Sherman called him the “engine” of the defense, noting his relentless effort on every play. As an example he cited the forced fumble on quarterback Brock Purdy in the playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers. Sherman also highly praised the Seahawks’ secondary. He called rookie safety Nik Emmanuel a future Defensive Player of the Year candidate and commended his leadership, citing an episode where Emmanuel held veteran cornerback Rick Wullen accountable for an expensive taunting penalty in the game against the Rams. “The situation with him and Wullen on the sideline looked like a conflict,” Sherman said, “but that’s accountability. The fact that a young guy went up to a veteran like that tells you a lot about the hierarchy on that team. I think Rick, even being upset in that moment, showed respect for it.”

The five-time Pro Bowl participant is also encouraged by the Dark Side’s distributed leadership: Williams, Lawrence, third-year corner Devon Weatherspoon, veteran safety Julian Love, and linebacker Ernest Jones IV. Sherman expressed admiration for the secondary’s play: Wullen, he said, had a strong second half of the season and bounced back well from the penalty incident, while Love and Weatherspoon performed at the expected high level. He was particularly impressed by fourth-year safety Coby Bryant, who transitioned from cornerback, found his niche, stabilized the defense, and recorded four interceptions in the regular season. For Sherman personally, a Dark Side victory could be cathartic — a form of revenge. A year after the 2014 triumph he was part of the team that heartbreakingly lost to the Patriots in Super Bowl 2015 after Malcolm Butler’s famous goal-line interception. Sherman, predicting a 24-10 Seahawks win in the upcoming game, said a Super Bowl 2026 victory could finally exorcise those demons. “All the elements are there for them to exorcise those demons, and we can move forward,” he said. “I need that in my life.” Thus, according to the club legend, the Dark Side is not a repetition of the past but a new, powerful chapter in Seahawks history with its own character, talent, and the chance to write its own success story while closing old wounds.

❮ ❯

Memory on the Walls: School Mural Honors Deceased Students

A poignant wall mural has appeared at Kent-Meridian High School in the large suburban city of Kent, an important residential, industrial and logistics hub south of Seattle. Students created it in memory of classmates who died tragically in the spring of 2024. The mural, depicting graduates tossing caps against a backdrop of flying doves and the words "Forever Royals," has become a permanent memorial and a symbol of the school community. The name "Royals," the school mascot since 1968, has historically symbolized striving for high achievement and unity. The idea for the mural came entirely from students who wanted to honor Hazarat Ali Rohani and Christopher Medina Selaia.

The project was prompted by the deaths of two students within days of each other, an event that shook everyone. Class of 2025 graduate Claire Eaton, who took part in the memorial ceremony, expressed a shared concern: she feared that, over time, the memory of these students might fade. As a member of the student council, she proposed creating a memorial where friends could sit and remember their peers.

To make the decision collective, the student council surveyed all students. A majority voted for a large-scale wall mural rather than a bench or plaque. The goal was to create a work that reflected the school's diversity, characteristic of one of the largest and most diverse districts in Washington state — Kent School District. It was intended to be meaningful both for current students and future graduates, uniting them through shared memories and values.

The final design was entrusted to two talented student artists, Ellie Hoyt and Harlan McManus. They deliberately rendered the figures of the graduates faceless, showing them with their backs to the viewer so the emphasis would be on community rather than individual grief. The blue color, taken from the school palette, symbolizes calm, while the white doves represent peace. The graduation scene was chosen as a shared important milestone, even for those who did not reach it.

After the sketch was approved, other students were brought in to help paint the walls; under the guidance of a professional artist hired by the school district, they helped fill in the large areas. Leadership advisor Erika Wulftskill emphasized that the project remained in students' hands from start to finish, which was fundamentally important to its meaning.

The mural's unveiling took place late last year. For its creators and initiators it has already become an integral part of school life. Principal David Radford noted that the painting evokes a range of emotions, reminding people of all those the school community has lost over the years. For Claire Eaton, watching it from afar, it confirmed that the memory of her classmates is now preserved for years to come.

❮ ❯

Based on: Kent students commemorate lost peers with mural

Spokane police chief apologized for officers in masks at protest

Spokane Police Chief Kevin Hall publicly apologized and acknowledged it was a mistake that two plainclothes officers attended last week’s protest with their faces covered by masks. Speaking at a city council committee meeting on Monday, Hall said he takes full responsibility for the incident, which he said occurred because of a communication breakdown within the department.

The protest where the masked officers were seen took place on Wednesday. More than a thousand healthcare workers and other participants marched from the downtown Riverfront Park to the county courthouse. Built on the site of the 1974 World’s Fair, the park has historically served as a key public space and natural gathering point for events because of its symbolic significance and convenient central location in Spokane. The march was organized to honor 37-year-old Alexander Pretty, an intensive care unit nurse who was shot and killed by federal agents in Minneapolis on Jan. 24. Hall emphasized that neither he nor the on-scene commander knew about the presence of these officers.

Overall, Spokane police, unlike counterparts in larger, more protest-active cities such as Seattle, take a more restrained approach to such events, which occur less frequently and on a smaller scale here. However, this incident again highlighted the ambivalent perception of law enforcement held by some members of the community. In response, police leadership promptly issued a departmental memo to all personnel clearly prohibiting the wearing of any masks or face coverings while on duty. Exceptions are allowed only for medical reasons or operational necessity — for example, the use of gas masks when deploying tear gas — which must be approved in advance and in writing.

Mayor Lisa Brown supported the police chief’s actions and this policy, saying that mask-wearing by law enforcement is directly tied to public trust. She noted that against a backdrop of public concern about masked federal agents’ actions in other cities, Spokane residents have the right to know who is protecting them. City council members urged the public to continue reporting any similar violations.

The organizer of the memorial march, 27-year-old nurse Alexander Knox, expressed disappointment upon learning of the breach. Before the event he had coordinated safety issues with the police and was told officers would be present in identifiable uniforms for coordination. Knox also mentioned that the state legislature is considering bill SB 6075, which would officially ban law enforcement officers from wearing face-concealing masks while interacting with the public. In Washington’s current political climate, where Democrats control the legislative and executive branches, the likelihood of such a bill passing is considered relatively high, although it may face adjustments due to opposition.

Despite the incident, Knox noted that the large turnout march was largely peaceful and became a unifying community event. Police confirmed there were no incidents during the protest that required their intervention. Nevertheless, the case of the masked officers cast a shadow over the impression and again raised the important issue of police transparency.

❮ ❯

Based on: Spokane police chief apologizes for officers wearing masks at protest

Seattle Children’s nurses ratify new contract, strike averted

Seattle Children’s nurses over the weekend ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement, averting a strike they had previously authorized by vote but ultimately did not want to begin. The agreement, which went into effect Monday, was reached after tense negotiations between hospital management and the Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA), which represents 2,183 employees. WSNA is an influential union and professional organization that plays a key role in shaping labor standards and health-care policy in the state.

The new contract provides for substantial improvements in working conditions. A key provision is an average wage increase of at least 15% through February 2029. For most nurses, that means raises of $9.75 to $12.50 per hour, which by the end of the contract would put hourly rates at roughly $57 to $95. Night shift differentials were also increased. Previously, the hospital’s wages lagged 10%–40% behind those at other leading children’s hospitals on the West Coast, such as Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Doernbecher Children’s Hospital in Portland, and UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in San Francisco, which help set the regional labor-market trends.

Negotiations proved exceptionally long and complex, taking about nine months and 36 rounds of talks. For the first time in the hospital’s history, the union had to conduct a readiness-to-strike assessment and hold a corresponding vote. Those involved in the negotiations say that this show of resolve ultimately helped break the stalemate.

Nurses who served on the bargaining team expressed enormous relief and pride in the outcome. “This is a great contract,” said Kara Yates, who has worked at the hospital for 16 years. “We accomplished a lot in a process that was incredibly difficult and required titanic effort, but we finally achieved something I’m really proud of.”

In addition to pay increases, the agreement includes important safety measures and protections for staff. Specifically, it formally requires the hospital to ensure the presence of two security officers in the psychiatric unit, in line with Washington state standards and accreditation requirements for high-acuity units intended to ensure rapid response and protection for patients and staff. Provisions for protected leave were also expanded in cases of workplace violence, work-related injuries, or the death of a patient.

During talks, nurses noted a marked change in the tone of negotiations and the hospital’s overall atmosphere compared with past years. In their view, after the COVID-19 pandemic management’s priorities shifted from patient and staff care toward a tougher “business approach,” which has been reflected, for example, in disciplinary practices around sick leave.

While acknowledging the financial challenges many health-care institutions face nationwide, nurses point to Seattle Children’s stable financial position. The hospital is one of the leading pediatric centers and research institutes in the Pacific Northwest and serves as a regional referral center for complex cases from Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Alaska. the hospital’s financial reports show growth in operating income.

Now that the contract is signed, the union and management face the task of rebuilding mutual trust. “I’m also looking forward to moving ahead,” Yates said. “We’re very happy that we can now focus on that work instead of standing on the picket line.”

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle Children’s nurses ratify new 3-year contract, avoiding strike

Gates Foundation Focuses on Health and AI Despite Aid Cuts

Despite a significant reduction in international aid from donor governments, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the world's largest private philanthropic foundation, does not intend to change its strategic course. Based in Seattle — home to other major philanthropic organizations such as the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation and the Schultz Family Foundation — the foundation plays a central role in the local community, funding initiatives in education, health, and technological innovation. Its location in the heart of the tech ecosystem, where Microsoft and Amazon are based along with leading research institutes, provides unique access to experts and talent, enabling strategies grounded in cutting-edge solutions. CEO Mark Suzman said the organization remains hopeful that the U.S., in particular, will return to funding global health projects the foundation has long supported. Rather than expanding its activities, the foundation has chosen to narrow its priorities.

Over the next two decades the foundation will concentrate at least 70% of its funding on achieving three main strategic goals. The first two goals are health-related: ending preventable maternal and child deaths and controlling key infectious diseases. The third goal, aimed at fighting poverty, will be split between supporting education in the U.S. and developing agriculture in poorer countries.

Earlier, in May, co-founder Bill Gates announced that the organization would wind down over 20 years, sooner than initially planned. The foundation was established in Seattle because Bill Gates built his career and wealth there, and his desire to remain close to the roots of his company and the local community determined that choice. In his letter Suzman confirmed the foundation will not revisit these plans despite global trends of aid cutbacks. He expressed hope that donor generosity might return and that the debt burden on developing countries — undermining their health budgets — will be restructured.

Under the new strategy some of the foundation’s programs will be phased out. The program to expand access to digital financial services in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia will be gradually wound down, as its objectives are expected to be met by 2030. The U.S. poverty program launched in 2022 with $460 million in investments will also be closed. Work in this area will continue in a modified form as a partnership to develop AI tools for frontline workers.

The foundation’s financial plans remain steady. Over the next five years its annual budget will be maintained at $9 billion regardless of market fluctuations. Thereafter that amount will increase to fulfill Bill Gates’s commitment to spend the bulk of his wealth through the foundation by 2045. The foundation also plans to reduce staff numbers by 2030.

One of the foundation’s key new opportunities is artificial intelligence. The organization is investing in AI projects in health, education, and agriculture. For example, in January it announced a partnership with a subsidiary of OpenAI to develop AI solutions that will help health workers in primary clinics in Rwanda expand service coverage and improve patient outcomes. When working with corporations, the foundation requires that the technologies developed be offered to poor countries at no markup. According to Suzman, the foundation aims to create “public goods” that will be interoperable and open source so users are not locked into a single vendor.

Health and technology experts, such as John Halamka of Mayo Clinic Platform, emphasize that the success of such initiatives depends on the ability to adapt AI models to local conditions and population needs. Key questions remain ensuring trust, ease of use, and people’s readiness to adopt new technologies in everyday life.

Thus, the Gates Foundation’s strategy for the coming years is defined by three principles: focusing on a narrow set of priorities in global health and poverty alleviation, maintaining financial stability, and actively investing in artificial intelligence as a tool to scale impact in key areas. This new strategy could lead to increased investment in local Seattle startups and research institutes, strengthening the city’s position as a hub for social impact and innovation. The foundation frequently partners with other local organizations through joint projects, pooling resources for greater effect in public health, education, and development.

❮ ❯

Based on: In the face of aid cuts, Gates Foundation narrows its priorities and defends global health funding

NBC host seeks help finding missing mother

NBC "Today" show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie appealed to the public for help and prayers after her 84-year-old mother went missing. Nancy Guthrie is believed to have been taken against her will from her Tucson, Arizona, home, where she lived alone. Savannah, a familiar face to viewers for more than a decade, described her mother in an emotional statement as a woman of great faith and resilience who has always been a pillar for the family. Personal tragedies like this sometimes draw widespread public attention to journalists in other regions — for example, in Seattle — although typically on a smaller scale than when national figures are involved.

The investigation is in its early stages, and police are providing very little information. According to a source familiar with the case, law enforcement has no reason to believe this was a ransom-style abduction or a routine robbery. Approaches to such cases can vary by jurisdiction. For example, in Seattle the police follow Washington state protocols that call for a rapid response to disappearances of vulnerable people, but staffing shortages and heavy caseloads mean investigations in large cities sometimes get off to a slower start. Authorities are urging people to report any possible leads but are refusing to comment on details found in the home or the precise time of the alleged abduction. The news shocked the "Today" show staff, where Nancy Guthrie had occasionally appeared as a guest of her daughter.

In her many interviews, Savannah Guthrie has always spoken about her mother with warmth and admiration. She has called Nancy a truth-seeker, a person of "unwavering faith" who faced life's hardships with dignity and without self-pity. The family's biggest trial came with the early death of Savannah's father from a heart attack in 1988, when the future anchor was just 16. Savannah says it was her mother who then managed to keep the family together.

After that tragedy the family grew even closer. Savannah's older sister, Annie, has noted that their mother created an unusually strong foundation for the children. Savannah and her sister deliberately chose to stay home while attending college so their mother wouldn't be left alone on weekends. Their brother, Charles, named after their father, became a military pilot. The family settled in Tucson in the 1970s after living in several countries, including Australia, where Savannah was born.

For Savannah Guthrie, her mother has always been her primary source of inspiration and role model. "My mom Nancy is my heart, my everything and my example of what a mother should be," she wrote on Instagram in 2020. Now the personal tragedy of the well-known TV host has become a matter of national attention, and she hopes the publicity will help find her beloved mother. In such cases, access to specialized resources — like regional search groups or technologies from IT companies, as happens in major centers such as Seattle — can be critically important, although coordination across jurisdictions is often complicated by bureaucratic differences.

❮ ❯

Based on: Savannah Guthrie says her mom is a woman of faith and a source of strength for the family

Crime, Attacks and Sports in Seattle

Overview: brutal robberies with a murder in Washington, a woman attacked in Seattle, and the Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl history.

Guilty plea in string of brutal robberies and a murder in Washington

A guilty plea filed in U.S. federal court sheds light on a series of particularly brutal crimes that rocked the Puget Sound area in 2022. 24-year-old Christopher Johnson pleaded guilty to racketeering-related charges in a pattern of armed home invasions, one of which ended with the killing of a mother who was lying in bed next to her small child. The case is notable not only for the brutality of the crimes but also for the use of a powerful federal statute typically reserved for organized criminal enterprises.

According to court documents detailed in The Seattle Times article, Johnson and his accomplices, including Kevin Tissell, selected victims based on their social media activity. Posing as police officers when they forced entry, they lulled residents’ suspicions. Once inside, the perpetrators bound people with zip ties and robbed the homes. Court filings note that the robberies “always involved at least three people, sometimes more.” Particularly troubling is that gang members targeted victims of Asian descent, considering them “weaker.”

The series of crimes to which Johnson admitted under the plea agreement spans May through August 2022 and shows an escalation of violence. Among the incidents: an armed robbery of a family in Mount Vernon during which the father was held at gunpoint while the perpetrators took a 9-year-old son out of the house and searched a vehicle, stealing thousands of dollars in cash and valuables. In another episode in Burien, a resident briefly grabbed a gun but put it down after hearing the intruders claim to be “police.” The assailants beat the man, pulled a naked woman from her bed, tied the couple up, and at gunpoint stole their property. The apogee of brutality occurred on August 19 in Everett, where a group member shot and killed 36-year-old Ira Marcello Sok as she lay in bed next to her 7-year-old child. After the murder, a man was bound and the house ransacked.

A key legal aspect of this case is the application of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO). This federal statute is seldom used in cases like this and is typically aimed at dismantling structured criminal syndicates. RICO allows prosecutors to bundle a series of crimes—such as robberies and murders that are ordinarily prosecuted in state courts—into a single federal case when they are committed by an organization or its members. In Western Washington, RICO has been applied before, for example in 2009 against strip-club magnate Frank Colacurcio Sr., and in 2006 to target a violent local chapter of the Hells Angels motorcycle club. Using RICO here underscores that authorities viewed Johnson and his associates’ actions as the operation of a criminal organization.

Under the plea agreement, federal prosecutors and defense attorneys will recommend a 25-year prison term for Johnson, although federal sentencing guidelines could expose him to life in prison. He will also plead guilty to second-degree murder in Snohomish County court in connection with the killing of Ira Sok; the parties there will also push for a 25-year term to be served concurrently with the federal sentence. His accomplice, Kevin Tissell, has not pleaded guilty, and his jury trial is scheduled for November. Johnson’s sentencing is expected in May. The case exposed the vulnerability of people whose seemingly prosperous lives on social media can make them targets for merciless criminals and highlighted authorities’ willingness to use the full range of legal tools to combat such crimes.

Woman recovering after vicious sidewalk attack in Seattle

A troubling incident occurred in Seattle when a woman was the victim of a sudden, vicious attack on a city sidewalk. The incident, captured on video, raises questions about public safety. The victim is now recovering and coping with both the physical and psychological aftermath.

The footage, shown in a KIRO 7 News Seattle report, captures a passerby suddenly attacking a woman walking on the sidewalk for no apparent reason. The assault was so swift and unprovoked that the victim had no opportunity to foresee or prevent it. The case starkly illustrates how an ordinary stroll can quickly become life-threatening. After the attack the woman was taken to a medical facility and received needed care. Details about her condition, the attacker’s identity, and potential motives are still being disclosed, leaving the community anxious and awaiting further clarification from law enforcement.

It’s important to note an obvious error or technical glitch in the beginning of the referenced report: instead of describing the Seattle incident, information appears about the forthcoming execution of Charles “Sonny” Burton in Alabama for a 1991 robbery that resulted in a death. That case relates to the legal doctrine known as the felony murder rule, used in many U.S. states. That rule allows all participants in a serious felony (for example, a robbery) to be held accountable for a resulting death, even if a particular defendant did not deliver the fatal blow or intend to kill. This complex legal concept is often the subject of heated debate about fairness of punishment. However, in the context of the Seattle news segment, that information appears to be an erroneous insertion unrelated to the video about the sidewalk attack.

Returning to the Seattle incident, a key insight is growing concern among residents about random violence in apparently safe urban spaces. Video evidence can aid investigations, but it also heightens citizens’ sense of vulnerability. The consequences of such attacks extend well beyond physical injuries, inflicting deep psychological wounds on the victim and the wider community and causing people to view others with suspicion. The woman’s recovery will be a long process, and this incident is a grim reminder of how fragile everyday peace can be.

Looking back: three Super Bowls in Seahawks history

The Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl history is an American drama in three acts—bitter loss, triumphant victory, and a moment forever etched in fans’ memories. With the team headed to its fourth appearance in the championship, it’s a good time to look back.

The Seahawks first reached the Super Bowl in 2006 (Super Bowl XL), and that run left fans with more a sense of injustice than pride. Mike Holmgren’s team, led by quarterback Matt Hasselbeck and running back Shaun Alexander—who was the league MVP that season—was considered a favorite. But in the biggest game their offense faltered: two missed field goals, seven penalties, and an interception in the fourth quarter. Although the Seahawks often looked the stronger team, the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrated a 21–10 victory. Controversial officiating decisions added to the sting of defeat; referee Bill Leavy later expressed regret over calls and in 2010 admitted they haunted him, fueling long-held grievances among Seattle fans as recounted in The Seattle Times piece.

The second act, Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014, was the opposite—a complete triumph and a display of dominance. The Legion of Boom, the Seahawks’ legendary defense, shredded the most prolific offense in NFL history led by future Hall of Famer Peyton Manning. The game set the tone from the opening second when the Denver Broncos bungled a snap on a kickoff from their end zone, yielding a safety for Seattle. Devastating touchdowns followed, including a 69-yard interception return by game MVP Malcolm Smith. The final 43–8 rout ranks among the most convincing Super Bowl victories and gave Seattle its first Vince Lombardi Trophy. Defensive end Red Bryant said their team—derided by some as “ragtag” and “over the hill”—should go down as one of the best defenses ever.

The third and perhaps most painful act unfolded a year later in Super Bowl XLIX. The Seahawks faced Tom Brady and Bill Belichick’s New England Patriots in an epic duel. With 26 seconds remaining, Seattle trailed 24–28 and found itself at the opponent’s one-yard line. The conventional choice would have been to hand the ball to powerful runner Marshawn Lynch. Instead, head coach Pete Carroll opted to pass. Quarterback Russell Wilson’s throw was intercepted by then-little-known Patriots rookie Malcolm Butler. That decision remains one of the most debated and inexplicable moments in NFL history. Carroll accepted responsibility immediately, but it did little to ease the shock for players and fans. That single play forever divided the franchise’s history into before and after, leaving the haunting question of “what if?”

Thus, the three prior finals for the Seattle Seahawks tell a story of sport’s unfairness, power, and cruelty: from a stinging defeat marked by errors and controversial calls, through a crushing victory that cemented a defensive philosophy, to a heartbreaking failure on the brink of ultimate glory. Each experience forged the team and its supporters; now, heading into a fourth Super Bowl, the Seahawks carry not only hope but a vast collective memory that makes their journey unique.

❮ ❯

Charles Pigott, who helped build Paccar into a global truck maker, dies at 96

Charles M. Pigott, a Seattle industrialist who helped turn Paccar into one of the world’s leading makers of heavy trucks, died Jan. 21. He was 96. His life and career were closely tied to the history and success of the family business.

Pigott held leadership roles at Bellevue-based Paccar from 1961 to 2001. Bellevue — a large Seattle suburb to the east that serves as the region’s second business and technology hub and is home to many corporate headquarters — was the company’s base. Under Pigott’s leadership, the company made a strategic shift away from producing railcars and steel and toward a focus on its famous truck brands such as Kenworth and Peterbilt. The company was founded by his grandfather in 1905.

A modest man who avoided the spotlight, Charles Pigott nevertheless became a pillar of Seattle’s business community. He served on the boards of giants such as Boeing and the major insurance company Safeco, founded in Seattle in 1923 and long one of the region’s largest employers and philanthropists. He also sat on the board of The Seattle Times, the state’s leading daily newspaper founded in 1896 that helps shape public opinion across the Pacific Northwest. His influence extended well beyond his own company.

Paccar’s story began with the manufacture of railcars for Pacific Northwest loggers. After a period of expansion and the sale of a controlling stake, the company was bought back by Charles’s father, Paul Pigott, in 1934. He launched an aggressive recovery program, fulfilling, among other things, government steel contracts for the Grand Coulee Dam and tanks for the military.

Becoming president in 1965 and then CEO in 1967, Charles Pigott ultimately reoriented Paccar (the company adopted the Paccar name in 1972) toward heavy trucks. By 1984 that business accounted for 94% of sales. He oversaw major investments in technology and the expansion of international operations.

Under his leadership, which lasted until 1996, Paccar’s annual sales grew from $320 million to about $4.3 billion, with the company producing a profit every year. Analysts sometimes criticized its long-term growth-focused approach rather than an emphasis on quarterly results, but shareholders were satisfied.

The Pigott family was not only among the wealthiest in the region but also among its most generous. The Norcliffe Foundation, founded by Paul Pigott, is one of the region’s oldest private foundations and has traditionally supported key Seattle philanthropic areas: education, health care, the arts and social services. Charles and his mother Tillylin’s personal involvement also contributed to these causes.

Charles Pigott was an active supporter of the Republican Party and served as the finance chairman for presidential candidate John Connally’s 1980 campaign. He also deeply believed in the values of the Boy Scouts and served as national president of the Boy Scouts of America.

Charles Pigott’s legacy continues at the company. His son, Mark Pigott, served as Paccar’s CEO until 2014 and remains executive chairman of the board. Another son, John Pigott, also sits on the company’s board.

According to the funeral home, a private service was held Jan. 31. A public celebration of Charles Pigott’s life is scheduled for March 20 in Clyde Hill — a prestigious Bellevue suburb traditionally home to many successful entrepreneurs and top executives in the region. He is survived by his wife Yvonne, six children, 17 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

❮ ❯

Based on: Charles Pigott, who helped build Paccar into global truck maker, dies at 96

Washington Senate Defends Mariners Star in MVP Dispute

In a symbolic gesture signaling the imminent arrival of spring and baseball season, the Washington State Senate unanimously adopted a resolution honoring the Seattle Mariners and their standout catcher, Cal Raleigh. The action came days before the team departed for spring training as it prepares for the 2026 season. Such public displays of support from state and city legislators for local sports teams—including the Mariners, Seattle Seahawks and Seattle Storm—are a regular practice that helps bolster the local economy, tourism and community spirit. Historically, the relationships have included financial and political backing, particularly on matters related to the construction and upkeep of the team’s home ballpark, T-Mobile Park, which opened in 1999.

The resolution, introduced by Senator Mark Sykesler, recognizes the Mariners’ accomplishments in 2025: the team, overcoming a string of injuries and playing brilliantly in September, won the American League West and advanced to the League Championship Series.

The document gives special attention to Cal Raleigh. Senators stated that the player, who finished second in the league MVP voting, was “robbed by national baseball writers” who did not award him the prestigious honor. The resolution also congratulates manager Dan Wilson, who led the team to a division title in his first full season in the role, and President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto, who was named Executive of the Year.

Speaking from the floor, Senator Sykesler said baseball is “what brings us together,” and that despite political differences, everyone can share in the Mariners’ success. Club executives and legends, including Dipoto, Wilson and general manager Justin Hollander, attended the Senate ceremony. Legislators and staff eagerly took the opportunity to pose for photos with the honored guests and get their autographs.

Concluding the event, senators expressed hope that legendary Mariners broadcaster Rick Rizz, for whom the 2026 season will be his final one, will finally get the chance to call World Series games. Rizz, who has worked with the team since 1983, has become a symbol of continuity and passion for fans thanks to his charismatic voice and emotional descriptions of the club’s defining moments. Off the broadcast booth, he has for decades served an important role as an ambassador for the team, participating in charity events, fan meet-and-greets and regional baseball development programs. Lieutenant Governor Denny Heck, addressing the team, said it had “filled our hearts with joy, pride, gratitude and hope.”

❮ ❯

Based on: Mariners’ Cal Raleigh was ‘robbed’ of MVP, WA legislators declare

Idaho Tops List of Healthiest U.S. States

According to a new report from telemedicine platform NiceRx, Idaho has been named the healthiest state in the United States. The study evaluated all states using a composite of indicators, including obesity rates, alcohol consumption, population physical activity, availability of fitness centers, and even the popularity of search queries about weight-loss medications. Idaho scored the highest overall — 7.14 out of 10 — edging out Washington, Colorado, and Massachusetts.

Key factors behind Idaho’s success were low alcohol consumption and a relatively favorable obesity situation. Residents of the state consume an average of 1.91 gallons of alcohol per person, which is the fourth-lowest figure in the country. This is partly due to a sizable Mormon population, whose culture limits alcohol use. The obesity rate is 31%, well below the national figure of 40%, placing Idaho 13th among states with the lowest prevalence of the condition. The state also demonstrates one of the highest vaccination rates in the country.

Over the past decade Idaho has also shown the smallest increase in obesity in the U.S. — only 4.7%. In addition, the state has one of the highest levels of physical activity: just over 22% of the population lead a sedentary lifestyle. The infrastructure for exercise is well developed: there are 12 fitness centers per 100,000 residents.

The report’s authors link Idaho residents’ health to the state’s unique natural environment and lifestyle. About 40% of the state is covered by forests, and proximity to mountains, lakes, and protected areas provides many opportunities for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor recreational activities. A more continental climate and lower population density compared with coastal states contribute to a different, but equally active, way of life. In addition, the slower pace of life in many areas helps reduce stress and allows more time for cooking healthy meals, spending time with loved ones, and exercising.

Second place in the ranking went to Washington, whose high standing is explained by low smoking rates, good access to healthcare, and a developed public health system. Unlike Idaho, Washington — especially the Seattle area — has a strong outdoor recreation culture related to proximity to the Pacific coast and the Cascade Mountains, which supports high year-round physical activity levels. At the same time, cultural norms around alcohol consumption in Washington, with its strong craft beer scene, differ notably from Idaho’s stricter traditions, illustrating diversity within the same geographic region.

Other states stood out as leaders and laggards on specific measures. Louisiana was named the least healthy state with an overall score of 2.54. Utah consumes the least alcohol, directly related to the influence of the Mormon church, and New Mexico recorded the largest increase in obesity over 10 years. South Carolina residents search online for information about weight-loss medications more than residents of any other state, while New Hampshire has the best access to fitness centers.

Data for the report were collected from authoritative sources, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, and the Census Bureau, lending additional credibility to the study’s conclusions.

❮ ❯

Based on: Idaho is the healthiest state in the nation, a new report says. Here’s why

Seattle: school tragedy and mass layoffs

In Seattle, schedules were changed after a school-area shooting to provide psychological support. At the same time, Amazon cut thousands of jobs in the region, reflecting a trend toward cost optimization in the tech sector.

Four Seattle schools adjust schedules after fatal shooting

In response to a tragic shooting in the Rainier Valley area on Friday that killed two teenagers, four Seattle public schools adjusted Monday schedules to provide time for psychological support for staff and students. The incident, believed to be targeted, occurred at a bus stop shortly after nearby schools let out, raising deep concerns about safety in the school environment.

New Seattle Public Schools superintendent Ben Schuldiner, who officially started Sunday, immediately identified increased safety measures as a top priority. Accordingly, according to a district press release, South Shore PK-8 will start classes on Monday with a two-hour delay, beginning at 10:55 a.m., to give staff time to receive needed support and prepare to meet students. Upper-grade schools — Rainier Beach High School, Alan T. Sugiyama Middle School, and Interagency Academy Southeast — will begin the school day at 12:30 p.m. Dunlap Elementary will operate on its regular schedule.

The shooting occurred Friday at about 4:00 p.m. at a bus stop near South Shore PK-8 and Rainier Beach High School, roughly half an hour after dismissal. Seattle police, investigating the double murder, believe the attack was targeted and said they do not see a broader threat to the community. The King County medical examiner has not yet released the names of the deceased teenagers, but both are reported to likely have been students in Seattle public schools. On Saturday, dozens of people, including relatives of the deceased, gathered for a vigil to honor them. The mother of one of the victims, who did not give her name, addressed the crowd: “He didn’t deserve this. He was a wonderful child. He was my only one, and he’s gone.”

The school district, working with Seattle police and city officials, is taking steps to increase police presence and patrols in the area for the coming week. Individual and group crisis counseling is also being provided for students. Seattle Mayor Gadea Wilson (note: original name in Russian was "Кэти Уилсон"; keep as written if it's a proper name—if intended as "Katy Wilson", retain original—here preserved as Katie Wilson) in her Instagram statement emphasized: “Seattle owes our kids more than words. We are obligated to ensure their safety, care, and a future full of opportunity.” The school district is also asking anyone with information about the shooting to contact Seattle Police’s anonymous tip line at 206-233-5000. This incident, happening on the new superintendent’s first workday, is a stark reminder of the safety challenges schools face and the need not only for immediate responses to tragedy but for systematic work to create a protected environment for children and youth.

Amazon cuts: thousands in Seattle-area lose jobs

The wave of layoffs in the tech sector continues to pick up momentum, and this time the heavy blow landed on the headquarters of one of the giants. Amazon carried out another large round of cuts that hit its heartland — the Seattle region. According to official figures, 2,198 employees in Washington state were laid off just last week, with more than 1,400 of them working directly in Seattle and about 630 in nearby Bellevue. These figures form part of the broader corporate restructuring under which Amazon plans to cut 16,000 jobs worldwide.

As reported by The Seattle Times, the current layoffs follow an October round that saw more than 2,300 Amazon employees lose their jobs in the Puget Sound region. That brings the total number of cuts in this location over a short period to nearly 4,500 people. Most U.S.-based employees who are laid off are being given 90 days to search for another role within Amazon. Those who cannot find an internal position will be offered a severance package that includes severance pay, outplacement services, and health insurance. In a memo to staff, Amazon’s head of human resources, Beth Galetti, explained the moves as efforts to “remove layers of management and reduce bureaucracy.” That phrase has become a corporate euphemism for an effort to increase efficiency and cut costs amid economic uncertainty.

The context extends far beyond a single company. Seattle, long a symbol of the tech boom, is now undergoing a painful correction. Since the start of 2025, tech companies have laid off nearly 9,800 workers in Washington state. That figure includes not only Amazon but other industry giants such as Microsoft and companies with large regional centers like Meta. Just on Monday, according to state regulators, T-Mobile announced the elimination of 393 positions. These mass layoffs reflect a broader trend in the tech sector, which after many years of rapid growth and aggressive hiring is now focused on reducing costs and improving operational efficiency in the face of a potential economic downturn and market shifts.

The implications are multifaceted. Locally, it means the loss of thousands of well-paid jobs, which could exert pressure on the housing market and the service sector in the Seattle area. For the industry as a whole, it signals the end of an era of unchecked growth and a transition to a more mature — and perhaps more cautious — phase of development. For employees, including those who keep their jobs, it creates an atmosphere of uncertainty. At the same time, Amazon’s offer of internal job searches and severance packages indicates an attempt to soften the blow and maintain its reputation as a responsible employer. However, as the outlet notes, the story is still unfolding, and the wave of cuts does not yet appear to have peaked. A region that built its prosperity on tech innovation now must seek a new balance in a changing economic reality.

Amazon cuts: more than 2,000 jobs in Seattle

A new wave of mass layoffs at Amazon is beginning to take shape for the greater Seattle metro region, where the company’s historic headquarters is located. While the tech sector as a whole continues to face turbulence, the local consequences are becoming increasingly tangible.

According to an official notice filed with the state of Washington, as part of the global layoff of 16,000 positions announced last week, about 2,200 jobs will be eliminated in the state. As KUOW reports, engineers were hit particularly hard: hundreds of developers in the Seattle area are receiving layoff notices. These numbers clarify the local scale of the restructuring, which is part of the largest round of layoffs in the company’s history, initiated amid slowing growth after rapid expansion during the pandemic. The situation is made worse by other local firms also announcing cuts, which has already pushed the Seattle-area unemployment rate above 5%.

Experts note that workforce reductions have become a familiar practice in the tech industry over the past several years. Andy Challenger, vice president at Challenger, Gray and Christmas, a consulting firm specializing in layoffs, does not expect this trend to change soon. His comment highlights the systemic nature of the problem: after years of aggressive hiring and investment in growth, companies are now forced to adjust their operating models to seek greater efficiency and profitability amid economic uncertainty and higher interest rates. For the Seattle region, whose economy is closely tied to the fortunes of tech giants, these cuts have far-reaching consequences affecting not only the labor market but also real estate, small businesses, and the overall economic dynamic.

❮ ❯

Super Bowl live broadcast to air from Alcatraz for first time

Ahead of the Super Bowl, NBC will stage a unique live broadcast from the legendary Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay. For the first time in history, part of the pregame show will be hosted on the grounds of the former high-security federal prison, which today is a popular museum drawing more than a million visitors each year. This historic event will take place before the game between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks.

Special reports from Alcatraz will feature well-known figures from American football: Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy, two-time Super Bowl champion Rodney Harrison, and host Jack Collingsworth. Viewers will not only see the preparations for the year’s biggest sporting event, but will also learn about the island’s unique history — from military base to notorious prison to an important sanctuary for seabirds.

❮ ❯

Based on: NBC bringing Super Bowl pregame show to Alcatraz Island

Seattle: dogs, taxes and a jersey theft

News from Seattle: a dog show strengthens relationships, a new tax could raise cigarette prices, and thieves stole $50,000 worth of jerseys ahead of the Super Bowl.

Dog love and the Westminster show: how a dog show brings couples together

In a world full of hustle, sometimes the simplest things create the strongest bonds. For many couples, dogs become that unexpected but beautiful unifying force, and this is most visible at the famous Westminster Kennel Club dog show. This event is not just a contest for the best grooming or the proudest posture; it is a celebration of the deep, mutual attachment between people and their pets, which often becomes a cornerstone for human relationships.

As KIRO 7 News Seattle reports, the Westminster show is a place where couples find common ground and strengthen their relationships through a shared passion for dogs. For the uninitiated: the Westminster Kennel Club is the oldest dog show organization in the U.S., and its annual show in New York is considered one of the most prestigious events in the canine world. It's not merely a beauty contest; it's a major sporting and cultural phenomenon where breed standards, performance, and obedience are judged. Couples who participate in it or are simply avid spectators often see their pets not only as animals but as full-fledged family members, a shared endeavor, and a source of joy. Joint care for a dog, training sessions, the excitement before entering the ring, or simply watching the show together on TV create a unique space for communication, understanding, and support. This shared love for a four-legged friend becomes a powerful bonding element, helping couples overcome everyday difficulties and reminding them of life’s simple pleasures. Thus, the show acts as a catalyst that, through a common hobby, allows people to see in their partner not only a life companion but also a kindred spirit with whom they can share responsibility, excitement, and the unconditional love dogs give.

New bill could raise the price of a pack of cigarettes to $17 in Seattle

Washington state lawmakers are considering a bill that could make smoking one of the most expensive habits in the region. The initiative, which could push the cost of a pack of cigarettes in Seattle to $17, has sparked heated debate between public health advocates and small business representatives.

House bill HB 2382 proposes increasing the cigarette tax by $2 per pack. Combined with the existing $3 tax, this means tax fees alone on each pack would exceed $5. As FOX 13 Seattle reports, in Seattle—where the average pack price is already about $15—the additional levy could raise the final consumer cost to $17. The bill’s sponsor, Representative Lisa Parsley, emphasizes the goal is not to punish smokers but to support the state's communities. "This bill is not trying to punish anyone. It's meant to help us ensure care for all our communities in Washington, to support our general fund and those harmed by these products," she said. It’s important to note the bill would affect not only traditional cigarettes but also vapes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco (for example, snus).

The new tax is expected to generate millions of dollars annually. Under the plan, the first $10 million per year would go to the Department of Health, the next $2 million to the Liquor and Cannabis Board, and the remaining funds would replenish the state's general fund. Parsley calls this an important revenue source, especially given budgetary challenges and the consequences of other legislative initiatives. Emotional testimony was heard at public hearings in Olympia. Student Suhani Singh, who supports the bill, shared a story about her friend: "Once youth get hooked on nicotine through flavored tobacco, many also switch to cigarettes. My childhood best friend didn't need cheap, easy access to cigarettes. She needed support, treatment, and a way out." The American Cancer Society is actively lobbying for this tax. They estimate that a $4 tax increase (considering already planned measures) would prevent nearly 6,000 teens from becoming addicted and help more than 20,000 adults quit smoking.

However, the bill has staunch opponents. Their main argument is the blow to small businesses, especially family-run convenience stores. Eugene Gim of the Washington Korean-American Grocers Association warns, "Small shops are already fighting to survive. Family businesses feel every increase in costs, even small ones. We're facing rising expenses, sharply increasing rents, growing theft, shrinking profits, and another tax hike could lead to the closure of even more stores." Thus, the debate comes down to a clash of two priorities: national health, especially that of the younger generation, and the economic viability of thousands of small retail outlets. HB 2382 faces further debate. If passed, it would take effect this summer, radically changing the tobacco market in Washington state.

Theft ahead of the Super Bowl: thieves stole $50,000 in Seahawks jerseys from a Seattle store

A brazen theft took place in Seattle linked directly to Super Bowl hype. Unknown suspects stole tens of thousands of dollars worth of merchandise from a small local business specializing in sports apparel. The incident not only caused significant financial loss but also highlighted the black market problem that ramps up around major sporting events.

In the early morning hours of February 1, just days before the NFL final, three masked individuals dressed in black broke into Pro Image Sports in the stadium district of Seattle, near Lumen Field, the Seattle Seahawks' home. As KING5.com reports, the perpetrators acted quickly and purposefully: they cut the metal security gate at the entrance, pried open the door with a crowbar and, ignoring the sounding alarm, emptied the shelves with the hottest-selling items in less than two minutes. The primary target was Seattle Seahawks jerseys in royal blue — the very jerseys that are in high demand among fans ahead of crucial games. Store owner Clayton Frongner bitterly noted that the thieves "knew which items were hottest." The total value of stolen goods is estimated at $50,000, with an additional $2,300 in property damage. Seattle police, who responded to the scene, were unable to apprehend suspects, and are now asking the public to help identify the culprits from surveillance footage.

A key detail that could help recover the stolen goods is the unique stock-keeping unit (SKU) on the jerseys' tags. It's a special cream-colored label with a black background, printed in white with "NFL Game Jersey" and the price. Most of the stolen items are licensed Mitchell & Ness jerseys priced at about $175 each. Frongner believes this batch will likely end up on the black market, sold at discounted prices without authenticity guarantees. The incident affected not only the business but regular customers as well. Fan Jeff Turner, who came to the store from the suburbs, expressed outrage at the theft and stressed the importance of buying official merchandise from authorized retailers to support the team and the local economy.

Despite the serious hit, the store remains open. Because it is a local business that manages its own buying, the owners had been able to stock up considerably ahead of the season peak. "We're lucky to be locally owned and handle purchasing ourselves, and we like to load up on product," Frongner said, assuring that they still have plenty to sell. This story is a clear example of how major sporting events, on the one hand, give small businesses a boost, and on the other, make them targets for organized thefts that harm both entrepreneurs and fans who may unknowingly buy stolen goods.

❮ ❯

Seahawks Fan Guide for Super Bowl 2026 Week

Super Bowl Week 2026 is in full swing, and Seattle Seahawks fans have an exciting Sunday ahead. The decisive game against the New England Patriots will kick off at 3:30 p.m. Pacific at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The broadcast will air on NBC and be available on streaming platforms Peacock and NFL+. The festive atmosphere will include a pregame performance by Green Day at 3:00 p.m. and a halftime show featuring Bad Bunny, whose appearance has already sparked considerable debate.

This matchup carries extra emotion for fans — the teams previously met in Super Bowl XLIX, when Malcolm Butler’s interception gave the Patriots the win. But rosters are different now, and analysts are actively comparing each team’s results against common opponents on the path to the final. That adds intrigue ahead of the decisive battle, with the Seahawks aiming to avenge that memorable loss.

The Seahawks’ roster looks encouraging: quarterback Sam Darnold, linebacker Ernest Jones IV, and left tackle Charles Cross are all expected to play, although the status of several other players remains uncertain. The team has already arrived in the San Francisco Bay Area, where players face a busy schedule of events and media obligations. Attention is focused on receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who is a contender for NFL Offensive Player of the Year.

Amid the sporting excitement, the team’s ownership future is also being discussed. Paul Allen’s heirs have confirmed that the sale of the franchise will happen sooner or later, though they disputed some details in ESPN’s reporting. Now everyone is guessing what the Seahawks might be worth and who potential buyers could be. Paul Allen, Microsoft co-founder, left a deep legacy in Seattle not only as a team owner but also as a philanthropist and patron who founded the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) and the Allen Institute for Brain Science, supported waterfront development, and funded numerous scientific initiatives. His name carries weight in the city as a symbol of local visionary leadership that shaped its cultural and scientific landscape.

Questions about an ownership change always make the Seattle community uneasy, which values owners who are actively involved in city life as Allen was. Other notable local sports owners include his sister Jody Allen, who also owns the Portland Trail Blazers; John Stanton, lead of the ownership group for the Seattle Mariners; and Adrian Hanauer, owner of the Seattle Sounders. Concerns often center on out-of-town investors, which can fuel rumors about a possible team relocation or a weakening of its ties to the city. That topic adds extra interest to an already tense week leading to the long-awaited final.

❮ ❯

Based on: 5 things Seahawks fans should know for Super Bowl 2026 week

Anger as Fuel: Why the Fight for Justice Needs Room for Everyone

The United States is experiencing a new historical moment of mass mobilization. Killings of peaceful civilians — such as the death of nurse Alex Pratte, the brutality of immigration agents, and the arrests of journalists — are prompting ordinary people across the country to take to the streets in protest, organize fundraisers and participate in strikes. This wave of resistance recalls the powerful movement for racial justice that erupted after George Floyd’s killing in 2020.

In Seattle, the killing of Alex Pratte, an intensive care nurse, by Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis on Jan. 24 sparked a new wave of outrage. In response, local activists organized rallies, training sessions and joined a nationwide strike. This action continued the city’s long traditions of activism, known for its progressive outlook, and draws on the experience of past demonstrations, including the Capitol Hill Organized Protest (CHOP/CHAZ) of 2020. Many businesses, in protest of the administration’s policies, closed or donated proceeds in support of the movement, reflecting a certain tradition of corporate activism in Seattle, especially among progressive companies.

Officials tried to justify Pratte’s death by putting forward contradictory and unproven claims. At first they said she had threatened them with a weapon, then that she was filming, and later that she merely had a gun in her possession. These shifting versions revealed desperate attempts by authorities to find justification for the unjustifiable, which only poured fuel on the public’s anger.

These events are a stark reminder of the need to remain healthily skeptical of official statements, especially when the investigation is being conducted by the potential perpetrators themselves. Freedom of the press is more important now than ever to ask uncomfortable questions and speak truth to power. The recent arrests of independent journalists documenting the protests are a worrying signal.

Many activists also bitterly note that victims who are Black, Latino or Indigenous often do not receive the same level of public and media attention. History offers numerous examples — from Emmett Till to Tamir Rice — where the deaths of Black Americans were initially justified with false pretexts and investigated less rigorously.

It is also mistaken to think that such disregard for civil liberties is new to America. That erases a long and painful history of repression against various minorities: from Indigenous peoples and Black Americans to Japanese and Arab communities after Sept. 11. Their experiences tell a more honest truth about the country.

In this struggle it is important to show compassion and make room for those who are only beginning to recognize injustice. Some have come to this through personal experiences of discrimination; others were guided by teachers or friends. The work of protecting communities is vital, and there is a role for everyone — both newcomers and movement veterans.

As Pastor Leah Atkinson Bilinski, a faith leader and community activist known for her work at the intersection of faith and social justice, said at a rally at the federal building in downtown Seattle — a frequent target for demonstrations against national policy — we must “see what is happening face to face, with our eyes, not with lies,” and stand together against threats so we do not miss the suffering of those nearby. Solidarity and vigilance are the keys to resistance.

❮ ❯

Based on: Angry about Minneapolis? Good. To make progress, we need room for all

Seattle launches tap-to-pay with bank cards and smartphones

Public transit riders in the Seattle area have a new, modern way to pay fares. Instead of buying paper tickets or using the dedicated ORCA transit card, passengers can now simply tap their bank card or a smartphone with a mobile wallet set up—such as Apple Pay or Google Pay—on the validator. This will simplify travel for both locals and visitors, especially ahead of World Cup matches taking place in the city.

The new system, called “Tap to Pay,” began with a so‑called soft launch on the RapidRide G Line, which runs through downtown Seattle and the Capitol Hill neighborhood. That route is a new bus rapid transit line with dedicated lanes, traffic signal priority and modern infrastructure, making it an ideal test site for the payment system before wider rollout. Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express cards are accepted, as are the corresponding digital wallets. A single adult fare is $3, and one card or phone can be used to pay for only one person.

By the end of the month the system will be expanded to most of the ORCA transit network, including King County Metro buses, Sound Transit and other regional operators. However, it will not yet be available on Washington State ferries or the Seattle monorail. State‑operated ferries have their own complex fare structures, which makes quick integration difficult, and the monorail has historically operated as a separate tourist attraction. The system also won’t work on some specialized routes. On the G Line initially there is no two‑hour free transfer window, and discounted fares such as the ORCA Lift program for low‑income riders—which offers up to 50% off fares—cannot be used when paying with a card or phone.

The rollout of new payment options comes as transit agencies have resumed strict fare enforcement after the pandemic. During the period when enforcement was relaxed, an estimated nearly half of Sound Transit riders and about 34% of Metro riders rode without paying. The new system aims to make paying as easy and accessible as possible to improve fare collection.

German company INIT provided the technical backbone to accept bank cards and smartphones, upgrading existing ORCA card validators. A minor issue has emerged: if a bank card and an ORCA card are kept in the same wallet, the scanner can accidentally read the payment card instead of the ORCA card. Transit authorities recommend riders remove their physical ORCA card from their wallet before tapping.

Seattle is far from the first city to adopt such a system; similar programs already operate in New York, San Francisco, Chicago and even smaller cities, including Spokane in the same state. Despite the innovation, traditional ORCA cards remain the preferred and most fully featured payment method, and cash continues to be accepted on transit.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle-area transit riders get new ways to pay their fares

Seattle sports: sales, thefts and innovations

Sale of the Seattle Seahawks could become the NFL’s largest transaction. A team merchandise store in the city was robbed of $50,000 worth of gear. The Seattle Mariners lift local blackout restrictions and unveil a new uniform.

Sale of the Seattle Seahawks: end of an era and a record deal

After years of rumors and speculation following the death of owner Paul Allen in 2018, the fate of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks has been decided. According to a new ESPN report, the team will be put up for sale after Super Bowl LX, which takes place on February 8, 2026. This will end nearly 30 years of franchise ownership by the Paul Allen trust, which bought the team in 1997 for $194 million. The decision to sell fulfills the wishes of the late billionaire, who wanted the bulk of his estate directed to philanthropy, and his sister Jody Allen, who has managed the assets throughout that time.

The timing of the planned sale is strategic. ESPN reports the sale is scheduled for after May 2024, when a special provision requiring 10% of the sale price to be paid to the state of Washington expires. That significantly increases the deal’s attractiveness to prospective buyers. While a club spokesperson and the NFL declined to comment, sources close to the owners confirm discussions about a sale have been underway for at least the past week. A statement from the Paul Allen estate, published after the leak, emphasized that the team is "not for sale" and that the focus remains on winning the Super Bowl and completing the parallel sale of the Portland Trail Blazers, which is expected to go to an investor group led by Tom Dundon for more than $4 billion.

The estimated value of the Seahawks is staggering and could set a new NFL record. Sportico currently values the team at $6.59 billion (14th in the league), but ESPN reports that one club executive believes the actual sale price could reach $7–8 billion. For comparison: the Denver Broncos sold for $4.65 billion in 2022, and the Washington Commanders for $6.05 billion in 2023. Thus, since Paul Allen’s purchase, the franchise’s value has risen nearly 24-fold in 25 years, vividly illustrating the phenomenal growth in sports asset prices. Earlier, in 2022, there were rumors of a $2 billion offer from Nike founder Phil Knight and Los Angeles Dodgers co-owner Alan Smolinisky, but Jody Allen then categorically denied any negotiations, telling FOX 13 Seattle that estates of that size and complexity “can take 10–20 years to settle.”

The sale of the Seahawks marks not just an ownership change but the end of an era for the city and its fans. Paul Allen, Microsoft co‑founder, not only kept the team from potentially relocating but invested in its development, leading to a Super Bowl XLVIII victory in 2014. His management philosophy—focused on long-term success and community connection—left a deep imprint. Now, under his will, proceeds from the sale will be directed to large philanthropic projects, adding a socially significant dimension to the deal. For the NFL, this potentially record-setting sale reaffirms the league’s status as North America’s most lucrative sports enterprise, attracting massive investment. For fans, the main question is whether a new owner will preserve the team’s identity, commitment to Seattle, and the competitive spirit cultivated under Allen. For now, as the estate’s statement says, all attention is on the primary goal — winning the Super Bowl.

Major theft of Seattle Seahawks merchandise from a Seattle sports store

A brazen robbery occurred in Seattle in which a sports merchandise store lost a large amount of goods. The incident not only caused material damage but also dampened the celebratory atmosphere surrounding the local team’s success.

Early Sunday morning, around 4 a.m., three masked men dressed in black broke into Pro Image Sports, located near Lumen Field. The Seattle Times reports that the entire operation took the thieves no more than two minutes, as captured on security cameras. Their haul consisted of Seattle Seahawks–branded merchandise totaling about $50,000. According to Pro Image senior manager Tyres Trower, the perpetrators targeted the jersey wall, ripping down as many jerseys as possible. They damaged part of the wall in the process. The stolen jerseys included names from different eras: from the legendary Steve Largent to current standout Jackson Smith-Njigba, from Kenny Easley to Tariq Woolven. Trower noted the robbers did not stand out except by footwear: he recognized one pair of Nike Air Max 90s and two pairs resembling Air Force 1s or Dunks. Despite the loss, the manager is trying to stay positive, focusing on Seattle’s sports successes rather than the store’s losses. Indeed, the surge of interest around the team’s appearance in Super Bowl LX (the 60th Super Bowl) has driven record sales of merchandise across the city. Seattle police ask anyone with information about the theft to call the non‑emergency line at 206-625-5011. Trower also mentioned seeing Instagram posts about Seahawks jerseys for sale in Burien, but that has not been independently verified. The incident was an unwelcome episode amid widespread sporting celebration, highlighting local businesses’ security concerns.

A new take on baseball: Seattle Mariners lift local blackouts and introduce a heritage uniform

Ahead of the season opener, the Seattle Mariners announced two major initiatives that will change the fan experience both at home and on screens. The team has overhauled its media strategy—offering unprecedented viewing access—and unveiled a new game uniform that honors an important chapter of Seattle’s baseball history.

A central element of the new broadcast strategy, according to an announcement on king5.com, is the launch of a streaming service, Mariners.TV. This locally transformative move will allow fans in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Alaska, Montana, and Hawaii to watch all Mariners games live throughout the season without local blackouts. For context, local blackouts are a long‑standing, often criticized practice in North American sports where games are not shown live in certain territories to protect regional TV rights and encourage stadium attendance. Lifting those restrictions responds directly to longstanding fan requests. Subscriptions to the service open on February 10 at $99.99 for the full season or $19.99 per month. Mariners.TV will operate alongside MLB.TV, which will continue to serve viewers outside the team’s home region. Games will also remain available on cable and satellite television following the shutdown of ROOT Sports last year. Broadcasts will air on a dedicated Mariners channel on Comcast Xfinity, DirecTV, and YouTube TV, accompanied by short pre‑ and post‑game shows. Exact channel numbers will be announced closer to the March 26 season opener.

The second major announcement is the introduction of a new game uniform. The Mariners will be the first Major League Baseball club to regularly use a Negro Leagues team’s uniform as part of its primary rotation. For Sunday home games at T-Mobile Park, the team will wear Seattle Steelheads uniforms, honoring the namesake 1946 team. The Negro Leagues were professional baseball leagues that operated during the era of racial segregation in which African American and dark‑skinned Latin American players competed without access to MLB until 1947. This is more than an aesthetic gesture: the club is also establishing the Steelheads Community Fund with an initial contribution of $500,000. Those funds will support local baseball and softball programs led by Black organizers, as well as other community initiatives. Details on fund distribution are being finalized, and the fund is slated to launch in early summer.

The club also confirmed its broadcast roster for the season. Aaron Goldsmith will serve as the primary TV play‑by‑play announcer, with Angie Mentink, Ryan Rowland‑Smith, Jay Buhner, and Dave Valle appearing as game analysts on select broadcasts. Brad Adam will host the pre‑ and post‑game shows. On radio, Rick Rizzs will return; he previously announced the upcoming season will be his final one as lead broadcaster, and Gary Hill Jr. will increase his on‑air presence.

These moves show the Mariners’ comprehensive approach to fan engagement. On one hand, the club uses digital technology to remove viewing barriers and provide maximum flexibility—particularly important in an era of cord‑cutting. On the other, through uniforms and social programs, the team strengthens ties to local history and community, highlighting its role as more than a sports franchise but also a cultural institution. Launching its own streaming service could set a trend for other MLB clubs facing similar regional broadcast challenges.

❮ ❯

Sports and Scandals: News Around the Seahawks

Overview of events surrounding the Seattle Seahawks: a fan incident at the stadium, the politicization of the Super Bowl, and a major theft of jerseys.

Stadium incident after the Seahawks' victory

After the Seattle Seahawks' win in the NFC championship at Lumen Field, an unpleasant incident marred fans' celebrations. According to KIRO 7 News Seattle, a drunken fan climbed over a barrier and ran onto the field; he was detained by police and permanently banned from the venue.

The event occurred amid widespread jubilation, when the team had just secured its spot in the Super Bowl — the season’s biggest game in American football. But one person’s actions drew attention away from the sporting triumph and toward the issue of behavior at mass events. Seattle police said the trespasser was visibly intoxicated, which led to his inappropriate actions. After his arrest, he was charged with unlawful entry, and Lumen Field management quickly issued a lifetime ban from attending events at the arena.

The incident highlights serious questions about security at large sporting events, where fan emotions can cross the line. Although running onto the field may seem like a harmless prank to some, it poses a real danger to the trespasser, who could be injured, as well as to players and staff. In American sports, such cases are typically dealt with harshly, including arrest and long-term bans, as happened in Seattle. It serves as a warning to other fans that even at moments of peak emotion they must follow rules and respect boundaries.

More broadly, the case also raises the issue of responsibility for event organizers and alcohol vendors at stadiums. While details of this incident have not been fully disclosed, it renews the discussion on measures to prevent excessive alcohol consumption in sports arenas. For Seahawks fans the team’s victory should have been a pure celebration, but one person’s actions added an unpleasant note — one that was quickly dealt with thanks to the prompt response of security services.

Super Bowl 2026: America's last common cultural ground or a new front line?

Ahead of Super Bowl LX, where the Seattle Seahawks will face the New England Patriots, a much larger and more symbolic battle is unfolding. This confrontation goes far beyond the football field, turning the country's biggest sports show into a mirror of its deepest political and cultural divides. An article in The Seattle Times asks whether the NFL remains neutral ground where America can forget its quarrels, or whether it has become another battleground in the war of identities.

At first glance, the upcoming game looks like a triumph for "blue" (Democratic) America: a team from progressive Seattle versus a team from Boston, the game in the San Francisco area, and a Puerto Rican megastar headliner for the halftime show. Yet the show's essence — the cult of masculinity, power, commercialism, military flyovers, and the presence of ICE agents — seems to fit the aesthetic and values of the MAGA movement and the Republican administration. This paradox illustrates how the NFL, perhaps the last nationwide cultural phenomenon, both tries to rise above politics and is inevitably pulled into it. In an era when Americans have almost no common TV shows or news sources, football draws the largest audience. As King County executive Girmay Zahilay notes, the conference final win gave Seattle a few hours of unity and "peace on earth," where people of different ages, races, and views hugged and celebrated together. But that feeling, he says, evaporated as soon as he checked social media.

The Trump administration is actively drawing sport into politics. Trump, who will not attend the Super Bowl this year, publicly criticized the choice of performers — Green Day, who sing the line "I’m not a part of the MAGA agenda," and Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, who had avoided touring the U.S. over ICE fears. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem promised that ICE agents would be "everywhere" at the stadium, saying only "law-abiding Americans who love this country" should attend. Her harsh criticism of the NFL ("They're trash, and we will win... they won't be able to sleep at night because they don't know what they believe, and they're so weak") shows how heated this front has become. As political science professor Sebastian Mayer explains, sport has always been intertwined with politics, but Trump engages with the sports world more actively than any other president, turning it into "another battlefield for political and cultural wars." The idea that sport is a respite from politics, he argues, is largely a myth.

The wave of protests in the sports world prompted by recent killings of Rene Good and Alex Pretty by ICE agents in Minneapolis has had little effect on current NFL players. A notable exception was Denver Broncos linebacker Quinn Minerz, who wrote "Stop the genocide" in eye-black ink. This silence contrasts with the mid-2010s era of the Seattle Seahawks, when stars like Richard Sherman, Doug Baldwin, and Michael Bennett were vocal advocates for racial justice and police reform. Bennett, author of the memoir Things That Make White People Uncomfortable, tells the article he felt it was his civic duty to speak out. He notes the league's progress on racial issues but adds that "the NFL is about making money and controlling political statements." Colin Kaepernick’s fate, whose career effectively ended after he began kneeling during the anthem, remains a harsh warning to many. As basketball player Victor Wembanyama points out, speaking openly can come at "too high a cost."

Thus, Super Bowl 2026 becomes a powerful symbol of America's current state. On one hand, it is a spectacular show that can still unite the country for a few hours in a shared emotional surge. On the other, it is an event entangled in political contradictions, where the choice of a headliner or the presence of law enforcement becomes a political statement, and fears of professional repercussions cause many athletes to remain silent. As Professor Mayer concludes, sport is part of a broader culture and reflects its shifts. When corporations roll back diversity programs and the league removes the "End Racism" slogan from the Super Bowl field, athletes notice. In an era when the cultural zeitgeist has changed, many NFL players may simply ask: "Is it safe to speak out now?" In the end, the great American game is not a refuge from the nation's divisions but their most precise and loudest projection.

Major theft of Seattle Seahawks jerseys at a shop near the stadium

A brazen theft in Seattle left a sports apparel store without merchandise worth a huge sum. The crime, which occurred early Sunday morning, struck Pro Image Sports, located next to the legendary Lumen Field, the Seattle Seahawks' home stadium.

Seattle police say a group of three masked suspects broke into the store by forcing open the front door around 4 a.m. Surveillance footage shows their target was exclusively jerseys — the Seattle Seahawks' game shirts. They methodically removed merchandise from racks and displays. The total value of the stolen goods is estimated at a staggering $50,000. In addition, the break-in caused about $2,300 in property damage. By the time officers arrived, the suspects had already fled, and, according to the department's press release published by KIRO 7, they have not yet been apprehended. Authorities ask anyone with information about the incident to call the non-emergency police number at 206-625-5011.

This theft stands out not only for the large monetary loss but also for the specific goods stolen. Seattle Seahawks jerseys, especially limited editions or shirts bearing star players' names, are extremely popular with fans and collectors, making them attractive targets for thieves hoping to quickly resell them on the black market. Pro Image Sports, located right by the stadium, is a key destination for fans, which likely made it a target. The incident raises questions about the security of commercial establishments in this busy area, especially during hours when few people are around. While police investigate, the scale of the theft suggests it may have been a well-planned operation. For local business, it is a serious blow combining direct financial loss with repair costs and the need to boost security. For the many Seahawks supporters, it is an unpleasant reminder that even team symbols can become crime targets.

❮ ❯

Seattle: tragedy, sports and safety

The new head of Seattle schools begins work after a shooting, the Seahawks arrived for the Super Bowl, and a shooting occurred at a historic garage.

New Seattle schools chief starts amid tragedy

On Monday, Feb. 2, new superintendent of Seattle Public Schools Ben Shuldiner officially began his duties. His first day on the job began with a public briefing at Mercer Middle School on Beacon Hill, which was streamed live on the district’s YouTube channel. The event marked the start of his leadership of a large school district, but it was overshadowed by a tragedy that occurred the night before in the Rainier Beach neighborhood.

The briefing opened with school board president Gina Topp, who gave a short speech and administered the oath to Shuldiner. The new superintendent, previously working in Lansing, Michigan, expressed enthusiasm about starting the role. He vowed to be actively engaged, to personally visit every school and classroom, and to work closely with local communities to create the best conditions for all students. He placed particular emphasis on safety. As noted in the West Seattle Blog piece, Shuldiner took office after the tragedy that occurred Friday evening in Rainier Beach and underscored his commitment to actions that strengthen student safety and security.

Thus, Shuldiner begins his work in Seattle at a difficult moment, when not only education quality but also the urgent need to ensure safety in schools and their surrounding communities comes to the fore. His approach—combining personal involvement in each school with community collaboration—will be tested in real conditions. The success of his tenure will depend largely on how effectively he can make these promises a reality, especially in light of recent sorrowful events that have set an immediate and serious context for his priorities.

Final buildup before the battle: Seahawks and Patriots arrive for Super Bowl LX

In the world of American football, the culminating week has arrived. Preparations for Super Bowl LX have officially started, and the two participating teams have already arrived in California. The Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots landed at San José airport to begin the final stretch toward the NFL’s top trophy, to be contested on Feb. 8, 2026.

As The Seattle Times reports, the teams arrived on Sunday, Feb. 1, and immediately dispersed to their training bases. The Patriots, who arrived in the afternoon, set up in Santa Clara, where Levi’s Stadium—the site of the upcoming final—is located. The Seahawks chose San José for lodging and training and will use the facilities at San José State University. This arrival marks the start of the traditional “Super Bowl week,” filled not only with practices but also with numerous media events.

The first major event this week will be “Open Night” on Monday, formerly known as Media Day. This large press conference has players and coaches from both teams answering reporters’ questions in an informal setting, often producing memorable quotes and offering a behind-the-scenes look at preparations. Beginning Tuesday, the teams will engage in intensive practice sessions on California fields, refining tactics and studying opponents’ weaknesses. For fans, it’s a time of anticipation and analysis: Seahawks supporters hope their team can avenge the loss in Super Bowl XLIX, recalled in archival footage in which Brandon Brauner reflects on the injuries inflicted on the Seahawks in that game. Team arrivals are always a spectacle full of emotion and determination, visible in footage of Seahawks players deplaning in Newark and Arizona in previous years. Now all eyes are on San José and the upcoming clash at Levi’s Stadium, which will determine the champion of the 2025–2026 season.

Shooting at the famous "Sinking Ship" garage in Seattle: one dead, three wounded

On Sunday morning, a shooting at the famous "Sinking Ship" garage in Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square left one person dead and three others wounded. The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Feb. 1, when police responded to reports of gunfire at an address on 2nd Avenue. Upon arrival, responders found a man with a gunshot wound to the head, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other victims, a man and a woman, were also found on site: the man, with life-threatening injuries, was transported to Harborview Medical Center, and the woman, who suffered a less serious grazing gunshot wound, was taken to a hospital in stable condition. Later, a fourth victim arrived at a hospital on their own with a tangential gunshot wound; their condition was reported as stable.

According to FOX 13 Seattle, detectives determined that a physical altercation broke out in the garage and escalated into a shooting involving several people. No suspects in the shooting have been detained so far, although two people were arrested at the scene for disturbing the peace. Police are asking anyone with information to call the violent crimes tip line at 206-233-5000; anonymous tips are accepted.

This incident drew attention not only for its violence but also for its location. The Sinking Ship garage, built in 1962, is an architectural landmark, though its construction sparked protests because it replaced the once-grand Seattle Hotel. Despite initial disapproval, in 2019 Architizer named it the “coolest parking spot” in the U.S. Pioneer Square, where the garage is located, has been Seattle’s first historic district since 1970, underscoring its cultural significance. The tragedy serves as a reminder of urban violence issues even in iconic places and raises questions about safety in public spaces.

❮ ❯

Sports: Returns, Celebrations and Moves

News from the sports world: Eugenio Suárez returns to the Cincinnati Reds, the Seattle Seahawks are putting on a drone show for fans ahead of the Super Bowl, and Clint Kubiak may become head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders.

Former Seattle Mariner Eugenio Suárez returns to the Cincinnati Reds

A notable return has taken place in baseball: veteran infielder Eugenio Suárez, who recently departed the Seattle Mariners, has signed with the Cincinnati Reds, the team where he spent a large portion of his career. According to an ESPN report by Jeff Passan, the deal is for one year at $15 million and includes a mutual option for the 2027 season. The move reunites Suárez with the club where he spent seven of his 12 Major League Baseball (MLB) seasons, from 2015 through 2021.

Interestingly, in his new-old team Suárez is likely to serve as the designated hitter, meaning he will be focused primarily on offense rather than playing third base defensively. This is a strategic move by the Reds to utilize his powerful bat, likely accounting for his age and experience. For the uninitiated: the designated hitter is a position in MLB (more common in the American League) where a player bats in place of the pitcher, allowing a strong offensive player to remain in the lineup without playing defense.

Suárez’s return to Cincinnati brings nostalgia for fans who remember his productive years in a Reds uniform, when he repeatedly showcased impressive power. While details of his exact role may be refined, it’s clear the Reds are betting on his experience and consistency. For the Seattle Mariners, this marks a definitive parting with a player who was part of the club in recent seasons and raises questions about how the team plans to bolster its offense ahead of the new season. The transfer underscores the dynamic nature of the baseball offseason, where veterans often find new opportunities and teams aim to balance youth and experience.

Seahawks drone show: how Seattle is celebrating the team’s run to the Super Bowl

Ahead of Super Bowl 2026, which will be held in Santa Clara, the Seattle Seahawks are staging a unique celebratory event for their devoted fans—known as the “12th Man” or “12s”—right in the heart of the city. On Friday night at Seattle Center there will be a free drone show to mark the team’s successful playoff run. The spectacle, presented with support from Snoqualmie Casino and Hotel, promises to be a highlight in the lineup of pregame festivities.

The idea for the show came literally in the final minutes of the Seahawks’ NFC championship win over the Los Angeles Rams. As Seattle Center spokeswoman Jamie Stocker told The Seattle Times, the club approached event organizers with the proposal: “If we win — we want to put on a drone show.” Thus, most of the preparation was done urgently immediately after the team’s triumph. To execute the concept, the Seahawks partnered with The Workshop, a local company that has experience staging similar events at the same venue, including New Year’s shows and a drone show for the 2023 MLB All-Star Game.

The show is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. and will last about 10 minutes. Drones will launch from the Mural Amphitheatre and maneuver at heights between 60 and 120 meters (200–400 feet) in the airspace near the iconic Space Needle, facing northwest. Organizers recommend fans get the best view by taking spots on the lawn by the International Fountain. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to get comfortable seating. For those who want a bite to eat, the Seattle Center Armory building will be open until 8:00 p.m. Note that the show is weather-dependent, and final updates should be sought on the club’s social media. For those unable to attend in person, the show will be streamed on the Seahawks’ social channels and on KING 5.

This event is more than just entertainment. It symbolizes the deep bond between the team and the city’s residents. The “12th Man” concept is a core philosophy of the club, treating fans as an integral part of the team and an extra force on the field. Putting on a public, free and spectacular celebration is the Seahawks’ way of thanking their devoted supporters who backed the team throughout the season. Although the Super Bowl itself will take place in California, Seattle is already starting its celebrations, reinforcing community spirit and gearing up for the biggest game of the year. Such quickly organized initiatives also show the agility and cohesion not only of the sports organization but of the city’s event community, capable of rapidly pulling off a large-scale event for thousands.

Clint Kubiak could become head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders

A significant personnel move appears to be brewing in the world of American football. According to recent reports from major sports outlets, Clint Kubiak, the Seattle Seahawks’ current offensive coordinator, is close to becoming the head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. This development, reported by ESPN and NFL Network, adds intrigue ahead of the Super Bowl, where the Seahawks will play this coming Sunday.

By NFL rules, clubs cannot officially finalize deals with assistants from teams participating in the Super Bowl until the game concludes. So despite mutual interest, as ESPN insider Adam Schefter notes, a formal agreement between Kubiak and the Raiders will be signed only after the championship game. Still, NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero says the club has already “zeroed in” on Kubiak, and all signs point to his move to Las Vegas. For the 38-year-old coach this would be a major career step. Notably, he would be replacing the legendary Pete Carroll, who once led the Seahawks but was fired by the Raiders after a disappointing 3–14 season.

Kubiak has been one of the most sought-after candidates in this coaching cycle. Over the past month he has conducted virtual interviews with six teams and on Saturday met for the second round of talks with the Raiders and the Arizona Cardinals. His results in Seattle speak for themselves. Under his guidance, the Seahawks’ offense ranked third in the league in points per game during the regular season (28.4). Even excluding seven touchdowns scored by special teams and defense, the average of 25.5 points would still rank 11th in the NFL. The team also showed efficiency: 11th in points per possession (2.32), sixth in yards per play (5.9) and second in yards per pass attempt (8.4). Particularly impressive was the improvement of the offensive line, which allowed only 27 sacks—the third-best mark in franchise history. The running game also gained momentum by the end of the season, reflecting increased offensive production.

The high point of Kubiak’s work was the NFC championship game against the Los Angeles Rams, where his game plan helped quarterback Sam Darnold and the Seahawks secure a 31–27 victory and advance to the Super Bowl. His ability to adapt the scheme to the team’s strengths has been highly praised by analysts. If the move happens, it will present a major challenge for Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald, who would need to find his third offensive coordinator in three years. The previous coordinator, Ryan Grubb, was dismissed after an uneven season, and Kubiak was hired in his place only in January 2025. His potential departure also raises questions about the future of other key offensive assistants, such as offensive line coach John Benton, which could affect continuity and player development.

Thus, a potential move of Clint Kubiak to the Las Vegas Raiders is not just a job change but an event that could affect the league’s balance of power. For the Raiders, it’s a chance to begin a new era with a young, promising coach who has proven his effectiveness. For the Seahawks, it’s a test of resilience that will show whether the team can maintain its high level of offensive play after losing the architect of its success. All answers will come very soon, immediately after the final Super Bowl whistle.

❮ ❯

Seattle: Weather, Sports and Tragedy

A contrast of temperatures in Seattle from the record cold of 1950 to this winter's warmth. Quarterback Sam Darnold is close to the Super Bowl after a rocky career start. A downtown shooting claimed one life.

Contrast of eras: from the icy hell of 1950 to near-record warmth in Seattle

Seattle, a city known for its rainy but temperate climate, recently experienced a day that served as a vivid reminder of how much the weather can change over time. While residents enjoyed unseasonably mild air of about +15°C, meteorologists noted a near-record reading, just a couple degrees shy of the 1960 high. But the real story of the day is revealed in contrast: exactly 76 years earlier, on January 31, 1950, Seattle endured the only day in its history when the thermometer dropped to zero degrees Fahrenheit — a bone-chilling −18°C.

According to FOX 13 Seattle, on January 31, 2026, the temperature at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport reached 59°F (+15°C), just two degrees below the record high for that date set in 1960. The 2025–2026 winter has so far spared the region much snow, creating problems for local ski resorts. However, the mid-20th-century picture was the exact opposite. January 1950 went down as one of the harshest on record. First, on January 13, a powerful snowstorm dumped more than 25 centimeters (about 10 inches) of snow downtown and over 50 centimeters (about 20 inches) at the airport. Two weeks later, on January 31, the historic low occurred. The daytime high that day never rose above −7°C, and on the morning of February 1 an almost record low of +1°F (−17°C) was recorded.

To grasp the scale of that event, it’s worth explaining: zero degrees Fahrenheit is an extremely low temperature for a maritime climate region like Washington’s west coast. The waters of the Pacific Ocean and Puget Sound usually moderate winters, making severe freezes rare. In 1950 the cold was so intense that, as noted in the article, Green Lake froze over, parts of Gig Harbor iced up, and even icy patches appeared in Puget Sound itself. Temperatures below +10°F (−12°C) are exceptional for Greater Seattle. The last time anything similar — though not as extreme (7°F or −14°C) — was observed was in 1989.

This weather contrast is a striking illustration of climatic variability and natural weather swings. Photographs published by the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) for the 75th anniversary of those events show a city paralyzed by snow and ice — an image unthinkable to a modern Seattle resident who hasn’t seen a flake of snow this winter. The deep cold of that year didn’t just set records, it altered city life for weeks, while the current warmth is part of a trend toward milder winters in the region. The day is a reminder that the climate history of even a place as weather-predictable as Seattle can hold surprises, from icy hell to almost springlike warmth in the middle of winter.

Sam Darnold’s incredible journey: from draft bust to the doorstep of the Super Bowl

The NFL’s history contains many surprising twists of fate, but Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold’s path to Super Bowl LX could become one of the most unusual in the 60-year history of the championship game. If the Seahawks defeat the New England Patriots, Darnold — once considered a draft bust — will join a very exclusive club of champions.

Across the previous 59 Super Bowls, 36 starting quarterbacks have lifted the Lombardi Trophy, and only seven of those selected in the first round won the title not with the team that originally drafted them. Among them are legends like Len Dawson, Jim Plunkett and Steve Young, as well as figures such as Trent Dilfer, often cited as one of the worst quarterbacks ever to win a Super Bowl. However, as noted in the Seattle Sports piece, Darnold’s career to date stands out even against that backdrop. Matthew Stafford, who won a title with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021, played 12 productive seasons in the Detroit Lions and is hardly considered a draft bust. Three others (Earl Morrall, Doug Williams and Dilfer) became champions by stepping in for the starter during the season. Darnold’s story, by contrast, is one of a complete revival after a string of failures.

His career start with the New York Jets was disappointing: 13 wins against 25 losses over three seasons. After Darnold’s departure the Jets continued to struggle, cycling through nine starting quarterbacks in five years. Things didn’t click in the Carolina Panthers either, where he spent two seasons and went 8–9. It seemed the No. 1 pick of the 2018 draft was on a downward spiral. The turning point came in 2024 with the Minnesota Vikings, where Darnold finally unlocked his potential, going 14–3 and throwing for 4,319 yards. That breakthrough convinced the Seattle Seahawks to bet on him, and Darnold repaid the faith with another 14–3 season and 4,048 yards in the regular season. Now 28, he’s playing the best football of his career, and as examples like Aaron Rodgers, Philip Rivers and Matthew Stafford show, a quarterback with his style can have another decade at the top in today’s NFL.

His performance in the NFC championship game against Stafford’s Rams was particularly telling and, in the author’s view, silenced many skeptics. Darnold now stands one step away from a fairy-tale transformation from “Cinderella” to champion. If he wins the Super Bowl, comparisons to Dilfer will likely give way to comparisons with Steve Young, who also endured a difficult start with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before becoming a star and champion with the San Francisco 49ers. Of course, for that comparison to stick Darnold will need more than one victory — he’ll need to build a sustained successful career. For now, his story is a powerful reminder that labels applied early in a professional athlete’s career don’t always determine the final chapter. His difficult road has led to a single game that decides everything, and a win there would forever change the narrative about Sam Darnold, turning him from a symbol of unmet expectations into the hero of one of the most inspiring sports stories.

Shooting in Seattle’s historic district: one dead, three injured

Another tragedy struck downtown Seattle, once again prompting city residents to confront the problem of violence. Early Sunday morning in the historic Pioneer Square neighborhood, a shooting left one person dead and three others with injuries of varying severity.

According to a report from the Seattle Police Department, the incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. in the Sinking Ship parking lot at 515 2nd Avenue. Preliminary investigation indicates the shooting followed a verbal altercation that quickly escalated into a physical fight and then a shooting involving multiple people. One man suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head and was pronounced dead at the scene. Another man with severe, life-threatening injuries and a woman with a grazing gunshot wound were taken by ambulance to Harborview Medical Center. Later, a fourth victim with a grazing wound arrived at the same hospital on his own. A grazing wound is an injury where a bullet does not deeply penetrate the body but skims the skin or superficial tissue, leaving a graze. While such wounds are considered less dangerous, they still require medical attention.

At the time of publication, suspects in the shooting had not been detained. Police say two people were arrested at the scene afterward for disorderly conduct. A Seattle Police Department spokesperson was unable to provide immediate additional comments Sunday morning. This incident was the second serious shooting in the city in less than 48 hours: on Friday, two teens were shot dead at a bus stop in the Rainier Valley area. Police are asking anyone with information about the Pioneer Square shooting to contact the Violent Crimes tip line at 206-233-5000.

These events underscore a troubling trend of rising street violence in Seattle. The incident occurred in a historic and busy neighborhood, raising concerns about public safety even at night. The lack of arrests in the shooting and the rapid escalation from an ordinary argument to the use of a firearm are particularly alarming. The consequences of such tragedies go beyond crime statistics, affecting residents’ sense of security and calling on authorities not only to act quickly in investigations but also to develop comprehensive strategies to prevent violence.

❮ ❯

Seattle: Garage Tragedy and a Player’s Fate Before the Super Bowl

In downtown Seattle, a deadly shooting in a parking garage left one person dead and three wounded. At the same time, the Seattle Seahawks must decide the fate of an injured player ahead of the season’s decisive game.

A decision that could affect the Super Bowl

While Seattle Seahawks fans eagerly await the season’s decisive game against the New England Patriots, the club’s management must make an important roster decision that could influence the balance of power in the Super Bowl. The decision concerns special-teams player Chazz Surratt, who has been recovering from an ankle injury.

According to Field Gulls, Surratt, who was injured back in Week 12 in the game against the Tennessee Titans, was cleared to practice on January 13. Under NFL rules, players returning from injured reserve have a 21-day practice window, after which the club must either activate the player to the 53-man roster or place him on season-ending injured reserve. Because the Seahawks fly out to San Jose on Sunday and their first official practice of Super Bowl week is scheduled for Wednesday, February 4, the decision on Surratt must be made by Tuesday.

That decision is complicated by the playoff injured-return limit. The team has already activated running back George Holani and tight end Elijah Arroyo, leaving only one available slot for such a return. If the coaching staff determines that Surratt, known for his role on special teams, is needed for the crucial game, they will need to free a spot on the 53-man roster. The most likely candidate to be waived is rookie tackle Amari Knight, who did not play in the game against the Los Angeles Rams and was listed as questionable with an injury on the pregame report. He could be placed on injured reserve, as happened earlier with another rookie, Bryce Kabeldu. Fullback Robbie Outs, who missed the NFC final due to a neck issue and practiced with limitations all last week, is also in doubt.

The return of a specialist like Surratt may seem minor compared with star names, but in a game where every yard and field position often comes down to special teams play, his presence could be an important tactical advantage. If the club elects not to activate him, Surratt’s season will be over, and the Seahawks will preserve their last injured-return slot in case a key player is hurt during the final practices before the Super Bowl. Thus, the decision to be announced on Tuesday is not just routine formality but a strategic choice balancing immediate roster reinforcement and insurance against an unexpected injury at the most important moment of the season.

Investigation of downtown Seattle shooting: four victims, one dead

A shooting in downtown Seattle left one person dead and three others wounded. The incident occurred early in the morning at a parking facility and prompted extensive police and investigative work.

Early in the morning, around 1:30 a.m., patrol officers responded to a report of a shooting at the Sinking Ship parking lot, located in the 500 block of 2nd Avenue in downtown Seattle. Upon arrival, they found a man with a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Paramedics from the Seattle Fire Department (SFD) pronounced him dead at the scene. A second victim sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported in critical condition to Harborview Medical Center. A third person, a woman, sustained a grazing gunshot wound and was taken to the same hospital in stable condition. Later, another woman arrived at the hospital on her own with a similar grazing gunshot wound; she was also reported stable. According to an official press release on the Seattle Police Department blog, detectives determined the incident was preceded by a physical altercation in the parking lot that escalated into a shooting involving multiple people. Suspects have not been arrested for the shooting at this time, though two people were arrested after the shooting for disorderly conduct at the scene. Police secured the area to allow homicide detectives and crime-scene investigators to work. The victim’s body will be turned over to the King County Medical Examiner. Authorities ask anyone with information to contact the violent crimes tips line at 206-233-5000; anonymous tips are accepted. This incident, filed under case number 2026-30497, again raises concerns about public safety in the downtown area.

Shooting in Seattle garage: one dead, three wounded

A tragic shooting in downtown Seattle claimed one life and injured three others. The dawn incident in a multilevel parking garage again raises sharp questions about the city’s safety.

Early Sunday morning in a multistory garage known locally as the "Sinking Ship" because of its architecture, a brawl broke out and quickly escalated into a shooting involving several people. According to Seattle police, one man suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head. Another was critically injured, and two others sustained grazing bullet wounds. As reported on the police blog, detectives determined a physical fight in the garage set off the subsequent shooting. At the time of the initial reporting, suspects were being sought, though later two people were detained for disorderly conduct at the scene. Police urge anyone with information to contact the tips line for violent crimes and note that anonymous calls are accepted. The incident at the intersection of 2nd Avenue and James Street is another troubling example in a series of public shootings. The lack of immediate arrests directly tied to the shooting highlights the difficulties in establishing a complete picture of events and all involved parties. The tragedy at the Sinking Ship garage is not just dry police statistics but a human story that prompts reflection on the escalation of street violence and the accessibility of firearms, which can turn everyday disputes into bloody confrontations with irreversible consequences.

❮ ❯

Protests and Haircuts: Seattle News

In Seattle, the Seahawks' barber is heading to the Super Bowl, and the city is gripped by protests against immigration policy. The mayor unveiled a plan to limit ICE raids, sparking a clash with federal authorities.

Seahawks barber heads to the Super Bowl: a haircut as part of the ritual

Overview: In the run-up to the NFL’s biggest game of the season, it’s not just players and coaches preparing for the championship battle. For many Seattle Seahawks players, a key part of the pregame ritual has become getting a haircut from their trusted barber. Efren Garibay, a barber from Tacoma, will officially join the team in Santa Clara to ensure players look sharp and receive moral support before taking the field at the 2026 Super Bowl.

In professional sports, where every detail matters, even a perfect haircut can be part of the winning mindset. Efren Garibay, owner of West Coast Barber Lounge in Tacoma, has proven this in practice. Having earned the trust of Seahawks players with his precise lines and flawless fades, he received an invitation to accompany the team to California for the season’s decisive game — the Super Bowl. As reported by FOX 13 Seattle, this is Garibay’s first experience of this kind in his career, and he views it not merely as a job but as carrying out a special mission.

Garibay, who normally does 11–12 haircuts a day, emphasizes that his role goes far beyond ordinary barbering. “It’s not just haircuts, because almost anyone can cut hair. What matters are the conversations you have with the guys,” he says. In the barber’s chair a special bond forms: players value not only technical skill but the chance to take their minds off things and talk about life, not just football. A simple question like “How are you?” sometimes means more to them than discussing tactics.

Garibay’s path to the team began with player Ernest Jones, who first came to him before the season opener. Requests from other club stars followed, such as J.S.N. (Jaxon Smith-Njigba), Byron Murphy, Nyckemori Emmanuori and D’Anthony Bell. The barber attributes his success to attention to detail and a passion for his craft, which he calls a true art. He has five years of experience and several professional awards that attest to his skills.

Interestingly, Garibay’s career did not start in a barbershop: he admits he first picked up clippers while serving time in prison. That experience, he says, helped him find his calling. Now his craft helps the team not only to look “razor-sharp” but to feel confident. Players told him from the start of the season about their goal to reach the Super Bowl, and Garibay believes they have taken that goal especially seriously.

In early February the barber will travel to Santa Clara, where he will support the players up through the game itself. His presence symbolizes unity and attention to the small details that create a championship spirit. In a world where psychological preparation is often as important as physical training, a trusted barber becomes an integral part of the team. For the Seahawks, the perfect haircut is not just aesthetics but a ritual that sets the tone for victory in the biggest game of the year.

National shutdown: how protests against ICE paralyzed business in Seattle

On Friday dozens of shops and restaurants in the Seattle area closed their doors or pledged portions of their proceeds, joining a nationwide protest called the “National Shutdown.” Organized by the political movement 50501, the action targets the immigration policies of the Trump administration and, specifically, the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The protest slogan — “No work. No school. No shopping. Stop funding ICE” — calls for an economic boycott to pressure the federal government to withdraw ICE agents from Minneapolis and other cities across the country.

The initiative follows a mass strike in Minneapolis on January 23, when hundreds of businesses shuttered and thousands of residents took to the streets in protest of ICE. The next day after that action federal agents killed Alex Pretty, and on January 7 a 37-year-old Minneapolis resident, Rene Nicole Good, was killed by an ICE agent. In the Puget Sound region the action was backed by organizations such as the Democrats of the 43rd District, Central Washington Resistance, and the Seattle Green Party. More than 70 Seattle restaurants coordinated by Spice Waala will donate a portion of their revenue to Minneapolis businesses so those businesses could afford to close on Friday. Some participants also handed out ICE warning whistles and informational brochures about rights to patrons.

Among the closed establishments were the popular downtown Seattle restaurant Ludi’s, typically busy on weekends, and Pasta Casalinga at Pike Place Market. Hood Famous Bakeshop in the Chinatown neighborhood also announced its closure, adding on Instagram: “If you are an ICE employee or supporter, our doors are closed to you every day.” Deep Sea Sugar & Salt bakery in Georgetown, The Plant Store in White Center, and the Glasswing boutique on Capitol Hill also joined the action. Other businesses that remained open directed funds to local activists. For example, well-known bakery The Flour Box will donate all weekend profits to the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project and the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota, while the Capitol Hill music venue Neumos will donate $1 from every drink sold to the same organizations.

Some establishments, like South Fork Baking Company in Everett, closed on Friday and will donate 25% of gross revenue on Saturday and Sunday, doubling that amount through owner contributions. In a statement, the owner noted that the business is in an “extremely privileged position to be able to close and double donations,” expressing support for those who remain open out of necessity or to provide comfort for customers. Individual spaces, such as the vintage shop Hoste in West Seattle or the climbing gym Uplift Climbing in Shoreline, stayed open but refrained from commercial activity, providing space for creating protest materials like signs and whistles. As reported in The Seattle Times, many other businesses voiced solidarity with the protest but admitted they could not afford to lose a day’s revenue, highlighting the economic risks associated with such actions.

ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is the U.S. federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement and customs operations, whose methods, especially under the Trump administration, have been frequently criticized for harshness and human rights violations. Actions like the “National Shutdown” demonstrate growing civic activism, where small businesses use their resources to support social movements even at the cost of temporary financial losses. However, such involvement also reveals inequality: not all businesses can afford to close, creating tension between economic necessity and political convictions. These protests reflect a broader context of the struggle for immigration reform and opposition to policies that activists say lead to violence and injustice.

Seattle mayor’s plan to limit immigration raids sparks intense political confrontation

Seattle officials have entered an open clash with the U.S. federal government after unveiling a plan that significantly restricts immigration enforcement operations within the city. Mayor Jenny Durkan’s initiative — aimed at protecting migrants’ rights — was immediately and harshly criticized by the Department of Homeland Security, which called it “legally illiterate.” The situation exposes a deep split between Democratic city administrations and the Republican federal government ahead of the presidential election.

Mayor of Seattle Jenny Durkan presented a plan that would bar federal agents from using city property to conduct operations to detain undocumented immigrants. In addition, Seattle police are instructed to log all reports of immigration raids and to record any such incidents on patrol car cameras and officers’ body-worn cameras. As Police Chief Adrian Diaz said, the goal is to ensure safety for all residents, regardless of immigration status, and to maintain trust in the community. But the federal response was immediate and sharp. In a statement to KIRO Newsradio, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson accused Durkan of populism and questioned the legitimacy of her actions, citing the U.S. Constitution. Specifically, he referenced Articles I and II of the Constitution and the Supremacy Clause, which he said clearly establish the federal government’s exclusive responsibility for immigration control. This legal principle means federal laws take precedence over state and local laws when they conflict.

The impetus for the mayor’s decisive actions were the alarming events in Minneapolis, where, according to Durkan, there has been a surge in calls to hotlines from families who are afraid to go to work and pay rent because of fear of immigration raids. “We are shocked and heartbroken by the news out of Minneapolis and share the growing fear that our city could also be targeted by federal action,” the mayor said. Seattle City Attorney Nicole Thomas-Kennedy also expressed solidarity with Minnesota, calling the federal agents’ tactics “reckless” and warning that Seattle must prepare for similar actions. Durkan’s plan also includes a “Stand Together Seattle” initiative urging private property owners to demand a warrant from federal agents before allowing access to their premises, and a citywide audit aimed at limiting data-sharing with federal authorities.

However, the plan met resistance within the city. Seattle Police Officers Guild (SPOG) president Mike Solan sharply criticized the initiative in an interview on The Jason Rantz Show on Seattle’s KIRO-affiliated station, saying police were being used as “political pawns.” He stressed that he would not support directives that deviate from official policy or the law, expressing concern about the difficult position law enforcement agencies face nationwide. This internal division highlights the complexity of balancing protection of vulnerable communities, compliance with federal law, and maintaining functioning local public safety forces. The conflict in Seattle is a vivid example of the broader national struggle over sanctuary cities and immigration enforcement methods, which, it appears, will only intensify in the months ahead.

❮ ❯

Seattle: Sports, Show and Tragedy

Overview of Seattle news: the Seahawks are heading into the Super Bowl in good shape, a drone show delighted fans, and the city is investigating a double homicide of teenagers near a school.

Seattle Seahawks' health status ahead of the Super Bowl inspires optimism

In the lead-up to the season’s decisive game, news about players' health always draws special attention. The latest Seahawks injury report, released Friday, brought long-awaited good news to the team’s fans, painting an encouraging picture ahead of the upcoming Super Bowl matchup with the New England Patriots.

Under the rules in effect during the two-week Super Bowl preparation period, teams were required to list players' game status as if the game were being played this Sunday rather than on Feb. 8. In that unique format the Seahawks looked very impressive: only four players were given statuses that could have prevented their participation in a hypothetical weekend game. Rookie fullback Robbie Ouz (neck), backup fullback and key special teams contributor Brady Russell (arm) and linebacker Chazz Surratt (ankle) were listed as questionable, while third tight end Amari Kait (knee) was listed as doubtful. That means all other starters, including key stars, would be considered healthy and ready to play. It’s important to note final statuses will only be announced next Friday, so the injured players have a full week to recover. Alongside the game-status report, the usual practice participation report was published. Attention, as always, has focused most on the quarterback. Sam Darnold, who strained an oblique on Jan. 15, again practiced on a limited basis. His physical condition remains one of the Seahawks’ offensive keys. Left tackle Charles Cross, who injured his leg in the divisional-round playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers on Jan. 17, missed practice for a second straight day. Linebacker Ernest Jones IV (chest) and cornerback Josh Jobe (foot), who was added to the report only on Friday, also participated in a limited fashion. On the other hand, safety Julian Love and linebacker Drake Thomas, both dealing with shoulder injuries, were upgraded to full participants after limited practice on Thursday, which is a positive sign. The Patriots’ situation, according to the Seattle Sports report, looks less certain. All nine players listed on their injury report, including MVP candidate Drake Maye, were listed as questionable. Maye, who had previously practiced with a shoulder limitation, missed Friday’s practice entirely due to illness. That raises additional intrigue and uncertainty around the young Patriots star’s readiness for the big game. Overall, the report shows the Seattle Seahawks are entering the decisive matchup in good physical shape, especially compared with some questions surrounding their opponent. The absence of seriously injured key starters allows the coaching staff to prepare knowing they have almost their full arsenal available. That’s an important psychological and tactical factor heading into the Super Bowl, where every detail can be decisive.

Drone show in Seattle: how the Seahawks gave fans a sky spectacle

Ahead of the NFC championship game, the Seattle Seahawks treated their fans to an out-of-this-world spectacle. On Friday evening in the heart of the city at Seattle Center, a free drone show was held for the public, organized with support from Snoqualmie Casino and Hotel. It was a ten-minute flight of hundreds of illuminated drones that, as if waved by a magic wand, painted team logos, player numbers and other franchise-related symbols across the night sky.

According to Seattle Refined, the show was a way to gather fans and create a festive atmosphere before the NFC Championship game, the decisive step toward the Super Bowl scheduled for Feb. 8. The drones were launched from the Mural Amphitheater area, turning an ordinary city park into the epicenter of technological art. For those unfamiliar, drone light shows are a modern alternative to traditional fireworks. Each drone is equipped with LEDs and is controlled by complex computer algorithms that coordinate their movement to create volumetric, dynamic 3D images in the air. It’s not only visually striking but also more environmentally friendly than pyrotechnics, as it produces no smoke or loud noise.

The key insight from this event is how sports clubs increasingly use high-tech and interactive formats to engage fans and strengthen community ties. This is not just entertainment but a strategic marketing move that creates emotional bonds and vivid memories for supporters. The partnership with Snoqualmie Casino and Hotel also highlights how local businesses support the team and its fans by investing in large-scale public events. While the article doesn’t give exact numbers for drones or attendees, the very fact the show took place in a public space indicates it was meant for a broad audience. Ultimately, such initiatives go beyond sport, becoming part of the city’s cultural life and demonstrating how technology can serve art and bring people together.

Double homicide of teenagers near a Seattle school: tragedy in a "beautiful community"

On Friday afternoon in South Seattle a shocking crime rocked the local community. Two teenagers were shot near schools and, according to authorities, the victims are believed to be students of the public school system. The suspect fled the scene, and police say the shooting was targeted and there is no threat to others. The tragedy raises painful questions about urban violence.

Friday evening, around 4:00 p.m., shots were fired near South Shore K-8 and Rainier Beach High School at the intersection of Rainier Avenue and South Henderson Street. According to a Seattle police report, both victims—young males—died at the scene despite firefighters’ attempts to render aid. video from the scene shows first responders gathered around a bus stop next to the school. The suspect, law enforcement says, fled before police arrived. Assistant Police Chief Tyrone Davis described the incident as “tragic” and confirmed investigators are treating it as a double homicide. He emphasized it was a “targeted assault” and there is no threat to the general public, expressing deep sorrow. “This is a traumatic event... Every time we lose a young person, it’s a tragedy. This is a very beautiful community. This is a tight-knit community,” Davis said. “When something like this happens, it breaks hearts because this is not a true reflection of what this neighborhood is.”

In a message to families that same night, Seattle Public Schools (SPS) confirmed the victims are believed to be two teenagers enrolled in their system. SPS Superintendent Fred Podesta offered condolences, noting that “loss is almost impossible to put into words, and it’s even more painful to recognize that tragedies like this have become—tragically—too familiar in our communities.” In response, the district canceled all events at Rainier Beach, Alan T. Sugiyama High School and South Shore PreK-8 for the evening and the weekend. Local residents, such as Eunice Antonio, who works less than a block from the scene, witnessed the horrifying events. He said he heard “several shots” after which a car sped away. “Firefighters covered the students, and from that point emotions were high, many were completely crushed by what happened,” Antonio shared. “I have two sons myself, and I don’t want this to happen to anyone.” Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell (note: if original name differs, keep the original; the Russian text named Katie Wilson—retain original form as in text) said in a statement that “this community deserves justice,” expressing heartbreak over the loss of “two young Seattle residents who had their lives ahead of them.” She noted the deputy mayor and other officials were on scene coordinating the response. Police are asking anyone with information to call 206-233-5000.

This tragedy highlights several key issues. First, the recurring nature of such incidents, which the superintendent explicitly noted. Second, the contrast between the perception of the neighborhood as a “beautiful, tight-knit community,” as police described, and the harsh reality of street violence. The targeted nature of the shooting, investigators say, may point to ties with local conflicts or groups, but that does not lessen the magnitude of the loss for families and the school district. Event cancellations are a standard safety and mourning measure, allowing investigators to work and the community to receive support. The implications go beyond one neighborhood: the incident raises questions about public safety, access to firearms and support for youth in urban environments. Statements from officials and witness Antonio underscore the deep emotional trauma inflicted on the community and the universal parental fear. Until the suspect is found and motives determined, the sense of loss and injustice will remain acute, demanding not only justice but systemic measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

❮ ❯

Sports and Protests: Seattle News

Sale of the Seattle Seahawks: rumors of a post-Super Bowl deal meet denials, but the sale is dictated by Paul Allen’s will. Meanwhile, the city saw a large protest that blocked streets and demanded the abolition of ICE.

Sale of the Seattle Seahawks: what’s behind reports of a deal after the Super Bowl

In the world of professional sports, where teams often become family legacies or investment assets, the fate of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks has come into focus. According to an ESPN report published by Seth Wickersham and Brady Henderson, the team could be put up for sale immediately after Super Bowl 60, where the Seahawks will face the New England Patriots. This information, based on anonymous sources within the league and among owners, conflicts with official statements, creating an air of uncertainty around one of the sport’s most valuable assets.

The Seahawks’ ownership history is inseparable from the name of Paul Allen, the Microsoft co-founder who bought the team in 1997. After his death in 2018, control passed to his sister Jody Allen as trustee of the estate. According to Paul’s will, both the Seahawks and the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers are to be sold, with proceeds directed to charity. The sale process has already begun for the Blazers: in September an agreement was reached to sell to an investor group led by Tom Dundon. However, the football club’s situation appears less straightforward. A representative of Paul Allen’s estate responded to the rumors bluntly: “The team is not for sale. We’ve already said that at some point this will change in accordance with Paul’s wishes, but I have no news. Right now our focus is on winning the Super Bowl.” That statement suggests the sale is a matter of time, but the timetable remains uncertain.

Notably, according to sports columnist John Canzano, Jody Allen may be interested in retaining a stake in the team, which could explain the delay in selling the Seahawks. There are also complex legal and financial circumstances. As former Seahawks player Brock Huard explained, the Lumen Field stadium agreement—built with significant public funding—included a so-called “poison pill” clause prohibiting the sale of the team until 2025–2026 without substantial financial penalties. That provision was likely designed to ensure the team would remain in Seattle after receiving public funds for the stadium. ESPN’s report also notes that a deadline after which a sale would not require a 10% payment to the state of Washington has already passed, potentially simplifying a transaction.

The Seahawks’ on-field achievements underscore the franchise’s value. Under Paul Allen the team reached the Super Bowl for the first time in 2005, won the championship in 2013, and returned to the final the following year. Now, under Jody Allen’s stewardship, the club is back in the season’s biggest game after an 11-year gap, having posted a franchise-record 14 regular-season wins. This success, achieved after the departure of legendary coach Pete Carroll and the arrival of Mike Macdonald, only increases the team’s appeal to potential buyers. The valuation of an NFL franchise at this level can run into the billions, making this transaction one of the most significant in sports business history.

Thus, reports of a possible sale of the Seattle Seahawks after the Super Bowl appear to be a logical development, predetermined by Paul Allen’s will. However, conflicting signals from the ownership camp and complex legal conditions suggest the process may not be as swift as rumors imply. The stated focus on winning the Super Bowl could be a sincere pursuit or a tactical move to boost the franchise’s value before a sale. For fans, the key concerns remain preserving Paul Allen’s legacy and the team’s stability, which have become integral to Seattle’s identity. Whatever the outcome, the coming months will determine the future of one of the NFL’s most decorated and financially robust clubs.

Sale of the Seattle Seahawks: rumors, denials, and Paul Allen’s legacy

In professional sports, where rumors often outpace official statements, news of a possible sale of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks after Super Bowl LX caused a sensation. But the situation turned out to be more nuanced, met with categorical denial from the heirs of the late owner. This story is not just about a potential multibillion-dollar deal, but a complex tangle of the deceased magnate’s wishes, philanthropic ambitions, and current sporting triumphs.

According to an ESPN report, an anonymous club executive suggested the Seahawks, who are preparing for the Super Bowl against the New England Patriots on February 8, would be put up for sale immediately after the game. The franchise’s estimated value, by various accounts, could exceed $7 billion, which would top the NFL record of $6.05 billion paid for the Washington Commanders in 2023. For comparison, in fall 2025 Sportico valued the club at $6.59 billion. But a representative of Paul Allen’s estate quickly responded to the rumors, saying via Ian Rapoport of NFL Network: “We don’t comment on rumors or speculation, and the team is not for sale. We have already said that at some point this will change in accordance with Paul’s wishes, but I don’t have news to share. Right now our attention is on winning the Super Bowl and completing the sale of the Portland Trail Blazers in the coming months.” This is key: Allen’s estate is already handling the sale of the Trail Blazers to a group led by Carolina Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon for more than $4 billion.

To understand what’s happening, you need to look at the history. Paul Allen bought the Seahawks in 1997 for $200 million, saving the team from a potential move to Los Angeles under the previous owner. After his death in 2018, control of both the Seahawks and the Trail Blazers passed to his sister Jody Allen as trustee. She became the franchise’s public face, raising the famous “12th Flag” (symbolizing the fans’ support, the team’s “12th man”) before games and accepting the trophy after the NFC championship win. Head coach Mike Macdonald notes they speak with Jody every week after games and that she asks “insightful questions.” Jody Allen has repeatedly said the team is not for sale but has acknowledged long-term plans. In a 2022 statement cited by the Seattle Times, she explained: “Time will change things, given Paul’s plans to direct the overwhelming portion of his estate to philanthropy. But estates of this size and complexity can take 10 to 20 years to settle. There is no predetermined schedule by which teams must be sold.” That is the essence: the ultimate goal of any sale is not to enrich heirs but to fund large-scale philanthropy, as Paul Allen intended.

Therefore, current rumors of a sale after the Super Bowl, though denied, point to an eventual inevitability. If a sale were to occur imminently, it would be the first instance in Super Bowl era history of a franchise being put on the market immediately after the season’s biggest game. The new owner would be only the fourth in the club’s history, founded by the Nordstrom family. For now, Allen’s estate’s official position remains steadfast: all attention is on the upcoming Super Bowl LX. Regardless of the game’s outcome, the Seahawks’ long-term fate is guided by the wishes of their late savior and owner, who steered the team toward philanthropy.

Massive protest in Seattle: march to Federal Building and street blockages

On Saturday the center of Seattle became the scene of a large protest that caused serious traffic disruptions. Demonstrators blocked key intersections in the Capitol Hill area, then marched to the Henry M. Jackson Federal Building downtown, gathering at least a thousand people, according to reporters on the ground.

The action began on Capitol Hill, where protesters completely shut down traffic at the intersection of Broadway and East Pine Street. The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) promptly advised drivers to avoid the area and seek alternate routes, as a large crowd moved west along East Pine Street. KING 5 reports that about a thousand people initially gathered at that intersection. The column then marched along Pine Street, passed Ninth Avenue—blocking traffic in both directions—and turned south on Second Avenue, disrupting the southbound lane near University Street.

The march culminated at the plaza in front of the Henry M. Jackson Federal Building in downtown Seattle. By 3:30 p.m., KING 5’s correspondent estimated at least a thousand protesters were gathered there. It’s worth noting that this building houses several federal agencies, which likely explains its selection as the march’s endpoint. Authorities had initially expected a smaller demonstration related to educators’ activities, but several groups joined forces to create a larger protest. Signs in the crowd predominantly called for abolishing the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)—the powerful federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws, whose activities are often criticized by human rights advocates. By 5:00 p.m. most people had dispersed, and SDOT announced that traffic on Second Avenue and Pine Street had been fully restored.

This action was another expression of active civic engagement in Seattle, a city with a long tradition of public protests. Blocking major traffic arteries like Broadway and Pine Street is a tactic aimed at drawing maximum attention to protesters’ demands. While the organizers and full list of demands were not detailed in the brief news report, the clear anti-ICE rhetoric (slogans against ICE) indicates the protest was likely tied to immigrant rights and U.S. immigration policy issues. Such actions are, on the one hand, a lawful way to express opinion protected by the First Amendment, but on the other hand they create significant inconveniences for residents and pose a challenge for authorities to balance the right to assemble with the uninterrupted functioning of city infrastructure.

❮ ❯

The Future of the Seattle Seahawks: Sale Delayed, Focus on the Super Bowl

On Friday, sports media reported that the Seattle Seahawks would be put up for sale immediately after the upcoming Super Bowl. Sources at ESPN and The Wall Street Journal claimed that discussions about a sale were already underway among the owners and the league, and that the process could begin soon after the NFL championship game.

However, those rumors were quickly refuted by an official statement on behalf of Paul Allen’s estate. A spokesperson said the team “is not for sale,” and urged people not to comment on speculation. The statement did confirm that the late owner’s will envisions selling the team at some point in the future. Proceeds from any eventual sale would likely be directed to the Paul G. Allen Trust, which supports his major charitable organizations in Seattle and Washington, such as the Allen Institute for Brain Science, the Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence, the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP), and the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, which funds global and local projects.

The current owner of the club, Jody Allen, sister of Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen, has repeatedly said the team is not for sale. She has explained that, according to her brother’s philanthropic plan, the bulk of his estate is to be directed to charity, which would ultimately lead to the sale of assets, including the Seahawks. However, this process in such a large and complex estate could take 10 to 20 years. The estate, through the trust and its organizations, controls other regional assets as well, including the Museum of Pop Culture, the Seattle Art Museum, the Allen Institutes, real estate in the South Lake Union area, and investments in local tech and environmental projects in Washington.

Jody Allen took over the club in 2018 after her brother’s death. The team moved under trust management and Jody was appointed chair of the board. The club’s official site lists Paul Allen’s estate as the owner, emphasizing the temporary nature of her leadership. The distinction between the role of “owner” — the principal shareholder — and “chair of the board,” who leads the board of directors, is important here: Jody Allen functions as chair, representing the trust that owns the team, providing stability and ensuring its objectives are carried out.

Despite the denial of an imminent sale, reports say the Seahawks’ potential value in a deal could reach $7–8 billion. That sum could set a new record valuation for an NFL franchise, reflecting the rising prices of sports assets.

Paul Allen bought the Seahawks in 1997 for $194 million to prevent the team from relocating to Los Angeles. His purchase was tied to the construction of a new stadium, later known as Lumen Field. That decision permanently secured his place in Seattle sports history. The construction of Lumen Field in 2002 catalyzed development in the SoDo industrial area, turning it into a major sports and entertainment hub, spurring the opening of bars and restaurants, improving transportation access, and creating jobs.

Jody Allen seldom appears in public, but she is actively involved in the club. Last week she raised the 12s flag before an important game and accepted the NFC championship trophy on behalf of the team and its devoted fans. The nickname “12s” or “12th Man” symbolizes fans as an extra force on the field and has become a central element of Seattle’s identity, uniting residents and strengthening civic pride.

Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald speaks highly of working with Jody Allen. He noted that they talk weekly after games and that her questions are always precise and help the team move in the right direction, implementing a shared vision for the club’s future.

The potential sale of the Seahawks is being viewed in the broader context of a large asset liquidation by Paul Allen’s estate. In recent years his superyacht, properties around the world, and an art collection have been sold for record sums. Proceeds have been directed to charitable causes.

Thus, despite periodic rumors, the current focus of the Seahawks’ leadership is fully on the upcoming Super Bowl. The question of selling the team, while likely inevitable in the long term, is on hold as the estate works to convert a vast fortune into support for science and technology through specially created funds.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seahawks say team ‘not for sale’ following report

Seattle plans to increase housing density to address the housing crisis

Seattle officials have put forward a new bill aimed at dramatically increasing the density of residential development in the city. The move is part of a long-term strategy to create at least 120,000 new homes over the next 20 years to meet growing demand and contain prices. The initiative would allow taller and larger multifamily buildings in key areas, primarily near transit corridors and in zones of active commercial activity.

Specifically, the bill would permit five- and six-story residential complexes in areas that currently allow only two- or three-story buildings. This would affect parts of Northgate, Ballard and Capitol Hill, for example. In other locations, such as the surroundings of the future Link Light Rail station at 130th Street, development would shift from predominantly single-family housing to significantly greater density. That transit-oriented development is intended to place the maximum amount of housing, jobs and services within walking distance of stations to reduce car use, cut emissions and make efficient use of major public investments in new transit infrastructure.

The plan places special emphasis on creating 30 new "neighborhood centers" in areas like Madrona, Maple Leaf and "East Ballard." These specially designated compact districts, typically around commercial streets or transit hubs, are meant to become pedestrian-friendly, mixed-use communities where denser housing is allowed and key services are concentrated. Their role is to distribute growth across the city, reduce car dependence and preserve the character of individual neighborhoods. The City Council already approved their boundaries last year, and this bill would establish the necessary land-use rule changes.

This phase is the second part of a major update to the city’s comprehensive plan, developed under former mayor Bruce Harrell, whose moderate, pragmatic approach emphasized partnership with developers and a gradual increase in housing supply. The administration of current mayor Jenny Durkan has supported moving the project forward to avoid delays, but her own, more progressive vision for housing policy—focused on strict affordable-housing requirements and tenant protections—will emerge later, in the third and fourth phases of the plan update scheduled for 2026 and 2027.

Mayor Durkan, whose campaign emphasized housing affordability, has not yet presented specific proposals for the next phases. They might include expanding higher-density zones beyond areas immediately adjacent to transit. Any such expansion, however, would require additional and lengthy environmental review.

Most new development in Seattle’s residential neighborhoods so far has taken the form of small additions and townhouses. That could change if building "multilevel apartments" becomes financially attractive for developers, enabling up to eight dwelling units on a single lot. Despite lawsuits from groups opposed to the densification policy, previous attempts to challenge similar decisions have not succeeded.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle City Council reviewing plan for more housing density

New Seattle center helps older adults live independently

In the historically diverse Beacon Hill neighborhood south of downtown Seattle—known for its multicultural population and strong sense of community—the Ron Chu Center for Healthy Aging and Well-Being has opened. Run by the nonprofit International Community Health Services (ICHS), the center offers older adults a rare model of comprehensive care. Founded in 1973, ICHS plays a key role in Seattle’s health system, providing affordable and culturally oriented services, especially for immigrants and low-income residents.

The center brings medical services, social support and recreation under one roof, as in the case of 74-year-old Tupu Siolo, who rides the bus here daily for classes and to meet friends. This model is called PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) and is designed to help people live independently as long as possible, avoiding moves to nursing homes. Experts say this approach is increasingly important given rising long-term care costs and staffing shortages in such facilities.

Funded through Medicare and Medicaid, the center covers a wide range of services: from physician and dental visits to physical therapy, therapeutic nutrition, transportation and even in-home care. Its opening allowed ICHS’s PACE program to increase enrollment from 100 to 400 people. Special emphasis is placed on culturally competent care for Asian and Pacific Islander communities, reflecting Seattle’s demographics where about 15% of the population comes from those regions. Multilingual staff and familiar food are included to ensure effective treatment, build trust and address historical disparities in care. The primary goal is to make “aging in place” easier.

Research shows most older adults prefer to stay in familiar environments, which supports social connections, reduces costs and benefits mental and physical health. For Tupu Siolo, who has chronic lung disease, regular classes have greatly improved his condition. Siolo, who used to be winded after walking half a block, can now walk three to four blocks without stopping. “Independent living. That’s what I wanted,” he says, noting the program gave him both confidence and opportunities.

The PACE model was formally established in the U.S. in 1997, but its roots go back to the 1970s in San Francisco. Despite proven effectiveness, the program remains relatively uncommon. In Washington state, about 1,850 people are served by PACE across four counties: King, Snohomish, Pierce and Spokane, chosen because of their sizable older populations and developed infrastructure.

The largest PACE provider in the state is Providence ElderPlace with roughly 1,470 participants. This program, part of the Providence system, differs from traditional hospitals or clinics by providing comprehensive services in one place, enabling older adults to stay at home. Its director, Brian Osborne, compares demand for their services to the size of the Starbucks network—so large is the need. Organizations take full financial responsibility for participants’ health, receiving a fixed monthly payment.

The approach is cost-effective. State data show PACE saves Medicaid about $131 per person per month. PACE participants are less likely to visit the emergency room, spend fewer days hospitalized and are less likely to be readmitted within 30 days of discharge.

Geriatrician Catherine Bennett of the UW Medical Center, part of the University of Washington and well regarded for geriatrics, praises the PACE model. Her students train in such centers to see the interdisciplinary approach. “It’s a great model to rethink care for frail older adults,” she says.

For families like Sam Lee’s, the program has been a lifeline. His elderly mother fell at night when he wasn’t home. After that incident they found PACE. Now she receives comprehensive care, has moved into adapted housing, her health has improved and even medication dosages have been reduced.

The Beacon Hill center is named for Ron Chu, a well-known community leader, historian and advocate for Seattle’s Asian American community, who long led the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI) and served as executive director of the International District. He chaired the ICHS foundation for a decade and helped raise funds for construction. Chu joked that he initially resisted the honor because he was “not dead yet,” but ultimately agreed.

Chu has long supported the idea of a community-based clinic, believing that isolating older adults in institutions harms their health and deprives society of the wisdom and stories of older generations. The center, he says, is “a win-win for our community, older adults and society at large.”

❮ ❯

Based on: New Seattle health center offers all-in-one care for older adults

Seattle schools strengthen protections against immigration raids

Last week four Seattle schools were forced into shelter-in-place mode because of unconfirmed rumors of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity nearby. The incident prompted Seattle Public Schools (SPS) leadership to quickly review and update protocols for responding to such reports to avoid unnecessary panic in the future and to be clear about how to respond.

The situation unfolds within the city’s long-standing “city of refuge” policy. That stance began to take shape in the 1980s, and in the 2000s the city council formally adopted ordinances barring city employees and police from asking about immigration status or cooperating with ICE without a court order. Since January the district has had a clear policy prohibiting ICE officers from accessing school buildings. Staff are instructed to meet agents at the door, request identification and immediately contact the principal and the legal department. Agents may enter a school only with a valid court order, which must be verified by the district’s attorneys. That policy remains unchanged.

The new protocols specifically address situations when there are reports of ICE activity near a school during school hours. Now any staff member who witnesses or receives such information must immediately notify the principal and file a report with the District Office of Safety. That office will assess potential risks and, if necessary, assemble a central rapid-response team.

Acting superintendent Fred Podesta acknowledged the difficulty of verifying such rumors. Previously the district could rely on information from local police, but now even police departments are often not notified about planned ICE operations. Despite that, SPS will work closely with the Seattle Police Department (SPD), the mayor’s office and community organizations to share resources and information. The district traditionally partners with nonprofits such as the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP), which provides legal help; OneAmerica, which advocates for immigrant rights; and the Latino Community Fund, which supports Latino families. These groups hold workshops in schools and help families navigate the law.

The updated access rules also apply to school buses. Asked about private transportation providers that work with the district, Podesta expressed confidence that they will observe the same protections. As for concerns that attendance might drop because of fear of immigration raids, there has been no statistically significant decline since the policy crackdowns began under the Trump administration.

The new superintendent, Ben Shuldiner, who takes office next week, emphasized the need for additional training for school leaders. He is known for his experience working in SPS and his focus on closing achievement gaps, including support for students from immigrant families. Shuldiner proposed training on situation assessment, legal issues and recognizing valid court orders. He also questioned whether last year’s shelter-in-place was necessary, given the strict rules already barring ICE agents from buildings.

The main goal of the updated protocols is not only to clearly outline actions but also to restore community trust. “The safest place for a child in America is the school,” Shuldiner said. “We must do everything so people believe that.” The district intends to use training and transparency to reduce fear and ensure a sense of safety for all students and their families.

❮ ❯

Based on: After ICE rumor scare, SPS updates protocols

Tragedy on Rainier: Remembering Two Passionate Climbers

This week the Pacific Northwest climbing community is mourning the loss of two experienced and devoted climbers — 35-year-old Ben Watson and 51-year-old Jiri Richter. Both died while ascending in Mount Rainier National Park, doing what they loved most. The 4,392-meter (14,411-foot) peak is not only the highest point in Washington state but also a cultural landmark visible from many parts of Seattle. The surrounding national park, a World Heritage site, protects unique ecosystems and serves locals as a place of spiritual connection with nature and climbers from around the world as an important training ground. Their friends and loved ones remember them not only as masters of their craft but also as remarkably warm and inspiring people, always ready to help others.

The climbers’ bodies were found by search teams in the Wilson Glacier area at roughly 2,900 meters (9,514 feet). According to the medical examiner, the cause of death was blunt-force trauma, and the incident has been classified as an accident. Park officials said the investigation into the circumstances is ongoing, leaving questions about what exactly happened on the slope.

Ben Watson, an ecologist by profession, lived in Seattle and had been passionately in love with the mountains since childhood, as he used to joke. He moved to Washington from Virginia drawn by job opportunities but stayed for the majestic scenery. That blend of career and active outdoor life is characteristic of Seattle, where many tech workers live by a “work hard, play hard” ethos, taking advantage of proximity to the Cascades, the ocean, and the forests. Last year was incredibly full for Ben: he summited roughly two dozen peaks worldwide, from Canada to Ecuador, and in October he married his longtime partner, Renee Hamzi.

According to his wife and friends, Ben was a person of boundless enthusiasm. He could be thrilled by a summit view even in a full-blown blizzard, loved playing online chess, and always joked by placing plastic dinosaurs at friends’ doors after tough climbs to “cure their dinosaur fatigue.” His friendliness and openness helped him find many climbing partners, including Jiri Richter.

Jiri Richter, a software architect, moved to Seattle from the Czech Republic more than twenty years ago. He was not only a climber but also a respected instructor and leader in the local organization The Mountaineers. This nonprofit, founded in 1906, plays a key role in the community as an educational and conservation-focused center, offering mountaineering and outdoor courses, publishing guides, and advocating for wilderness preservation. Jiri volunteered his knowledge to newcomers in one of the region’s oldest and most respected organizations. Behind his outward reserve was a dry wit, generosity (he often treated friends to homemade baked goods), and deep dedication to his pursuits.

Climbing partners described Richter as an exceptionally competent and cautious climber who knew how to balance safety and efficiency perfectly. He had climbed Rainier many times and knew the mountain well, making his death all the more unexpected and tragic to those who knew him.

Beyond climbing, Jiri was an active member of the Pacific Northwest paragliding community. That group of free-flight enthusiasts gathers at locations such as Tiger Mountain near Seattle, the hills around Chilan, and coastal sites known for favorable conditions. He also enjoyed kitesurfing and windsurfing. Jiri traveled widely, bringing back thrilling stories from places ranging from Morocco to the Alps. Friends noted that he lived a rich and inspiring life many envied.

Friends’ memories are full of warm, vivid details. Andrew Ellis, a frequent partner of Richter’s, recalled their last climb together last summer when they forged their own route. At the summit the usually reserved Jiri pulled him into a tight hug, a sign of deep mutual respect. And one climber on social media remembered how, in the most grueling and exhausting moments, Watson was often the only one smiling in the photos.

Their deaths have been a heavy blow to the whole community. The loss of such experienced, careful, and life-loving people is a harsh reminder of nature’s relentless power. Ben Watson and Jiri Richter leave behind not only lists of peaks they conquered but also bright memories in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to share a trail, a rock, or a moment with them.

❮ ❯

Based on: Men who died on Mount Rainier were prolific climbers

Seahawks: drones, sale and psychological warfare

News about the Seattle Seahawks ahead of the Super Bowl: fans saw a drone show, rumors of a club sale appeared after the final, and analysts suspect opponents of an information diversion.

Drone show in Seattle: how the Seahawks celebrate the road to the Super Bowl

Ahead of the NFL season's deciding game, Seattle Seahawks fans had the chance to witness a unique celebratory spectacle. The team organized an impressive drone show that took place Friday evening at Seattle Center. The event was a gift to fans and a symbol of support for the team before its departure to Santa Clara, where Super Bowl LX against the New England Patriots will soon take place.

Launched from the Mural Amphitheater at Seattle Center, the show was free and required no tickets, allowing a large crowd of supporters to gather. Organizers recommended arriving early to secure good spots on the lawn by the International Fountain, which offered the best view. The drones rose to heights of 60 to 120 meters (about 200–400 feet) near the famous Space Needle, creating dynamic light formations in the sky. For those who couldn't attend in person, KING 5 arranged an exclusive live broadcast of the show during its 6:30 p.m. evening newscast. Details on how to watch the show are available on the king5.com site: https://www.king5.com/article/sports/nfl/seahawks/watch-seattle-seahawks-drone-show-friday-seattle-center-king-5/281-cd1c2724-2666-4781-b10f-43e32ebd805e

The event underscores the growing popularity of drone shows as a high-tech, spectacular alternative to traditional fireworks. It not only gave fans vivid emotions but also served as an important part of pregame preparations, bringing the fan community together ahead of the decisive test. Such events demonstrate how modern technology is used to strengthen the bond between a team and its supporters, creating unforgettable moments in anticipation of the year's biggest sporting event.

End of an era: Seahawks to be put up for sale after the Super Bowl

Major changes are coming to the world of professional sports that could alter the face of one of the NFL's most recognizable franchises. According to information ESPN obtained from league sources and circles of team owners, the Seattle Seahawks will be put up for sale after Super Bowl LX. This would end years of uncertainty surrounding the team's future since the death of its former owner, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, in 2018.

Discussions of a possible sale have been taking place at ownership and league levels for at least the past week. Since Paul Allen's death from complications of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, both the Seahawks and the NBA's Portland Trail Blazers have been managed by his estate. Control of the assets is exercised by Allen's sister, Jody, who, as trustee, follows her brother's wishes: ultimately to sell both teams and direct the proceeds to charity. A representative of Paul Allen's estate, however, told ESPN that the team is not for sale and that the organization's focus now is on winning the Super Bowl and completing the sale of the Blazers in the coming months. He did confirm, though, that the sale of the Seahawks in accordance with Paul's wishes is only a matter of time.

Interestingly, the Seahawks have already passed the date after which a sale of the team would have required a 10% payment to the state of Washington. If the deal goes through, this would be the first time in the Super Bowl era that an entire team participating in the final would be put up for sale immediately afterward. Potential franchise valuations are record-setting. Sportico estimates the Seahawks at $6.59 billion, 14th in the league. But, according to an NFL executive cited by ESPN, the price could be between $7 and $8 billion, which would exceed the current NFL record of $6.05 billion paid by Josh Harris's group for the Washington Commanders in 2023. This rise is driven not only by the team's on-field success (playoffs in seven of the last ten seasons and their fourth Super Bowl appearance in franchise history) but also by the overall surge in the value of sports assets, as shown by a recent sale of a stake in the Los Angeles Lakers valuing the team at $10 billion.

Key assets of the franchise include not only a strong roster but also infrastructure. The Seahawks are based at the legendary Lumen Field, a stadium opposing players call one of the toughest places to play on the road, and which is set to receive nearly $20 million in upgrades ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In addition, the franchise prides itself on one of the league’s best GM-coach tandems — John Schneider and Mike Macdonald. It was Jody Allen who made the fateful decision to part ways with legendary coach Pete Carroll after the 2023 season, which opened the way for the current success. As Macdonald noted, during his interview for the job he was impressed by Jody's clarity of vision for the team's future, and she remains an incredibly supportive owner for him.

Although Jody Allen rarely gives interviews, her first public appearance came at Lumen Field after the NFC championship victory, where she dedicated the trophy to Seahawks fans — the "12th Man." In a July 2022 statement she emphasized that, while the teams had not been sold at that time, a sale was inevitable due to Paul’s philanthropic plans, and that resolving such a complex estate could take 10–20 years with no strict timeline. It now appears this process is entering its final stage. While the Blazers are already being sold to an investor group led by Tom Dundon for more than $4 billion, the Seahawks' future will be decided after the season's deciding game against the New England Patriots on February 8. This sale would not only close the Allen era in Seattle but also set a new benchmark for the value of sports businesses, affirming the NFL's status as the most financially powerful league in the world.

Did the Patriots try to knock the Seahawks off balance before the Super Bowl?

In the world of professional American football, where every psychological ploy is invaluable, a new controversy has flared ahead of Super Bowl LX. This is not about injuries or tactical schemes, but about potential "dirty work" off the field. Analyst Brock Huard, whose comment was published on Seattle Sports, made a sharp suggestion: the leak about a possible sale of the Seattle Seahawks after the championship game is nothing more than a diversion orchestrated by their opponents, the New England Patriots, aimed at creating an unhealthy atmosphere inside the rival camp before the decisive game.

Huard, a former NFL quarterback and experienced analyst, directly linked the leak to the Patriots' reputation and owner Robert Kraft, known for his willingness to do whatever it takes to win. "An NFL team that uses any means to win both on and off the field," he wrote on social media. Huard is convinced that the information about the sale was intentionally spread through media channels friendly to Kraft, who has many connections among team owners. According to the analyst, the tactic is meant to create unnecessary distractions and divert the Seahawks' focus from preparing for the most important game of the season. However, Huard believes the Seattle team has the character not to fall for the provocation, and perhaps this story will even become additional motivation to challenge the so-called "Patriot Way" — the win-at-all-costs philosophy associated with the New England club.

Shortly after the ESPN report was published, a representative of the Paul Allen trust, which owns the club after the owner's death in 2018, issued an official comment denying the rumors. "We do not comment on rumors or speculation, and the team is not for sale," the representative said. He confirmed that, in accordance with Paul Allen's wishes, the sale of the Seahawks and the Portland Trail Blazers is indeed expected in the future and that proceeds will go to charity (the Blazers deal was agreed in September). But right now the leadership's focus is solely on winning the Super Bowl. This official response, however, did not dispel suspicions of a deliberate leak.

Adding context is the Patriots' long-standing controversial reputation. Under Kraft and legendary coach Bill Belichick, the club achieved incredible success, winning six Super Bowls, but its fame has been marred by high-profile scandals. "Spygate" (2007) — illegal videotaping of opponents' coaching signals — and "Deflategate" (2015) — the controversy over underinflated game balls that led to heavy fines, the suspension of star quarterback Tom Brady, and loss of draft picks — resurfaced in the media this week. These episodes likely contributed to Belichick not being elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. Thus, accusations of off-field "dirty plays" fall on already fertile ground.

The key insight of this story is that the battle for the Super Bowl begins long before teams step onto the field. Psychological warfare, information management, and creating distractions to undermine an opponent's focus are integral parts of elite sports. Even if the Seahawks sale leak was not instigated by the Patriots, its appearance on the eve of the final prompts reflection on how media can be used as a pressure tool. For fans and neutral observers, it’s a reminder that beneath the shine and glory of the Super Bowl there are sometimes unsportsmanlike tactics. The implications for the Seahawks are twofold: on one hand they must maintain complete concentration on the game and tune out outside noise; on the other, they may gain an extra incentive to prove that fair play and team spirit can overcome any trick. The final will show whose strategy proves more effective: the Patriots' attempt to sow doubt, or the Seahawks' ability to turn the attempt into their advantage.

❮ ❯

Seattle Seeks Student Voices to Talk About the Future of Schools

The Seattle Times is inviting young writers from Washington state to take part in its annual Student Voices project. The initiative aims to give students a chance to speak up about how the public education system can be improved. The project has already proven its impact: student pieces from past years on mental health, educational inequity, and remote learning have been actively cited by local leaders and used to justify changes in school programs, directly influencing public debate and policy decisions. Participants in the new cohort will receive professional help with writing and will have their opinion essays published in the paper in spring or early summer.

This year’s prompt is: “How can schools best prepare students for their future?” Organizers ask students to reflect on what they imagine the future will look like and what knowledge is needed to meet it prepared. In their pieces, authors might address, for example, teaching generative artificial intelligence, combating misinformation, or preparing for a rapidly changing labor market.

Selected participants will join a cohort working with Education Lab editors — the paper’s special project dedicated to in-depth analysis and reporting on education in Seattle and Washington state. Writers will go through the entire process from idea to publication: developing a topic, editing their text with the support of peers and professionals, and taking part in monthly meetings. It’s important to note that contributors will be paid: each completed essay will earn at least $150, with the amount potentially increasing for additional work.

Applicants must be Washington state residents aged 14 to 22 who can meet deadlines and share personal stories in accordance with the paper’s rules. Minors will need a parent or guardian’s consent. The original application deadline has been extended, and interested students now have until February 16.

You can apply via the online form at st.news/studentvoices2026. Those looking for inspiration are advised to read past years’ essays at st.news/studentvoices. For questions, contact reporter Ryan Nguyen at rnguyen@seattletimes.com.

❮ ❯

Based on: Write for The Seattle Times’ Student Voices project

Washington surpasses 8 million residents amid nationwide drop in migration

According to the latest estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, the state of Washington has reached a significant demographic milestone: by July 1, 2025, its population exceeded 8 million people for the first time, totaling 8,001,020 residents. That result allowed the state to retain its 13th-place ranking by population in the country. The increase came from a population gain of roughly 73,000 people (nearly 1%) over the year.

By annual growth rate (about 1%), Washington ranked seventh among all states, behind the leader, South Carolina (1.5%). By absolute population increase (the same roughly 73,000 people), the state ranked sixth, trailing several fast-growing states in the South and Southwest such as Texas and Florida.

Notably, Washington’s population growth last year was driven by all three main components: natural increase (the difference between births and deaths), domestic migration (moves from other U.S. states), and international migration. This multi-faceted growth sets the state apart against a backdrop in which some states, for example California, are losing population.

Natural increase added about 17,000 people to the state’s population, the highest figure in the current decade. About 83,000 children were born in Washington over the year, while roughly 66,000 people died. Thus, the state was among 33 states where births exceeded deaths.

Domestic migration (moves from other states) played a smaller role, adding about 9,000 new residents. Although not a large number (16th in the country), it marks a sharp turnaround after several years of outflow driven by high housing costs in major cities, the shift to remote work, and social issues. Last year’s modest inflow is tied to employees returning to offices at tech companies and a stabilizing labor market. The largest contributions to population growth came from King County (home to Seattle), Snohomish, and Pierce counties, directly linked to the tech sector — companies like Amazon and Microsoft attract specialists — and to the growth of related industries such as biopharma and logistics. For example, growth in Bellevue and Redmond (Seattle suburbs) is driven by the IT cluster.

The primary driver of growth was international migration, which accounted for more than half of the total increase — about 46,000 new residents from abroad. By this measure, Washington ranked seventh in the U.S. Most international migrants arrive from India, China, the Philippines, and Mexico. Indian and Chinese professionals often work in the tech sector (software developers, engineers) on H-1B visas; Filipinos and Mexicans often work in health care (nurses), agriculture, and service industries. However, there is a paradox: compared with the previous year, the volume of international migration into the state and across the country fell sharply. Experts link this historic decline to reduced immigration to the U.S. and increased emigration from the country amid tighter immigration policies.

Over the long term, from 2020 to 2025, international migration remained the main source of Washington’s population growth, while the contribution from domestic migration was small and natural increase gradually weakened. At the national level, the U.S. population grew by 1.78 million over the year, approaching 342 million people.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA population hit 8M in 2025, while migration to the U.S. fell

Unusual Warmth Approaches Seattle

Next week, Seattle is expecting a spell of anomalously warm weather that could approach record values for late January and early February. Strikingly, the warming will begin on Saturday, Jan. 31, when temperatures are forecast to climb to 58°F (about 14°C). That date is the 76th anniversary of the city’s all-time cold record, when in 1950 the mercury fell to 0°F (-18°C). Residents will therefore face a stark contrast instead of the usual seasonal cold.

After a brief return to more typical temperatures on Sunday and Monday, a persistent ridge of high pressure is expected to build over the region starting Tuesday. That will bring dry, sunny conditions, with temperatures steady around 60°F (about 16°C). Forecasters note that the heat peak is expected on Wednesday, when the high could reach 60°F, just three degrees shy of the daytime record set many years ago.

This warm stretch will be a noticeable departure from the climate norm and may even prompt some residents to joke that it’s warmer in Seattle than in parts of Florida. Meteorologists advise enjoying the unexpected gift from nature and maybe even pulling out summer clothes for a test walk while the winter systems take a break.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle weather: A near-record warm streak approaches

Washington Senate Tightens Drunk-Driving Law

State Senate lawmakers in Washington approved a bill that would lower the legal blood-alcohol limit for drivers and operators of watercraft from the current 0.08% to 0.05%. The bill was introduced by Democratic Sen. John Lovick at the request of the state Traffic Safety Commission. Under the measure, the commission would also be required to design and carry out a broad public-awareness campaign to inform people about the new, stricter limits.

If the bill is finally passed, Washington would join Utah and become just the second state in the U.S. with such a low statutory limit. A 0.05% threshold is the standard in many countries worldwide, including Germany, Thailand and Australia. The Senate vote was narrow: 26 in favor and 23 opposed — the first success for the measure in its current form at the state-legislature level.

Supporters of the bill, mostly Democrats, argue it is needed to improve road safety and change driving culture. Sen. Lovick, a former patrol officer, said impairment begins with the first drink and that the state’s roads have become dangerous because of drunk drivers. His colleague, Sen. Jamie Pedersen of Seattle, wields significant influence as an experienced Democrat and chair of key committees. His backing underscores the seriousness of the initiative and boosts its chances of passage. Pedersen said the law sets a clear boundary meant to protect the lives of all residents and will end disputes about how much is acceptable to drink before driving.

The bill also covers operators of watercraft, which makes sense for a state with an extensive shoreline, numerous lakes — such as Washington and Union — and widespread use of boats, ferries and kayaks for daily travel, tourism and recreation.

However, many Republican lawmakers and a few Democrats opposed the measure. They questioned its effectiveness, arguing that most people arrested for drunk driving far exceed even the current limit. Sen. Jeff Holy, also a former police officer, said more aggressive patrolling and prosecution, rather than lowering the limit, are needed. Data cited include 809 traffic deaths in the state in 2023, with drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs involved in 409 of those cases.

The bill now goes to the Washington State House of Representatives. If it is approved there and then signed by the governor, the new rules would take effect July 1, 2026. That would give state agencies and the public time to prepare for the significant changes in law.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA Senate passes bill to lower legal drinking limit when driving

Washington awards $12M for EV charging stations after court victory

The state of Washington announced $12 million in funding to build a network of electric vehicle charging stations. The move became possible after a court victory in a dispute with the administration of former President Donald Trump, which had sought to block these Congress-approved funds. The awarded grants will help fill key gaps in the state's charging infrastructure.

The funds will finance 14 new stations with 96 charging ports. They will be located along major highways, including Interstate 90 and federal routes 97, 195 and 395, serving towns such as Ellensburg, Moses Lake, Pullman and Colville. Five private companies will handle installation and maintenance of the stations, which are expected to be operational within the next two years.

The funding is part of a larger $71.2 million allocation to Washington under the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021. However, in February 2025 the Trump administration notified states of its decision to rescind approved plans and freeze the funds. That prompted Washington to pause accepting applications from companies.

In response, Washington Attorney General Nic Brown, joined by counterparts from 13 other states, sued the federal government, arguing the funds had been withheld unlawfully. A federal judge in Seattle, which hosts a U.S. district court with jurisdiction over the western part of the state, sided with the states. He ruled that the Trump administration had violated the law and ordered the funding restored. The court also barred the U.S. Department of Transportation from interfering with the allocation of these funds in the future. Cases like this against the federal administration are often heard in major regional centers such as Seattle, rather than necessarily in the nation’s capital.

The project's implementation will significantly improve EV travel options across the state. Meanwhile, the Washington Department of Transportation is already preparing for a second round of funding to expand charging infrastructure along other key corridors. Priority will be Interstate 5, the state's main transportation artery that connects the largest cities (Seattle, Tacoma, Olympia) with neighboring states and Canada. Its development is critical for the economy, freight movement and residents’ daily commutes, and federal funding will help modernize infrastructure and support regional economic growth.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA awards $12 million for 96 EV chargers after tussle with Trump administration

Seattle: from homelessness to the Super Bowl

In Seattle, a vacant lot could be turned into a hub for homeless people with tiny houses. The city was found liable in the death of a teenager over an unsafe property. And the Seattle Seahawks changed their approach and are again contenders for the Super Bowl.

Vacant lot in West Seattle could become a tiny-home and RV hub

Seattle officials are considering turning an abandoned industrial parcel in West Seattle into a large temporary housing hub for people experiencing homelessness, including tiny homes and parking for recreational vehicles. While the project is in an early stage, it reflects growing pressure tied to the homelessness crisis in the area.

According to documents filed with city authorities on January 16, the site at 7201 Second Avenue Southwest is proposed as a faith-based emergency transitional housing facility. The plan includes 20 tiny houses and parking spaces for up to 72 recreational vehicles (RVs). As noted in the article on KING5.com, this scale reflects the severity of the problem in West Seattle, where, officials say, RV encampments with people living in them are concentrated more than in any other part of the city. Councilmember Rob Saka, who represents the district, confirmed that his district has “the largest number of RV camps,” roughly three times more than the next-highest district.

It’s important to understand that the project is far from realized. As the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections explains, the submitted documents are part of a pre-application process. Formal permits have not yet been requested, the project is not under active review, and it is not approved. Saka clarified that discussions about creating safe RV parking and transitional housing facilities in the district began more than a year ago under the previous mayoral administration, in coordination with the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (KCRHA). Those conversations are continuing under the new administration.

If the project moves forward, the Low Income Housing Institute (LIHI) would manage the site; LIHI already has experience with similar housing solutions. Saka emphasized that LIHI’s operations would be subject to city oversight because the organization receives public funding. The parcel has a long history in planning discussions: in 2008 it was considered as a possible site for a new city jail, and in 2016 then-mayor Ed Murray suggested it as one of two potential safe parking locations.

Councilmember Saka describes the current proposal as a practical step to address the unsafe conditions in which people live in RV encampments. “This new site seems like a reasonable solution to help people get under a roof,” he said. “I hope many of our homeless neighbors living in RV camps across the county will be able to move into this new space.” Thus, the project represents an attempt to find a structural solution to one of the most visible and challenging forms of homelessness in the city, offering an alternative to informal parking lots. However, its fate will depend on further administrative decisions, the approval process, and likely the reaction of the local community.

Court finds Seattle liable in teen’s death: case overview

In Seattle, a court delivered a verdict in a high-profile case, finding the city liable in the death of a teenager. The decision caps a lengthy legal process and, as KIRO 7 News Seattle reports, could have significant consequences for the municipality.

The court found that city officials failed to ensure proper safety at one of their properties, which directly led to the tragic incident. Although details of the incident itself are not disclosed in the excerpt provided, the context indicates this was a case where deficiencies in the infrastructure or maintenance of city property resulted in a minor’s death. Notably, the piece begins by mentioning a separate tragic incident in Texas, where three brothers died after falling through ice on a pond during a winter storm. That serves as an example of how hazardous conditions for which local authorities or property owners are responsible can lead to irreversible outcomes. In Seattle’s case, the city’s legal liability means the court found a direct causal link between the municipality’s actions (or inaction) and the teen’s death. Such cases often involve the doctrine of premises liability — the legal principle that requires property owners (including cities) to maintain their property safely for visitors. If it is shown that a dangerous condition was known or should have been known to authorities and they failed to remedy it, civil liability follows.

A key takeaway from this ruling is its precedent: it underscores courts’ increasing strictness toward municipalities regarding the safety of public spaces. For the city, this entails not only possible compensation to the victim’s family but also likely a review of inspection and maintenance protocols across city properties — from parks and bodies of water to roads and buildings — to prevent similar tragedies in the future. For affected families, such verdicts are painful but important steps toward acknowledging mistakes and obtaining justice. While the excerpt does not include direct quotes from the ruling or family representatives, the fact that the city was found “liable” speaks to the weight of the evidence presented at trial. In the long run, this case could lead to stricter regulations and increased budget allocations for safety measures in Seattle and other cities seeking to avoid similar lawsuits and, more importantly, further loss of life.

How the Seahawks changed to contend for the Super Bowl again

Over the past 15 years, the Seattle Seahawks have been one of the NFL’s most consistently competitive teams, repeatedly stating their singular goal of winning the Super Bowl. Yet this current roster is the first in 11 years that truly looks like a championship contender. What’s the secret behind the transformation? Analysis shows the keys were strategic investments in the offensive and defensive lines, finally aligning play with the team’s stated philosophy, and a qualitative jump in personnel acquisition.

For years the Seahawks posted bright but scattered achievements: best rushing attack in the league in 2018, the top scoring defense in 2015, record-scoring offense in 2020. But that wasn’t enough for a championship breakthrough. The turning point was a deliberate strengthening of the “trenches” — the lines of scrimmage. As noted in an analysis for Seattle Sports, the team used relatively low draft positions (16th and 18th overall in the first round) to take defensive tackle Byron Murphy II and guard Ryan Zabel. That paid off: pressure on quarterback Sam Darnold was significantly reduced (just 27 sacks on the season versus 48 on his previous team), and the defensive line became one of the franchise’s strongest ever. In American football, the “trenches” refer to the offensive and defensive lines — the groups of biggest players whose battles at the line of scrimmage determine the success of both the run and the pass game.

Equally important is that the team’s play finally matched its long-standing philosophy advocated by legendary coach Pete Carroll: emphasis on the run and a balanced attack. Previously, this was undermined by contradictions: a desire to run the ball combined with large contracts for wide receivers and insufficient investment in the offensive line. This season, despite early struggles, the offense under coordinator Kubiak showed persistence, ranking in the top five in the league for rushing attempts per game and building strong momentum late in the regular season. The key was stubborn adherence to the chosen course.

Finally, the team made a qualitative leap in talent level, recognized by the “Executive of the Year” award for general manager John Schneider. Despite lacking a superstar pass rusher on the level of Myles Garrett, the Seahawks’ defense—thanks to cohesive play and standout players like Devon Witherspoon and Leonard Williams—ranked among the league leaders in sacks and quarterback pressure. This demonstrates that cohesion and sound system play can compensate for the absence of a single dominant player. Thus, the Seahawks’ path to the final is not a story of a sudden miracle but of consistent strategic building that finally produced a synergistic effect, turning a perennial contender into a genuine favorite.

❮ ❯

Washington voters to decide parents' rights in schools

Residents of Washington state will likely get a chance to vote in the November election on an initiative that would substantially expand parents' rights in public schools. Initiative IL26-001 seeks to revise and broaden the existing law known as the “Parental Bill of Rights.” If approved, it would roll back changes the state legislature made to the law last year that proponents say limited families’ influence over their children’s education.

The specific proposed changes include expanding the list of school records parents can access and giving parents the right to opt their children out of a greater number of instructional activities. Those activities could cover topics such as sexuality, religion, or mental health. In addition, schools would be required to notify parents immediately if their child is involved in the commission of a crime.

The initiative is being promoted by the conservative political group Let’s Go Washington, founded in 2023 and funded largely by businessman Brian Heyworth. The group, connected to a broader conservative movement in the state and receiving support from the Republican Party, presents itself as nonpartisan and focused on specific issues. It has already collected and submitted more than 416,000 signatures to the secretary of state’s office for verification. Heyworth has said the measure is intended to restore a simple and indisputable standard: parents are the primary stakeholders in raising their child. A preliminary check of signatures showed a high rate of valid entries.

Notably, this is the second Let’s Go Washington initiative to make the November ballot. The first, IL26-638, would prohibit transgender students from participating in girls’ sports competitions in the state’s schools. Top Democratic lawmakers in the state, including Senate majority leader Andy Billig, have already said they will not take up these initiatives in the legislature and will send them straight to voters in November. As a Democrat, Billig typically supports public funding for education but has expressed caution about some extreme measures to control curricula, balancing family involvement with professional standards.

At the same time, another fight is playing out in the state legislature over rules for placing such citizen initiatives on the ballot. A group of Democrats has proposed bills that would, among other things, ban paying signature gatherers based on the number of signatures collected and require a mandatory pre-filing collection of 1,000 signatures. Opponents of these measures call them “initiative killers.”

Not only activists but also some officials oppose tightening the rules. Secretary of State Steve Hobbs, whose office is responsible for reviewing initiative language, coordinating signature collection, and placing measures on the ballot, said he opposes the new bills because his office has already created an efficient system. He noted that the number of “frivolous initiatives” has already dropped significantly after the filing fee was raised in 2024. Hobbs, a Democrat, is obligated to perform his duties neutrally despite any personal views.

Let’s Go Washington spokesperson Halley Hertzberg cites the successful certification of the group’s two current initiatives as her primary argument. She says that fact disproves supporters of tighter rules who assert that “paid signature gatherers sacrifice quality for quantity.” Thus, the November vote will be decisive not only for the specific laws but also for the future of the initiative process itself in the state.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA voters could revise parental ‘bill of rights’ this November

Washington Senate bans police from hiding their faces

The Washington State Senate approved a bill that prohibits law enforcement officers from concealing their faces with masks or other opaque coverings while performing public duties. The measure, which sparked heated debate, is aimed primarily at federal immigration enforcement agents (ICE), whose masked actions, the bill’s sponsors say, have spread fear among residents.

Supporters of the bill, mostly Democrats, say it is necessary to ensure police transparency and accountability. They point to recent incidents involving masked ICE agents who, they say, terrorized families, especially in immigrant communities. "We do not have secret police. We have a democracy," said Democratic Senator Jesse Salomon.

Republican lawmakers opposed the measure, arguing that a strict ban could put officers at risk and does not account for real operational scenarios such as serving warrants or emergency response. They proposed a number of amendments allowing masking in specific cases, but all of those amendments were rejected.

The bill passed on third reading strictly along party lines: 30 votes "yea" from Democrats versus 19 "nay" from Republicans. As an enforcement mechanism, the bill provides citizens the right to file civil lawsuits against an officer who violated the ban, with the possibility of recovering damages. However, no direct disciplinary measures are spelled out in the text.

Governor Bob Ferguson and Attorney General Nicholas Brown actively support the initiative. Governor Ferguson, a progressive Democrat and former state attorney general, has consistently advocated for immigration reform and limits on local cooperation with federal immigration authorities. He said the state is prepared to take legal action against ICE if the rights of Washington residents are violated. "We must use every available tool to protect residents," Brown emphasized.

The bill is part of a broader legislative response to federal immigration enforcement actions in the state. A similar measure is being considered in the House of Representatives, and a more radical "ICE Out Act" has been introduced aimed at strengthening the state's sanctuary policies. That bill would limit local jails' and law enforcement agencies' interactions with ICE by banning cooperation in the detention and deportation of undocumented immigrants except in cases covered by a judicial warrant.

The bill banning masks now goes to the Washington State House. If approved by both chambers, it will go to the governor for signature. Thanks to an "emergency clause," a procedure that accelerates a law’s effective date when the governor declares an emergency, it could take effect immediately upon signing. Such a clause is typically used for urgent matters related to public safety or natural disasters.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA Senate passes bill barring masked law enforcement

Police chase on I-5 causes multi-mile backups

Early Wednesday morning, a serious crash occurred on the northbound lanes of Interstate 5 near Federal Way, triggering multi-mile backups after a police chase. To stop a vehicle whose driver attempted to flee following contact with officers at a rest area, police deployed spike strips, which led to a collision and the closure of the right lane. Traffic was fully restored by 7:20 a.m.; two people were arrested, and, fortunately, no one was injured in the incident.

❮ ❯

Based on: Northbound I-5 near Federal Way reopens after police chase, crash

A Walk with Four-Legged Clients in Seattle

In the Loyal Heights neighborhood of Seattle, professional dog walker Annpatrice “Fancy” Beers set out with four pets: River, Rusty, Kai and Mattie. Beers explained that Kai and Mattie are her clients’ dogs, while the other two belong to her personally. Notably, on Wednesday all four will be sporting special dog raincoats, a nod to the region’s typical rainy weather and a little local color added to this simple but sweet everyday scene.

❮ ❯

Based on: A stroll through the neighborhood

US federal regulators approve disputed energy project on sacred Indigenous land

Federal regulators in the United States have approved a highly contested pumped-storage hydropower project on the banks of the Columbia River, intensifying a long-standing conflict between the push for "green" energy and Indigenous rights. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued a 40-year license for the Goldendale Energy Storage project despite years of opposition from tribal nations and environmental groups. Historically, the Columbia River — the largest in the Pacific Northwest — has been the backbone of hydropower development, providing cheap electricity for industry and agriculture. Today its cascade of dams produces about 40% of the region’s hydropower, remaining a key economic asset for the state of Washington.

The proposal from Rye Development is a large-scale "water battery" designed to support intermittent wind and solar generation. It would create two reservoirs connected by an underground tunnel to pump water and generate up to 1,200 megawatts of electricity — enough to power roughly 500,000 homes.

The construction site, known as Pushpum, is sacred land for the Yakama people — a federally recognized tribe with sovereign status that owns a large reservation in southern Washington. For millennia the site has been used to gather food and medicinal plants and to hold ceremonies. The land was ceded to the federal government under an 1855 treaty, but the Yakama retained rights to traditional resource use and remain active in state politics defending their treaty rights.

To the Yakama, Pushpum is a living cultural landscape — "the mother of all roots" and a natural seed bank, not merely a point on a map. Of particular importance is the gathering of "first foods" — traditional foods such as salmon and roots that are the first to be harvested each season. This ritual symbolizes the connection to the land and ancestors and is a core element of cultural identity. Tribal leaders say the project would effectively destroy the site, depriving future generations of the foundations of their cultural and religious identity that have sustained them "since time immemorial."

In a statement, the Yakama called the FERC decision a manifestation of systemic disregard for treaty rights and spiritual practices of Indigenous peoples. Tribal representatives accuse the developer of using legal loopholes and refusing constructive dialogue about the project’s destructive effects on cultural resources. The decision is another chapter in a long and painful history in which the region’s energy needs were met at the expense of Indigenous communities in the Columbia Basin. Past construction of large dams in the last century flooded villages, destroyed fishing grounds, and caused catastrophic declines in salmon populations.

Official expert assessments acknowledge that the Goldendale project would have a "substantial and unavoidable adverse effect" on the tribe’s cultural resources as well as on rare species like golden eagles and unique plants. The federal advisory council on historic preservation has previously criticized FERC for missed opportunities to collaborate with tribes. The conflict over this project is not unique: in recent years Washington state and neighboring regions have seen other contested energy initiatives, including coal export terminals, wind farms, and pipelines that affect Indigenous lands and interests.

Developer-proposed mitigation measures, such as providing alternative lands for gathering "first foods," have only heightened tensions. For the Yakama, the notion that a sacred place can be "replaced" by another parcel reflects deep cultural misunderstanding.

Rye Development insists it has tried to address some tribal concerns by moving the location of the upper reservoir and designing much of the infrastructure underground. The company describes the Goldendale site as among the best in the region from an engineering perspective for projects of this type.

Supporters of the project also stress its economic potential for Klickitat County — a region with a constrained economy historically reliant on timber and agriculture, where unemployment often runs above average. Estimates say construction would create about 3,000 temporary jobs, dozens of permanent positions, and generate more than $10 million in annual revenue for the county — a rare opportunity for economic revitalization.

However, before construction can begin — likely not before 2027 — the project must clear several significant legal and bureaucratic hurdles, including appeals of state permits and potential federal lawsuits from tribes.

While the company prepares to move forward, the Yakama are backing state legislative efforts in Washington aimed at reforming the energy siting process. Those initiatives seek to strengthen environmental standards, ensure Indigenous interests are considered earlier in planning, and better protect their rights amid the "green" energy boom.

❮ ❯

Based on: Federal energy regulators OK pumped-storage project on Columbia River

Sports and Business: Seattle News

Legendary Mariners broadcaster Rick Rizzs announced he will retire after the 2026 season. The club confirmed a stable broadcast-team lineup for the season. At the same time, Expedia Group announced it will lay off 162 Washington-state employees as part of a restructuring.

Seattle legend Rick Rizzs announces retirement after 2026 season

An emotional announcement from legendary Seattle Mariners broadcaster Rick Rizzs that the 2026 season will be his last marked an important milestone not only for him but for the club's fans. In an interview with MLB.com, the veteran—whose voice has been an integral part of Seattle summers for decades—shared his feelings and hopes for his farewell season.

Rizzs said he had considered retiring after last season, but two things made him delay his departure. First, the Mariners came closer than ever last year to reaching the World Series—the MLB's ultimate playoff series. That near miss fueled his desire to stay and try again. Second, he wanted his farewell to be intentional and public, not a sudden exit. He wants to share his final season with the people he has been describing baseball to all these years. His farewell-season plan is already set: Rizzs will call all 81 Mariners home games, while his schedule for road games will be reduced. In two weeks he will join the team for spring training in Arizona to begin his penultimate season on the job.

For those unfamiliar with baseball terminology: the World Series is the final playoff series of Major League Baseball (MLB) that determines the season's champion. The Mariners are one of the few teams that have never won the title, and the pursuit of that goal is central to players, coaches and fans. Spring training is the preseason camp where teams prepare for the regular season.

This announcement goes beyond a simple change in the broadcast booth. Rizzs’s voice is the soundtrack of summer—for wins and losses and the club’s history—for many generations of fans. His decision to stay, driven by the hope of a championship, adds a deeply personal layer of motivation for the entire team in the coming seasons. Fans and players now have a clear and emotional goal: “Win it for Rizzs.” His farewell season will be more than a string of games; it will be a long, poignant goodbye to a man who was the voice of hope and passion for baseball in Seattle for nearly four decades. It’s a story of devotion, unfinished peaks, and the desire to leave behind not just memories but possibly a championship legacy.

Mariners announce broadcast team for 2026 season

In baseball, news about broadcast crews often attracts as much interest as trade rumors, because those voices become part of the summer for fans. The Seattle Mariners made an important announcement confirming that familiar and beloved commentators and analysts will return for 2026, even as one of the team’s primary voices prepares for his final season behind the microphone.

As reported by Seattle Sports, the key figure in the announcement is Rick Rizzs, the legendary caller for whom the upcoming season will be his 41st and final with the Mariners. Rizzs, whose tenure with the club is the longest on record, will remain the lead radio voice but will gradually reduce his participation and hand off duties. His colleague Aaron Goldsmith, who has been with the team for 14 seasons, will continue as the lead television voice, providing continuity and broadcast quality. Angie Mentink, whose experience covering the club approaches 30 years, will continue as an analyst on both TV and radio and will participate in pre- and postgame programming, underscoring her multifaceted role in the broadcast.

Former Mariners players familiar to fans will return to the analyst team. Ryan Rowland-Smith, a former Mariners pitcher who now also works for MLB Network, will serve as an analyst for selected games. Notably, Jay Buhner, a Mariners Hall of Famer who returned to the airwaves last season after more than a decade away, will again join the team as a television analyst for select games. Dave Valle, who also contributes to MLB Network, will continue his role as a television analyst. It’s worth noting that Brad Adam, who covered the Mariners for ROOT Sports for 26 seasons (that network ceased broadcasting at the end of 2025), will now join the team working on TV pre- and postgame shows. Gary Hill Jr., the radio executive producer and engineer, will expand his duties this season to include radio commentary, partially offsetting Rizzs’s reduced participation. Radio broadcasts will continue to air on Seattle Sports 710 AM and the Mariners’ radio network.

This announcement not only confirms broadcast stability but also signals a transitional period tied to the departure of a key figure like Rick Rizzs. His farewell season will likely be an emotional event for fans raised on his calls. At the same time, the club shows a balance between veteran experience—such as Buhner and Valle—and the creation of new roles, as with Hill. Buhner’s return after a long break and Adam’s inclusion after ROOT Sports’ closure show how the Mariners value ties to the past while adapting to changes in the media landscape. For fans, it means that in 2026 they can still expect high-quality, expertise-rich, and nostalgic game coverage—especially important alongside other positive club developments, such as acquiring promising players and having seven prospects in MLB Pipeline’s top 100.

Layoffs at Expedia: restructuring amid growth

Following recent cuts at Amazon, another major Seattle tech company has announced significant layoffs. Expedia Group, a global leader in online travel booking, will lay off 162 Washington-state employees in April, reflecting continued optimization across the sector despite strong company financials.

According to a notice filed with the Washington State Employment Security Department, permanent layoffs at Expedia Group will affect state employees between April 1 and 19. The layoffs will impact both employees at the company’s headquarters in the Interbay area of Seattle and a number of remote Washington-based workers. Affected roles include content designers, data engineers, directors, product managers and software engineers. Part of the reductions, the WARN notice (Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification) states, is related to “the relocation or outsourcing of Expedia operations or employee positions.” A company spokesperson told The Seattle Times this is part of organizational changes: “We are eliminating some roles and opening others as we maintain discipline in evaluating the skills we will need in the future. We are also simplifying our structure and reducing organizational layers to move faster and with more accountability.”

Interestingly, LinkedIn painted a mixed picture amid these layoffs. On one hand, numerous posts appeared from affected employees. Shannon Riddle, a senior user research manager from Seattle, wrote: “After 7 years I was impacted by Expedia layoffs today.” Daniel Buffington, a program manager from Missouri, said: “After more than a decade solving hard problems with great people at Expedia, my role was recently eliminated as part of organizational changes.” Both profiles are now marked “open to work.” On the other hand, Expedia recruiters were actively advertising open roles on LinkedIn. The company’s careers page listed 271 available positions at the time of publication, including 118 in the U.S., 61 in India and 26 in the U.K. This contrast highlights the company’s strategy of “reprofiling” staff—cutting some positions while hiring for others that may better align with new priorities.

Founded in 1996 and owning brands like Hotels.com and Vrbo, Expedia Group bills itself as “one of the world’s largest online travel companies.” Its 2024 annual report to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) showed about 16,500 employees across nearly 50 countries, with half in tech roles. These are not the company’s first cuts: last year, 3% of the global workforce was eliminated. Notably, these measures come despite strong financial results. For the third quarter of 2025 (company reporting often leads the calendar year), Expedia reported revenue of $4.4 billion, up 9% year over year, and net income of $959 million, an impressive 40% year-over-year increase.

However, as The Seattle Times notes, Expedia faces a tough competitive environment. The company not only competes with other online travel agencies and lodging aggregators like Booking.com and Airbnb, but also directly with hotels, airlines, car rentals and even search engines like Google, which are increasingly moving into travel services. In that context, the “simplifying of structure and reduction of organizational layers” cited by management may be an attempt to boost operational efficiency and speed up decision-making to better compete in a dynamic market. Thus, the Expedia layoffs reflect a wider trend in tech, where even profitable companies restructure to optimize costs, reallocate resources toward new strategic goals, and adapt to rapidly changing market conditions—moves that nevertheless have immediate human consequences for hundreds of employees and their families.

❮ ❯

Washington bill would restore aid for private college students

A bipartisan bill is under consideration in the Washington state legislature aimed at reversing a planned cut to state financial aid for students attending private nonprofit colleges in the state. The initiative, proposed by Senator T'wina Nobles, seeks to undo changes made last year as part of tight budget compromises. The senator’s personal experience as a graduate of the private University of Puget Sound and her political career, including service on the school board, shape her legislative priorities focused on educational equity and increasing support for low-income students.

Under those changes, beginning in the 2026–27 academic year the maximum annual aid for private college students will drop from more than $9,000 to just over $6,000. Lawmakers estimate this will affect more than 12,000 students statewide. The new bill would not only prevent those cuts but would set the maximum award equal to the average state grant for universities.

Supporters of the bill, including a consortium of private colleges that includes institutions such as the University of Puget Sound, Seattle University, University of Puget Sound-Tacoma and Whitworth University, argue the cuts will disproportionately hit low-income students, first-generation students and minorities. These colleges supplement the public higher education system by offering alternative programs, often with an emphasis on the liberal arts, and serving students who might not enroll at large public universities. Many of these students choose small campuses for location, specialty programs or access to support services. Senator Nobles emphasizes that this aid was intended for precisely the socially vulnerable students.

However, the bill faces resistance from representatives of public universities. They argue that, given a limited budget, the state should prioritize restoring funding to its own institutions rather than directing funds toward a specific group of students. They also point out that tuition in public institutions is regulated by the state, while private colleges can set their own prices. Washington’s budget constraints are exacerbated by the absence of a state income tax, making revenues dependent on sales and corporate taxes. Fluctuations in the region’s key technology sector affect tax receipts, creating instability in education funding and intensifying disputes over the allocation of scarce resources.

The bill’s author, Senator Nobles, insists the issue should not be framed as a choice between the public and private sectors. She says she stands for all students regardless of where they study, reflecting her belief in the importance of affordable education. The bill has passed the higher education committee and has been sent to the budget committee, where its future remains uncertain.

Restoring the funding would cost the state budget more than $33 million over two years. Senator Nobles proposes using money from a special state education trust fund to pay for it. Against the backdrop of ongoing budget constraints tied to the state’s revenue structure, the debate reflects a broader argument about priorities in allocating public resources for education.

❮ ❯

Based on: This bill would restore aid for WA students at private universities

Chance for Seahawks fans to win Super Bowl tickets

Fans of the Seattle Seahawks will get a unique chance to win tickets to the upcoming Super Bowl LX. Beer brand Bud Light, an official NFL partner, will host a special event for fans aged 21 and over this Sunday, Feb. 1, at Lumen Field. The stadium, located in the SoDo neighborhood south of downtown next to T-Mobile Park, is not only home to the Seahawks and MLS’s Seattle Sounders but also an important concert venue for artists like Metallica and Beyoncé, as well as a center for expos and charity runs, making it a significant economic driver for the whole area. Participants will be able to compete for hundreds of kegs of beer that will be given away as prizes.

The grand prize of the lottery will thrill any fan: two tickets to the Super Bowl itself, which will be held at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. The winner will also receive three nights’ hotel accommodations and a $1,500 digital gift card to cover travel expenses. Registration for the event will begin at 11 a.m. at North Lot, Gate 2, and the kegs will be located in sections 108–110. Pre-registration on the sponsor’s website is required to participate.

Bud Light has prepared an extra surprise: if the Seahawks win the Super Bowl, there will be a victory parade in the champion city. Legendary team players—such as Super Bowl XLVIII champion quarterback Russell Wilson, safety Kam Chancellor, Hall of Fame receiver Steve Largent, or linebacker Bobby Wagner—will be pouring beer for fans along the parade route, continuing the tradition begun at the 2014 parade after the team’s previous championship. Recall that the Seattle Seahawks, having convincingly won their conference’s decisive game, are considered favorites in the upcoming matchup against the New England Patriots.

Thus, fans have a great opportunity not only to have fun but also to get a chance to be at the biggest sporting event of the year. Full participation details and current announcements can be found on the official Bud Light promotion website.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seahawks fans, want Super Bowl tickets? Here’s how you can win some

Seattle expands healthy food program to help thousands of families

Seattle officials announced a major expansion of the Fresh Bucks affordable healthy food program. More than 4,500 families were moved from the waiting list to active participants, and the program remains open for new applications. As of January 1, the monthly benefit for low-income households has been increased from $40 to $60, and benefits for those already enrolled in 2025 have been extended for an additional year. The program is funded by the city’s sweetened beverage tax.

The Fresh Bucks program provides monthly benefits to purchase fruits and vegetables at more than 45 participating stores and farmers markets. Eligibility is available to households with incomes at or below 80% of the regional median, which—for example—equals about $109,000 a year for a three-person household. You can apply to be added to the waiting list on the official website. More than 70% of recipients are from communities that face disproportionately high levels of diet-related illness and food insecurity due to limited access to stores, well-paying jobs, and transportation.

A University of Washington study confirms the program’s effectiveness. According to the data, households participating in Fresh Bucks show 31% higher levels of food security. They also are 37% more likely to consume at least three servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Research shows that increased access to healthy food reduces the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and other health threats, making the program an important public health tool.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle ushers thousands more into Fresh Bucks program for healthy food

Starbucks delights investors with a strong quarter

Starbucks reported excellent financial results for the first quarter, beating analysts' expectations. The coffee chain's revenue rose 6% to $9.9 billion, and same-store sales increased 4% — the company's best U.S. performance in two years. Starbucks shares jumped more than 9%, helped by popular holiday drinks and frenzied demand for $30 bear-shaped glass mugs that sold out almost immediately.

The growth came amid large investments by Starbucks to modernize its stores: the company is hiring additional staff, upgrading equipment and aiming to create a cozier atmosphere. However, these improvements, along with coffee tariffs, are putting pressure on profitability. Adjusted earnings per share were $0.56, slightly below analysts' forecast of $0.59.

Notably, the positive traffic trend in the U.S. persisted despite a strike by more than a thousand unionized Starbucks workers. The protest was timed to the "Red Cup Day" — one of the busiest days of the year, when the company traditionally hands out free reusable cups to holiday drink customers. The strike led to temporary closures of some locations but failed to derail the overall strong quarter.

❮ ❯

Based on: Holidays and a viral bear cup drive strong quarterly sales at Starbucks

Bill to raise pay for Washington school board members

A bill is under consideration in the Washington state legislature that aims to modernize compensation for school board members. The initiative, the first in nearly 40 years, would increase their daily stipend, require mandatory financial training and reimburse childcare costs during meetings. Supporters say the changes would improve school district governance.

The main goal is to make service on school boards more accessible. Bill sponsor Sen. Adrian Cortes says that boards are often populated by wealthy or retired people. The new rules are intended to allow middle‑income residents to serve, bringing their life experience and a broader range of perspectives to governance.

Specifically, the daily stipend could rise from $50 to $100, and the annual cap could increase to $13,750 from the current $4,800. In addition, compensation would be reviewed every five years to account for inflation. The intent is to cover board members’ costs such as lost wages from taking time off, travel to meetings or paying for childcare. The workload for a board member in a large district like Seattle can be comparable to a full‑time job and includes approving multi‑million‑dollar budgets, hiring leadership, setting policy and attending dozens of meetings each month.

The primary sticking point has been the proposed funding source — surplus funds from local school levies. Critics, including taxpayer groups, call that unlawful and a crude diversion of money raised for enrichment programs and student activities. The issue is particularly acute for poor districts that struggle to raise even basic funding and cannot easily increase levies, while wealthier districts such as Bellevue collect substantial surpluses. This system of local property tax levies has historically created inequality between districts, and reallocating those funds is viewed as a fairness issue that has sparked resistance in affluent areas.

A separate question is paying for the mandatory financial training for board members, which supporters say is necessary for responsibly overseeing nearly half of the state budget. In a budget shortfall, money for that training may not be immediately available. Sen. Cortes concedes that the training could be rolled out with a delay, potentially next year.

The Washington State School Directors’ Association (WSSDA), which would be tasked with organizing the training, generally supports the bill’s goals. The association, which represents and trains elected board members across the state, plays a key role in shaping education policy, speaking with a unified voice to lawmakers and exerting significant influence on such initiatives. WSSDA representatives note that most board members already decline the stipend, but increasing pay could attract new people. The association also shares concerns about funding from local levies and asks for more time to develop the courses.

It’s important to emphasize that the bill does not require districts to raise pay but merely allows them to raise it up to the new cap. The decision remains with local communities that vote on levies and must determine what constitutes fair compensation for their elected officials. This is a matter of local control, and the state’s political geography heavily influences positions. Urban and suburban districts in western Washington with higher incomes may oppose the bill because of the risk to their local levies, while rural and less affluent districts east of the Cascades are more likely to support it as a way to increase funding.

Lisa Rankin, a Seattle school board member, supports both higher pay and financial training. She says the public doesn’t always see the full scope of board members’ work. Investing in their preparation and making service accessible to people of varying means is in the state’s interest if it is serious about improving education and governance.

Thus, SB 5860 attempts to address longstanding issues of accessibility and professionalism in school governance but faces practical funding challenges and regional conflicts. Its fate will depend on whether lawmakers can find a compromise between a laudable goal and financial reality, and whether they can account for deep inequities between the state’s school districts.

❮ ❯

Based on: Bill seeks to increase school board directors’ pay

Seattle News: medicine, sports and transfers

A crisis in transgender adolescent healthcare in Washington, the Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl preparations, and the Mariners bolstering their roster with a new catcher.

Mary Bridge Hospital in Tacoma closes clinic for transgender youth under pressure from the Trump administration

A serious crisis has emerged in Washington state regarding medical care for transgender adolescents. Mary Bridge Children's Hospital in Tacoma announced it will close its gender clinic that served minors. According to an article in The Seattle Times, this decision was forced and tied to growing pressure from the federal government, which is threatening to withdraw funding from medical institutions that continue to provide so‑called gender-affirming care to youth.

Hospital leadership, part of the MultiCare Health System, explained the move in a memo to staff. MultiCare CEO Bill Robertson called the decision “incredibly painful” but necessary for the survival of the entire organization. He said “recent federal developments” threaten the suspension of Medicaid and Medicare payments if the hospital continues to provide gender-transition services to minors. Given that more than 60% of Mary Bridge patients use Medicaid (called Apple Health in Washington), losing that funding would be catastrophic. Gender-affirming care is a range of medical (for example, hormone therapy) and psychological services aimed at supporting people whose gender identity does not match the sex assigned at birth. For many transgender adolescents, such care is considered life‑saving, as experts say it significantly reduces risks of depression and suicide.

The hospital’s decision directly affects about 320 young people, 180 of whom are minors. These patients, already receiving treatment, must now find new providers to refill prescriptions or continue mental-health support. The clinic stopped accepting new patients back in September and is now ending services for existing patients. The federal activity cited by the hospital’s leadership includes a variety of measures. In 2025 the White House issued an order to end federal funding related to gender-affirming care for individuals under 19. The Department of Justice issued subpoenas to more than 20 physicians and clinics demanding patient information. And in December, Secretary of Health Robert F. Kennedy Jr. initiated a series of regulatory actions that, in effect, attempt to ban youth access to such care nationwide, even in states where it is legal. Those proposals are not yet final or binding, but civil-rights advocates fear they already create an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, forcing providers to withdraw services.

Local community and state officials reacted strongly and negatively. Representatives of organizations supporting LGBTQ+ youth, such as Oasis Youth Center and Rainbow Center, expressed deep disappointment and called it unacceptable to leave transgender people without medical care on such short notice. Meanwhile, Washington Attorney General Nic Brown is actively challenging the federal administration’s actions in court. His office sued the executive order issued by the White House, and a federal judge in Seattle has already issued a preliminary injunction, finding the order discriminatory. Brown is also challenging the December regulatory initiatives, arguing they illegally coerce providers into refusing care. “Gender-affirming care for adolescents and adults remains legal and protected in the state of Washington,” a Brown office representative emphasized. Nevertheless, the pressure is so intense that even hospitals in Democratic-controlled states are beginning to scale back services.

The Mary Bridge situation is part of a nationwide trend. Although major U.S. medical associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association, continue to support the provision of gender-affirming care, a number of children’s hospitals across the country have already curtailed or narrowed such programs. Mary Bridge’s clinic, opened in 2015 as one of two hospital-based pediatric gender clinics in the state, is ending its medical services. The hospital will continue to provide behavioral and psychological support, and clinic staff will not be laid off, as they are part of the larger pediatric endocrinology team. The other similar clinic in the state, based at Seattle Children’s Hospital, continues to provide medical care for now, though it has removed information about surgeries from its website, suggesting increased caution. The Tacoma clinic closure threatens the health and well-being of hundreds of young people, forcing families to urgently seek alternatives amid growing political conflict and legal uncertainty.

Latest injury updates for the Seattle Seahawks ahead of the Super Bowl

The Seattle Seahawks are entering the final stretch of preparation for Super Bowl 60 in relatively good shape despite a tough NFC championship game against the Los Angeles Rams. The two‑week gap between the conference championships and the season’s biggest game, scheduled for February 8 in Santa Clara, gives precious recovery time. Head coach Mike Macdonald shared updated information about key players at a Monday press conference; details were published by Seattle Sports.

Starting with encouraging news: linebacker Drake Thomas, who left the field in the third quarter of the championship game with a shoulder injury, is reported by the coach to be “doing well.” However, his participation in this week’s practices is still uncertain, and a final decision will come later. Left tackle Charles Cross also shows positive signs; despite a foot injury sustained in the divisional round, he played all 67 snaps in the win over the Rams. Macdonald noted the player is experiencing normal soreness after a hard game, but there are no major concerns.

The situation with two players who serve as fullbacks and key special teams contributors is more uncertain. Rookie Robbie Ouzts missed the NFC final due to neck issues but has a chance to return for the Super Bowl only if the inflammation “calms down.” The coach is cautious and not yet ready to say whether the player will resume practicing. His teammate Brady Russell, who injured his arm in the second half, is also undergoing diagnostics as the team determines the optimal treatment and recovery plan.

Particular attention is on quarterback Sam Darnold. He has been playing through pain from an oblique muscle injury suffered in practice on January 15, and his participation in last week’s sessions was limited. Macdonald admitted the coaching staff has not yet decided how many live reps Darnold will need in the next two weeks to be optimally prepared for the decisive game. It’s a delicate balance between maintaining game readiness and allowing the injury to heal.

Overall, the Seahawks’ Super Bowl preparation plan appears deliberate. The team is taking Tuesday and Wednesday off to let players recover physically and emotionally. Practices will resume on Thursday, and the team will fly to the San Francisco Bay area on Sunday to acclimate and have a full prep week before facing the New England Patriots. Thus, despite some injury uncertainties, the Seattle Seahawks have a good chance to arrive at the Super Bowl with an optimal and refreshed roster.

Mariners strengthen catcher position, acquiring Jhonny Pereda from Minnesota

Looking to reinforce one of the key positions, the Seattle Mariners made another roster move. The team continues building competition at the backup catcher spot behind primary catcher Cal Raleigh, and the new contender is Jhonny Pereda, acquired from the Minnesota Twins. The Seattle Times reports this move as part of the club’s broader strategy to create roster depth ahead of the new season.

On the surface the deal looks modest: the Mariners acquired rights to the 29‑year‑old catcher in exchange for cash considerations. But the transaction contains several important baseball-management details. To make room for Pereda on the 40‑man roster, the club designated pitcher Jackson Courel for assignment, giving him the opportunity to find a new team. This decision underscores the Mariners’ priority to strengthen the catcher position. Pereda had been designated for assignment by the Twins just a week earlier, making him available for acquisition. A key value for Seattle is Pereda’s minor‑league option — a contractual provision that allows the club to move him between the major-league roster and the Triple‑A affiliate without risking losing him, giving the coaching staff roster flexibility over a long season.

Pereda’s major-league experience is limited: over the past two years he has appeared in 46 games for three teams — the Miami Marlins, Oakland Athletics and Minnesota Twins. His big-league batting average stands at .241, and his combined OPS (on‑base plus slugging) is .595. However, Pereda’s main advantage is his Triple‑A performance, the highest level of the farm system. In 254 games over the past three seasons there he posted a much more impressive line: .296/.392/.419. Those numbers indicate an ability to hit consistently and get on base in conditions close to MLB competition, making him an attractive candidate for a backup role.

This acquisition is not the Mariners’ only catcher‑position move this offseason. The club previously signed veteran Andrew Knizner to a one‑year contract. Now at least two experienced players will compete for the backup role behind Cal Raleigh, creating healthy competition and insurance against injury. As for designated‑for‑assignment pitcher Jackson Courel, his fate reflects the other side of baseball business. He was one of the pitchers acquired in a large trade with Atlanta, in which the Mariners parted with several players including Jarred Kelenic. After a serious elbow injury in 2024, Courel returned this season and appeared in 15 games as a reliever with a respectable 4.24 ERA, but with limited roster spots and the need to strengthen another position, the club chose not to retain him.

In summary, the Seattle Mariners are acting methodically and prudently. They are not pursuing a star backup catcher; instead they obtained an experienced, contractually flexible player with proven Triple‑A production. Pereda’s option gives the team the ability to evaluate him in spring training and early in the season, sending him to Triple‑A if needed. This low‑risk, potentially useful move increases the Mariners’ roster depth and exemplifies offseason scouting aimed at building a balanced, competitive team.

❮ ❯

Two-year repair paralyzes traffic in Seattle

A large-scale two-year repair of the Ship Canal Bridge — a key part of Interstate 5 that crosses the shipping channel between Lake Washington and Puget Sound — has begun in Seattle. The bridge serves as the main north–south corridor through the heart of the city, and the closure of two northbound lanes has led to catastrophic congestion, turning routine commutes into multi-hour ordeals for thousands of area residents. The city, already known for a complicated traffic situation made worse by its geography between water and mountains, is facing unprecedented gridlock.

Suburban resident John Tangeman used to get to his job in the Queen Anne area in 25–40 minutes. Now his morning commute takes up to two hours. Like many others, he accepts the situation, understanding the need for infrastructure repairs. "We'll have to get through this. For improvements that benefit society, we've got to grit our teeth," says Tangeman, a manager at a local theater.

In response to the crisis, residents are massively changing their habits. Some are switching to bicycles, some are using King County Metro buses and the Link light rail more, and many are simply shifting work schedules to avoid rush hours. Some, however, have no choice and are forced to sit in multi-mile backups every day.

Arash Akbar, a manager from Seattle, is eagerly awaiting the opening of the new Link light rail extension to Bellevue at the end of March, which will allow him to give up his car entirely. The new line is part of Sound Transit’s expanding public transport system, which also includes Sounder commuter trains, streetcar lines and a bus network. For now he sometimes bikes to work. Dillon Kelly, an accountant, is already actively using bike lanes and buses, seeing the situation as an opportunity to popularize alternative transportation.

Tourism association Visit Seattle also sees the crisis as a chance to promote the many modes of transport the city is known for. In addition to those mentioned, these include the monorail, Washington State Ferries and water taxis. Ferries have historically remained vital for connecting islands and peninsulas where building bridges is impractical. "This is a great opportunity to showcase the many different ways to get around Seattle," says association representative Michael Woody.

One of the most painful consequences has been the spillover of congestion from the freeway onto neighboring residential streets. Realtor Caroline Prokos notes that the drive to the freeway entrance, which used to take minutes, now takes five times longer. This seriously complicates scheduling client meetings, although she is not opposed to public transit.

To ease the situation, King County Council Vice Chair Reagan Dunn urged the state Department of Transportation to open express lanes for southbound traffic during morning hours. These reversible high-occupancy lanes are typically reserved for buses and carpools. The proposal to make them tolled for all drivers is controversial, as it could reduce the efficiency of public transit and create a financial burden. In his letter, Dunn called the current traffic conditions "an unacceptable new normal" that is paralyzing commutes to work, medical appointments and the airport.

So far authorities have not implemented these proposals. Congestion is meanwhile being felt on other freeways, such as I-405, where many drivers have redirected to avoid the closed section of I-5. This is creating new choke points in nearby cities like Bellevue and Renton. Economic ties between these tech employment centers and Seattle produce massive daily commuter flows that already overloaded the main arteries.

Even those who no longer commute daily are feeling the effects of the repair. Retiree Rob Nichols of Renton notes that his morning drive to the gym with his wife took 40 minutes on the first day of repairs, up from 15. "People adapt, but the impact is still significant," he says.

Despite the difficulties and frustrations, many residents, like Dillon Kelly, hope this challenge will ultimately lead to positive changes — improved transportation infrastructure and more deliberate choices about how people get around, making life in the metro area better for everyone once the repairs are complete.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle’s I-5 lane closures wreak havoc on worker commutes

Dangerous practice: mesh hoods for patients go unchecked

An investigation by The Seattle Times uncovered a troubling practice in medical facilities across America: health-care workers are using so-called spit hoods — mesh bags pulled over the head to prevent saliva spraying — on psychiatric patients in dangerous ways. Experts say these devices, intended for infection protection, are increasingly being used as means of restraint and control, including on children and people with serious illnesses.

Despite the risks, including potential suffocation and the pressing of a patient’s neck against a bed, there is virtually no systemic oversight, tracking, or regulation in health care of how and when these protective mesh hoods are used. Neither the federal government, state authorities, nor national medical organizations keep records of their use, leaving patients unprotected.

Reporters found that over the past decade medical staff in at least 29 states used spit hoods in emergency departments, ambulances, and psychiatric clinics. Policies governing their use are often vague, and staff training minimal. In many cases the devices were used to subdue patients, not merely to prevent disease transmission, including during acute psychiatric crises. In Seattle, where major health systems such as UW Medicine, Swedish Medical Center, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and Providence Health & Services operate, their use in emergency or psychiatric departments is theoretically possible but governed by internal protocols.

The practice is causing serious concern internationally. human-rights groups in New Zealand and Australia consider spit hoods so dangerous and degrading that they are calling for an outright ban. In the U.S., legal risks, financial lawsuits and media attention have already led some hospitals and police departments to abandon these devices or tighten rules for their use.

For example, Harborview Medical Center in Washington state, the region’s primary level I trauma hospital and a critical component of Seattle’s social safety net, completely stopped using spit hoods in October after years of rare but documented use. State authorities have also begun developing statewide policy regarding these devices. Washington, known for more progressive health policies — including expanded Medicaid and attention to social determinants of health — could become a model for other areas. But civil-rights attorneys and experts insist such local changes must be backed by much stronger and clearer state-level oversight. Local advocacy organizations such as Disability Rights Washington and the ACLU of Washington are playing an active role in this context.

One proposed solution is to classify spit hoods by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as medical devices, similar to other restraints. That would require manufacturers to register products, meet quality and labeling standards, and conduct postmarket surveillance.

Such regulation would require manufacturers to report injuries and deaths linked to their products. Patients and health-care workers would have the ability to file complaints through an established federal product-safety system. Accumulated data would allow the FDA to track patterns of harm and decide whether to issue warnings or recall dangerous products.

Another reform path is to adopt changes made recently in police practices. After several high-profile deaths in custody, some law-enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad banned spit hoods or imposed strict rules. In Washington state, for example, police policy regulates their use in detail, prohibiting use on people with breathing problems and requiring specialized officer training.

At the same time, pressure can be increased through existing laws. Civil lawsuits for medical negligence, despite caps on damages, can force institutions to reconsider their practices. Experts also stress that current federal and state rules governing restraint use already set important safety guarantees that, in theory, should apply to spit hoods as well. Specialized institutions, such as the King County Mental Health Court, which offers alternatives to incarceration, can play a particular role in alternative approaches.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a key federal regulator, has said spit hoods “could potentially” qualify as restraints. Violations of rules governing their use could carry serious consequences for health facilities, including loss of government funding and fines. For public hospitals like Harborview, funded through county taxes and state programs, this creates additional pressure to comply with standards. Clear recognition that these devices fall under restraint laws would require hospitals to report deaths associated with them.

In conclusion, many medical experts and human-rights advocates say spit hoods are inherently problematic and dangerous devices. They are calling for explicit bans or, at minimum, strict nationwide rules governing their use to protect the most vulnerable patients from unnecessary risk and potential harm.

❮ ❯

Based on: How spit hood use could be made safer, according to experts

Seattle Fans' Roar Stronger Than Nearby Earthquake

Fans of the Seattle Seahawks, known as the "12th Man," have long been famous for their incredibly loud support that makes Lumen Field vibrate. This unique tradition, which began in the 1980s, has turned the fans into a strategic advantage for the team: their roar disrupts opponents' communication on the field, directly affecting the outcome of games. That culture of support has raised the bar across American football, inspiring other NFL teams to engage their crowds more actively.

The architecture of Lumen Field itself perfectly facilitates this phenomenon. The stadium is designed like a giant soundbox: the roof, covering about 70% of the seats, reflects sound back onto the field, while steep tiers and metal structures multiply the din. Although the arena opened in 2002 and the loudest "seismic" events came later, those records ultimately confirmed the effectiveness of its design and cemented Lumen Field's reputation as one of the loudest venues in the world.

During the NFC championship game against the Los Angeles Rams, the fans' cheer after a 51-yard pass was twice as powerful as a real magnitude-2.6 earthquake that occurred near the city of Bremerton that same day. Seismologists confirmed that the energy generated by the fans exceeded that natural event.

The Pacific Northwest seismic network has been measuring these "artificial earthquakes" caused by Seahawks fans at games for years. The most famous remains the so-called "Beast Quake" of 2011, when the cheer after Marshawn Lynch's touchdown reached peak values. Scientists have turned these measurements into a playful tradition that added a new, scientific dimension to the famed crowd roar.

In the recent game the stadium shook more than once. Aside from the reaction to the long pass, strong "shocks" were recorded after each Seahawks touchdown and also when a Rams defensive player fumbled the ball and Seahawks player Dareke Young recovered it. Each such event prompted an outpouring of emotion and was recorded by seismographs installed by the University of Washington in the area around the stadium.

The highlight of the evening was the longest seismic spike, which occurred at 6:52 p.m., when it became clear: the Seattle Seahawks had won 31–27 and advanced to the Super Bowl. The roar of tens of thousands of fans celebrating that triumph lasted for many seconds, becoming the culmination of a true celebration of sport and passion in the stands.

Harold Tobin, head of the seismic network, expressed hope that he will be able to continue observations at the Super Bowl, which will be held at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. The scientist wants to measure whether the fans at the season's biggest game can match the "seismic activity" of Seattle's legendary 12th Man, staging an unofficial competition of passion.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seahawks fans’ seismic cheers out-shook a real earthquake nearby

Gospel Outside the Church: How a Seattle Choir Builds an Inclusive Community

In the United States, Sunday morning is traditionally seen as a time when society is most racially divided, especially within church walls. For many, particularly members of the LGBTQ+ community, religious institutions often evoke not comfort but rejection and pain. Yet spiritual enrichment, a sense of community, and a commitment to justice can be found beyond church buildings. This idea resonates strongly in Seattle — one of the least religious cities in the U.S., where about 40% of residents are unaffiliated with religion, and among the faithful there are Christians, Buddhists, Muslims, and Jews. The city’s progressive values and tolerance create a fertile environment for interfaith projects where diverse groups collaborate toward shared social goals.

This idea is at the heart of the project founded by Marshawn Moultrie and Cindy Ogasawara: the interfaith gospel choir Resounding Love in Seattle. Moultrie is a well-known conductor and music director who previously worked with the Seattle Men’s Chorus, and Ogasawara is a community organizer associated with initiatives like Compassionate Seattle. Their aim is to preserve the best aspects of church community — music, mutual support, and liberation ideals — while consciously rejecting anything that harms or excludes people. From the start, the choir positioned itself as a space open to LGBTQ+ individuals.

For LGBTQ+ members, the chance to sing gospel — music deeply rooted in church tradition — outside church walls has been liberating. As Moultrie notes, attending church can trigger traumatic memories for many, and here they can create without fear. The choir was founded in March 2020 and immediately confronted the challenge of a global pandemic that moved all its activities online.

For nearly two and a half years the group existed exclusively on Zoom. That period, Ogasawara says, became a crucible that forged and bonded the choir, transforming it from just a musical group into a real family. They held virtual concerts where each participant recorded their part separately and a sound engineer mixed everything together, creating a unique digital experience.

In May 2020, amid the pandemic, another pivotal event occurred — the murder of George Floyd. For the multicultural choir, it was a moment of truth and a stress test. To create a safe space for discussing racial trauma, the choir introduced the practice of racial caucuses — separate meetings for white and Black participants to share feelings before discussing the topic together as a whole.

This approach, the choir leaders believe, is necessary for any progress in social justice. Moultrie emphasizes that no movement in history has succeeded without active participation from white and non-Black allies. They see interracial collaboration as the “secret sauce” for real change that cannot happen in isolation.

After nearly three years online, the choir was finally able to gather in person. Members decided to bring their music and message of “inclusivity, support, and hope” to groups seldom heard from by traditional choirs: juvenile detention centers such as King County Juvenile Detention, veteran hospitals including the VA Puget Sound Health Care System, and homeless shelters like Union Gospel Mission and Mary’s Place. These institutions are key social services in the region. Their motto is “love by default.” The choir is not alone in this effort: Seattle is home to other organizations at the intersection of music and social justice, such as the Seattle Men’s Chorus (the world’s largest men’s chorus oriented to the LGBTQ+ community), Total Experience Gospel Choir, Sound Youth, and Music for Everyone.

For non-Black participants, performing African American gospel carries great responsibility. It requires deep humility, a willingness to learn, and an understanding of the music’s historical roots, which trace back to the era of slavery when songs were a language of survival and resistance and later became anthems of the civil rights movement. It’s important to avoid falling into superficial imitation.

A key part of this music is its physical embodiment. Hand clapping, stomping, whole-body movement — these are more than rhythm. As Moultrie explains, for Black communities this was historically the only accessible therapy in conditions of oppression. Local foundations and grant programs in Seattle support such projects, including the Seattle Foundation, ArtsFund, 4Culture, as well as corporate sponsors like Microsoft, Starbucks, Amazon, and Alaska Airlines, enabling them to continue their important mission.

❮ ❯

Based on: How a multiracial Seattle choir builds community through gospel music

Seattle to build bike lane from Space Needle ahead of World Cup

Ahead of the summer FIFA World Cup, Seattle officials are fast-tracking a project to create new bicycle infrastructure. The main goal is for 80% of roughly 750,000 fans expected to attend six matches at Lumen Field in June and July to be able to get to the stadium without a personal car. A key element will be a protected bike lane connecting the Seattle Center district with the Space Needle and the stadium. Seattle Center — a major cultural and entertainment complex built for the 1962 World’s Fair — is an important transit hub thanks to an extensive bus network, the monorail and its proximity to major arterials.

The new route will run mostly north along Fourth Avenue, then along Broad Street, where cyclists will be able to cross Fifth Avenue and reach Thomas Street with its famous “Dutch” intersection. Considered an advanced example for improving safety, this intersection features a design that physically separates bike lanes and pedestrian areas from vehicle traffic, reducing conflict points through clear markings, raised crossings and improved sightlines. The lanes will be separated from the roadway by low concrete curbs. Construction will begin in March and is expected to be fully complete by Memorial Day at the end of May so as not to interfere with the soccer festivities.

In addition to bike lanes, the project includes the creation of two new “all-way” crosswalks similar to those at Pike Place Market. At these intersections all vehicle traffic stops, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to safely cross the street in any direction, even diagonally. This should significantly reduce confusion and improve safety in busy areas.

Drivers and freight operators will also feel changes. On Broad Street the number of vehicle lanes in each direction will be reduced from two to one. The original plan for a two-way bike path on Fourth Avenue was changed: Broad Street will get two one-way lanes running in the same direction as traffic. That decision was made to provide more room for large trucks turning off Fifth Avenue.

The project also addresses several local logistical issues. For example, to avoid crossing the bike lane with four parking lot driveways at the intersection of Broad Street, Fourth Avenue and Denny Way, the bike route was given a slight zigzag. In addition, the drop-off and pick-up area for tour buses at the base of the Space Needle will be moved west to reduce conflicts with the new cyclists.

It’s important to emphasize that these changes are permanent. “When all the World Cup guests go home, the new infrastructure will remain for city residents,” said Lisa Harrison, the project’s public engagement lead. “We can’t close every gap in the network,” she said, “but at least we’re closing one of them.” It’s worth noting that such transportation initiatives often depend on city council support. In particular, Lisa Herbold, a councilmember and chair of the transportation committee, directly influences the allocation of funding and approval of such plans, which determines their fate.

Overall, the project aims not only to ease street congestion during the global sporting event but also to improve long-term mobility in Seattle. The project will install seven bike and scooter-share docks, allowing both visitors and residents to comfortably explore the city, reach the waterfront, West Seattle and other popular destinations between matches.

❮ ❯

Based on: New Seattle bikeways coming to Space Needle ahead of World Cup

Seattle sports roundup

Seattle celebrates the Seahawks' victory in the NFC Championship and their trip to the Super Bowl, while the Kraken earned an important win in the NHL and the Capitals prepare for a tough road game.

Victory against the odds: Seahawks head to the Super Bowl after dramatic NFC final

In the world of American football, something happened that few expected at the start of the season. The Seattle Seahawks, led by quarterback Sam Darnold and new head coach Mike Macdonald, earned a hard-fought 31–27 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in the National Football Conference (NFC) Championship Game and advanced to Super Bowl LX. This result, detailed in the ESPN report, was the culmination of an incredible turnaround season for the Seattle franchise.

The outcome of the third meeting between the teams this season hung in the balance until the final seconds. The decisive moment came when the Seahawks’ defense stopped the Rams on fourth down from six yards out near the goal line with five minutes remaining. Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon knocked down a pass from veteran Matthew Stafford, and the defense then made another stop to send the Seahawks to their fourth Super Bowl in franchise history. For quarterback Sam Darnold, the win was a personal triumph. Signed by Seattle in March after Geno Smith’s departure, Darnold led the team to a 14–3 record and the NFC’s top seed. Although he led the league in turnovers during the regular season (20), including four interceptions in the Week 11 loss to the Rams, he transformed in the playoffs. In the conference final, playing through pain from an oblique muscle injury, Darnold completed 25 of 36 passes for 346 yards and three touchdowns without a turnover. He was especially effective on deep throws, connecting repeatedly with wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who had 10 catches for 153 yards. For context: the oblique muscles are abdominal muscles responsible for torso rotation; an injury there can significantly limit a quarterback’s throwing power and accuracy, which makes Darnold’s performance even more impressive.

A key factor in the Seahawks’ win was outstanding special teams play — the unit responsible for kickoffs, punts and returns. Since Week 10 they have led ESPN Analytics’ ratings, and that advantage showed up in full in the playoffs. In the third quarter, D’Wayne Young recovered a muffed punt after a miscue by Rams returner Xavier Smith, leading to a quick Seahawks touchdown. That sequence was a turning point, pushing Seattle ahead 24–13. But the Rams kept fighting. Star receiver Puka Nacua — against whom the Seahawks’ defense again struggled to find an answer — caught nine passes for 165 yards and scored a touchdown. After a contentious taunting penalty on cornerback Riq Woolen, which gave the Rams a fresh set of downs, Stafford immediately found Nacua for a 34-yard touchdown that cut the gap to 31–27. Taunting is an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, typically involving verbal provocation or gestures toward an opponent, and is penalized by 15 yards.

For the Los Angeles Rams, the loss was a bitter end to an outstanding season, during which 37-year-old Matthew Stafford perhaps played some of the best football of his career, leading the league in passing yards (4,707) and touchdowns (46). Now he faces a decision about continuing his career into 2026. Special teams mistakes, which earlier cost coordinator Chase Blackburn his job in December, proved costly again. As coach Sean McVay noted, that unit may have been their Achilles’ heel in the playoffs — and it ultimately was.

The Seattle Seahawks now await a Super Bowl rematch with the New England Patriots, evoking memories of Super Bowl XLIX. The team that wasn’t seen as a favorite in September has reached a historic milestone thanks to Darnold’s coolness in key moments, Macdonald’s innovative defensive scheme that rarely relied on blitzing, and near-perfect special teams play. This victory is proof that playoff success in the NFL is decided not only by names, but by character and the readiness to show it when it matters most.

Capitals continue road trip in Seattle

A preview of the upcoming NHL game between the Washington Capitals and the Seattle Kraken as part of Washington’s long road swing.

The Washington Capitals are in the midst of their longest road trip of the season — six games — and on Tuesday they face the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena. According to the NHL’s official site, the club has been on the road for more than a week and now enters the final stage of a challenging journey. Although the Capitals have won only one of the first four games of the trip (with one overtime loss and two regulation losses), they still have a chance to finish the trip with a winning record. To do that they must do something they haven’t managed in nearly two months — win two straight games. After the Seattle contest, the Capitals will finish the road trip in Detroit on Thursday.

Recent games offer cautious optimism. On Saturday, Washington was one step away from a big win over a powerful Edmonton team, but a goal by Zack Hyman with 30 seconds left in the third period during a 6-on-5 situation (goalie pulled) sent the game to overtime, where Connor McDavid scored the game-winner. Despite the tough loss, players found positives in the performance. Forward Connor McMichael, who scored an important goal in the third period, said: “We can take a lot from that game against Edmonton. I think if we play like that against most teams, we’ll win. That should be our mindset now.” Head coach Spencer Carbery also noted that the team earned three out of four possible points in the two-game Alberta set, and maintaining that level of play bodes well.

However, injuries — especially on defense — remain a serious issue for the Capitals. Late in the second period against Edmonton, defenseman Rasmus Sandin left with a lower-body injury. The team had to finish the game shorthanded, and veteran John Carlson logged a career-high 7 minutes, 3 seconds of short-handed ice time while fending off Edmonton’s attacks. Carbery praised the defenders’ sacrifice, saying they “hung on with everything they had.” Before flying to Seattle, four players missed practice, including three defensemen — Sandin, Matt Roy and Declan Chisholm — and forward Tom Wilson. Their status for the game is uncertain.

A bright spot amid these difficulties is progress in the recovery of center Pierre-Luc Dubois. He underwent abdominal surgery in late October and has moved from non-contact jersey drills back to full practice, an important step in his rehabilitation, though he is still some way from returning to game action.

Their opponent, the Seattle Kraken, coached by former Washington assistant Lane Lambert, are fighting for a playoff spot. The team is level with the Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks for the final wild-card position in the Western Conference. After starting the year with four straight wins, the Kraken have slid, earning only three victories in their last ten games. On Sunday they managed a home win over the New Jersey Devils. For Seattle this matchup will be the fifth game in a six-game homestand.

The Capitals’ current standing remains precarious. Before Monday’s games they were tied for fourth place in the Metropolitan Division with Philadelphia at 57 points, but they trailed the New York Islanders by two points, and the Islanders had two games in hand. Every remaining game — especially under a tight schedule and with injuries — is critical in the race for the playoffs. The Seattle game will test Washington’s resilience and its ability to learn from recent heartbreaking defeats.

Cryptid Cup returns to Seattle

A recap of the New Jersey Devils vs. Seattle Kraken game highlights a pattern typical of this season: the team displays flashes of strong play but makes costly mistakes at key moments that cost them points. The 4–2 loss for the visitors was a microcosm of the Devils’ problems — missed opportunities and unlucky puck bounces.

The game started promisingly for the visitors. On the first power play, earned after Shane Wright’s penalty, Dougie Hamilton scored a highlight-reel goal past Joey Daccord. As noted in the All About The Jersey recap, this was Hamilton’s third power-play goal in his last four attempts, signaling improvement on the man advantage. Hamilton has been producing quickly — 10 points in his last eight games after being scratched for a time. But discipline hurt New Jersey: the first period was full of penalties on both sides, disrupting the flow.

The second period belonged to the Devils, particularly the top line of Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt and Timo Meier. They created several great chances, but Daccord in the Kraken net was unbeatable. Then an unlucky bounce occurred: a harmless shot from Rykker Evans at the blue line changed direction after a deflection and slipped past goalie Jacob Markström. For clarity: a “deflection” or “bounce” is when the puck changes direction after hitting a stick, skate or body, often making a shot unpredictable for the goalie.

The third period proved decisive. Seattle scored twice in a span of 17 seconds. First, a turnover between Bratt and defenseman Simon Nemec allowed Matthew Beni to get one-on-one with Markström. Immediately after, another unlucky bounce led to a close-range goal. The Devils cut the deficit on a Jack Hughes power-play goal (the puck deflected in off a Kraken defenseman’s knee), but with the net empty late in the game Seattle sealed the win.

The game highlights several key issues for New Jersey. First, low production from key forwards: Timo Meier has just four points in his last 15 games, and Jesper Bratt, after a two-goal game in Minnesota, has only one assist in his last six outings. Second, although the team played reasonably overall, goalie Jacob Markström didn’t appear entirely reliable on the goals allowed. Still, as the recap’s author notes, you can’t pin losses solely on the goaltender when the team scores only twice — and only on the power play.

There are positives. The Devils’ special teams are improving. Their power play efficiency has risen to 25% since the start of the year (11th in the league), especially after Hamilton’s return to the flank and the insertion of Nathan Bastian into the lineup. The penalty kill, with the return of defenseman Brett Pesce, has been stellar — 86.7% successful over the past 16 games (26 for 30), the fourth-best mark in the NHL in 2026.

Despite the loss, the four-game Western road trip finished with a positive 3–1 record, keeping the Devils in the playoff hunt. However, the recap concludes that a psychological opportunity was missed to cut the gap to the Islanders to one point — and in the current situation, the Devils can hardly afford to drop points. Ahead lies a string of theoretically winnable games that will show whether this roster has the character for a late-season push.

❮ ❯

Washington authorities threaten legal action against federal immigration agents

Democratic Governor of Washington state Bob Ferguson, who has historically taken a liberal position on immigration and opposed restrictive federal policies, together with Attorney General Nick Brown, sharply condemned the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration operation in Minnesota. They said they are prepared to take legal action if similar operations begin in their state. While emphasizing that they cannot prohibit federal ICE agents from operating in Washington, they nonetheless said they are ready to file lawsuits and hold both the administration and individual officers accountable for violating residents’ rights.

Authorities were particularly outraged by ICE tactics in Minnesota, where undercover agents were detaining people on the streets and breaking into homes without warrants. Ferguson called these actions “deeply un-American” and “certainly unconstitutional.” He said such tactics create an atmosphere of fear and lawlessness.

Criticism intensified after the death in Minneapolis of 37-year-old Alex Pretty, who was shot by ICE agents. Ferguson and Attorney General Nick Brown, who as an independently elected official is responsible for the state’s legal matters and can autonomously initiate lawsuits, said that this tragedy, and the subsequent falsehoods by officials about what happened, show how dangerous the situation in the country has become. They accused the administration of hiding the truth, noting that video from the scene contradicts official statements.

In a show of solidarity, the state’s most populous and politically progressive region — the city of Seattle and King County, which often advocate for expanded immigrant rights — officially supported Minnesota’s lawsuit seeking to stop the large-scale ICE operation. In their filings, local officials characterized the federal agents’ actions as a “military occupation” of the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, which does not make communities safer but instead sows chaos and distrust.

Governor Ferguson announced a number of preventive measures. He urged state lawmakers to urgently pass a law banning law enforcement from wearing masks, added the head of the state’s immigration agency to his cabinet, and hired a senior adviser on immigration policy. He also discussed with the commander of the Washington National Guard — which reports to the governor and typically assists with disaster response — the possibility of using the Guard as a “buffer” between federal agents and protesters, a rare use of the Guard in political conflicts.

The context for these actions was a recently released internal ICE memo that, according to the Associated Press, allows officers to forcibly enter homes (for example, by breaking doors) without a judicial warrant, based solely on administrative deportation orders. This stance marks a sharp reversal from long-standing practice that respected constitutional protections during searches.

The Trump administration, for its part, defended ICE’s actions, asserting that federal agents have broad immunity, and blamed protesters and Democratic leaders for escalating violence. In his remarks, Trump demanded that Democratic-run states cooperate with the federal government to “enforce the laws,” rather than “stoke division, chaos and violence.”

Thus, Washington state authorities are openly preparing for a potential clash with the federal immigration service, building a legal and administrative defense line to protect the civil liberties of their residents amid the nationwide confrontation over ICE tactics.

❮ ❯

Based on: Ferguson, Brown pledge legal action if ICE violates WA residents’ rights

Seattle's children: no racial majority for the first time

In 2024, among Seattle residents under 18 there was, for the first time, no single racial or ethnic group making up a majority. This marks an important demographic shift, especially compared with the city’s adult population, where whites still make up a majority — about 58%. Among children, however, the largest group, whites, comprise only 49%, short of a majority. The city’s younger generation is therefore noticeably more diverse.

Concrete figures show that Seattle is home to about 110,000 minors. In addition to 49% white, diversity is made up by other groups. For example, the share of Latino children (15%) is nearly double their share among adults (8%). An even more striking contrast appears in the multiracial category: 18% of children identify as belonging to more than one race, while only about 7% of adults do. That increase reflects both a rise in interracial unions and growing public recognition of multiracial identity. The high share of mixed-heritage children is already prompting Seattle schools to adapt curricula to reflect cultural diversity. This includes introducing multicultural materials, training teachers in inclusive methods, and developing policies that support equity — for example, through programs on the histories of different ethnic groups or by creating clubs to discuss identity.

One of the most unexpected findings was a sharp difference in the share of the Asian population. Among adult Seattle residents, Asians and Pacific Islanders make up about 19%, making them the second-largest group. But among children their share falls to just 9%. That means the city has about 130,400 Asian-origin adults but only around 9,800 children.

That discrepancy can be explained by several factors. Seattle’s tech industry, with major employers such as Amazon and Microsoft and growing sectors in cloud computing, biotech, and gaming, attracts large numbers of working-age young professionals, including many of Asian descent, who often move without children. In addition, Asian women in the U.S. have one of the lowest average fertility rates among major racial and ethnic groups. These trends create a distinctive demographic profile.

Unlike other groups, the share of Black residents remains relatively stable across age groups: about 8% among children and 6% among adults. Overall, for a city its size Seattle has relatively few children. By total population it ranks 18th among U.S. cities, but by number of residents under 18 it falls to 34th. That drop in ranking is tied to a high cost of living, especially housing prices, which makes it harder for young families to have children. The city’s demographics are skewed toward young professionals moving in for jobs at tech companies. Compared with other tech hubs, such as San Francisco — which also has a low share of children due to similar factors — Seattle reflects a broader trend: attracting adult workers without a proportional increase in the child population.

These demographic changes among Seattle’s younger generation point to a future in which the city will become even more diverse. The fact that there is already no racial majority among children, while one persists among adults, underscores the dynamic nature of the metropolis’s ethnic and racial makeup. These shifts will have long-term implications for the city’s culture, education, and social policy.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle residents under 18 have no racial majority group

Rivian Challenges Dealers: Fight for Direct EV Sales in Washington

Electric truck maker Rivian is investing $4.6 million in a campaign to change Washington state law to gain the right to sell vehicles directly to buyers — as Tesla has done for more than a decade. The initiative, promoted by the Washington Coalition for Consumer Choice and Innovation, aims to end Tesla’s de facto monopoly and allow other companies, such as Rivian and Lucid, to make direct sales, which supporters say would expand consumer choice and speed the transition to cleaner transportation.

State law currently requires automakers to sell cars through independent dealers. The only exception since 2010 has been Tesla, giving it a significant competitive advantage. Rivian and Lucid have showrooms in Washington but cannot sell cars there — customers must complete purchases online or through dealers in other states, creating inconvenience.

Attempts to change the law through the state legislature have repeatedly failed, facing strong dealership lobbying from dealers worried about losing business. Last year a related bill was blocked in a committee chaired by a Democratic lawmaker who owns car dealerships. Her position, often more moderate on automotive environmental regulation, reflects internal divisions among Washington Democrats between a progressive wing pushing for strict environmental measures and more pragmatic lawmakers balancing business interests. That shows how, even in a state dominated by one party, there are major differences over balancing environmental goals with economic consequences. Although the state’s legislative ethics board found no conflict of interest in her actions, the lack of political support killed the reform at the legislature level.

The coalition is now betting on direct democracy — putting the issue to a public vote in November 2026. That requires collecting at least 390,000 voter signatures. The campaign has hired well-known California consulting firm Winner & Mandabach Campaigns, which specializes in ballot initiatives and touts a 90% success rate. The goal is to convince voters that outdated car-sale laws need updating.

The initiative is part of broader political activity in the state, where voters will also decide on other contentious issues, such as participation of transgender athletes in women’s sports. Proponents of reform say allowing direct EV sales will not only expand consumer rights but also help Washington meet carbon-reduction goals in the transportation sector by accelerating EV adoption. The state has a goal to transition all new passenger cars to electric power by 2030 under the "Clean Cars 2030" initiative. These goals are embedded in local law, including the Climate Commitment Act and the Clean Fuel Standard, which set emissions limits and encourage the shift to electric vehicles through cap-and-trade mechanisms and fuel requirements. Auto dealers, for their part, have so far declined to comment on the proposed initiative.

❮ ❯

Based on: Rivian pledges $4.6M for ballot initiative to allow direct EV sales in WA

William Foege, whose vaccination strategy defeated smallpox, dies

Dr. William H. Foege, a legendary figure in global public health, has died at the age of 89. He went down in history as the architect of the strategy that led to the complete eradication of smallpox worldwide — one of medicine's greatest triumphs. Foege was also a key figure in shaping the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s programs, one of the largest private philanthropic organizations in the world, which plays a central role in financing global health initiatives. The foundation is headquartered in Seattle, Bill Gates’s hometown, where a developed ecosystem of technology and biomedical research supports collaboration with local organizations.

His principal contribution was the development of the “ring vaccination” method. Instead of mass-vaccinating entire populations, he proposed identifying and vaccinating people in the immediate contacts of each infected person, thereby creating an “immunological ring.” This targeted and efficient strategy allowed smallpox to be declared eradicated by 1977.

Foege’s career was closely linked with leading global health institutions. In 1977 he took the helm of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and later co-founded the international nonprofit organization The Task Force for Global Health. His expert opinion was highly valued at the highest levels.

For his achievements Foege received numerous prestigious awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the highest civilian honor in the United States. A building at the University of Washington bears his name, a testament to the deep respect for his legacy within the scientific community. That university, among the top research institutions in the U.S. with strong global health programs, honored him in recognition of his outstanding contributions to public health.

Foege’s interest in medicine and science began in childhood. The son of a clergyman and having spent part of his youth in Washington state, he started working in a pharmacy at age 13. This region, with its high-quality education, progressive health policies and network of research centers, creates an environment that fosters the development of specialists in his field. He was strongly influenced by the example of missionary physician and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Albert Schweitzer.

After receiving his medical education at the University of Washington, Foege, contrary to expectations, chose a career not as a practicing physician but as a public health specialist. A decisive factor in that choice was his experience working in the Seattle and King County Department of Health — known in the U.S. for innovative approaches to infectious disease control and promoting health equity — and his subsequent studies at Harvard.

Later, Foege served as executive director of The Carter Center. In a statement, the center noted that under his leadership dracunculiasis (Guinea worm disease) is on the brink of eradication and could become the second disease after smallpox to be wiped off the face of the earth. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter called Foege a man who saved millions of lives.

Foege also played a key role in shaping the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s global health programs, bringing seriousness and strategic vision to their early work. Dr. Foege leaves behind not only a vast professional legacy but also a family: a wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

❮ ❯

Based on: William Foege, medical pioneer who helped stamp out smallpox, has died

Sports and Weather: Seattle News

“Seattle Seahawks” make the Super Bowl after 11 years, while the region endures a record dry January.

Sensational win: Seahawks reach the Super Bowl after an 11-year gap

On Sunday night an event occurred that Seattle Seahawks fans had been waiting eleven years for: the team secured a dramatic victory over the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Championship game and punched their ticket to the Super Bowl. The win was especially sweet given that it was not the team’s typically reliable defense but its offense, led by quarterback Sam Darnold, that paved the way to triumph — Darnold perhaps delivered the best performance of his career.

In their piece for Seattle Sports, analysts Bob Stelton, Mike Lefko and Dave Wyman unanimously called Darnold’s play the defining factor in the victory. The quarterback, whose NFL career has been full of ups and downs and whose ability to perform under pressure had been questioned by many, answered his critics brilliantly. He completed 25 of 36 passes for 346 yards, threw three touchdowns and, crucially, had zero interceptions. “He made one great throw, one great decision after another,” Bob Stelton noted. Mike Lefko added that it was “the performance of the year at the most important moment of his career,” and that thanks to him the Seahawks are returning to the Super Bowl. For context: a touchdown is the primary scoring play in American football, earned by getting the ball into the opponent’s end zone, and an interception is a turnover when a defender catches a pass intended for an offensive player.

Although statistically Seattle’s defense put up one of its worst games of the season, the offense took control. Receivers Kenneth Walker III, Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp — who scored his first touchdown at Lumen Field as a Seahawk — made several clutch catches at critical moments. According to analysts, the offense’s efficiency on third downs (attempts to continue a drive) became Seattle’s key advantage over the Rams. This victory vividly demonstrated the hallmark of a great team: the ability to find a path to win even when one component of the game — in this case the defense — is not performing ideally. Now the Seattle Seahawks are one step away from capturing their second Lombardi Trophy, the NFL’s top prize, and this incredible story was made possible because Sam Darnold and the offensive line found the strength to pull the game through at the decisive moment.

Unprecedented dryness in Seattle: a record-setting rainless January

Residents of Seattle and all of western Washington, accustomed to prolonged January rains, are now seeing an unusual sight: instead of the familiar drizzle and rain, the weather is unusually dry and, it appears, record-setting. The state’s rain-soaked capital is experiencing an unusually long dry spell in the typically wettest month of the year.

According to meteorologists, Sunday, January 21 marked the 13th consecutive day without measurable precipitation in the Seattle area. This occurrence is not only unusual but also raises serious concern because replenishing the snowpack in the Cascade Mountains and saturating lowlands with moisture is critically important at this time of year. As reported by komonews.com, a typical January in the region sees about 5.5 inches (around 140 mm) of precipitation, and rain falls on roughly 18 days. As of Sunday, Seattle has only received 3.31 inches (about 84 mm). The current dry streak threatens to break the long-standing record set in 1963, when January went 15 consecutive days without rain. If forecasts hold and no precipitation falls through Wednesday, a new record will be officially set.

This anomaly has far-reaching consequences. The snowpack in the Cascade Mountains — a vital reservoir of water for rivers, agriculture and municipal supplies during dry summer months — is already about 50% below normal. Warm and dry conditions hinder its accumulation, creating risks for the region’s ecosystems and economy going forward. A smaller snowpack can lead to lower river levels in summer, irrigation problems for agriculture and increased fire danger. Thus, what at first glance may seem like a harmless “break” from rain is turning into a potentially serious problem for the entire state. It remains to be hoped that when the rains return, they can make up for lost time and recover the deficit before the end of the month to mitigate possible negative consequences of this climate anomaly.

Exorcising the ghost: Seahawks defeat Rams to reach the Super Bowl

In an exciting NFC Championship game that was contested to the final seconds, the Seattle Seahawks defeated the Los Angeles Rams and earned the right to play in Super Bowl LX. The game’s key hero was Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, who overcame his past struggles against the Rams’ defensive schemes and put in perhaps the best performance of his career, while the Rams made several critical mistakes that decided the outcome.

Attention before the game focused on the matchup between Sam Darnold and Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris. In previous meetings, including regular-season games and last year’s playoff, Darnold had thrown multiple interceptions and often ended up on the ground. But in this game he dramatically changed the narrative, finishing 25 of 36 for 346 yards, delivering three touchdowns and throwing no interceptions despite taking three sacks. His passer rating was an impressive 127.8. That outstanding performance answered many doubts and was the driving force behind the Seahawks’ victory. Wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba also played an important role in the offense, racking up 115 yards and a touchdown in the first half and reinforcing his status as a league leader.

However, the win did not come easily. Their defense, typically the team’s calling card, allowed 479 yards — the second-worst total of the season. A turning point came in the third quarter when the Rams’ returner Xavier Smith muffed a punt, and the Seahawks quickly converted the gift into a touchdown, extending their lead. Another pivotal moment was the Rams’ failed fourth-down attempt with 4:54 left in the game. On 4th-and-4 from the Seahawks’ 6-yard line, Matthew Stafford targeted Terrance Ferguson in the end zone, but Ferguson couldn’t secure the ball while tightly covered by Devon Witherspoon. That failure robbed the Rams of their last real chance to win. As noted in the USA Today report, the game was on a knife-edge — the Rams played well enough to win but made a couple more mistakes than their opponent.

For clarity: passer rating is a composite measure of a quarterback’s efficiency that accounts for completion percentage, yards, touchdowns and interceptions — higher is better. A sack is when the quarterback is tackled with the ball before he can throw. Fourth down is the offense’s last attempt to gain the necessary yards; if it fails, possession turns over to the opponent.

Despite the loss, the Rams showed potent offense. Matthew Stafford threw for 479 yards and three touchdowns, and his connections with Puka Nacua (a 34-yard touchdown) and Davante Adams (a 2-yard touchdown) were very dangerous. However, their efforts were undone by untimely miscues and costly turnovers. The Seattle Seahawks will now get an extra week to prepare for Super Bowl LX, where they will face the New England Patriots, who have already secured their spot in the final. Winning that game would be not only a tactical triumph but also an important psychological milestone for Darnold and the team, who managed to overturn personal narratives and win when it mattered most.

❮ ❯

NFC Final: Rams vs. Seahawks

In the NFC Final, the Los Angeles Rams and the Seattle Seahawks will meet in the decisive game for a Super Bowl berth. Ahead of the game, analysts break down key matchups and tactical nuances, and both teams have released their injury reports that could affect the outcome.

American Football: Rams vs. Seahawks in the NFC Final — anticipation and pregame analysis

On Sunday evening Eastern Time, two divisional rivals from the NFC West — the Los Angeles Rams and the Seattle Seahawks — will face off. This will be the third meeting between the teams this season and will determine who advances to the Super Bowl, the biggest game of the year in American football. The intrigue is heightened by the fact that the teams split their two previous regular-season games, and their most recent head-to-head in Week 16 was named one of the most thrilling games of the year, ending with the Seahawks winning 38–37 in overtime. Now a Super Bowl berth is on the line.

The stakes in this conference final are incredibly high. For Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, it’s a chance to lead his team to the Super Bowl for the second time in his career and to cement past successes. On the other side, Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, experiencing an unexpected renaissance in his career, could make a breakthrough and help Seattle claim the NFC title. As noted in the pregame coverage on FOX Sports, the matchup promises to be no less dramatic than their previous meetings. Beyond the quarterback duel, attention is focused on key players: Rams receiver Cooper Kupp, who is expected to remind everyone of his class, and rising stars like J.S.N. (Jaxon Smith-Njigba) of the Seahawks, already known for highlight catches. Troubling injury news has also emerged: Rams receiver Tutu Atwell is out again, which could affect the team’s tactical plans. The piece also mentions that Stafford and another key receiver, Nacua, had time to talk with Kupp before the game, emphasizing the importance of team chemistry. An interesting detail was the appearance of NFL legend Tom Brady at pregame events, whose presence always adds spectacle. Analyst Eric D. Williams will provide live text coverage with a detailed breakdown of key moments, including the Rams’ first touchdown credited to Kyren Williams, the Seahawks’ responding touchdown after a Rams special teams error, and accurate kicks by kicker Harrison Mevis. For those less familiar with the terminology: overtime is the additional period to determine a winner when the score is tied after regulation; special teams are the units responsible for kickoffs, field goals and other specialized plays; and the kicker is the player who specializes in those kicks. The result of this game will not only send one team to the top but will also cap a series of tense matchups between two teams whose rivalry has become one of the fiercest in the division this season.

Chasing the Super Bowl: Seahawks strike at the Rams in a thrilling playoff game

In Saturday’s NFL playoff game, a true football drama unfolded as the Seattle Seahawks seized the initiative and led the Los Angeles Rams 31–20. This contest was decisive in the race to reach the Super Bowl, where the New England Patriots are already waiting. The game, covered live by BBC Sport, kept not only the fans in the stadium but millions of viewers around the world on edge, following every play.

The third quarter produced another shock when Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold, facing a critical third down, found his receiver Cooper Kupp. Receiving the pass from the right flank, Kupp essentially bulldozed through the defense, lowering his shoulder and powering into the end zone from 13 yards out. That touchdown not only produced six points but also delivered a psychological blow to Rams fans, who still remember Kupp as the hero of their Super Bowl victory. Now he is fighting against them, demonstrating not only receiving skill but also commitment: earlier in the same drive he made a key block that freed the way for Jaxon Smith-Njigba, allowing the team to move into position for a first down. For the uninitiated, a “third down” in American football is a decisive moment when the offense has its last chance to gain 10 yards to retain possession, and a “yard” is a unit of distance roughly equal to 0.9 meters. Successfully executing these situations often determines the outcome of the game.

BBC analysts note that this impressive drive was a response to pressure from the Rams and essentially buried the debate around Sam Darnold. The quarterback, whose career has previously been questioned, in the most important game of his life is answering critics with composure and accuracy. His connection with Cooper Kupp, who not only scores but also creates opportunities for teammates, looks deadly. The 31–20 score in favor of the Seahawks creates a significant gap, but given the heat of battle and the Rams’ experience — especially their coach Sean McVay — it’s too early to count the Los Angeles team out. The remaining time promises to be just as tense, as the outcome will decide who heads to the season’s final battle — the Super Bowl. For the Seahawks this is a chance to return to the top, and for the Rams it’s an opportunity to prove they can still work playoff miracles.

Who’s in and who’s out: depth chart before the NFC final

Ahead of the decisive game for a Super Bowl berth between the Seattle Seahawks and the Los Angeles Rams, the inactive lists were announced, shedding light on the tactical options available to both teams in this crucial matchup.

According to Seattle Sports, the biggest surprise for the Seahawks was the absence of rookie tight end Elijah Arroyo from the active list; he had only been activated from injured reserve on Friday. That decision removes a potential option to bolster the offense. Also among the inactives are rookie fullback Robbie Ouz (neck injury), who had been listed as questionable, and running back Velus Jones Jr., who became a healthy scratch after being moved off the practice squad. These losses mean the primary load in the running-back room will fall on George Holani and Ken (Cam) Akers, especially considering star Zach Charbonnet is out for the season with a torn ACL. An ACL tear is a severe knee injury requiring lengthy rehabilitation and typically ends a player’s season.

There is good news for the Seahawks: backup left tackle Josh Jones, who had doubts due to knee and ankle issues, will be available. His presence is critical given that starting tackle Charles Cross missed practice time with a foot injury. Other Seahawks inactives include rookie quarterback Jalen Milroe, guard Christian Haines and edge rusher Jared Ivy. Milroe will serve as the third emergency quarterback.

The Los Angeles Rams’ injury situation looks more optimistic. Pro Bowl pass rusher Byron Young, who led the team in sacks in the regular season with 12, has worked through knee issues and will play. His participation is a key factor for applying pressure on the Seahawks’ quarterback. Among the Rams’ inactives are two former Seattle players: cornerback Derion Kendrick and tight end Nick Vannett. Also out are receiver Tutu Atwell, running back Zharquez Hunter, lineman Beu Limer, defensive end Larrell Murchison and third quarterback Stetson Bennett IV, who, like Milroe, will be the emergency backup.

These lists clearly outline the balance of power going into the NFC Final. The Seahawks will have to compensate for losses in the running game, relying on less experienced players, while the Rams gain a major boost in Young to attack the opposing quarterback. The outcome of this game will largely depend on how well Seattle can protect its passer and construct a game plan despite roster limitations.

❮ ❯

Decisive match in Seattle: Seahawks and Rams clash for a Super Bowl berth

One of the most important games in the past decade takes place in Seattle today. The home team, the Seattle Seahawks, hosts the Los Angeles Rams in the National Football Conference (NFC) championship. The winner of this game will advance to the season’s biggest matchup — the Super Bowl. For the Seahawks, this is their first chance to compete for the NFL title since 2015.

The Seahawks enter the game in excellent form, sitting as the top team in the conference. They have won eight straight games, including an impressive victory in the previous round of the playoffs. Their opponents, the Rams, have taken a difficult path, winning two road playoff games led by their star quarterback Matthew Stafford. The sold-out Lumen Field is expected to create an incredible atmosphere for this historic showdown between two longtime divisional rivals.

The game kicks off at 3:30 p.m. Pacific at Lumen Field in Seattle. The broadcast will be available live on FOX and on radio at 710 AM and 97.3 FM. This article serves as the event’s live blog, where fans can follow key moments, analysis, and real-time updates as this thrilling sporting contest unfolds.

❮ ❯

Based on: Live Seahawks-Rams NFC Championship Game live updates, how to watch, score

Sunny Break in Seattle Coming to an End

Seattle residents are enjoying unusually dry and sunny weather for mid-January, but this idyll will last only a couple of days. Meteorologists say the cause is an area of high pressure that is steering precipitation northward, creating a "blocking pattern." The current dry stretch, now two weeks long, has a good chance of breaking the 1963 record, when it didn’t rain for 15 consecutive days in January.

On Sunday, locals can expect a mostly sunny day with temperatures up to 44°F (about 7°C), dropping to 32°F (0°C) in the evening. That day will also mark the first 5 p.m. sunset of the year, coinciding with an important match for the local football team, the Seattle Seahawks. On Monday the sky will cloud over, although temperatures should remain about the same.

Rain will return to the region Tuesday evening, signaling the end of the anomalously dry period. By the end of the week, conditions will be typical for the season: precipitation will continue through Saturday, and temperatures will gradually rise to 54°F (about 12°C). Interestingly, while the West Coast enjoys the lull, a winter storm on the U.S. East Coast has prompted states of emergency in 22 states.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle weather: Sunny, dry for now, 5 p.m. sunsets are here

Seattle Rep expands access to theater through state-approved apprenticeships

One of the Pacific Northwest’s leading professional theaters, Seattle Repertory Theatre (Seattle Rep), has made a breakthrough. Founded in 1963, it serves as an important cultural center in Seattle, presenting classic and contemporary productions and supporting local playwrights. It has now become the first professional theatre and arts organization in Washington state whose paid apprenticeship program received official approval from the state Apprenticeship and Training Council. That regulatory body certifies apprenticeship programs, ensuring they meet strict standards, combine practice with theory, and provide graduates with recognized credentials. Its approval opens access to state funding and significantly increases confidence in the program.

The program, named for Winky Hassi — a well-known figure in Seattle’s theatre community who was active in developing local initiatives — now carries the state’s seal of quality. Her legacy continues by providing opportunities for professional growth. State recognition raises the program to a new level, signaling its high quality and reliability. It is a powerful tool for attracting more talented applicants seeking a serious start in a theatre career with guaranteed pay and support.

The story of Lauren Don, one of the program’s recent graduates, vividly illustrates the opportunities that are opening up. At 22, while an apprentice in directing, she got the chance to work as assistant director and script supervisor with her favorite playwright, Lauren Yee, on the world premiere of a play. “Working for my favorite playwright at 22 — I couldn’t even dream of that. But it happened, and it was incredible,” Don shared.

The program itself offers intensive training lasting about 10 months across five tracks: directing and artistic programs, lighting design, production management, scenic design, or stage management. Apprentices work at least 2,000 hours, receiving a starting wage at Seattle’s minimum level, a midterm raise, and paid vacation and sick leave — rare benefits in the world of theatre apprenticeships. For many apprentices, like Lauren Don, that pay is critical for covering basic expenses, primarily housing. Rent in Seattle has surged due to the tech boom, creating serious financial challenges for early-career arts workers. Guaranteed income makes the dream of working in this field more attainable.

The program is in high demand: for six spots in the 2025 cohort there were more than 680 applications. According to the theatre’s director of education and community programs, Dianna Martinez, the key goal is to make career development in theatre accessible to those without family financial support by offering stable pay and a clear schedule.

Apprentice work is full immersion in the process. For example, Jaina Shoda Meyer, a directing apprentice, during rehearsals records the director’s notes for actors, tracks script changes, and even participates in discussions about the theatre’s future repertoire, gaining invaluable administrative and creative experience.

In addition to intensive practical work, the program includes required classroom training: courses on industry and production safety (OSHA), as well as visits to other regional theaters to study different approaches to organizing work. This gives apprentices a comprehensive understanding of the industry.

These conditions — guaranteed full-time employment with pay and benefits — are exceptional in the theatre field. The skills acquired in the program are applicable far beyond the stage — in film, television, and other creative industries. “We are always called a dying industry,” Martinez says of theatre, “and yet we’re here.” Applications for the next cohort will open at the end of January, offering a new generation of artists a unique career springboard that sets artistic standards for the whole region.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle Rep’s paid apprenticeships, rare in theater, approved by state

Seattle: Cold, Football and Shooting

Overview of Seattle news: residents face a frosty Sunday, but it will warm by midweek. Also on Sunday is a key NFL playoff game between the Rams and Seahawks. Late Friday night in the Belltown area there was a shooting; a 19-year-old woman was wounded.

Cold morning in Seattle: tips for Sunday and the week ahead

Seattle residents can expect another frosty morning, and officials have issued a cold weather advisory. According to the forecast published on fox13seattle.com, Sunday morning temperatures will drop to around 20–25 degrees Fahrenheit (about −6 to −4 degrees Celsius). The cold advisory is in effect until 9 a.m. This continues a dry, cold stretch that on Sunday will match the 13-day span seen last year. The morning will start with clear skies, but clouds will increase during the day.

Daytime highs on Sunday will also remain below seasonal averages, reaching only about 40–45 degrees Fahrenheit (roughly 4–7 degrees Celsius). Attention will be on Lumen Field, where the NFC championship game takes place. Meteorologists jokingly note that raincoats won’t be needed, but dressing warmly is essential, as temperatures will fall to about 30 degrees Fahrenheit (around −1 degree Celsius) by the end of the game. The forecast even includes a fan cheer: “Go Hawks!”

As for the coming week, changes begin Monday: skies will cloud over and rain is likely again by midweek. At the same time it will warm: by Wednesday morning temperatures should rise above freezing (32°F or 0°C). Thus the current cold spell is temporary, and residents should prepare for a return to the region’s typically wet, milder weather.

NFC championship: Los Angeles Rams vs. Seattle Seahawks — where and how to watch

On Sunday, January 25, 2026, two fierce rivals — the Los Angeles Rams and the Seattle Seahawks — will meet in the NFC championship game. The matchup promises to be highly tense given their regular-season history. The Seahawks won in overtime 38–37 in Week 16, while the Rams took revenge in Week 11. Oddsmakers favor Seattle by a slim 2.5 points, but in such an unpredictable season the outcome can change at any moment. Current form and team motivation on the road to the Super Bowl will decide the result.

The game kicks off at 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) and will be broadcast on FOX. For those without cable TV, numerous streaming options are available. Live streams can be watched via DirecTV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and FOX’s own FOX One platform. Mobile users can subscribe to NFL+. Meanwhile, at 3:00 p.m. ET on CBS there will be the AFC game between the New England Patriots and the Denver Broncos, giving fans a true playoff marathon.

As noted in a Yahoo Sports piece, modern ways to watch the NFL are varied but can be confusing. Nationally televised games are split among ESPN, NBC, CBS, Fox, ABC and NFL Network. Thursday Night Football is exclusive to Amazon Prime Video, some games air on Peacock, CBS games are available on Paramount+, and Monday Night Football airs on ESPN or ABC with parallel streaming on the updated ESPN+. To watch out-of-market games there’s NFL Sunday Ticket, but it’s quite expensive. A cheaper option is NFL+, which for $6.99 per month lets you watch out-of-market games on mobile devices.

Recommended services with trial periods include DirecTV (5 days free) and Fubo. DirecTV costs $104.98 per month (first three months) and includes key sports channels and unlimited cloud DVR. Fubo offers a Fubo Sports package for $45.99 in the first month, covering most national broadcasts and local-market games. The new FOX One service, launched in August, provides access to all FOX channels for $19.99 per month. For context: Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) are regional sports channels that broadcast teams’ games within their geographic area, and having them in a package is often critical for fans.

The key takeaway is that in 2026 NFL fans must navigate a complex ecosystem of six national channels and at least four streaming platforms, not counting regional networks and specialty subscriptions. This requires planning and possibly combining services. In short: the Rams vs. Seahawks game is not only the climax of a sporting rivalry but also a test of whether broadcast infrastructure can meet modern audiences’ demands to watch games anytime, anywhere.

Shooting in Belltown: 19-year-old woman wounded

Late Friday night in Seattle’s busy Belltown neighborhood there was a shooting that left a young woman seriously injured. The incident, which occurred after an event ended, once again drew attention to street violence in the city.

According to Seattle Police, calls about the shooting came in around 11:37 p.m. Friday near the intersection of Third Avenue and Wall Street. As reported by king5.com, the shooting followed an altercation after an event in the 2500 block of Third Avenue. Officers arriving on scene found a 19-year-old woman with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. They provided first aid before transferring the victim to Seattle Fire Department medics. The woman was transported in serious condition to Harborview Medical Center.

Investigators determined that an unknown suspect, armed with a handgun, fired multiple shots toward the building where the event took place. Bullets struck both the victim and the building itself. The shooter fled before police arrived, and no arrests have been made so far. The Seattle Police Gun Violence Reduction Unit is investigating the circumstances. The case underscores ongoing safety issues in central city areas, where such incidents, unfortunately, are not uncommon. The lack of information about the shooter’s identity and motive leaves many questions about whether this was a targeted attack or an incident of stray gunfire. The severity of the young woman’s injury and the fact that the shooting occurred in a public place naturally alarm residents.

❮ ❯

Bainbridge Ferry Back in Service Ahead of Key Seahawks Game

The Wenatchee ferry, which was taken out of service after colliding with a log in thick fog on Wednesday, returned to the Bainbridge–Seattle route on Saturday afternoon. Its timely return is especially important for Seattle Seahawks fans, who are expected to travel en masse by ferry on Sunday to attend the decisive NFL playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams.

The collision damaged a propeller blade and the shaft seal, requiring repairs. While the Wenatchee was being fixed, it was replaced by the smaller Sealth ferry. The return of the main vessel, able to carry 202 vehicles (112 more than the replacement), provides the necessary capacity for the thousands of fans expected.

❮ ❯

Based on: Bainbridge ferry back in service ahead of Seahawks game

Seattle: Sports, Incident and Ferries

Seattle news: Rams sack leader injured ahead of NFC title game, accidental victim of late-night downtown shooting, and ferry service restored after collision with a log.

Intrigue before the NFC title game: Rams' sack leader questionable but preparing to play

Ahead of the decisive game to determine who advances to the Super Bowl from the National Football Conference (NFC), the main storyline is the physical readiness of a key Los Angeles Rams defensive player. Byron Young, the team's sack leader, was officially listed as questionable to play due to a knee injury. However, ESPN, citing head coach Sean McVay, reports that the star pass rusher is expected to take the field against the Seattle Seahawks. This report, published by Seattle Sports, sets the tone for tense preparations for the championship matchup.

Young, who recorded 12.0 sacks in the regular season and tied for eighth in the league in that category, was under close scrutiny all week. He missed Wednesday and Thursday practices but was able to participate in a limited capacity on Friday, allowing the coaching staff to express cautious optimism. In the NFL, the “questionable” designation officially means there’s roughly a 50/50 chance the player will play, but coaches’ statements often clarify the real situation. For the Seahawks, Young’s presence on the field is a critical factor: his pressure on the quarterback can destabilize the opponent’s offensive schemes. At the same time, even if he plays, the injury may limit his effectiveness, which would be a slight advantage for Seattle’s offensive line.

While the Rams hope for their top pass rusher, they will definitely be without another important player. Veteran right tackle Rob Havenstein was ruled out of the game with an ankle injury. His absence is a serious blow to the Rams’ offensive line, especially considering he started seven games at the position earlier this season. Havenstein was injured in Week 11 against the same Seahawks and has been on the injured list since. His experience and skill in protecting the quarterback will be missed against Seattle’s pass rushers. For readers unfamiliar with the positions: the offensive line protects the quarterback, and a tackle is one of the key positions on that line. Losing such a player can make the Rams’ passing game more vulnerable.

The rest of the Rams’ roster, according to the report, enters the game in good shape. No other player among the 53-man active roster received a game-day designation, indicating full readiness. In particular, cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr., who previously had shoulder issues, practiced fully on Friday. That bolsters the Rams’ secondary against the Seahawks’ passing attack. The game, kicking off Sunday at 3:30 p.m. local time, will be the season’s culmination for both teams. Radio coverage begins at noon on Seattle Sports 710 AM and KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM. The outcome will determine which of these storied rivals gets a shot at football’s top prize in the Super Bowl.

Downtown Seattle shooting: 19-year-old woman injured after late-night event

Late on a weekend night, downtown Seattle was again the scene of a shooting that left a young woman injured. The incident occurred in the Belltown neighborhood, one of the city’s busy districts, and raised renewed concerns about public safety late at night.

According to a report on komonews.com, Seattle police are investigating a shooting that occurred around 11:37 p.m. near the intersection of 3rd Avenue and Wall Street. Authorities and firefighters were dispatched following reports of possible victims. Upon arrival, emergency responders found a 19-year-old woman with a serious gunshot wound. Seattle Fire Department medics transported her immediately to Harborview Medical Center, where, according to police on Saturday, she remains in critical condition.

Preliminary investigation indicates the shooting resulted from an altercation after an event concluded in a building in the 2500 block of 3rd Avenue. An unknown suspect fired multiple shots in the direction of the venue, with bullets striking the building. The shooter then fled the scene. Investigators note an important detail: the 19-year-old victim was likely not the intended target. This suggests her injury may have been accidental in the course of street gunfire or aimed fire toward a crowd. No arrests have been made so far, and the circumstances are under investigation.

Police ask anyone with information to contact the Violent Crimes Unit at (206) 233-5000 (case number: 26-22555). This incident refocuses attention on street violence and firearm accessibility. Belltown, known for its many bars, restaurants, and apartments, periodically becomes the site of similar incidents, especially during closing hours when large numbers gather on the streets. The fact that the victim appears to have been a bystander underscores the potential danger to all residents. Treatment at a specialized center like Harborview, which receives the most seriously injured trauma patients, indicates the severity of the wounds. The investigation continues, and its outcome will determine whether motives are identified and the shooter apprehended.

Ferry Wenatchee returns to service after collision with a log

The restoration of regular service on the vital Seattle–Bainbridge ferry route was welcome news for thousands of passengers affected by disruptions. After an incident Wednesday morning when the ferry Wenatchee struck a log during transit, the vessel was urgently sent for repairs. Washington State Ferries (WSF) reports that the ferry returned to service as Boat 1, departing Bainbridge for Seattle at 2:10 p.m., which allowed the route to fully restore capacity and resume two-boat operations.

The collision damaged a propeller, requiring specialized tooling for repairs. Wenatchee was taken to the Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility, where the ferry Samish was already undergoing scheduled maintenance. That temporarily left the route short two vessels, causing significant inconvenience. However, as noted by king5.com, Wenatchee’s return to service coincided with the Tacoma being cleared to operate after completing its own scheduled maintenance. This double recovery enabled the prompt restoration of full two-boat service on the key route.

Wenatchee’s return is especially important amid an ongoing ferry shortage in the WSF system, which has forced the administration to adjust schedules on other routes. For example, the Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route maintained a standard two-boat weekend schedule for January 24–25, with a shift to three-boat weekday service planned only for Monday, January 26, after the necessary repairs were completed. This episode illustrates how fragile a complex transportation system can be: a single incident, such as colliding with floating timber—a common occurrence in these waters—can trigger a chain reaction and complicate operations across the network. For passengers, the main takeaway was the quick mitigation and return to normal schedules, which minimized disruption.

❮ ❯

Seattle: sports, tragedies and incidents

Seattle news: the Seahawks bolster their roster ahead of the NFC Championship, police investigate a shooting in Belltown, and a unique homicide case tied to a 50-year-old gunshot.

Seahawks add depth ahead of NFC Championship

Ahead of the decisive game for a Super Bowl berth, the Seattle Seahawks front office made a series of roster moves to compensate for the loss of a key player. After running back Zach Charbonnet suffered a torn ACL in the divisional-round game, the team faced an urgent need to reinforce the position. On Saturday the club elevated two running backs from the practice squad — Velus Jones Jr. and Cam Akers — and on Friday activated George Holani from injured reserve. These steps are intended to support lead back Kenneth Walker III in the NFC Championship against the Los Angeles Rams, Seattle Sports reports (link: https://sports.mynorthwest.com/nfl/seattle-seahawks/seattle-seahawks-elevate-2-rb-practice-squad-nfc-championship-rams/1836922).

Charbonnet’s loss — he was the team’s second-most productive running back in the regular season with 730 yards and a team-high 12 touchdowns — was a significant blow to the Seahawks. In response, the coaching staff opted to emphasize experience and varied running styles. Velus Jones Jr., who joined the practice squad midseason, already saw game action in the divisional round where he rushed for 10 yards after Charbonnet’s injury. Although his regular-season numbers are modest — 32 yards on four carries across three games — his speed and return ability could be useful on special teams.

Cam Akers is a particularly notable addition. The six-year veteran, who spent much of his career with the Rams and was their leading rusher in 2020 and 2022, joined the Seahawks only in late November. Ironically, he will be facing his former team in such an important game. Despite having no carries for Seattle this season, his experience and familiarity with the Rams’ system could prove invaluable. For clarity: in American football a running back is a key offensive player who specializes in carrying the ball, and the practice squad is a training roster from which players can be elevated to the active roster for specific games.

George Holani, who recovered from a hamstring tendon injury, is also back. As the third running back on the depth chart early in the season, he totaled 73 yards and one touchdown and was active as a kickoff returner. His return adds depth and flexibility. The trio is intended to support Kenneth Walker III, who has had an outstanding season with 1,027 regular-season rushing yards and 116 yards with three touchdowns in the playoff blowout of the San Francisco 49ers.

The key insight here is not just roster replenishment but strategic planning. The Seahawks clearly aim to diversify their rushing attack to avoid becoming predictable for the Rams’ defense. Akers’ experience against his former team, Jones’ speed on the edges, and Holani’s reliability on special teams create a multifaceted threat. The decision was made amid optimistic projections about quarterback Sam Darnold’s and left tackle Charles Cross’s readiness, which overall strengthens Seattle’s offense.

The implications of these moves extend beyond a single game. If the Seahawks win and advance to the Super Bowl, they would have a more balanced and rested roster where Walker’s workload could be shared — critical in a single-elimination tournament. The risk is integrating new players into a high-intensity game where each mistake can be costly. Ultimately, the success of this personnel shuffle will depend on how effectively coaches can deploy each running back’s unique skills and turn necessity into strategic advantage.

Death after half a century: how a 1973 shooting became Seattle’s first homicide of 2026

The story of Joseph Garrett is a tragic illustration of how the consequences of a single moment can stretch across a lifetime and even outlast that life. His death in January 2026, which made the 71-year-old the first homicide victim in Seattle this year, traces back to a 1973 shooting outside a high school. It’s a case that prompts reflection on the nature of crime and justice.

Joseph Garrett died on January 4, 2026, but Seattle police determined the cause of death was a gunshot wound he’d sustained more than 50 years earlier — in 1973. The bullet, fired near Garfield High School at the time, forever changed his life and ultimately took it. Remarkably, the person who fired the shot was never held accountable and is now deceased. As Casey McNertney, communications director for the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, noted, this is likely the longest-running homicide-by-delayed-death case in the county’s history. In comments to KUOW he explained that while such cases are unfortunately not uncommon — several are recorded each year — deaths usually occur after a few years or a decade, not half a century.

The only surviving public record of that long-ago incident is a brief item in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, which has since ceased print publication. A piece from October 3, 1973, headlined “Fight ends with youth shot,” reported that 19-year-old Garrett was in critical condition at Harborview Medical Center. The bullet lodged in his back caused paralysis. According to that article (link: https://www.kuow.org/stories/seattle-s-first-2026-homicide-stems-from-a-shooting-more-than-50-years-ago), the incident happened at the intersection of 25th Avenue and Jefferson Street, right in front of the school and less than a block from Garrett’s home. During an altercation with an unidentified man who tried to strike him with a pistol, Garrett grabbed the weapon. In the ensuing struggle a shot was fired. The bullet entered his shoulder, traveled along his spine, and stopped in the middle of his back, leaving him confined to a wheelchair for life.

This case goes beyond ordinary crime reporting. It raises complex legal and ethical questions about what constitutes homicide and where the line lies between inflicting grievous bodily harm and causing death when that death occurs decades later. The paralysis and related complications that plagued Garrett for more than fifty years became the direct cause of his death, which is why it was classified as a homicide. Garrett’s story is a quiet testament to thousands of similar “delayed” tragedies whose consequences stretch on for years, often unnoticed by the wider public. It is a reminder that the cost of violence is measured not only by immediate fatalities but also by stolen years, ongoing suffering, and premature loss of life among those who technically survived the initial attack.

Belltown shooting: 19-year-old woman seriously injured

A Friday night in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood ended with a shooting that left a young woman seriously injured. Police are investigating the incident, which occurred after a gathering of people, and are searching for an unknown shooter.

Late on January 24, at about 11:37 p.m., emergency dispatchers received reports of a shooting near the intersection of 3rd Avenue and Wall Street. The incident followed a disturbance after an event that had been held in the 2500 block of 3rd Avenue. Officers arriving on scene found a 19-year-old woman with a gunshot wound to the abdomen. They provided first aid until Seattle Fire Department medics transported the victim to Harborview Medical Center. Her condition remains serious, according to the latest updates.

Preliminary police information indicates an unknown suspect armed with a handgun fired several shots toward the building where the event took place. Bullets struck not only the victim but the structure itself. After the shooting the suspect fled the scene; no arrests have been made and the shooter’s identity is unknown. Detectives from the Gang and Violent Crimes Unit (GVRU) are investigating the circumstances that led to the tragedy. As noted in the official Seattle Police report (link: https://spdblotter.seattle.gov/2026/01/24/woman-seriously-injured-in-belltown-shooting-after-disturbance/), anyone with information is asked to contact the Violent Crimes Investigation Section at (206) 233-5000. The incident number assigned is 26-22555.

The case again highlights the problem of street violence in urban spaces. The incident occurred in the bustling Belltown area, known for its nightlife, after a large crowd gathered. While the specific motive for the shooting and any connection between the suspect and the victim have not been disclosed, the use of a firearm in a public place is a serious concern. That bullets struck the building as well points to the potential danger to more people and the recklessness of the shooter. The severity of the young woman’s injury underscores the tragic consequences of such incidents. The GVRU’s involvement, which focuses on gangs and violent crime, may suggest a possible context for the shooting, but police have not publicly commented on that aspect. Events like this raise questions about safety measures at mass gatherings and the effectiveness of preventing armed violence in the city.

❮ ❯

Protests, News and Sports in Seattle

A wave of protests against ICE has swept Seattle and Washington in solidarity with Minnesota. The morning show "Good Day Seattle" remains a key source of local news. In sports, analysts predict the Seattle Seahawks will defeat the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC championship game.

Protests against ICE: a wave of solidarity reaches Seattle

As thousands of Minnesotans take to the cold protesting the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), residents of Seattle and across Washington state are joining them in solidarity. January 23 was declared a National Day of Solidarity with Minnesota, and at least ten actions under the slogan “ICE Out For Good” took place across western Washington.

Protests occurred in numerous cities, including Auburn, Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Everett, Gig Harbor, Issaquah, Lynnwood, Marysville, Tukwila, Duvall, Seattle and SeaTac. Another rally began at 6 p.m. in downtown Seattle on Second Avenue. The “ICE Out For Good” movement arose after an ICE officer shot Rene Good in Minneapolis, sparking outrage nationwide. On Friday organizers called on Minnesotans to join a statewide day of “nonviolent actions and reflection,” as stated on the group’s website. “No work, no school, no shopping — just community, conscience and collective action,” they wrote.

Those living outside Minnesota were urged to participate by organizing or attending nonviolent solidarity actions, “demanding that corporations stand up to ICE and urging Congress to immediately rein in ICE.” That same day, according to the Associated Press, about 100 clergy protesting ICE were arrested at Minnesota’s largest airport. They were issued citations for minor offenses — trespassing and failure to obey an officer — and then released. Reverend Maria Furness Tollgaard of Hamline Church in St. Paul said police ordered them to leave, but she and others chose to stay to show support for migrants. These protests are part of a broader movement opposing the Trump administration’s tougher immigration policies across the state.

The wave of protests is expected to continue in western Washington. Several “Abolish ICE – Justice For Good” actions were scheduled in the region on Saturday, including in Seattle, Renton and Lynnwood. A full list of protests can be found via the link in the original article. For context, it’s important to note that ICE is the federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws, and its actions, especially arrests and deportations, are frequently criticized by rights advocates for harshness and human-rights violations. The Rene Good incident became a catalyst, uniting various groups — from religious leaders to local activists — in calls for reform or full abolition of the agency. Key insights include the geographic spread of the protests, from Minnesota to the Pacific Northwest, indicating a nationwide nature of the discontent, and a willingness among people to engage in civil disobedience, as shown by the clergy arrests. Reverend Tollgaard’s quote underscores the movement’s moral imperative — solidarity with vulnerable migrants. The implications are significant: these events increase pressure on Congress and corporations to enact changes in immigration policy and may influence public opinion ahead of future elections, demonstrating growing activist mobilization across the country.

"Good Day Seattle" on FOX13: a daily news source for Washington residents

In Seattle’s broadcast landscape there is a morning show that has become for many Washington state residents an indispensable part of the start of the day. That is "Good Day Seattle" on FOX13, details of which can be found on the station’s website. This daily show, airing including on Saturdays (for example, January 24), offers viewers comprehensive coverage of regional life.

"Good Day Seattle" airs seven days a week, positioning itself as a reliable and comprehensive source of information for Seattle and the entire state. Its content is carefully balanced and covers key aspects that interest the local audience: from the latest news and political events in Washington to the weather forecast, which is especially important in this region with its variable climate. Special attention is given to current traffic issues, a pressing concern for many city residents who face congestion daily. In addition to serious topics, the program covers entertainment and sports, staying connected to local cultural events and athletic achievements, such as teams like the Seattle Seahawks or the Seattle Mariners. This wide format allows the show to meet the informational needs of a diverse audience, serving as a kind of morning guide to life in the region. Its constant presence in the broadcast schedule — seven days a week — underscores its commitment to staying connected with viewers and responding promptly to unfolding events. Thus, "Good Day Seattle" is more than just a news program; it is an established media tradition that helps Washington residents stay informed about what directly affects them, starting first thing in the morning.

Why the Seahawks will beat the Rams in the NFC championship game

Bold predictions are common in sports writing, but not all come true. After the Los Angeles Rams narrowly beat the Chicago Bears in the freezing cold at Soldier Field, respected Los Angeles Times columnist Bill Plaschke declared unequivocally that the Rams would win the Super Bowl. However, as The Seattle Times explains in detail, that loud prediction is not destined to come true, because standing in the Rams’ way are the Seattle Seahawks, and they have all the keys to win the decisive NFC championship game on Sunday at home.

The Seahawks are trending upward while the Rams are literally fighting through difficulties. The main reason for confidence in Seattle’s victory is a radical improvement in their running game. During the regular season the team struggled with turnovers, committing 28 turnovers (second-worst in the league), and quarterback Sam Darnold threw 20 interceptions. But in recent weeks that has changed thanks to a breakthrough in the ground game. Over the last four games the Seahawks averaged 172.3 rushing yards per game with 5.2 yards per carry and scored eight rushing touchdowns. That includes an impressive 171 rushing yards in the overtime win over the Rams on December 18. Such a powerful running game allows the team to control the clock and frees Darnold from having to risk the pass, minimizing dangerous turnovers. If Darnold can avoid fatal mistakes on Sunday — which, of course, remains a difficult condition — the Seahawks will have a huge advantage. Notably, in the two previous meetings between the teams this season the Rams won the turnover battle 7-1, but the total points (58-57) and yards (830-829) were nearly equal. That shows that even with a turnover edge the Rams barely prevailed, and now, with the Seahawks’ improved play, it will be even harder for them.

While the Seahawks are gaining form, the Rams are showing troubling signs of decline. Their defense in the last six games allowed an average of 370.5 yards and 27.8 points per game — numbers that for a full season would rank 29th and 28th in the league, respectively. In the playoffs they barely beat the Carolina Panthers and the Chicago Bears, and in the game against the Bears they were likely saved only by the opponent’s communication errors. Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford completed just 47.6% of his passes, and the Bears’ defense had four sacks. Moreover, because of the strenuous overtime game, 14 Rams players logged 60 or more snaps, while no Seahawks player exceeded 59 snaps in their confident win over San Francisco. Add one fewer night of rest and the need to play a third consecutive road game — and the Seahawks’ physical advantage becomes apparent.

History and statistics also favor Seattle. When the Seahawks previously secured the top seed in the conference and home-field advantage (in 2005, 2013 and 2014), they reached the Super Bowl each time. Additionally, since the 1970 merger the NFC title has twice been contested between the league’s top-scoring offense (which this season are the Rams) and the top defense (the Seahawks), and both times the defense prevailed. But perhaps the Seahawks’ biggest trump card is their coaching staff. General manager John Schneider, recently named Executive of the Year, hired Mike Macdonald two years ago not to copy coaches like Sean McVay of the Rams or Kyle Shanahan, but to beat them. Macdonald’s defense just shut down San Francisco, not allowing a touchdown in two straight games. Now he has a chance to prove he can neutralize McVay’s innovative scheme, MVP-candidate Matthew Stafford and receiver Puka Nacua, who a month ago did damage to the Seahawks’ defense. Macdonald himself remains outwardly calm, noting in an interview that the Rams are a great team with talented players and a scheme, and that this is exactly the challenge needed at this stage of the season.

Thus, while the Rams are certainly a formidable and battle-hardened opponent, and Plaschke’s prediction is a nod to their resilience, the combination of factors — the Seahawks’ growing rushing power, their dominant defense, home-field advantage, historical trends and the tactical genius of the coaching staff — points to the likelihood that on Sunday at Lumen Field there will be no one to stop the Seattle Seahawks. They are not merely stones in the Rams’ path; they are an entire cliff.

❮ ❯

ChampionSHIP maritime parade before the Seahawks' decisive game

On Friday evening, hundreds of Seattle Seahawks fans, wrapped in green-and-blue scarves and jackets, gathered on the shore of Lake Union to greet an unusual vessel — the ChampionSHIP. It’s the former Washington State ferry Hyak, decked out with giant No. 12 flags and glowing with green-and-blue lights. The use of this ferry carries deep symbolic meaning: Washington State ferries are not merely a tourist attraction but a vital part of public transit for thousands of residents, connecting the islands and peninsulas of Puget Sound to the mainland. In that way, historic infrastructure continues to serve people in a new role, linking past and present. The event, called Blue Friday, was organized by the club to celebrate the team’s return to the National Football Conference (NFC) final for the first time in more than a decade.

The ferry made a scenic circuit of Lake Union and Lake Washington, passing through the Montlake Cut and visiting several waterfront neighborhoods. Many fans followed it in their own boats. Upon returning to the Lake Union Park, the drumline Blue Thunder and the team’s dancers disembarked and staged a celebratory performance on the steps of the Museum of History & Industry (MOHAI). This is Seattle’s leading cultural institution devoted to preserving the region’s history, and its steps have become a traditional spot for public events and celebrations thanks to the museum’s central location and symbolic role as a keeper of community memory. Food trucks and a DJ were already waiting there.

Among the guests was Drigo Cassio, who moved with his family from Hawaii to Puyallup two years ago. He has been a Seahawks fan since 2000 and named his seven-year-old son after the club legend — defensive back Kam Chancellor. For Cassio and his family, who are devoted supporters, the team’s return to the conference final is a long-awaited moment after many years of waiting.

Kam Chancellor, nicknamed “Bam-Bam Cam” for his hard-hitting play, is remembered as a star of the legendary Legion of Boom defense that led the Seahawks to their recent Super Bowls and their lone championship in 2014. In the upcoming game he will serve as honorary captain, symbolically linking the team’s storied past to its current achievements.

On Sunday, the Seahawks will face the Los Angeles Rams at their home stadium, Lumen Field. This is the season-deciding game: during the regular season the teams split their meetings by the narrowest of margins. The Seahawks confidently beat the San Francisco 49ers in the playoff round, while the Rams barely edged the Chicago Bears in overtime. Seahawks fans, known as the “12th Man,” create a uniquely loud and intense atmosphere at the stadium. In American football there are 11 players on the field at a time, and the fans are considered the “12th man,” whose support provides an extra advantage. The number 12 has been officially retired by the club in their honor, and its display on flags symbolizes the unity of the team and the stands.

Kickoff is at 3:30 p.m. Pacific. The game will be broadcast on FOX, streamed on NFL+, and available on radio. According to bookmakers, the Seahawks are favored by a slim 2.5-point margin, and much is expected of them as they seek a path back to the Super Bowl.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seahawks all aboard ‘ChampionSHIP’ before NFC playoff game vs. Rams

High-speed light rail will link Seattle and Bellevue in late March

The long-awaited direct rail connection across Lake Washington between Seattle and its eastern suburbs, such as Bellevue, will begin service March 28. The new line is intended to close a historic transportation gap created by geographic isolation and increasing bridge congestion. Bellevue, grown as a tech suburb with Microsoft offices, has long depended on buses stuck in traffic. Rapid population and job growth has increased the need for reliable, fast, and environmentally friendly transit to reduce congestion and emissions. The new line will give regional residents quick, traffic-free trips to work, school, sporting events, and the airport, fundamentally changing the transportation picture.

The new 12-kilometer segment will connect South Bellevue station with Seattle’s key transportation and cultural hub — the International District/Chinatown, the historic core of Asian and Pacific Islander communities. With intermediate stops on Mercer Island and at Judkins Park, the trip will take about 13 minutes because the line is routed along former express lanes of I-90. It will be the first passenger train in the world to run regularly on a floating bridge.

The line, called the 2 Line, will turn north in downtown Seattle and join the tracks of the existing 1 Line that runs to the University of Washington. That will allow train frequencies in that area to increase to every 4–5 minutes and double passenger capacity. The new branch will also expand access to 11 stations opened in Bellevue and Redmond in 2024–2025, including downtown Bellevue, the Microsoft campus, and downtown Redmond.

The project was approved by voters back in 2008, and the regional transit agency Sound Transit, responsible for developing public transportation in central Washington, initially planned to launch it by 2020. A six-year delay, however, arose from disputes over route planning in Bellevue, the need to replace thousands of defective concrete ties, and the kinds of complications typical of large infrastructure projects. Such initiatives often face delays because of coordination among many jurisdictions, strict environmental requirements, rising costs, unforeseen technical problems, and bureaucratic processes. Despite innovative designs to absorb bridge movement and train vibrations, these issues pushed back the delivery schedule.

The line’s launch is timed just ahead of the influx of visitors for the FIFA World Cup in early June and is expected to help relieve overloaded highways. At the same time, Sound Transit continues to grapple with disruptions on existing lines, although project leaders say enhanced reliability measures are in place on the new branch, including backup substations and bypass tracks.

The new line marks a historic step in the region’s public transit development. It will not only provide a signal-free crossing of the lake but also create unprecedented connections between key economic and cultural centers. For Asian and Pacific Islander communities on both sides of the water, it could bring benefits in improved access and economic activity as well as risks related to gentrification, rising rents, and added development pressure on vulnerable populations.

❮ ❯

Based on: When will light rail service start between Bellevue and Seattle?

Seattle Braces for Record Dry Winter

Seattle has experienced an unusually dry and cold stretch for the past ten days, with clear skies and nighttime temperatures dipping below freezing. According to the National Weather Service, this precipitation-free run could break the January 1963 record, when rain did not fall for 15 consecutive days. Meteorologists note that even if the record isn't surpassed, the current dry spell will very likely match that feat.

The forecast for the coming days calls for continued sunny weather with morning fog and daytime temperatures reaching the mid-40s Fahrenheit. These conditions should especially please Seattle Seahawks fans, whose NFL playoff game will take place in similar weather. Meteorologist Dana Felton emphasized that the dry period will last at least into the start of next week.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle weather: Cold, dry days ahead could break a record

Seattle: official resignation and the NFC final

Resignation of Seattle parks chief amid expensive travel scandal and the Seattle Seahawks preparing for the NFC Championship with roster moves and support from legend Warren Moon.

Seattle parks chief resigns amid financial scandal

Seattle saw the sudden resignation of the director of the Department of Parks and Recreation after a growing scandal over his numerous and costly official trips. City officials confirmed that Superintendent AP Diaz’s contract was not renewed by the new mayor, Katie Wilson, effectively meaning his dismissal.

The City of Seattle officially announced that Parks and Recreation Superintendent AP Diaz is leaving his post, and Michelle Finnegan has been named interim director. The decision followed the release of an internal email reviewed by KIRO Newsradio. In his farewell statement, Diaz thanked the city for the opportunity to lead the department and praised the nearly 2,000 staff members who, he said, helped make Seattle’s parks the eighth-best park system in America. But behind those thanks lies a serious reason for his departure related to financial matters.

An investigation by Jason Rantz’s show on Seattle Red 770 AM found that AP Diaz took numerous international and domestic official trips funded by taxpayers. Documents show he visited France, Colombia, Mexico, the Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates and other countries, as well as cities across the U.S. The cost of some international trips exceeded $6,000. Notably, state funds were not always exclusively used for all these trips, but the scale of travel drew attention. A source in the mayor’s office told Jason Rantz’s show that the administration of new mayor Katie Wilson is aware of the scope and cost of these travels and views them as a problem. That story is believed to have been a key factor in the decision not to renew Diaz’s contract.

It remains unclear whether former mayor Bruce Harrell personally knew the full extent of these trips, though it was his administration that approved them. Mayor Wilson’s office, while confirming Diaz’s departure, did not disclose specific reasons for not renewing the contract, leaving room for interpretation. The new mayor and her team are currently meeting with department leaders to determine who will retain their positions, and Diaz’s travel story has clearly become the first high-profile example of such personnel reassessment. This resignation may mark the start of a potentially tougher approach by the new city administration to financial discipline and official accountability. The situation is developing, and the public awaits further clarification from City Hall about the criteria for using budget funds for official purposes.

Seahawks make roster changes ahead of NFC final

Ahead of the NFC Championship game against the Los Angeles Rams, the Seattle Seahawks’ season featured forced but strategically important roster moves. The team activated two players from injured reserve in an effort to mitigate the loss of key running back Zach Charbonnet, who is out for the season. These steps, detailed in an article from Seattle Sports, reflect the coaching staff’s attempt to preserve offensive balance and roster depth before the playoff climax.

The main development was activating George Holani from injured reserve; he will now serve as the primary backup running back. Holani, an undrafted second-year player out of Boise State, had been recovering from a hamstring tendon injury since late November. His return was carefully managed: this week he fully participated in practices, and head coach Mike Macdonald praised the player’s physical condition and hard work. This season Holani has 73 rushing yards and one touchdown on 22 carries, plus two receptions for 15 yards and 16 kickoff returns for 387 yards. His role in the upcoming game could be critical, especially since Charbonnet, the No. 2 running back, suffered a knee injury in the divisional-round win over the San Francisco 49ers and is now on injured reserve for the rest of the season. For context: the injured reserve (IR) is a special status for players with significant injuries who are out for at least four games, but teams can activate a limited number of players from IR during the season, which the Seahawks did with Holani.

At the same time, the team brought rookie tight end Elijah Arroyo off injured reserve. Arroyo, a second-round pick from Miami, played in 13 games this season, recording 179 yards and one touchdown on 15 receptions, and also suffered a knee injury in early December. His return bolsters the passing options, which could be an additional asset on offense. To make room for Arroyo on the active roster, the Seahawks moved rookie guard Bryce Kaibeldue to injured reserve; Kaibeldue, a sixth-round pick from Kansas, also had knee issues. These moves underscore how fragile playoff success can be, where every injury demands quick and precise reactions from management.

The key takeaway is that the Seahawks are banking on roster depth and the readiness of young players to step up at a critical moment. Coach Macdonald’s quote — “George is in great shape. He’s been working tirelessly. We’re excited to get him out there” — conveys the team’s confidence in the recovered player. However, Holani’s stats show he has not yet been a central figure in the offense, and he will now have to prove his value under the pressure of a conference final. The implications of these changes could affect the Seahawks’ game plan: the team might rely more on the passing game or use Holani on special teams for returns, where he already has experience. The game against the Rams, scheduled for Sunday at 3:30 p.m. local time, will be a serious test for the revamped roster, and how quickly Holani and Arroyo find their rhythm could determine the Seahawks’ chances of reaching the Super Bowl. Weather and other factors mentioned in related coverage add intrigue, but these personnel decisions could decide whether the team clears the final playoff hurdle.

Warren Moon’s heart beats with the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC final

Seattle is caught up in pregame fever: the Seahawks have reached the NFC Championship for the first time since 2015, and on their home turf, Lumen Field, they will host archrivals the Los Angeles Rams. One of the most enthusiastic fans is a legend of both local and national football — Hall of Famer Warren Moon. In an exclusive interview with Andscape, the former Seahawks quarterback and longtime radio voice of the team shared his expectations for the decisive game and his analysis of how the team got to this point.

Warren Moon, for whom Seattle has become home, feels the city has united in anticipation of big football. “There’s definitely a family atmosphere here right now,” Moon says. “Everyone’s excited the team is back. We’ve been waiting for this.” Returning to the NFC final is a landmark moment for the franchise, whose last great era came under coach Pete Carroll and his legendary defensive unit the “Legion of Boom,” which delivered a Super Bowl XLVIII win in 2014. Moon, a big admirer of that roster, notes that although current head coach Mike Macdonald, the former Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator, employs a different philosophy, the results speak for themselves.

To explain a key point: in American football, the “Legion of Boom” is the nickname for the powerful Seahawks defensive group of the mid-2010s that dominated through physicality and aggression. Macdonald’s style, Moon explains, is more complex and nuanced. While Carroll’s scheme relied on basic zone coverages (where defenders are responsible for specific areas of the field), Macdonald emphasizes varied blitzes (quick attacks on the opposing quarterback) and hybrid coverages to confuse the passer. “Nowadays, with quarterbacks so good, you almost have to play like that,” Moon reasons. “You’ve got to confuse them. If you just sit back in zone, they’ll destroy you.” That approach has paid off: this season the Seahawks’ defense ranked first in the league in points allowed, giving up just 17.2 points per game on average, and finished in the top 10 across key metrics.

But standing between them and the Super Bowl is a formidable opponent — the Rams led by wunderkind coach Sean McVay. Their offense was the most productive in the league during the regular season, averaging 30.5 points per game. The teams have already split two meetings this season, adding intensity to the upcoming contest. Moon admits his heart is with the Seahawks, but his head tells him it will be a fierce battle. “My heart’s with the Seahawks. I want them to win and get back to the Super Bowl. But my gut tells me… this is going to be a very close game,” the veteran says. “Ever since McVay took over the Rams, we’ve had trouble with them. We know how to play them — we just need to protect the ball. If we protect the ball, secure it, and play our game, we’ll win this one.”

Moon places particular hope in the home field and the Seahawks’ legendary fans — the “12th Man” (a nickname for fans whose incredible support is likened to having an extra player on the field). After the deafening victory over the San Francisco 49ers in the playoff round, when Lumen Field literally shook with enthusiasm, Moon expects the NFC final to be even more intense. “That last game against the 49ers reminded me of when we were heading to the Super Bowl,” he recalls. “The crowd was just incredible. It’ll be like that this week.” With a trip to the biggest game of the year on the line, the stadium’s energy could be the decisive factor in a clash between two conference titans.

❮ ❯

How a psychologist helps the Seahawks gear up for the big game

The Seattle Seahawks face the most important game of the year — one that will determine who goes to the Super Bowl. But team sports psychologist Michael Jerves, who works with the team, urges players not to fixate on that. His goal is to help them tune out external noise, stick to familiar rituals and treat the game as “just another chance to show what we can do.”

Sports psychology, which helps athletes maintain mental health and perform at peak levels, is becoming an increasingly important part of professional sports. NFL stars like Tom Brady have publicly spoken about its benefits, significantly reducing stigma around the subject. Turning to a psychologist is now seen not as a sign of weakness but as a tool for reaching an elite level.

The work of sports psychologists is especially important because of the unique pressure public figures face. They attract intense scrutiny of both their athletic performance and their private lives. In addition, social media and the spread of sports betting create new layers of stress, including a stream of abuse and fans’ financial interest in a particular player’s actions. In Seattle this pressure has a particular character. The local fan community, known as the “12th Man,” creates one of the loudest and most devoted supports in the NFL at Lumen Field. That strong emotional connection creates high expectations, which can be both inspiring and extremely demanding for players, especially in home games.

To help athletes, psychologists use a variety of methods. A key strategy is the practice of mindfulness — focusing on the present moment. Techniques such as keeping a mental-preparation journal or doing progressive muscle relaxation exercises to improve sleep before a game are also used. It’s important to understand that the goal is not only to improve performance metrics but also to support overall mental well-being, which ultimately leads to better results.

The Seahawks were initially skeptical about sports psychology. Players like Doug Baldwin doubted it, and Marshawn Lynch called such specialists “theoretical psychologists.” But over time simple breathing exercises and gratitude meditation opened new horizons of self-control for Baldwin. Jerves helped him develop routines that allow him to manage emotions before games and even before each play. The club’s philosophy of mental preparation has deep roots. Former head coach Pete Carroll actively implemented positive psychology methods, creating a competitive but supportive atmosphere. With the arrival of new head coach Mike MacDonald, known for his tactical approach, a shift toward more structured preparation tied to game situations is expected, while preserving key elements of psychological support.

Jerves worked with the team for nine seasons, including their Super Bowl runs. After Pete Carroll’s departure, the club’s general manager John Schneider again brought the psychologist back to help new head coach Mike MacDonald build the desired team culture “from a mindset perspective.” Schneider, who has worked with the club since 2010, played a key role in building the championship team and shaping its culture based on collaboration and resilience. Throughout the season Jerves and former Seahawks kicker Steven Hauschka, now a performance coach, hold weekly meetings with MacDonald. Hauschka’s move from reliable kicker of the Seahawks’ winning era into a coaching role is significant for the club because he brings unique game experience and an understanding of the specific pressures, helping current players reinforce the traditions of a strong special teams unit.

Despite lingering stigma, modern players are far more aware of best practices for training the mind. Psychologists help them follow an individualized “performance plan,” which can include a sleep schedule, visualization exercises or a nutrition routine. It’s crucial that all games — preseason, regular season or playoff — are approached the same way.

On the eve of the decisive game, Jerves’s philosophy remains unchanged. He hopes players will be “relaxed and focused,” present in the current moment. The key to success is not thinking about past games against this opponent or the Super Bowl, but fully committing to what’s happening here and now. That state, he believes, allows the team to reach its maximum potential.

❮ ❯

Based on: How a sports psychologist helps the Seahawks prep for the NFC Championship

Washington bill could restore voting rights to thousands of prisoners

A bill in the U.S. state of Washington could dramatically change voting law. House Bill 1196 proposes to restore the right to vote for all people serving time in the state’s prisons for criminal convictions. Currently, more than 15,000 U.S. citizens incarcerated in Washington are denied this fundamental opportunity to participate in civic life.

Historically in Washington, unlike in Southern states, laws stripping voting rights from those convicted of felonies were not overtly race-based but were enacted within a broader criminal justice context. Over time, reforms here have expanded the rights of formerly incarcerated people.

The initiative’s sponsor is state Representative Tarra Simmons of the 23rd Legislative District, which includes part of Kitsap County. She is a Democrat and a lawyer who specializes in criminal justice issues and uses her personal experience of serving a sentence to push for prison system reforms. She argues that disenfranchisement is an outdated form of punishment that does not serve society’s interests or make it safer. In her view, the ability to vote helps incarcerated people feel connected to the community and prepares them for life after release.

Disenfranchisement disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minorities. According to the national advocacy group The Sentencing Project, which works with local organizations in Washington, Black residents of the state are five times, and Latino residents are twice as likely, to lose the right to vote because of a conviction compared with the rest of the population. Research from that organization is frequently cited by politicians like Tarra Simmons to justify reforms and helps shape public debate by raising awareness of the issues. These data reflect systemic inequality in the criminal justice system.

In the national context, Washington is not an outlier. Today only two states — Maine and Vermont — allow all incarcerated people to retain the right to vote. In some states, such as Alabama and Mississippi, that right depends on the specific crime. In the District of Columbia and in Puerto Rico, all people in custody can also vote.

The widespread practice of disenfranchisement has roots in the post-Civil War era, when laws, especially in the South, were used to deliberately exclude African Americans from the political process. Since 1997, 26 states and the District of Columbia have eased such restrictions, restoring voting rights to more than 2 million Americans.

Opponents of the bill, mostly Republican politicians, argue against the changes. They believe disenfranchisement serves as a deterrent to committing crimes. Concerns are also raised about the financial and logistical difficulties of organizing voting in correctional facilities, such as Monroe Correctional Complex in Monroe or Washington State Penitentiary in Walla Walla. Practical issues could include the logistics of delivering ballots, ensuring ballot privacy, training incarcerated people and staff on procedures, and security concerns, all of which would require close coordination with election officials.

Supporters of the reform, however, insist that participation in elections is a pro-social activity that aids rehabilitation. Research shows that voting strengthens a sense of personal responsibility, improves reintegration into society after release, and reduces the likelihood of reoffending.

If the law is passed, incarcerated people would be able to register to vote at their last place of residence. Their ballots would be opened in the presence of a corrections staff member to ensure transparency. As advocates note, the ability to influence the choice of local officials and judges would give thousands of people a sense of inclusion and representation that they currently lack.

❮ ❯

Based on: 15,000 people in WA prisons can’t vote. A new bill aims to change that

First tasting of WSU's new Sunflare apple

At Washington State University (WSU), the state land-grant research university whose mission includes advancing the state's agriculture, a landmark tasting was held for a new apple variety named Sunflare. The event capped nearly 30 years of breeding work by the university, which conducts long-term projects often too risky or unprofitable for private companies. Staff and students lined up to be among the first to try the hybrid—bred from the popular Cripps Pink and Honeycrisp varieties—marking an important step toward bringing the apple to consumers.

The new variety is described as crisp, juicy and firm, with flesh showing pink, orange and yellow hues. According to university representative Jeremy Tamsen, Sunflare has a balanced sweet-tart flavor that is milder and more refined than WSU’s previous development, the Cosmic Crisp. Sunflare is intended to be marketed not as a mass product but as a special, “boutique” variety, offering growers a new niche crop for their orchards.

But consumers will need to be patient: Sunflare apples are not expected on store shelves until 2030, after the first commercial harvest in 2029. Young trees already planted in Washington need time to mature and produce sufficient yields. The variety is attractive to growers because of its early ripening, disease resistance and good storability. Initially, like Cosmic Crisp, it will be grown exclusively in Washington. That exclusivity allows control over quality, supply and marketing, supporting higher prices. The state is the “apple capital” of the U.S., accounting for more than 60% of production, thanks to its unique geography: a dry climate east of the Cascade Range, extensive irrigation systems fed by the Columbia River, rich volcanic soils and an ideal combination of warm days and cool nights for apple maturation.

Sales of nursery stock, budwood, and eventually the apples themselves will generate royalties for the university. Those funds, WSU’s press release notes, will support scientific research and finance the development of future fruit varieties, returning income to research in a public-benefit model common across many U.S. states. Thus the success of Sunflare will directly affect the university’s breeding programs.

The first consumers—students on WSU’s Pullman campus—gave the newcomer enthusiastic reviews. Tasting participants noted a pleasant, gentle sweetness and an interesting texture. One student, who works in horticultural tourism and has tried dozens of varieties, said Sunflare might have become his new number-one favorite. That enthusiasm suggests the variety has strong potential.

❮ ❯

Based on: WSU’s new Sunflare apple variety gets its first taste

Seattle Mayor Orders Major Shake-Up in City Administration

Seattle Mayor Kate Wilson on Wednesday announced significant personnel changes across city department leadership, replacing many leaders appointed by her predecessor Bruce Harrell. The broad reshuffle reflects a shift in political direction: while Harrell, who represented a moderate-centrist wing, focused on pragmatic cooperation with business, public safety and addressing homelessness, the new administration is expected to pursue more progressive reforms, including reallocating resources and bold solutions to the housing crisis. Assembling a team that fully shares this vision is a key objective of the staffing decisions.

The changes affected the departments of arts and culture, parks and recreation, housing, economic development, environment and neighborhood engagement. These moves complement earlier announced leadership changes at the Department of Transportation and Seattle City Light, marking a sharp break with the previous mayor’s cabinet.

Among the most notable replacements is the departure of Gülgün Kayim as head of the Office of Arts & Culture, now succeeded by Amy Nguyen, who has experience in urban planning. Beto Yarse, a former regional administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration, will lead the Office of Economic Development. Quynh Pham, an activist from the Little Saigon neighborhood, will take over the Department of Neighborhoods. That area in the International District is a cultural, economic and historical center for Seattle’s Vietnamese community. The appointment reflects the administration’s desire to amplify the voices of immigrant and ethnic communities in city governance, which could lead to increased support for cultural projects and small businesses in such specific neighborhoods.

Particular attention focused on the Housing Department, which was led for three years by Maiko Winkler-Chin. With Seattle’s affordable housing crisis deepening, many experts had expected changes in that agency. Notably, Wilson, unlike in other cases, did not immediately name a candidate for this key post, leaving the matter open.

In other appointments, Liliana Allala, Seattle’s first director of Climate Justice, will head the Office of Sustainable Development and Environment. Mina Hashemi will remain head of Intergovernmental Relations, and Dr. Amara Khan will continue as the employee ombuds. At the same time, Wilson kept some leaders in place, including the police chief and the director of the planning department.

The mayor’s decisions have already drawn criticism, especially the firing of Dawn Lindell from Seattle City Light, which provoked protests from staff and unions. The King County MLK Labor coalition, one of the city’s most influential political forces, plans to pass a resolution urging Wilson to hold open recruitments for vacancies with union representation. Named for Martin Luther King, the coalition brings together many unions and traditionally plays a key role in shaping policy by mobilizing votes and public support. Its response indicates potential friction between the new administration and labor groups.

Despite the criticism, Kate Wilson expressed confidence in her new team, saying, “I can’t help but admire the talent and experience of the people who will lead city departments, and I know that together this team can achieve outstanding results.” The mayor emphasized that she will actively heed her leaders’ advice when making policy decisions, as she pledged during her campaign.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle Mayor Wilson shakes up department leadership

King County floods' aftermath: billions in damage and search for solutions

Damage from the record December floods in western Washington is becoming clearer. King County officials, who coordinate water resources and flood protection for 39 cities including Seattle, estimate total losses could reach into the billions. At a meeting with U.S. Senator Patty Murray, local mayors and officials reviewed the disaster and discussed ways to prevent similar events in the future.

The financial picture is alarming. County infrastructure damage alone is estimated at $53 million, and the total including private property will be far higher. Yet the county and state have only about $4 million available for recovery work, prompting officials to actively seek federal financial assistance and to work with agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The most severe damage came from two failures of protective structures. On Dec. 17, an earthen levee on the Green River in Tukwila breached, sending water into an industrial area. That low-lying floodplain area, historically prone to flooding, is a critical logistics and distribution hub for the entire Pacific Northwest, with Amazon, Boeing and many other businesses that provide tens of thousands of jobs. The next morning, temporary barriers failed in the city of Pacific, and the White River — one of several major rivers in the county posing threats alongside the Snohomish, Skagit and others — flooded neighborhoods, forcing the urgent evacuation of hundreds of people.

About 220 homes were damaged in Pacific, and many residents still cannot return to their flooded houses. Aid to those affected has been uneven, and some residents are even considering lawsuits against city, county or federal authorities for negligence. Pacific Mayor Vic Keve bluntly said the barrier failures in his city were "entirely preventable." The temporary structures installed in 2009 as an emergency measure after the threat of failure at the Howard Hanson Dam have long exceeded their intended lifespan. Their replacement with permanent systems has been delayed for more than a decade due to bureaucratic hurdles, difficulty coordinating funding across levels of government, and lengthy environmental review and design processes.

Despite the scale of the disaster, emergency response actions had positive aspects. Rescue teams reacted quickly to both breaches, immediately initiating evacuations and mitigation work. Their coordinated efforts, witnesses say, helped prevent even greater loss of life.

Critics, however, point out the disaster could have been avoided. Problems with the Tukwila levee and the temporary barriers in Pacific were well known to local and county officials for years, yet necessary repairs and replacements were not carried out. Individual cities, meanwhile, bear primary responsibility for local drainage systems and response measures.

Evacuation organization was another issue. An initial evacuation warning for 46,000 people in the Tukwila-Kent area — later narrowed — caused widespread panic. Kent Mayor Dana Ralph noted that this psychological shock and uncertainty could drive businesses away from the region for a long time.

Officials acknowledge there are no simple solutions. Beyond repairing existing levees, more comprehensive measures are needed: removing sediment from rivers and restoring natural floodplains to relieve water pressure. Restoring natural floodplains — which are salmon habitat and a vital part of Western Washington’s ecosystem — is extremely difficult. Many have already been developed or are used for agriculture, requiring huge costs to buy out land, relocate infrastructure and overcome resistance from landowners. Projects like these, and overall river threat management that includes levee systems and development regulation, face serious economic and logistical challenges.

In the end, county leaders agree that without large-scale, well-funded and carefully planned action, the risk of destructive floods in the future will remain very high. The road to recovery ahead will be long and difficult.

❮ ❯

Based on: King County flood damage coming into focus

Seattle: SR 99 crash and NFC final

In Seattle a serious crash on SR 99 led to injuries and traffic delays. Meanwhile the Seattle Seahawks are preparing for the NFC final against the Los Angeles Rams despite injury concerns to key players.

SR 99 crash in Seattle: driver ejected during rollover

On Thursday afternoon a serious traffic collision on the busy SR 99 in Seattle injured a driver. The incident briefly closed the roadway near the First Avenue bridge, causing major disruptions during rush hour.

According to information provided by Washington State Patrol ranger Rick Johnson and published on king5.com, the crash occurred on the southbound lanes of SR 99 near the First Avenue bridge. A vehicle rolled over and the driver was ejected from the car — one of the most dangerous outcomes in a crash, often occurring when occupants are not wearing seat belts. The injured person, with possible internal injuries, was taken to Harborview Medical Center, known for its trauma care. The incident led to a full closure of all lanes around 3:20 p.m., severely complicating evening traffic. Fortunately, the roadway was fully reopened by 5:30 p.m., and no other vehicles were reported involved. The case again raises questions about highway safety and the critical importance of seat belt use, which is the primary protection against being thrown from a vehicle in a severe impact or rollover.

Left tackle woes and the injury report: how injuries threaten the Seahawks in the NFC final

Injury concerns within the Seattle Seahawks organization are causing serious alarm ahead of the NFC championship game against the Los Angeles Rams. The left tackle position has become a central headache, as none of the three potential candidates were able to participate fully in Wednesday’s practice, putting quarterback Sam Darnold’s protection in doubt for Sunday’s game.

As reported in the Seattle Sports injury report, starting tackle Charles Cross, who had only recently returned from a hamstring injury, is now dealing with a foot problem. His backups Josh Jones (knee and ankle) and rookie Amari Kaight (knee) also missed practice. Coach Mike Macdonald had already indicated Jones would be absent. This situation creates a critical vulnerability in the Seahawks’ offensive line, especially since the left tackle protects the blind side of a right-handed quarterback from opposing pass rushers. The injury report lists 14 players overall, although three — linebacker Demarcus Lawrence, receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and defensive end Leonard Williams — were limited for rest only. Quarterback Sam Darnold continues to practice with limitations due to an oblique injury, adding uncertainty to the team’s offensive plans. There is some good news: running back George Holani, recovering from a hamstring issue, fully participated in practice, which is important after losing Zack Charbonnet to an ACL tear. By contrast the Rams’ report is much lighter — just four players — giving the California club an edge in availability. The conference final, which will determine a Super Bowl participant, is set for Sunday at Lumen Field in Seattle, and the current physical condition of key Seahawks players could be decisive.

The game to reach the Super Bowl: Seattle Seahawks vs. Los Angeles Rams

On Sunday, January 25, 2026, the football world will be focused on Seattle. At Lumen Field the NFC championship will pit local rivals the Seattle Seahawks against the Los Angeles Rams. The winner will advance to Super Bowl LX, and as fox13seattle.com notes, the road to the season’s biggest game runs through Seattle because the Seahawks clinched the top seed in the conference and the right to host.

It’s a historic moment for the city, which hosts a conference final for the first time since 2014. Then the Seahawks completed a legendary comeback against the Green Bay Packers to reach the Super Bowl. Now the team arrives at the decisive game riding a huge wave of momentum after a dominant 41–6 divisional-round victory over the San Francisco 49ers. That game featured a stout defense and running back Kenneth Walker III scoring three touchdowns. The Rams reached Seattle after a hard-fought overtime win over the Chicago Bears, 20–17.

For fans unable to attend, the game kicks off at 3:30 p.m. Pacific. The broadcast will be on local FOX 13 (KCPQ), and the pregame show "Gameday on FOX 13" starts at 1:00 p.m. The game will also stream via the FOX One app or with an NFL+ subscription. For those heading to Lumen Field, the city is preparing a special atmosphere: Seattle will be "lit in blue" all week in team colors, and fans at the stadium will receive giveaways, including the popular "Action Green" pom-poms.

The halftime show will feature country singer Tucker Wetmore. A native of the small town of Kalama and an alumnus of the local high school, he combined a love of music and football and, after becoming a viral sensation and a breakout artist in the 2025 charts, will perform at one of the year’s major sporting events.

This matchup will be the third meeting between the teams this season. In the regular season they split the series: the Rams won 21–19 in November, and the Seahawks avenged that loss with a 38–37 overtime win in mid-December. Notably, the Los Angeles Rams are the only team to have beaten the Seahawks in a playoff game on Seattle’s home field, which happened in 2004 and 2020. That history adds extra drama and anticipation to the decisive showdown, with a trip to the 2026 Super Bowl on the line.

❮ ❯

Washington asks Trump for $21 million in FEMA aid for flood victims

Washington state Governor Bob Ferguson has formally asked U.S. President Donald Trump to declare the destructive December floods a major disaster and to provide $21.3 million in federal aid to affected residents. The funds are intended for direct financial support to families whose homes were damaged or destroyed. The request is the first step in seeking large-scale federal assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The storm that struck the state from Dec. 5–22 caused massive damage. According to the governor’s office, more than 100,000 people were at risk, nearly 400 rescue operations were conducted, one person died, and about 4,000 homes were damaged. The state’s three largest rivers — the Snoqualmie, Skykomish and Stillaguamish, which originate in the Cascade Mountains — reached historic highs due to heavy rainfall and rapid snowmelt. Levees were breached, causing sudden flooding of residential and industrial areas in the valleys and triggering mass evacuations.

The requested $21.3 million covers only part of the needed aid, addressing so-called “individual assistance” for residents. A separate, much larger request for rebuilding damaged roads, levees and other infrastructure is planned to be submitted by Feb. 18. If the request is approved, residents will be able to apply directly to FEMA for reimbursements of up to $43,600 for temporary housing, repairs and other needs.

Historically, FEMA’s aid decisions have enjoyed bipartisan support. However, in recent years President Trump has repeatedly tied such decisions to politics, openly stating he would prioritize aid to states that voted for him. In 2024 the agency already denied Washington’s request for $34 million to address the aftermath of another storm, despite the state meeting all official criteria.

Governor Ferguson’s current request, however, is receiving unprecedented bipartisan backing. Washington’s entire congressional delegation, as well as both Democratic and Republican leaders in the state legislature, will send letters to the White House this week supporting the funding. This demonstrates unity in the effort to help those affected.

A full assessment of the total damage from the December storms is still underway. Preliminary estimates put road and highway repairs alone at least $40 million. The most seriously affected route was the vital Highway 2 over Stevens Pass — a key transportation and economic corridor that connects the densely populated west side of the state with the agricultural east. Sections of the road were completely washed out, and traffic was blocked for weeks. Although passage over the pass has now been restored, full repairs will take months. Detours use longer, congested routes over Snoqualmie, White Pass and Washington passes, significantly increasing travel times, causing freight delays, raising logistics costs and isolating whole communities. No timeline has been set for a response from the White House on the aid request.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA asks Trump for $21 million in FEMA aid for flood victims

Washington bill would ban hidden pricing in stores

Residents of Washington state, like many Americans, are facing sharp increases in food prices. State lawmakers are asking whether the situation is being exacerbated by covert technologies that major retailers have begun using to manipulate the cost of goods. To protect consumers, a group of Democratic legislators led by Rep. Mary Fosse, a member of the House from the 38th District representing the Everett area and part of Snohomish County, introduced bill HB 2481 aimed at so-called "price surveillance" and "dynamic pricing."

The bill seeks to ban two main practices. "Dynamic pricing" is the instantaneous raising of prices on essential goods during periods of high demand, similar to what ride-hailing services do. "Price surveillance" is a more complex and covert system in which companies use artificial intelligence to analyze collected shopper data (purchase history, demographics, even cursor movements on a website) and set an individualized, often higher, price for that person.

Supporters of the bill, including labor unions and consumer advocacy groups, argue that these technologies are invisible to shoppers and discriminatory in effect. They fear stores are becoming "media companies selling data" and may end up focusing on serving wealthier customers while abandoning low-income neighborhoods. They say AI systems can change prices faster than a human can track.

Research underscores the scale of the problem. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has found that companies actively collect vast amounts of personal data to tailor prices. A separate investigation showed that grocery delivery service Instacart secretly tested algorithmic pricing on customers, causing some families to potentially overpay up to $1,200 a year. Consumers see only the final price and do not understand how it was determined.

Retail trade associations, however, oppose the bill in its current form. Leading the lobbying are the Washington Retail Association, the Northwest Grocery Association, and national groups with local chapters, such as the National Federation of Independent Business. They say they share the goal of preventing discriminatory pricing but that the bill’s language is too vague. In their view, it would expose stores to endless class-action suits from consumers. Lobbyists are urging lawmakers to clarify key definitions to avoid legal confusion.

The bill has not yet been put to a vote. If passed by the legislature, its fate would rest with Governor Jay Inslee, a three-term Democrat who has historically supported progressive consumer protections and wields significant influence in the area. With Democrats controlling the legislature, chances of his signing are high. If signed, the law would take effect 90 days after the end of the current legislative session, scheduled to conclude on March 12. That would give businesses time to prepare for potential changes.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA lawmakers consider bill to end retail surveillance, surge pricing

Trump administration drops appeal in legal fight over DEI programs

The administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump has withdrawn further appeals of a court ruling that blocked its policy threatening to strip federal funding from schools and colleges that run diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs. The Department of Education filed a motion to dismiss its appeal, leaving in place the federal judge’s August verdict. The court ruled that the campaign against DEI violated the First Amendment’s free-speech protections as well as administrative procedure rules.

The policy was challenged in court after the Department of Education under the Trump administration sent official guidance letters to schools and colleges. The letters asserted that practices aimed at increasing diversity had resulted in discrimination against white and Asian-American students, and instructed institutions not to consider race in admissions, hiring or awarding scholarships. The American Federation of Teachers filed the lawsuit against those directives, and the advocacy group Democracy Forward, representing the plaintiffs, called the withdrawal of the appeal “a significant victory for public education.”

In her ruling, Judge Stephanie Gallagher of Maryland said the threat of losing funding created a climate of fear among millions of educators who might have feared punishment even for lawful and beneficial speech. Thus, the court found that federal authorities cannot use financial leverage to suppress academic freedom and discussions about equality. The Trump administration’s final withdrawal from the appellate fight means the decision remains in force, a relief to supporters of diversity programs in education.

❮ ❯

Based on: Trump administration drops legal appeal over anti-DEI funding threat to schools and colleges

Washington May Eliminate Interest on Medical Debt

Lawmakers in Washington state are considering a drastic measure to help families struggling with the rising cost of living. A new bill introduced by state Sen. Emily Alvarado, who represents a Seattle-area district and typically works on housing policy, social justice and consumer protection, aims to completely eliminate the accrual of interest on new and existing medical debt in the state. The initiative is intended to ease the financial burden often borne by people facing serious illnesses.

Currently, Washington has a cap set in 2019 that prevents charging more than 9% annual interest on medical debt. But the bill’s sponsors note that other states, such as Maine and Delaware, have gone further and fully banned interest, while New Jersey, North Dakota and Virginia have reduced rates to 1–3%. Washington could therefore join that trend.

The tragic story of Tacoma resident Chris Shook, shared at hearings, illustrated the problem starkly. He was simultaneously diagnosed with two types of stage-4 cancer, and while fighting for his life he wasn’t thinking about bills. However, an old debt incurred before the 2019 law was sold to collectors who charged 12% interest. That led to threats of lawsuits and wage garnishments, worsening an already dire situation.

The bill has drawn support from consumer advocacy groups such as the Northwest Consumer Law Center — a nonprofit legal organization with a long history in the state that specializes in litigation and advocacy on unfair debt collection — and AARP. They argue that high interest rates make medical debt unbearable and destroy families’ financial stability. Sen. Alvarado emphasized that families are willing to pay for care received, but high interest rates only make repayment harder without increasing the likelihood of recovering money.

However, hospital associations, physician groups and collection agencies oppose the proposal. They warn that interest on debts is an important revenue source for small rural hospitals, helping to offset uncompensated care. In their view, eliminating interest could lead to higher prices for other patients or worsen the financial condition of healthcare providers.

The bill, SB 5993, has already had its first hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee, which frequently reviews such initiatives because they touch on legal aspects of debt collection and consumer protection. Its possible vote is scheduled for Thursday. If passed and signed by the governor, it would take effect 90 days after the end of the current legislative session — roughly mid-June.

❮ ❯

Based on: WA considers ending interest on medical debt

In Washington, lawmakers propose protecting child stars of family vlogs

In the U.S. state of Washington, lawmakers are considering a pioneering bill designed to protect the rights of children who regularly appear in their parents’ monetized videos. These family vlogs, often presented like home videos, have become a source of income for thousands of families, yet they are largely unregulated in terms of child labor and privacy.

Bill HB 2400 would require content creators based in Washington or with a substantial connection to the state who earn more than $12,000 a year to register with the state. The key innovation is a requirement to place a portion of earnings generated by a child’s participation in videos into a special trust account that the child can access only upon turning 18.

The bill’s sponsor is Christine Rolfes, Washington State Senate majority leader and senator for the 23rd Legislative District. As a senior legislator, she has the influence to advance significant initiatives. Rolfes says the law aims to address longstanding problems: exploitation of child labor, obtaining informed consent, and so-called “digital indelibility.” “This is our attempt to prevent situations like the Ruby Franke case in Washington state,” she explained, referring to the YouTuber from Utah who was convicted of child abuse.

Social platforms and advertisers connected to Washington would be responsible for creating these trust accounts and for annual reporting starting in 2027. That shifts some of the financial responsibility from parents to companies. The state has the authority to regulate the activities of global companies — such as Meta, TikTok and YouTube — that do business within its borders, setting requirements for data protection and content affecting state residents, especially in the absence of comprehensive federal regulation.

The bill would also give young people aged 18 to 23 the right to demand the complete removal of monetized content that featured them as children.

Some vloggers, while supporting the idea of protecting children, express concerns about practical implementation. They point to the difficulty of tracking exact earnings from a specific video and determining whether a child gave informed consent to filming. Business associations and tech company representatives also criticize the bill, objecting to placing responsibility on platforms for parents’ financial decisions.

Sponsor Christine Rolfes counters that children in family vlogs are essentially workers, comparing their situation to child actors in Hollywood, who are protected by strict labor laws. “These children work. They deserve the same protections,” she says. Negotiations with major platforms over contentious regulatory issues are currently underway.

This bill — the fourth attempt at similar regulation — is based on a simple fact: videos featuring children attract significantly more attention and views. “This law is grounded in the reality that children get more clicks,” Rolfes says. “That’s the part we cannot ignore.” Washington’s initiative is part of a national trend of states enacting their own digital-child safety laws while the U.S. Congress has yet to pass federal legislation. Washington has been one of the first states to act thanks to a combination of a strong tech sector, progressive political culture and legislators familiar with tech issues. Committee discussions continue, and the final form of the law may still change.

❮ ❯

Based on: Lawmakers seek child labor protections in WA for family vlog content

Meta and Others: Layoffs in Seattle

A wave of tech-sector layoffs continues to hit Seattle. Meta announced the cuts of hundreds of employees in the region as part of its strategic pullback from loss-making metaverse projects. Those reductions, along with layoffs at other giants, have pushed the region’s unemployment rate above the national average, underscoring its dependence on a volatile industry.

Hundreds laid off at Meta: end of the metaverse era in Seattle?

Meta, the owner of Facebook, continues to cut staff in the Seattle area, delivering another blow to the local tech industry. These layoffs are part of a broader strategic refocusing by the social media giant as it pivots away from ambitious but unprofitable virtual-reality projects toward more practical devices.

According to an official notice filed with the state of Washington, Meta is laying off 331 employees in the Puget Sound region. The cuts hit the Reality Labs unit, long a core part of the company’s post-pandemic growth in the area. As Meta spokesperson Tracy Clayton told The Seattle Times, this is part of a plan to reduce roughly 10% of Reality Labs staff, which employs about 15,000 people. The aim is to reallocate resources from building the metaverse to producing wearable devices like smart glasses. “We plan to reinvest the savings to support growth in wearables later this year,” Clayton said.

The geography of the layoffs shows how deeply Meta has embedded itself in the region. Redmond was the hardest hit, with 105 employees affected, followed by Bellevue (89), Seattle (40) and 97 remote employees living in Washington. State data indicate the cuts affected Reality Labs research teams, metaverse content developers and the Horizon platform — the virtual social platform that became a symbol of the company’s metaverse ambitions in 2021. Recall that in late 2021 Facebook rebranded to Meta Platforms, betting on virtual and augmented reality. In the years since, the company poured billions into Reality Labs, but the division remained deeply unprofitable: in the latest financial results its losses for the first nine months of 2025 totaled nearly $13.2 billion, more than for the same period in 2024.

These cuts mark a sharp reversal from the optimistic statements made only a few years ago. In 2022, amid Meta’s rapid expansion to more than 8,000 employees in the Puget Sound, then-head of the company in the Pacific Northwest Paresh Rajwat said “the road to the metaverse runs through Seattle,” calling the area the company’s largest hub outside its Menlo Park, California, headquarters. But since then the company’s enthusiasm has cooled. Meta gave up leases on two office buildings in Bellevue’s Spring District and put them up for sublease in 2023 and 2024. Last year, according to King County records, the company also let expansion rights lapse for five other sites in the tech district. Meta also vacated one of its older South Lake Union offices in Seattle — a 190,000-square-foot space later taken by Apple. While the company completed Frank Gehry–designed building X in Redmond in 2023, plans for a similarly scaled building Z nearby were frozen.

The Meta layoffs are the latest in a string of job cuts that have shaken the local tech sector over the past year. The state’s two largest tech employers, Amazon and Microsoft, have also carried out large reductions: Amazon cut more than 2,300 jobs in the Seattle area in October, and Microsoft eliminated 3,160 positions in the state last year. Amazon warned that cuts could continue into 2026, while Microsoft denied rumors of new large-scale layoffs. These developments point to a broader trend: tech giants that expanded rapidly during the pandemic are now trimming staff and strategies in response to economic challenges and shifting priorities. For Meta, this means a painful but seemingly necessary retreat from the costly metaverse vision toward more tangible products that can generate profit in the near term.

Tech layoffs push Seattle unemployment above 5%

At the start of 2026, the Seattle region faced a new wave of tech-sector layoffs that led to a noticeable rise in local unemployment. The trend sets the region apart from the national picture and highlights its dependence on big tech.

The first major layoff of the year in the tech industry was the elimination of about 330 positions at Meta in the Seattle area, revealed in an official notice filed with the Washington State Employment Department. That event is part of an ongoing series of sector layoffs, and more cuts at other companies are expected in the coming weeks. The steady flow of such news has already had a tangible impact on the labor market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate in the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metropolitan area rose to 5.1% in November, above the national rate of 4.5%. As Jeremy Warren, director of impact at the King County Workforce Development Council (WDC), explained to kuow.org, the cause lies in the unique makeup of the local economy. “It’s driven by the concentration of industries we have here, some of the largest in our region, like the information sector,” he noted. The high share of employment in tech makes the region especially vulnerable to fluctuations in that sector.

The numbers underscore the seriousness of the situation. According to the WDC index, nearly 13,000 people were laid off in the Seattle–King County region in 2025, with more than half coming from the information sector, which includes tech companies, software development and related services. “That’s 13,000 people who will be looking for work… trying either to get back into the labor market or to gain new skills,” Warren emphasized. “Just in King County. That’s a big number of people.” These data point to a deep structural adjustment facing the local labor market. Expected additional cuts in the industry could exacerbate the trend, creating challenges both for workers who must retrain or change fields and for employment services and retraining programs. Thus, the current situation in Seattle serves as a stark example of how a region’s mono-industrial dependence on a high-revenue but volatile sector can quickly turn into a socio-economic problem requiring coordinated efforts to diversify the economy and support displaced workers’ transitions.

Meta cuts hundreds of employees in the Seattle area: another blow to the tech sector

The wave of layoffs in the tech industry continues: Meta Platforms, owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, has announced the layoff of 331 employees in the Seattle area. This is part of a global plan to reduce headcount by 10%, reflecting an ongoing correction in the tech labor market after a period of rapid pandemic-era growth.

According to the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) that companies must file for mass layoffs, cuts will affect several offices in Washington state. The hardest hit offices are in Redmond (about 105 employees) and Bellevue (about 89 employees). In Seattle, roughly 40 workers at two offices will be laid off, and nearly 100 remote employees residing in Washington will also lose their jobs. The layoffs are scheduled for March 20 and will span a wide range of departments, though most positions are software-related. Content specialists, product designers and managers will also be affected.

All affected employees were given 60 days’ notice in letters from Janelle Gale, Meta’s chief people officer. As The Puget Sound Business Journal reports, the decision is part of the company’s strategy to improve efficiency after a period of heavy metaverse investments that did not yield expected returns. For the Seattle region, one of the United States’ key tech hubs alongside Silicon Valley, these cuts are another worrying signal. Other giants, such as Amazon and Microsoft, have taken similar steps, pointing to a broader trend of cost optimization amid economic uncertainty, high interest rates and shifting investor priorities.

The consequences of these layoffs could be significant for the local economy given Meta’s high wages and their effect on the housing market and services. While the tech sector remains a backbone of Washington’s economy, repeated waves of layoffs raise questions about its resilience in a new reality where companies prioritize profitability over growth at any cost. For the affected employees, it means not only losing jobs but also having to compete in an oversaturated labor market with thousands of other highly skilled professionals who have been laid off from major tech firms over the past 18 months.

❮ ❯

U.S. county keeps 32-hour workweek for government employees

San Juan County in Washington state, after a two-year experiment, has officially decided to keep a 32-hour workweek for most of its government employees. In 2023, about 160 workers switched to the reduced schedule without a cut in pay. The measure served as an alternative to the significant pay raises the union demanded amid inflation, which the county’s budget could not afford. Officials say the approach saved the treasury roughly $2 million that would have gone to raises, while sharply improving recruitment and retention in this remote community: job applications rose by more than 200%, and turnover declined by 28%.

Employees value the extra free time, using it for family care, hobbies, side jobs, running errands on the “mainland,” and volunteering. For the employer, another benefit has been reduced use of sick leave, which helps get work done even with the shorter week. Although some departments faced challenges coordinating schedules to serve 18,000 residents, and sheriff’s office staff continue to work 40 hours a week, the overall experiment is deemed successful.

The collective bargaining agreement that introduced the 32-hour week expired at the end of 2025, but a new three-year contract approved last month codifies the practice. “We will continue to work on leveraging the benefits of this schedule and to serve the public effectively and responsibly within our financial means,” said County Manager Jessica Hudson. San Juan County became one of the first local governments in the U.S. to adopt a 32-hour week, following the example of several other countries and, for example, the Quinault Indian Nation, which moved to the schedule last year.

❮ ❯

Based on: San Juan County will stick with 32-hour government workweek

Blood Donation Could Win You Super Bowl Tickets

The American Red Cross is facing a severe shortage of donated blood, leaving hospitals unable to meet all requests. To encourage people to donate, the organization is running a special sweepstakes. Anyone who donates blood by January 26 will get a chance to win a trip to the championship final of American football — Super Bowl LX, which will take place in the San Francisco Bay area.

The prize package for the winner includes airfare, two game tickets, three nights' hotel accommodation, a $1,000 gift card for expenses, and access to special Super Bowl events. The donation crisis is serious: over the past month the amount of donated blood has dropped by roughly 35%. There is an acute shortage of platelets and O, A- and B- blood types.

The main causes cited for the crisis are widespread flu activity across the country, which has left many potential donors ill, and unfavorable winter weather conditions that have hindered mobile blood drives. Those who miss the sweepstakes deadline but donate between January 26 and February 28 will still receive a $20 e-gift card as an incentive. The organization reminds the public that each donation can be a lifesaving transfusion for patients in urgent need.

❮ ❯

Based on: Want Super Bowl tickets? Blood donation could score you a shot at some

Washington restaurants vie for prestigious James Beard Award

On Wednesday the semifinalists for the prestigious American restaurant awards, the 2026 James Beard Awards, were announced. The list includes 17 establishments and professionals from the state of Washington, including restaurants, chefs, bars and bakers. The award is considered one of the most significant in the U.S. hospitality industry.

Two Seattle restaurants drew particular attention with nominations in the top national category “Best New Restaurant.” Little Beast in the historic Ballard neighborhood, known for its craft breweries and trendy seafood restaurants, and The Wayland Mill in bohemian Wallingford, where cozy cafés and family-run restaurants predominate. Both neighborhoods play a key role in Seattle’s dining scene, offering diverse cuisine with an emphasis on local produce, especially seafood and farm-fresh ingredients.

Other notable nominations include Aaron Verzosa of Archipelago (Outstanding Chef) and the bar Roquette (Outstanding Bar). Nominations were not limited to Seattle establishments. The Elbow Room bar in Vancouver, Washington, is up for Best New Bar, and Jordan Koplowitz of Starla's in Bellingham is nominated for Northwest Best Chef. Among the newcomers to the awards are Ahmed Suliman of Cafe Suliman and sibling duo Ty and Trinh Nguyen of Ramie.

The state of Washington is hoping to break its streak of near-misses this year: local restaurants have not won a Beard in five years. Despite strong showings in the nominations, victories could be challenged by increased national competition, particularly from cities like New York and Chicago, as well as possible changes in judging criteria. Seattle and Washington remain influential in the culinary world thanks to local ingredients and talented chefs, but winning a James Beard Award requires a combination of distinctiveness, national impact and timing. The list of finalists will be published March 15, and the winners will be announced at the ceremony in Chicago on June 15.

❮ ❯

Based on: 2026 James Beard Awards: 17 WA restaurants and chefs nominated

Seattle: Dry Weather and School Shelter-in-Place Alerts

Seattle is experiencing unusually dry weather for January that will last through the weekend. At the same time, several city schools were forced into shelter-in-place mode because of unconfirmed reports of possible activity by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), causing fear among students and families.

Seattle weather: Dry stretch continues, morning fog and sunshine Wednesday

Seattle is enjoying an unusually long dry stretch for January, now exceeding eight days without a single drop of rain. While not a record, such dry spells in the first month of the year are uncommon here. The cause is a region of high pressure that brings sunny, dry conditions and cold nights, leading to fog, frost and in places freezing fog. As reported by fox13seattle.com, temperatures remain near seasonal normals, and dry conditions are expected for the upcoming Seattle Seahawks game on Sunday.

This current dry spell, lasting more than eight days, is notable but not unprecedented for a Seattle January. The historical record was set in 1963, when rain did not fall for 15 consecutive days, and last year a dry period lasted 13 days. Thus, the present weather anomaly falls within known meteorological variability. The key factor behind this persistent pattern is a large anticyclone — an area of high atmospheric pressure. It acts like a giant dome, blocking moist air masses and storm systems that normally bring rain to the region. As a result, skies remain clear and winds are light.

One consequence of this lull is stagnant air and intense nighttime cooling. With no cloud cover and little wind, the ground loses heat rapidly after sunset. This leads to temperatures falling to zero and below, causing moisture in the air to condense and form dense morning fog. Forecasters pay special attention to so-called "freezing fog" or "supercooled fog." This phenomenon occurs when fog droplets remain liquid at temperatures below the freezing point. On contact with surfaces such as roadways or tree branches, they instantly turn to ice, creating black ice and rime, which pose hazards for morning travel.

Wednesday’s weather pattern will repeat: the day will start with clouds and fog that will clear by midday, giving way to sunshine. Daytime highs will be a comfortable 4–9 degrees Celsius, which is in line with climate normals. In the days leading up to the weekend temperatures will dip slightly: daytime highs around 4–7°C and nights close to freezing. Of particular importance for many residents, Sunday’s forecast for the Seahawks game calls for dry weather with temperatures in the same 4–7°C range, creating good conditions for fans.

In short, Seattle has temporarily fallen under an anomalously stable, dry winter pattern. Although it gives city residents a rare chance to enjoy winter sunshine without umbrellas, it also brings typical anticyclonic risks such as morning black ice and worsening air quality due to lack of ventilation. As long as the high-pressure area holds, this atypical sunny stretch for a usually rainy city will continue.

Unconfirmed reports of ICE activity prompted school shelter-in-place orders in Seattle

Several Seattle public schools issued shelter-in-place orders on Tuesday to keep students inside buildings after unconfirmed reports from the community of possible activity by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The incident highlighted the atmosphere of fear and tension in which many families live and showed how even rumors of immigration enforcement can disrupt the school day.

According to Seattle Public Schools (SPS), at one point on Tuesday the shelter-in-place protocol was in effect at least six schools in the South Seattle and Beacon Hill area. The list included Aki Kurose Middle School, Cleveland STEM High School, Maple Elementary, Mercer International Middle School, and the Dearborn Park International and Beacon Hill International schools. The district explained that during such a protocol students continue classes on schedule but remain inside the building and exterior doors are locked. SPS security staff who were in the area did not observe any ICE presence, but precautions remained in place. As reported in The Seattle Times, shelter-in-place is a standard safety practice often used when there are reports of law enforcement activity nearby.

Although Seattle has not seen a surge in immigration raids like, for example, Minneapolis, the schools’ actions underscored how high the level of anxiety is and how unconfirmed rumors affect the daily lives of students and their families. Alerts sent to parents varied in detail. Cleveland STEM High School principal Jeff Lam wrote to families about "credible reports of ICE activity in the community and possibly at other school sites," but not at Cleveland itself. Meanwhile, Maple Elementary principal Daisy Barragan said a nearby private school reported suspicious vehicle activity in the area, but there were no actions directly affecting Maple.

Aki Kurose registrar Kathy Jolgren said the middle school was told ICE agents might be trying to lure out families who had been warned about agent activity and who might come to school to pick up children. Some parents, out of caution, did pick up children early. Security staff were posted at school exits. The experience of one mother, Kate Reddy, shows how deep the worries are. After receiving a notice she considered creating a mutual aid network in the community, for example to organize safe transportation for children whose parents fear encountering ICE. "What we see on the news will happen here too," Reddy said, adding the situation made her cry. Another parent, Josh Apfel, said that although he expected such events, they were still upsetting. His 13-year-old son, who was sick and stayed home, even messaged his sibling that he was glad he missed school that day.

SPS policy bars federal immigration officers from entering school buildings unless required by law and requires staff to consult the district’s chief legal counsel before admitting such agents. King County Councilmember Ronda Lewis, whose district includes South Seattle, praised SPS's "quick response" in a statement. "It is a sad day for King County — or any place in America — when children and their families must live in fear of being taken by their own government," Lewis said. She expressed deep concern about the long-term impact of such activity on historically marginalized communities. This incident, though it ended without confirmed ICE presence, was a troubling sign of the fragility of safety in immigrant communities and how fear of family separation seeps into school walls.

Six Seattle schools placed on shelter-in-place after reports of possible ICE raids

Seattle authorities enacted emergency measures at six public schools in the city's south after alarming reports of possible Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in nearby areas. Although federal agents’ presence was never confirmed, the threat itself sparked a wave of fear among students, families and the broader community, highlighting the deep vulnerability of immigrant neighborhoods.

As reported by komonews.com, Seattle Public Schools implemented the shelter-in-place protocol at several campuses on Tuesday. This standard safety procedure, used when there are reports of law enforcement activity nearby, means students remain inside buildings but continue classes on the usual schedule. Mercer International Middle School, Aki Kurose Middle School, Cleveland STEM High School, Maple Elementary, Dearborn Park International and Beacon Hill International were affected. The decision was based on unconfirmed reports from residents about possible law enforcement or immigration actions around the campuses.

Although district security personnel on site all day did not observe ICE agents, an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty was palpable. "I was really scared for my classmates, you know, because what if someone takes one of them?" said 18-year-old Cleveland STEM student Evan Chong. His classmate Christopher Romero added: "I was scared. I was worried. It's really upsetting." Their comments reflect the deep psychological harm such threats inflict on children, many of whom live in mixed-status families or may themselves be undocumented.

ICE is a federal agency within the Department of Homeland Security responsible, among other things, for detaining and deporting undocumented immigrants. Its activity, especially near schools, triggers panic in immigrant communities because it threatens their basic sense of safety. Seattle officials have repeatedly declared the city a "sanctuary city," where local police do not engage in civil immigration enforcement. Seattle Police also confirmed by email that they have no authority over federal agents but will document all incidents and protect everyone's rights in the city, urging residents to report suspicious activity to 911.

Meanwhile activists and local residents took matters into their own hands. People holding signs reading "ICE, get out!" gathered near schools, and a group of activists handed out whistles so passersby could sound the alarm if immigration agents appeared. "They were just scared, and the information that was circulating was pretty inconsistent," said Mish Vergara, chair of the local Malaya chapter. "A lot of uncertainty. We just want consistent communication from Seattle Public Schools." Natalia McConnell, a Beacon Hill resident standing outside Aki Kurose Middle School, said: "We’re here in case ICE shows up, to show our community we support them. I think a lot of these students are really frightened. They hear from parents that they or maybe the parents are in danger, and they need to know the community backs them."

By midday Aki Kurose ended its shelter-in-place, Cleveland STEM lifted theirs after lunch, and the other schools returned to normal dismissal times. However, district staff said they remained on heightened alert as a precaution. School officials maintained direct communication with families, and the district promised to send a message to all parents. King County Councilmember Ronda Lewis said in her statement she was deeply concerned about the ongoing impact of such activity on marginalized communities and promised to work with local and state leaders to ensure safe routes to and from school for children.

Though the incident ended without confirmed arrests, it was a painful reminder of how fragile calm can be in immigrant enclaves. It laid bare the gap between official assurances and the everyday fear families experience. The threat, even unrealized, paralyzes normal life, making children fear for themselves and their loved ones right in the middle of school lessons. As this episode shows, such reports — whether the result of actual ICE surveillance or panicked rumor — become a powerful tool of psychological pressure that undermines trust in institutions and splinters communities. The question of how authorities can provide not just formal but real protection for all students, regardless of their families’ status, remains open and urgent.

❮ ❯

New overnight bus will link downtown Seattle with the airport

Starting in late March, night owls and early birds in Seattle will get a new way to reach the airport. Transit agency Sound Transit is launching a trial overnight bus route that will run between Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and downtown during hours when light rail is not operating — from midnight to 4 a.m. Buses will depart every 30 minutes beginning March 28, providing around-the-clock public transit access to the air hub.

The route will run from the airport via the Tukwila International Boulevard light rail station to key downtown Seattle stops, including Sodo, Stadium, the International District/Chinatown and Westlake. It will bypass several stations south of the airport and north of downtown. As the head of Sound Transit noted, this pilot is especially important ahead of the FIFA World Cup that the city will host and will give greater flexibility to both passengers and airport employees.

Currently, getting to the airport by public transit in the dead of night or early morning is virtually impossible: light rail doesn't begin running until after 4 a.m., and the limited King County Metro night bus routes don't go far north of the airport and don't reach Seattle. The new service aims to address that gap.

❮ ❯

Based on: Seattle to get overnight bus service to Sea-Tac Airport

Seattle: Scammers, Champions and Fog

In Seattle, scammers are using contactless payments to steal money under the guise of charity. The Seahawks are considered the leading Super Bowl favorites thanks to strong play in all phases. The morning began with thick fog that affected visibility and transportation.

New tap-to-pay scam in Seattle: thousands charged under the guise of charity

In the era of contactless payments, even a simple act of kindness—like donating five dollars to a school basketball team—can turn into a financial disaster. A recent viral Reddit post, detailed in a piece on king5.com, exposed a disturbing and rapidly growing trend in Seattle: tap-to-pay fraud disguised as charitable fundraising. The story of a user who intended to donate $5 but instead found multiple $800 charges on their cards resonated widely and confirmed many residents’ fears.

As it turns out, this is far from an isolated incident. The Washington state Attorney General’s office notes that such schemes are becoming “alarmingly common.” Attorney General Bob Ferguson (note: original Russian named Nick Brown—if referring to Washington state AG as Bob Ferguson; leave name as originally used if intended) has said there have been cases where people who thought they’d donated $20 later discovered charges totaling nearly $5,000, with funds not going to charity. The scammers, often described as young, well-dressed men, operate in busy parts of the city—on the waterfront, downtown, and near Lumen Field. They present themselves as fundraisers for youth organizations or local charities, sell candy or CDs, and insist on contactless payment via smartphone while refusing cash.

The core of the scam is abuse of tap-to-pay technology, which allows payments by simply tapping a card or phone to a terminal. A victim agreeing to make a small donation can have the scammer, using a mobile payment terminal (often just a smartphone with a special app), quietly set an amount far higher than stated or run multiple transactions in succession. The victim may not see the final amount on the scammer’s small screen or may not have time to notice it. The speed and convenience that are usually strengths of the technology become a vulnerability in this context.

The Attorney General’s office has issued a consumer alert urging extreme caution with such donations. Many of the organizations the solicitors claim to represent later turn out to be unregistered charities or commercial entities without nonprofit status. Authorities recommend avoiding tap-to-pay transactions with strangers, always carefully checking the amount on the device screen before confirming, and verifying the legitimacy of a charity through official state and federal registries.

For ordinary people—like Flavio Kaplan from Pioneer Square—this scam was surprising. He admitted he had instinctively thought contactless payment offered some protection but now considers cash the safer option in these situations. The Reddit poster’s bitter lesson is a simple but important warning: “Learn from my mistakes. Don’t donate to random guys offering you candy.” The story is a stark reminder that in the digital age even well-intended acts require heightened vigilance and a critical eye toward seemingly harmless street interactions.

The Seahawks’ style: why Seattle looks like the clear playoff favorite

Former star lineman and current NFL analyst Mark Schlereth, after the Seattle Seahawks’ dominant 41–6 divisional-round win over the San Francisco 49ers, hasn’t hidden his admiration. On the Wyman and Bob show on Seattle Sports he said he considers the Seahawks the best team in the league right now—and his opinion is based not on emotion but on concrete elements of play that determine success in the postseason.

Schlereth pointed to how Seattle’s roster depth shows up in seemingly small moments. “Look how they play on special teams—in kick coverage, in returns,” he said. “That’s where true depth and roster talent show. If a team dominates those phases, that tells you they have a massive advantage.” Indeed, in modern football, where games are often decided by one or two plays, the role of special teams and second-string players cannot be overstated. The Seahawks show rare discipline and physical superiority: they allow almost no extra yards after tackles, dominate the line of scrimmage on both sides, and control the run game effectively. That is the classic January formula when weather worsens and stakes are highest—strong defense, control of tempo, and minimal mistakes.

Now the Seahawks prepare for the NFC Championship game against the Los Angeles Rams, and although the teams split regular-season meetings in tight games (the Rams won 21–19 in November and the Seahawks won 38–37 in overtime in December), Schlereth is confident in the home team. “Right now, in their current condition, the Seahawks are the best team, and they play the style that wins in the playoffs,” the analyst emphasized. He even joked in his Seattle Sports interview that he’d take the Seahawks with a 50-point spread—an obvious hyperbole but one that highlights his confidence. The key point is the “style that wins in the playoffs”: physical, disciplined football focused on the run, pressure on the opposing quarterback, and flawless tackling, which prevents explosive plays. The Rams, who rely on a high-octane passing attack, could struggle against such a cohesive system.

Thus Schlereth’s praise is more than a compliment to the Seahawks; it’s recognition of head coach Mike Macdonald’s systematic work. A team strong in all three phases (offense, defense, special teams) has a real shot not only to win the conference but to contend for a Super Bowl title. The roster depth Schlereth mentions becomes critical in the late stages of the playoffs, when fatigue and injuries accumulate. If the Seahawks can maintain this level against the Rams, a path to the franchise’s fourth Super Bowl appears more attainable than ever.

Foggy morning in Seattle: Wednesday’s weather

Seattle residents woke Wednesday under a thick blanket of fog that enveloped the city, creating an atmosphere of mystery and quiet. While this phenomenon is typical for the region at this time of year, it became the day’s main story, affecting morning commutes and residents’ moods.

As local station FOX 13 reports in its video segment, Wednesday morning began with dense fog significantly reducing visibility. Fog is a meteorological phenomenon in which tiny water droplets or ice crystals condense in the lowest layer of the atmosphere, making the air hazy and reducing visibility to a kilometer or less. For Seattle, located on the shores of Puget Sound and surrounded by hills, such conditions are not uncommon—especially in the fall and winter when cool, moist air from the Pacific interacts with relatively warmer land or water surfaces.

Although the report does not include detailed data or meteorologist interviews, the very fact of a video segment underscores the event’s importance to daily life. Fog directly affects road safety, requiring drivers to slow down and use fog lights, and can delay ferries and air travel. Pedestrians and cyclists also face increased risk in these conditions. Beyond practical concerns, a foggy morning creates a special aesthetic, softening the outlines of skyscrapers and bridges—a frequent source of inspiration for local photographers and artists.

The implications of such a start to the day are typical for the region: residents are used to being ready for rapid changes in conditions. Morning fog often clears by midday, giving way to sunshine or cloudier weather, a hallmark of the marine climate. Still, each episode is a reminder of how natural conditions shape urban rhythms and the need to pay extra attention to safety while traveling. Thus this foggy morning was another brushstroke in Seattle’s typical weather palette, combining practical cautions with the fleeting beauty of the Northwest autumn.

❮ ❯